Rockford Public Schools -

Johnson Elementary students took the stage alongside professional artists from Opera for the Young in The Elixir of Love! The performance brought music, laughter, and lessons on friendship and forgiveness to life in a fun Old West setting for the whole school community.

RPS offers a scholarship program for juniors & seniors who are interested in pursuing a career in the education field. Earn a college degree at a 75% tuition reduction rate & a FREE Master's degree from Rockford University! To learn more, join us at the informational meeting.

History was made at East! For the first time since the 1960s, the E-RABS played a varsity home football game on their own turf, taking on Guilford. Alumni, students, & families packed the field, enjoyed food trucks, & celebrated this unforgettable moment together.

REMINDER: RPS 205 will host a free Boys & Girls Youth Wrestling Clinic for all K–8 students at the East HS Fieldhouse on October 28, 30 & November 1. Learn basic wrestling skills. Wear gym shorts, t-shirt & gym shoes. To register: https://forms.gle/XVHLKVBr39NTmed87

🏀Johnson Elementary wrapped up the week with a fun staff vs. student basketball game today! 🏀 The Jets celebrated great attendance and positive behavior referrals. Way to soar high and show your Jets pride!

On Wednesday, Barbour’s 8th grade students had the opportunity to visit Rockford’s City Hall. They met with Mayor Tom McNamara, City Alderman Jaime Salgado, & leadership from Rock Valley College. Students engaged in thoughtful discussions, asking questions about current events in both our city & nation, and demonstrated maturity & curiosity throughout the experience.

Whitehead Elementary celebrated the culmination of Hispanic Heritage Month with an assembly. There were performances by Mosaico Cultural. Staff members also danced the salsa. Students and staff joined together to learn the dance too.

RPS hosted the 14th annual Academy Expo. 2,000 freshmen connected with over 100 local businesses to explore future careers. With support from 500+ volunteers, students gained real-world insight to help guide their academy selections for the rest of their high school journey.

The deadline to submit is today! Help us celebrate our teachers with a Golden Apple Award nomination. Go to https://goldenappleofrockford.com/golden-apple-teacher-awards/nominate/ and tell them which 6th through 12th grade teachers deserve this special recognition.

The arts were on full display at Auburn High School during the College Fair for Creatives on Friday, October 10th! College representatives from a variety of programs visited to review student portfolios, hear audition cuts, and provide personalized feedback. Students also had the opportunity to ask questions, learn more about college arts programs, and gain valuable insight into pursuing their creative passions at the next level. It was an inspiring day celebrating the incredible talent and dedication of our young artists!

History is being made at East! For the first time since the 1960's, the E-RABS will play a varsity football game on their own turf this Saturday at noon vs. Guilford. Admission will be free. There will be food trucks too. Alumni—come home & be part of this unforgettable moment.

It's National School Lunch Week and today is Lucky Tray Day at all RPS 205 K-12 schools! Look for the lucky stamp under your lunch tray to win a prize. If you have a winning tray, bring your tray to the kitchen team to claim your prize. Good luck!

The Superintendent Search Listening Sessions have been conducted and the online Community Survey has been completed. Check out rps205.com/page/superintendent-search for the results on what qualities and characteristics the community is wanting in the next superintendent.

Enjoy the day off! We will see you all back at school tomorrow.

Community members gathered at STEAM Academy at Haskell to celebrate the installation of the SPARK! Youth Mosaic. Created by local youth with artist Susan Burton, the works honor the theme “Birds of a Feather, Flock Together” & showcase the power of art and collaboration.

Flinn MS hosted the 4th annual Youth Story Ledger yesterday. Students from Flinn, Marshall, West, Jefferson & Auburn shared personal stories celebrating identity, diversity & storytelling. Families, friends & community leaders came to listen to these powerful storytellers.

Former RPS student & published author Devin Paladino visited Jefferson, Auburn, & Flinn schools today to inspire students with his personal story of resilience. He talked about the importance of students sharing their own stories. Devin reminded students that no dream is too big.

We are proud to recognize Barbour for earning 1st place and Haskell for securing 2nd place in the 2025 Rockford Public Schools Elementary Soccer League! A sincere thank you to our coaches, parents, and staff for their dedication and support throughout the season. Your commitment helps create meaningful experiences for our students.

Congratulations!

RPS 205 will host a free Boys & Girls Youth Wrestling Clinic for all K–8 students at the East HS Fieldhouse on October 28, 30 & November 1. Learn basic wrestling skills. Wear gym shorts, t-shirt & gym shoes. To register: https://forms.gle/XVHLKVBr39NTmed87