We are thrilled to continue celebrating our counselors during National School Counseling Week 2026 (February 2–6)! ✨
Today, we are excited to shine a spotlight on our incredible high school counselors across the Rock Island-Milan School District.
At this pivotal stage in a scholar’s journey, high school counselors make a powerful impact by helping scholars navigate academic expectations, personal growth, and the important decisions that shape their futures. Their guidance keeps scholars focused, motivated, and confident as they work toward graduation and beyond.
Our high school counselors are trusted mentors, advocates, and champions for scholars, providing support for academic planning, college and career readiness, and social-emotional growth. They help scholars set ambitious goals, overcome challenges, and move forward with clarity and confidence as they prepare for the next chapter.
To our high school counselors: thank you for your dedication, encouragement, and unwavering commitment to our scholars. Your work inspires confidence, opens doors to opportunity, and makes a lasting difference every single day! #NSCW2026
February 3, 2026
Announcement: Exciting News! Meet Our New Football Coach, Coach Roome!
Attention all returning football players and new students interested in trying out for the team! We are excited to invite you to a meeting today February 3 at 3:30 PM in the fitness center. This is your opportunity to meet Coach Roome, learn about his vision for the upcoming season, and find out how you can be a part of our football team. Don’t miss this chance to kickstart your football journey! The meeting will last approximately 30 minutes.
It’s the last few days to collect that loose change and dollars lying around during your lunch! Let's see which of our 15 staff members is going to be the one who raises the most money and will walk around with a squirrel. Just 6 more days left to purchase your Dance Marathon and Rocky pride shirt. A portion of each shirt will be donated directly to our Dance Marathon donation. Huge shout-out to Ava Peppmeyer who designed both shirts this year. You can find the link here: https://stores.inksoft.com/rihs_student_council/shop/home
Attention juniors and seniors- there will be a scholarship information session hosted by YouthHope this Thursday from 5-6pm at the Moline Youth Center. You'll learn about available scholarships, how to apply for scholarships, and important scholarship deadlines. If you have any questions, reach out to Eric Mumma at YouthHope at 309-721-3172.
Any student interested in taking Driver Education this summer there will be a meeting in the Auditorium this Friday, February 6th during 6th period. Only those students who will be 15 years old by May 31st are eligible for summer driver education.
NHS Seniors: don't forget our meeting this Thursday, February 5, in the RIHS Library. We will start at 7:15 a.m. and finish before first hour. Remember to bring your hour sheets, letter with teacher endorsement signatures, and dues. Your emailed letter in your RIMSD school inbox can serve as your pass into the building Thursday morning. Don't forget to have your ID ready at the door.
ATTENTION BOYS TENNIS SEASON IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER. ALL BOYS INTERESTED IN PLAYING TENNIS THIS SPRING STOP BY COACH GABANY'S ROOM 313 ONE DAY THIS WEEK TO SIGN UP. EVEN IF YOU HAVE NEVER PLAYED TENNIS BEFORE YOU ARE WELCOME.
Yesterday the girls bowling team competed in the Western Big 6 conference meet in Geneseo. They battled tough lane conditions and never gave up throughout the whole day. Krystal Robbins earned 2nd team all conference with a 10th place individual finish. Journey Horton and Christianne Hare followed closely behind. The team will have their final dual meet on Wednesday against Dixon, which we will also honor all of our seniors. Friday they will compete in Regionals in LaSalle.
WANT TO SEE THE TALENT SHOW FOR FREE DURING SCHOOL TIME??????
WHEN: Friday, Mar 13, 2026
2nd and 3rd periods (80 minutes)
HOW: 1. No unserved detentions by this Friday.
2. No Out of School suspensions this quarter.
3. No more than 1 In School suspension this quarter.
4. No F grades.
Be the first 100 students to sign up!
DRIVER'S ED SUMMER SCHOOL - Join us virtually on Wednesday, February 11, at 6:30 p.m. for an information session on Driver's Ed Summer School. For more info, please visit: https://rihs.rimsd41.org/o/rihs/page/driver-education
February is Black History Month! Rock Island–Milan is proud to celebrate and honor the legacy of those who paved the way and those who continue to inspire us today. #BlackHistoryMonth
There will be an NHS meeting for sophomores who received an NHS invitation letter in their school email inbox. We will begin at 7:30 a.m. in the RIHS Library. We will finish in plenty of time for you to get to your locker and first hour on time. The letter you received can serve as your pass if you arrive at school early before the meeting starts. We look forward to seeing you there on Tuesday, February 3.
February 2, 2026
It’s the last few days to collect that loose change and dollars lying around during your lunch! Let's see which of our 15 staff members is going to be the one who raises the most money and will walk around with a squirrel.
Just 6 more days left to purchase your Dance Marathon and Rocky pride shirt. A portion of each shirt will be donated directly to our Dance Marathon donation. Huge shout-out to Ava Pepppmeyer who designed both shirts this year. You can find the link here: https://stores.inksoft.com/rihs_student_council/shop/home
Attention juniors and seniors- there will be a scholarship information session hosted by YouthHope this Thursday from 5-6pm at the Moline Youth Center. You'll learn about available scholarships, how to apply for scholarships, and important scholarship deadlines. If you have any questions, reach out to Eric Mumma at YouthHope at 309-721-3172.
Any student interested in taking Driver Education this summer there will be a meeting in the Auditorium this Friday, February 6th during 6th period. Only those students who will be 15 years old by May 31st are eligible for summer driver education.
"Congratulations to Eden Lovelady of the Rock Island Debate Team for receiving trophy honors with her 5th place speaker finish during Saturday's tournament at Belvidere North."
January 30, 2026
Students if you plan on going to the Rocky-Moline game Friday night @ Moline please make sure you have your current 2025-2026 Student ID to Enter. You can purchase your ticket online @ gofans.com and bypass the window.
The Student Council is raising money for the Iowa Children’s Hospital! Buy some Dance Marathon/Rocky Pride gear to show your support and share this link:
https://stores.inksoft.com/rihs_student_council/shop/home the shop closes Feb 8!”
Announcement: Exciting News! Meet Our New Football Coach, Coach Roome!*
Attention all returning football players and new students interested in trying out for the team! We are excited to invite you to a meeting on February 3 (Tuesday) at 3:30 PM in the fitness center. This is your opportunity to meet Coach Roome, learn about his vision for the upcoming season, and find out how you can be a part of our football team. Don’t miss this chance to kickstart your football journey! The meeting will last approximately 30 minutes.
EAC members, please fill out the spring questionnaire or reply to Mr Dunkers email so we can lock in potential field trip ideas. Thanks.
Attention students!!! The student council is still collecting donations to see which teacher is going to going to be walking around the school as a squirrel. Visit the table during all lunches. We have pushed back collections until next week, so you still have time to raise some money for Dance Marathon.
There will be an NHS meeting for sophomores who received an NHS invitation letter in their school email inbox. We will begin at 7:30 a.m. in the RIHS Library. We will finish in plenty of time for you to get to your locker and first hour on time. The letter you received can serve as your pass if you arrive at school early before the meeting starts. We look forward to seeing you there on Tuesday, February 3.
Attention all returning football players and new students interested in trying out for the team! We are excited to invite you to a meeting on Tuesday, February 3, at 3:30 PM in the fitness center. This is your opportunity to meet Coach Roome, learn about his vision for the upcoming season, and find out how you can be a part of our football team. Don’t miss this chance to kickstart your football journey! The meeting will last approximately 30 minutes.
January 29, 2026
Students if you plan on going to the Rocky-Moline game Friday night @ Moline please make sure you have your current 2025-2026 Student ID to Enter. You can purchase your ticket online @ gofans.com and bypass the window.
The Student Council is raising money for the Iowa Children’s Hospital! Buy some Dance Marathon/Rocky Pride gear to show your support and share this link:
https://stores.inksoft.com/rihs_student_council/shop/home the shop closes Feb 8!”
"Graduating seniors, have you provided Jostens with your height and weight for your cap and gown?
If not, stop by and see Mr. Campbell during lunches to register your height and weight for your gown."
If you have not ordered your cap and gown you still have time. Step 1 is ensuring your size is perfect. Mr. Campbell will be available at all 4 lunches."
Announcement: Exciting News! Meet Our New Football Coach, Coach Roome!*
Attention all returning football players and new students interested in trying out for the team! We are excited to invite you to a meeting on February 3 (Tuesday) at 3:30 PM in the fitness center. This is your opportunity to meet Coach Roome, learn about his vision for the upcoming season, and find out how you can be a part of our football team. Don’t miss this chance to kickstart your football journey! The meeting will last approximately 30 minutes.
EAC members, please fill out the spring questionnaire or reply to Mr Dunkers email so we can lock in potential field trip ideas. Thanks.
Attention students!!! The student council is still collecting donations to see which teacher is going to going to be walking around the school as a squirrel. Visit the table during all lunches. We have pushed back collections until next week, so you still have time to raise some money for Dance Marathon
January 28, 2026
Students if you plan on going to the Rocky-Moline game Friday night @ Moline please make sure you have your current 2025-2026 Student ID to Enter. You can purchase your ticket online @ gofans.com and bypass the window.
The EAC will be working in the greenhouse after school today. We hope to see you there.
The girls bowling team competed against Sterling last night at Backyard Bowl. The rock came up a little short against the powerhouse Sterling team but bowled the highest they have bowled all year. Leading the way for the varsity Rocks was Journey Horton with her all time high game of 241 and highest ever series with a 607. Leading the way for JV was Christina Min with a 396 series and high game was bowled by Ka Moo with a 155. Come out to Backyard bowl tonight as the Rocks take on St. Bede at 3:30.
Didn't get to audition last week for the talent show? You can still send in video auditions to Mr. Behnke until February 1.
Rocky's new spirit wear shop is starting up this week, Wednesdays on the island during all lunch periods, and at most basketball games (girls and boys). The store accepts cash only and everything is priced $10 and under for the time being. Moline game on Friday, so make sure to get your Rocky spirit wear.
January 27, 2026
Rocky's new spirit wear shop is starting up this week, Wednesdays on the island during all lunch periods, and at most basketball games (girls and boys). The store accepts cash only and everything is priced $10 and under for the time being. Moline game on Friday, so make sure to get your Rocky spirit wear.
The Swahili Heritage Club will meet today at 3:30 PM in Room 121. We will be planning our Game Day fundraiser, so please come ready to share ideas and help with planning.
“The Student Council is raising money for the Iowa Children’s Hospital! Buy some Dance Marathon/Rocky Pride gear to show your support and share this link: https://stores.inksoft.com/rihs_student_council/shop/home the shop closes Feb 8!”
"Graduating seniors, Have you provided Jostens with your height and weight for your cap and gown?
If not, stop by and see Mr. Campbell during lunches to register your height and weight for your gown."
If you have not ordered your cap and gown you still have time. Step 1 is ensuring your size is perfect. Mr. Campbell will be available at all 4 lunches."
Didn't get to audition last week for the talent show? You can still send in video auditions to Mr. Behnke until February 1.
Here’s a polished, clearer version that keeps the same information but tightens the language and sounds smooth for a school announcement:
January 26, 2026
Hello Multilingual Language Learners (formerly EL students)! ACCESS testing will take place this week in Rooms 131, 132, 134, and the Library. Please check with your EL teacher for your testing schedule and location. Ms. Johnson’s, Mr. Wayland’s, and Mr. Burgos’s classes will test in the Auditorium or Little Theater—check the signs posted on their classroom doors each day. Best of luck on your testing!
Graduating seniors—have you provided Jostens with your height and weight for your cap and gown? If not, please stop by and see Mr. Campbell during lunch to register your measurements. Mr. Campbell will be available during all four lunches. If you haven’t ordered your cap and gown yet, you still have time—ordering now ensures the correct fit. Remember, you can order now and pay later.
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Please join us for our next Committee of the Whole meeting on Tuesday, January 27, at 6 pm, at Earl Hanson Elementary School.
The meeting will feature a presentation from Principal Turner, followed by a focused discussion on College and Career Readiness.
Be part of the conversation as we work together to support our schools and community. We hope to see you there!
January 22, 2026
Last night the girls bowling team competed against Geneseo and came out with a win. Leading the way for the varsity Rocks was Kylee Raygor with a 482 she also had the high game with a 186. Alaina Saunders had her highest game in varsity competition with a 171. Leading the way for JV was Christina Min with a 394. High game was Ka Moo with a 138. Mia Starks had her highest game of the season with a 122.
The African American Heritage Club is changing its meeting day. We will not meet on Monday's after school at 3:30 in the Big Island area.
"Graduating seniors, have you provided Jostens with your height and weight for your cap and gown? If not, stop by and see Mr. Campbell during lunches to register your height and weight for your gown." If you have not ordered your cap and gown you still have time. Step 1 is ensuring your size is perfect. Mr. Campbell will be available at all 4 lunches."
Didn't get to audition last week for the talent show? You can still send in video auditions to Mr. Behnke until February 1
Hello Multilingual Language Learners (former ELs!) We are ACCESS Testing in Rooms 131, 132, 134 and the Library this week. See your EL Teacher for when and where you test. Ms. Johnson, Mr. Wayland and Mr. Burgos's classes will take place in the Auditorium or Little Theater - see the signs on their doors each day. Happy testing!
January 21, 2026
The African American Heritage Club is changing its meeting day. We will not meet on Monday's after school at 3:30 in the Big Island area.
"Graduating seniors, have you provided Jostens with your height and weight for your cap and gown? If not, stop by and see Mr. Campbell during lunches in the café to register your height and weight for your gown." If you have not ordered your cap and gown you still have time. Step 1 is ensuring your size is perfect. Mr. Campbell will be available at all 4 lunches."
Didn't get to audition last week for the talent show? You can still send in video auditions to Mr. Behnke until February 1.
Hello Multilingual Language Learners (former ELs!) We are ACCESS Testing in Rooms 131, 132, 134 and the Library this week. See your EL Teacher for when and where you test. Ms. Johnson, Mr. Wayland and Mr. Burgos's classes will take place in the Auditorium or Little Theater - see the signs on their doors each day. Happy testing!
Last night the girls bowling team bowled against Moline at Highland Park and came up a little short in total pinfall. Leading the way for the varsity Rocks was Journey Horton with her season high of 575 series and 217 high game. Leading the way for Rocks JV was Alaina Saunders with a 361 series and who also had the high game 137. Please come and support tonight as they battle Geneseo at Backyard Bowl.
EAC will be working in the greenhouse after school today. We hope to see you there.
Ladies!!!! Girls Track and Field season began yesterday! Didn't make it yesterday no worries! Come be apart of something special! Please show up today after school at 3:30 sharp in the fieldhouse balcony. If you are currently in another sport at the high school you still need to sign up this week. Two things that must be done is snap registration and a current physical. If you have questions please stop by and visit Mr. Williams on the Red Floor. Look forward to see you all after school. #WeBelieve Coach Williams.
January 20, 2026
Saturday the Rocky Boys Bowling team traveled to Blackhawk lanes in Sterling for the Regional Championships and came out victorious. They had a great day of bowling with all bowlers contributing to the win! They led the way most of the day and never looked back. The Rocks had a six game total pin count of 6497. 591 pins ahead of second place! Zayden Morris was the individual Regional Champion with a six game series of 1428! The Rocks had 3 individuals medal in the top 4 with a fourth bowler in the top 7. 1st Zayden Morris. 2nd Keagan Swain. 4th Peyton Hecker. 7th Chace Terry.
Ayden Braud 575 / 3 games Chace Terry 1269 / 6 games Kasee Frantz 544 / 3 games Keagan Swain 1376/ 6 games Peyton Hecker 1305 / 6 games Zayden Morris 1428 / 6 games Great job to all!
The girls bowling team competed in the Moline Invite this past weekend and finished 6th place overall for varsity and 4th place for JV. Journey Horton led the varsity with a 962 and also had high game with a 191. Kylee Raygor was close behind with a 187. Leading the way for JV was Raphaella Hodonou who also had the high game for the JV rocks. The team bowls tonight against Moline in a dual meet in Moline and tomorrow at home against Geneseo.
Boys track practice will start on Tuesday January 20th. Students need to make sure they fill out Snap registration and have an updated physical. We will meet in Commons A after school.
“Congratulations to the Competitive Cheer Team who received 2nd place at the Normal West competition on Saturday and tied for 1st place at the Knoxville competition on Sunday! Way to go team!”
Ladies!!!! Girls Track and Field season begins Today! Come join and be apart of something special! If you are interested in participating, please sign up using one of the red sheet QR codes throughout the school or come visit Mr. Williams down on the red floor. Today Jan 20th at 3:30 sharp, we will begin with a team meeting in the fieldhouse balcony. If you are currently in another sport at the high school you still need to sign up this week. Two things that must be done is snap registration and a current physical. All of us coaches are beyond excited to get going on our quest to win a championship! If you have questions please stop by and visit Mr. Williams on the Red Floor. Look forward to see you all after school. #WeBelieve Coach Williams.
Welcome back to Episode 2 of the Mi-Rock Podcast, where we amplify the voices that power RIMSD #41! Mi-Rock celebrates the people who make RIMSD #41 thrive! Each episode shares inspiring stories and behind-the-scenes insights, spotlighting the heart of our schools. Mi-Rock also supports our 2030 Strategic Plan by fostering connections, building relationships, and strengthening communication across the district and our community.
In this episode, hosts John Hawley of the Rock Island Center for Math and Science and Ian Scott of Thomas Jefferson Elementary are joined by guest Amy Zero from Rock Island Academy. Mrs. Zero represented the Rock Island-Milan community at the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) 2025 Annual Conference, where Rock Island Academy proudly earned the Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) designation. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of supporting young scholars through counseling, the collaborative work of coordinating counselors across schools, and the meaningful impact taking place in classrooms throughout the district.
January 16, 2026
Girls Track and Field season begins next Tuesday. If you are interested in participating, please sign up using one of the red sheet QR codes throughout the school or come visit Mr. Williams down on the red floor. We will begin practice Tuesday Jan 20th at 3:30 sharp. We will meet for warm ups in the fieldhouse balcony. If you are currently in another sport at the high school you still need to sign up this week. All of us coaches are beyond excited to get going on our quest to win a championship!
Seniors—have you ordered your cap and gown yet? Now is the time to place your order. Waiting may result in late fees or not receiving your cap and gown in time. Remember, a cap and gown are required to participate in the graduation ceremony. You only need to order the cap and gown—additional items are optional—and you can place your order now and pay later. Please call Jostens @ 563-275-8709
Wednesday night the girls bowling team took on Galesburg at Backyard Bowl and came up a little short on a close match. Leading the way for the varsity was Journey Horton. High game was bowled by Krystal Robbins with a 188, Journey Horton was close behind with a 187. Leading the way for JV was Ka Moo who also had the high game for JV. Please come and support the Rocks as they compete in the Moline Invitational this Saturday at Highland Park Bowl in Moline.
Boys track practice will start on Tuesday January 20th. Students need to make sure they fill out Snap registration and have an updated physical. We will meet in Commons A after school.
Here’s a polished, PA-ready version with clearer flow, consistent tone, and tightened wording while keeping all details intact:
January 14, 2026
Boys Track practice will begin on Tuesday, January 20th. Students must complete SNAP registration and have an updated physical on file. Practice will meet after school in Commons A.
Girls Track and Field athletes will have a team meeting today, Wednesday, January 14th, at 7:45 a.m. in the Fitness Center. Any girls interested in joining the track team should stop by Mr. Williams’ office on the Red Floor to get signed up.
Get your fire on and audition for the Annual Rocky Talent Show! This year’s theme is “Love Is in the Air,” and the show will take place on February 15th. Auditions will be held every day next week before and after school in Room 117. You may also submit a video audition by emailing Mr. Behnke. Don’t miss your chance to be part of Rocky history!
Attention current sophomores and juniors: Do you have a job? Would you like to earn school credit for it? Come learn about the Work Program! Scan the QR code on the flyers by the drinking fountains for details and to sign up.
The EAC will be working in the greenhouse after school today. Please be sure to read the meeting notes posted in Google Classroom yesterday, as many second-semester events were discussed.
The girls bowling team defeated United Township last night. Leading the varsity team was Journey Horton, followed closely by Kylee Raygor. Christina Min led the JV squad. Great job, Rocks!
Seniors—have you ordered your cap and gown yet? Now is the time. Waiting could result in late fees or not receiving your cap and gown in time, and you must wear one to participate in graduation. You only need to order the cap and gown, and you can place your order now and pay later. Use the QR code to order. For questions pr to place an order, contact Jostens at 563-275-8709.
If you’d like, I can also:
Shorten this for a quick PA read
Make it more energetic or more formal
Reformat it for email or a daily bulletin