

Rock Island-Milan School District #41 is proud to announce that the Communications Department has received national recognition from the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) through its 2026 Publication and Digital Media Awards program.
The following projects and initiatives were recognized:
📹RIMSD41 Strategic Plan Testimonials Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vqsEXkVRuw
🎙Mi-Rock Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6DaIIg7ad18
📸Rocky Advanced Welding Photo: https://aptg.co/xRGjf0
🗞2024-2025 School Year Recap and Summer News: https://aptg.co/RnR4x0
Visit the NSPRA page to learn more: https://www.nspra.org/Awards/Award-Winners/Publications-and-Digital-Media-Excellence-Winners-2026




These awards honor exceptional representatives of education who make a lasting impact on scholars, schools, and the community through their dedication, service, and commitment to excellence.
🏆 Outstanding Educator Award
• Kathrine Montford
• Jennifer Frecker-Tacker
• Kimberly Chenoweth
• Karolyn Harris
🏆 Outstanding School Support Award
• Correna Weas
• Teri Roberge
• Dena Spaulding
• Sonji Schmidt
• Wendy Verdugo
• Gail Jefferson
• Kari Gable
• Rosaland Lee
🏆 Substitute Educator Award
• Carla Underwood
Congratulations and thank you for all you do to support our scholars and schools!

We are thrilled to announce Ms. Alyson Baldwin as the new Assistant Principal at Washington Junior High School, beginning in the 2026-2027 school year!
Ms. Baldwin currently serves as Dean at WJHS, where she has built strong, positive relationships with staff, scholars, and families. In her role, she has played an instrumental part in supporting the success of the school's Special Education program while demonstrating an unwavering commitment to academic achievement and scholar well-being.
Ms. Baldwin holds a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in Special Education and a Master's Degree in Educational Administration. Her leadership experience, educational background, and deep understanding of the Washington Junior High School community make her exceptionally well-prepared for this role.
Congratulations, Ms. Baldwin!
Please help us extend a warm welcome to Dr. Beth Summers as the new Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, beginning in the 2026-2027 school year!
Dr. Summers joins the district with more than 13 years of administrative experience, having served as an AVID Director, Elementary School Principal, and High School Principal. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, organizational leadership, and supporting scholar success.
She holds a Doctorate of Education in Educational Administration, an Education Specialist credential in Educational Administration, a Master of Science in Educational Administration, and a Master of Public Administration in Public Management & Leadership. Dr. Summers also holds a Chief School Business Officer (CSBO) Certification, bringing valuable expertise in strategic planning, resource management, and fiscal leadership.
We look forward to the knowledge, experience, and leadership Dr. Summers will bring to our learning community!
Wishing everyone a fun, safe, and relaxing summer! ☀️

Join us for our final Facilities Management Plan meeting of the 2025-2026 school year this evening, June 1, from 5–7 PM at Rock Island High School. The meeting will include a guided tour of RIHS, a discussion of observations and next steps, project updates, and a review of funding options for future facility improvements. If you are unable to attend, we invite you to join us virtually. Please visit https://www.rimsd41.org/page/facilities-management-plan for the meeting link and additional information about the Facility Management Plan.

This morning, 409 scholars officially became graduates during the 153rd Annual Commencement Ceremony at the Vibrant Arena at The MARK.
Today, you crossed the stage and stepped into a new chapter filled with opportunity, purpose, and possibility. We are incredibly proud of all you have accomplished and can't wait to see the impact you will make in the years ahead.







Olivia’s alma maters are Eugene Field Elementary School and Washington Jr. High School.
This fall, Olivia will attend Loras College, where she plans to study Political Science while continuing her track and cross country career.

Averi is a proud alumna of Eugene Field Elementary School and Washington Jr. High School.
This fall, Averi will attend the University of Wisconsin–Madison to study genetics.

Congratulations to Angelo Mojica on graduating in the top ten of the class! Angelo’s alma maters are Rock Island Center for Math and Science and Washington Jr. High School.
This fall, Angelo will attend Black Hawk College, where he plans to study Biology.

Congratulations to John Htoo on graduating in the top ten of the class! John’s alma maters are Earl Hanson Elementary School and Edison Jr. High School.
This fall, John will attend the University of Illinois Chicago, where he plans to study Business.

Congratulations to Millie Gidaszewski on graduating in the top ten of the class! Millie’s alma maters are Eugene Field Elementary School and Washington Jr. High School.
This fall, Millie will attend the University of Pittsburgh, where she plans to study Economics and Chemistry.

Congratulations to Gabe Mahn on graduating in the top ten of the class! Gabe’s alma maters are Earl Hanson Elementary School and Edison Jr. High School.
This fall, Gabe will attend Rhodes College, where he plans to study Environmental Science.

RIHS Class of 2026 Top Ten Spotlight ✨
Congratulations to Nahimana Martin on graduating in the top ten of the class! Nahimana’s alma maters are Denkmann Elementary School and Washington Jr. High School.
This fall, Nahimana will attend Black Hawk College, where she plans to pursue an Associate in Science degree and study Nursing.










If you're unable to attend the class of 2026 graduation ceremony in person this Saturday, we invite you to celebrate with us online.
Join us via live stream at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/live/VcsiDeW12ZA



