Rockford Public Schools -

Today is the last day that RPS 205 high schoolers can apply for a seat on the Superintendent's Student Advisory Council for the 26-27 school year. Learn more: https://www.rps205.com/page/ssac-shared

The big day is about a month away! Everything you need to know about the upcoming 2026 graduation ceremonies including dates & times, parking & transportation, ticket information, live streams, and a list of prohibited items for the BMO can be found at rps205.com/page/graduation

The MERIT Program, in collaboration with RSAC, is hosting “Body Safety & Beyond” on Thursday, April 30 from 6:00–7:30 PM at UIC College of Medicine Rockford. This free event will feature best-selling author and prevention educator, Kimberly King who will provide caregivers with practical, age-appropriate tools to support children’s safety, confidence, and communication, including body safety and online safety. Register here: https://BodySafetyandBeyond.eventbrite.com

RPS 205 Transportation celebrates its bus drivers on National School Bus Driver Appreciation Day with burgers, hot dogs, a popcorn bar, & gift bags. The event honors drivers between routes & recognizes their important role in safely getting students to & from school each day.

Whitehead Elementary students received 1,664 books from Nana’s Books Foundation! The donation supported 667 students, classrooms, and the library. This is expanding access to books on Alzheimer’s, dementia, and disabilities.

10 Auburn High School students graduated from EMR training through Superior Ambulance. They completed this during their lunch period. This program builds career pathways, earns real credentials, & helps grow the next generation of emergency responders in our community.

Please join us this Wednesday from 5-7pm to celebrate the work of our incredible Jefferson High School J-Hawk artists.

Our Family & Community Engagement Department hosted its annual Volunteer Celebration. Volunteers & community partners were honored for supporting students & staff at our schools. Here is a thank you message from Superintendent Ehren Jarrett: https://youtu.be/aGVJYFLXsgA

Future leader in action! Roosevelt junior Ashton Moore-Edwards stepped into the role of Mayor-for-a-Day @ Machesney Park Village Hall. He toured facilities, met officials, & even led the Pledge of Allegiance at Monday’s board meeting.
Photos courtesy of Village of Machesney Park

Celebrate Arbor Day this Saturday at Rolling Green Elementary, 3615 W Gate Pkwy! 🌳 From 8–11am, volunteers will plant 10 trees for a new Outdoor Learning Grove at the school. Starting at 11am, grab a free tree (white oak or sumac) while supplies last. Limit 1 per person!

As temperatures rise, our neighborhoods come alive. You’ll see our kids riding bikes, playing in front yards, and spending more time outside with friends and family. It’s a reminder that our streets are shared spaces, and we all play a role in keeping them safe. Whether you’re heading to work, running errands, or just passing through, please take an extra moment to slow down and stay alert. Watch for children near our schools, sidewalks, crossing streets, or playing close to the road. A little extra awareness goes a long way in helping make sure that every child gets home safely.

Flinn Middle School has a state champion! Seventh grader Logan Le bowled a 2092 series at the 2-day tournament in Joliet this past weekend. Way to go Logan!

Students in the Health Academy competed in the Medical Terminology Challenge at Rock Valley College on April 17th.
Students from Auburn, East, Guilford, Jefferson, Byron, Belvidere North, Harlem, & Winnebago competed in a quiz bowl style competition, testing their knowledge of various medical vocabulary. They also received a tour of RVC’s Health Sciences building & participated in hands on experiences in different medical fields.

Join the Rockford Symphony Orchestra & Rockford Public Schools for their Musical Instrument Drive. Donate gently used instruments & help local students discover the joy of music.
April 25 • 10am–1pm
Kresge Hall, Riverfront Museum Park, 711 N. Main St.

PLAN AHEAD: The last day of school for K–11 students is Friday, May 22. It’s a shortened day. Early Childhood wraps up Thursday, May 21. High school seniors get out on Friday, May 8. Check out this 205 VIBE post for more details about the schedule: rps205.com/article/2813047

BE PREPARED: Returning student online registration for the 26-27 school year will kick off at the end of April. For detailed information, please visit https://www.rps205.com/page/registration

Future Knights, you’re invited! Join us April 23 from 3:30–6 PM at Auburn High School for an open house. Meet staff, learn expectations, explore your graduation path, and tour the building. Vendors & community partners welcome—email nicole.brady@rps205.com to join!

Come join BPAC for their Multicultural Fair on Saturday, April 25th from 12:00 PM–4:00 PM at the Quad!
Enjoy a fun-filled day with food trucks, live entertainment, a multicultural parade by students, community vendors, and so much more.
We hope to see you there!

RPS 205 & Tyson teamed up to host the Ultimate Chicken Sandwich Contest, and this week, the winning creations officially hit the school lunch menu! Congratulations again to Connor @ Conklin, Iker @ Flinn, & Jordan @ Auburn! Each winner received a Nintendo Switch & a portrait of their delicious masterpiece. From idea to tray, their sandwiches were a hit across the district!