Best Public Schools in Rockford, IL

The Rockford, Illinois school district consists of 40 schools, including 27 elementary schools, 7 middle schools, 5 high schools, and 1 alternative school. The district faces significant challenges, with overall low academic performance compared to state averages, high rates of chronic absenteeism, and economic disadvantage among the student population.

However, the data reveals pockets of excellence within the district, with standout schools like Thurgood Marshall School, which is ranked 9th out of 1,363 Illinois middle schools and has a 5-star rating. This school boasts exceptional academic results, with 93.3% of students proficient or better in English Language Arts and 84.2% proficient or better in Mathematics. In contrast, some of the lower-performing schools include Kennedy Middle School, ranked 1,351st out of 1,363 Illinois middle schools, and Lewis Lemon Elementary, ranked 2,030th out of 2,067 Illinois elementary schools.

The data suggests a significant equity gap within the Rockford School District 205, where some students are receiving an excellent education while others are struggling. Addressing attendance and engagement issues, as well as targeting interventions and a focus on equity, will be crucial to raising achievement for all Rockford students.