

Here are a few important dates to keep in mind this month.

Mr. Sears holds a Master of Science in Leadership and Executive Coaching and a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communications. Since joining Rock Island-Milan School District 41 in 2015 as a substitute, he has served in a variety of roles, most recently as a Technology Support Specialist at Rock Island High School since 2021.
Throughout his career, he has demonstrated outstanding leadership and innovation, including developing the ChromeDepot program, securing grant funding for classroom technology, implementing digital attendance systems, and creating opportunities for students through a technology worker program.
We look forward to Mr. Sears' continued leadership and dedication as he helps advance technology across the district. Congratulations, Mr. Sears!

Ms. Lonian taught in the Rock Island–Milan School District from 2003 to 2005 and again from 2018 to 2022. She has served as Assistant Principal at the Rock Island Center for Math & Science for the past three years and spent one year as a Student Assistance Manager (SAM).
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Western Illinois University and two Master of Education degrees from American College of Education in Elementary Education and Literacy.
We look forward to Ms. Lonian's leadership and dedication as she supports scholars, staff, and families in her new role. Congratulations, Ms. Lonian!


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!

Congratulations to our outstanding track and field athletes who etched their names into school history this season by setting new records!
Their accomplishments are a testament to countless hours of training, unwavering determination, and a commitment to excellence both on and off the track. We are incredibly proud of our scholars for representing our school with pride and for raising the standard for future generations of athletes. Their achievements will be remembered as part of our program's legacy for years to come.
Congratulations on an incredible season and this well-deserved place in the record books!
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
