Alignment Rockford

The greatest challenges facing Rockford are related to public education and its impact on our community. The committee process includes five phases:

1.

Alignment Rockford's mission is to align community resources in support of public school strategies to raise student achievement, improve the health and happiness of our children, and advance the economic and social well-being of our community. Truancy rates must be lowered and minority achievement gaps need to be closed. Standardized test scores and graduation rates are unacceptably low. High pov

erty levels have a damaging effect on learning and social development. Too many of our children are unprepared for a successful life in an increasingly competitive world. Our social and economic vitality depends upon accelerated achievement in public education, but the turnaround of public schools cannot be accomplished by the school district and teachers alone. Indeed, this critical endeavor can only be achieved by a broad and far-reaching collaboration of education administrators and teaching professionals, and political, corporate, religious, civic, social and grassroots entities faithfully working together to advance academic achievement and further educational attainment. In 2009 a diverse group of Rockford’s civic, business, religious and educational leaders evaluated how other communities across the country have responded to similar trends, with the objective of adapting best principles and practices in Rockford to increase academic aspiration and achievement. Based on what they learned from effective community models, a collaborative framework known as Alignment Rockford was formed to improve public education through facilitating the focus of community resources on the fulfillment of the strategic plan of Rockford Public Schools District 205. Leadership Values
As those involved with Alignment Rockford collaborate in this important community endeavor, the following leadership values form the foundation for operational relationships:

1. We work with a spirit of unity – We agree to offer one voice on topics related to the alignment effort and to resolve conflicting agendas in committee.
2. Our relationships are based on trust – We understand that predictability, clear communication, and mutual support precede success in every challenging community endeavor.
3. Our focus is on our children’s needs – We seek collaborative, student-focused solutions to barriers which impair academic achievement.
4. We promote life-long learning – We know that raising educational aspirations and attainment will result in greater economic prosperity for all in our community. Committee Work
The work of Alignment Rockford is organized and conducted by committees. These specialized teams are led by community members and District 205 management who bring a diversity of expertise and a passion for public education. The committees are overseen by the Alignment Rockford board, their effort is guided by objectives, and their results are systematically evaluated. Tactical Planning – In response to an unmet student need, the committee conducts research and creates a detailed plan to implement a pilot project that includes measures of effectiveness.
2. Community Engagement – Through an invitation to participate, community organizations are asked to join in the implementation of pilot programs.
3. Implementation and Evaluation – Communications between pilot program agencies and the committee ensures implementation fidelity and accountability. Effectiveness is regularly evaluated.
4. Scaling Up – Based on early success, the pilot is extended beyond the original scope.
5.Institutionalization – Once measured to be effective on a large scale, the program becomes integrated within the District 205 structure.

08/05/2026

Visit each of our Ready to Learn Spaces and find your favorite!

Did you know that when a child and trusted adult read together, they deepen their bond and create a lifelong love of stories and books?

We invite you to read together at one of the 14 Ready to Learn Spaces located throughout Rockford. These literacy-rich community “living rooms” are free and open to anyone.

Ready to Learn Spaces are designed to encourage healthy play and the sharing of books. Any book in the shelf is free to take home.

Thank you to the many supporters who make it possible:

07/28/2026

Alignment Rockford extends its gratitude to McNamara4Mayor for his years of service and leadership as Mayor of the City of Rockford.

Mayor McNamara has served on Alignment Rockford’s Governing Board throughout his tenure as Mayor and has been a strong partner in advancing work that has reduced community violence, increased awareness and support for families, beautified our city, and improved the lives of students and children across Rockford.

He has also been a committed advocate for early childhood, most recently convening a task force focused on improving access to high-quality early care and education for children under age five. We look forward to continuing that important work in the community.

As Mayor McNamara prepares to step down at the end of August and begin his new role as CEO of the Illinois Municipal League, we wish him every success. Alignment Rockford looks forward to continuing our partnership with the City Council and City leadership throughout the transition and through the spring election of Rockford’s next mayor.

City of Rockford, Illinois

07/23/2026

Join us for Storytime at our Ready to Learn Space at Ambiance Barber & Beauty Lounge!

Saturday, August 1 | 1:00 PM
4040 Charles St., Rockford

Bring your little ones for a fun story and a free book while supplies last! We hope to see you there!

07/04/2026

“An informed citizenry is at the heart of a dynamic democracy.” — Thomas Jefferson

As our country marks 250 years since the Declaration of Independence, we are reminded that the right to quality education is a cornerstone of a thriving democracy.

While we are shaped by what has come before us, we are also shaping the future. The next 250 years will be shaped by the investments we make now — in children, in schools, in families, and in the systems that help a community keep its promises.

In Rockford, our children’s education does not belong to schools alone. It belongs to all of us and we can all work together to make sure every child has what they need to learn, grow, and thrive. We believe that true freedom is rooted in education and connection. Let’s continue our commitment to building a community where every child can grow up free.

Happy Independence Day!

06/29/2026

Families were invited to City Hall Monday for a story time with Rockford leaders to celebrate the launch of the 14th Ready to Learn Space within the area.

06/29/2026

Starting the week off strong at Alignment Rockford!

We had a great time this morning celebrating life in the City of Rockford in the newest family-friendly, literacy-rich Ready to Learn Space with our friends from The City, Mayor Tom McNamara, Police Chief Carla Redd, and Fire Chief Rebecca Tyo! Also part of the fun today was the United Way, Rock River Valley and many of our other Ready to Learn Partners.

This newest of 14 Ready to Learn Spaces has arrived at City Hall. Check out all of our Ready to Learn Spaces this summer and enjoy reading, playing, and building your children’s library.

Keep reading at Rock River Current by Kevin Haas

Photos from City of Rockford Government's post

06/29/2026

06/29/2026

Alignment Rockford and United Way Rock River Valley have stocked City Hall with children's books for the 14th Ready to Learn space.
📰 Full story linked in comments below
📸: Kevin Haas

06/23/2026

Join us for a special Storytime at our newest Ready to Learn Space— our 14th Ready to Learn Space in Rockford!

We’re excited to welcome Mayor McNamara4Mayor Fire Chief Rebecca Tyo and Police Chief Carla Redd as our guest readers at Rockford City Hall! City of Rockford, Illinois United Way Rock River Valley

Monday, June 29 9:00–9:30 AM
Rockford City Hall
425 E State St. Rockford

Children who attend will receive a FREE book to take home, thanks to our partnership with United for Literacy!

Ready to Learn Spaces help bring books, literacy, and playful learning opportunities directly into the places families already visit throughout our community. We hope you’ll join us for this fun morning of stories and smiles!

06/15/2026

Join us for a special Storytime at our newest Ready to Learn Space— our 14th Ready to Learn Space in Rockford!

We’re excited to welcome Mayor McNamara4Mayor as our guest reader at Rockford City Hall!

Monday, June 29 9:00–9:30 AM
Rockford City Hall
425 E State St. Rockford

Children who attend will receive a FREE book to take home, thanks to our partnership with United for Literacy!

Ready to Learn Spaces help bring books, literacy, and playful learning opportunities directly into the places families already visit throughout our community. We hope you’ll join us for this fun morning of stories and smiles!

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Location

Rockford

Contact the school

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Telephone

+17797744389

Website

http://www.alignmentrockford.com/

Address

612 N Main Street
Rockford, IL
61103

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 5pm
Tuesday	9am - 5pm
Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	9am - 5pm
Friday	9am - 12pm

Alignment Rockford

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