Bond Perception and Engagement Survey!

Please take a moment to provide us some feedback on we can continue to move the district forward. 

This survey is being administered by Kent ISD. You can access the survey with this link:

Rockford Community Bond Perception and Engagement Survey

Have you seen our district Facebook page? Click the link below to follow and join!

Rockford Public Schools Facebook Page

At Rockford Public Schools, our dedication to students is built upon a foundation of fundamental values that drive all decision-making and learning. 

We all live by these Core Values:

Student-Centered Action: Every decision prioritizes the success and well-being of our students. 

Respect: Treating everyone with dignity and valuing diverse perspectives. 

Collaboration: Working together - staff, students, families and community - to achieve shared goals.

Transparency: Being open and clear in our communication and processes. 

Together, we are Building a Tradition of Excellence! 

In Michigan, districts manage daily operations and long-term infrastructure through three main funds: the General Fund, which covers everyday expenses like staff salaries and classroom resources; the Sinking Fund, a voter-approved millage for facility upgrades; and the Bond Fund, voter-approved bonds which finances major capital projects and upkeep, such as new buildings or large-scale renovations. 

1. General Fund (operating expenses)

• Funded by 6 mills of State Education millage assessed to all districts in the state. This was a result of Proposal A in the 1990's.
• Funded by 18 mills of voter-approved, non-homestead millage which is the portion of the per-pupil foundation allowance that the district is responsible for contributing towards.
• Usage: Day to day operations. Includes wages, benefits, purchased services, supplies, utilities, etc.
• Does not provide enough money for capital improvement. 

2. Bond Fund (capital improvements)

• Voter approved.
• Bonds are sold. Proceeds from those bonds pay for capital improvements/additions in the district. 
• Legally not allowed to use bond proceeds to pay for day-to-day operations.
• Currently requires 7 mills of debt millage for debt repayment. 
• Allows the district to maintain facilities and focus the General Fund dollars on teachers, staff, and the classrooms.

3. Sinking Fund (capital projects over time)

• Voter approved. Currently funded by 0.4662 mills.
• Can be used for replacement of failing equipment, paving, and construction projects.
• "Safety Net" that allows the district to take care of upkeep and improvements without having to use General Fund dollars. Keeps General Fund dollars focused on the classroom.

By creating learning environments that enhance innovation and opportunity. 

• Performing Arts Center renovation: new seats, stage, walls and interior improvements. 
• Construction of the Ram Center: indoor turf fieldhouse for athletics, fine arts and community recreation. Classroom spaces for digital media, sports marketing and business programming. 
• Career exploration classrooms at Rockford HS: expanding hands-on learning through Robotics, Skilled Trades, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) and Health Sciences. 
• Enhance students' experiences: renovating student-centered collaboration spaces. 
• Early childhood renovations: updating spaces to enhance programs for our youngest learners and to enhance safety. 
• Update educational technology.