RPS Announcements & Closings

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Rockford Public Schools

District Updates

RPS Bond Proposal 2025 & Kent ISD Enhancement Millage Proposal

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October 7, 2025
Can’t we expand the sinking fund?

Sinking funds are voter-approved millages that generate revenue over time.  While districts can legally use sinking funds for construction, repair, buses, and technology, sinking funds are not intended for large projects because revenue is not generated in a timely manner and does not generate the amount of revenue needed.

The sinking fund in Rockford is currently 0.4662 mills and generates just over one million dollars a year. 

Voters would need to approve an increase in the sinking fund millage in order to expand the sinking fund.  Expanding the sinking fund to the permissible 3 mills would generate approximately $6-9 million dollars a year. 

While sinking funds can be part of the construction and maintenance of school district buildings, they do not generate the revenue needed for big projects. For example, our elementary air conditioning project is estimated to cost between $35-$40 million dollars. If the district were to ask and voters were to approve a 3 mill sinking fund, at an estimated $6-$9 million dollars generated per year, it would take 4-5 years to generate the funds needed to complete the air conditioning project.  No revenue would be available for other needed projects or repairs since all revenue would be saved for the large project. 

Since the sinking fund was approved by voters in 2019, the sinking fund has paid for the following projects:

  •  2021 East Rockford Middle paving
  • 2021 East Rockford Middle flooring
  • 2024 East Rockford Middle elevator repair
  • 2024 Valley View paving 
  • 2024 Roguewood asbestos abatement 


Superintendent's Updates

10/7/25 District Update

After the uncertainty of last week, I wanted to provide some clarity on our state budget and its impact here in Rockford.

School meals were included in the state budget. Free breakfast and lunch will continue through the 2025-2026 school year for all students at all schools.

Our per pupil allocation was increased to $10,050 per student. That is an increase over what we have received the last two years. Since 2023/24 we have received $9,608 per student. So, an increase was well past due.

The budget continues to provide funds to supplement our transportation budget. Our district is 100 square miles. We spend over $5.3 million dollars for transportation - drivers, mechanics, fuel, and parts. That $5 million does not include buses which we have paid for through our bonds. 

Thank you for reaching out to our state legislators and advocating for our district. It had a positive impact on this process.

The budget uncertainty was frustrating. However, it has not impacted the wonderful things that are going on in our school district this year. 

Steve

Dr. Steve Matthews

Superintendent

Rockford Public Schools

Events

  • 15 Oct 2025
  • 29 Oct 2025
  • 12 Nov 2025
  • 26 Nov 2025
    • Thanksgiving Break
      thru Nov 28 2025
      Thanksgiving Break
      Date: Nov 26 - Nov 28
      Calendar: RPS District Calendar
  • 10 Dec 2025
  • 22 Dec 2025
    • Winter Break
      thru Jan 4 2026
      Winter Break
      Date: Dec 22 - Jan 4
      Calendar: RPS District Calendar
  • 19 Jan 2026

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We Are Social

Rams News and Views 35

In this episode Dr. Matthews talks to Student Council advisor Lisa Avram and students Brady Whitmore and Abigail Mixer about the impact and mission of Student Council at Rockford High School.

Beyond the Rock

RHS Homecoming Ceremony 2025

Rockford Vs. East Kentwood Friday Football