Jeremy Karel - Principal
jkarel@rockfordschools.org
Address: 405 Summit Ave, Rockford, MI 49341
Website: www.rockfordschools.org
Phone: (616) 863-6366
a note from mr. Karel
Dear Families,
The stretch from the start of the school year to Thanksgiving is our longest one without a break, and we want to thank you for all the ways you support learning at home. Your efforts truly show — our students come to school each day ready to engage and grow! As we head into the final few weeks before Thanksgiving, here are a few important reminders:
- Save the Date: Our Holiday Concert will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at the RHS Auditorium. You won’t want to miss it! Please note, we will be heading to the high school the morning of December 4 for a dress rehearsal. I would encourage you to avoid appointments that morning.
- Yearbooks: Yearbooks are now on sale — be sure to order yours!
- STEAM Night: Join us for STEAM Night next Tuesday! It’s a fun, hands-on evening for the whole family.
- Early release: we have an early release (1:30pm dismissal) on November 12.
We also know the holiday season can bring extra challenges — both financial and emotional. If your family could use some extra support, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You’ll also find a section in this newsletter with information about community resources available to help.
Warmly,
Mr. Karel
Toy drive
Valley View's Student Council will be leading a toy drive this year. Our school leaders were presented with many opportunities to give back, and they felt very strongly about giving to the community in which we all live. Tree of Hope is sponsored by North Kent Connect, and they are currently servicing 1,600 children. If you are able to, please consider sending a new, unwrapped toy to school between November 24th and December 12th. North Kent Connect and Valley View's Student Council thanks you!
Book Vending
Students can earn one gold coin by donating two gently used books from home during the book swap. Our next book swap date is November 21st. Help us fill up the vending machine with books Valley View kids will love!
Yearbooks for sale
Our yearbook sales website is now open. The basic yearbook is $15 and all orders are ONLINE ONLY. You can order your yearbook HERE. Valley View's yearbook code is 14568526.
Community resources
Food Resources
If your family needs help accessing nutritious meals, there are several local food resources available. Community food pantries and meal programs provide free groceries to anyone in need. Here is a link to all the local resources available to you.
Education Benefits
We strongly encourage all parents/guardians to return their Education Benefits Form. Completing this form takes less than five minutes and can help students receive important resources. Filling out the Education Benefits Form may help provide:
- Health & Wellness Services
- Before and After School Academic & Enrichment Programs
- Guidance & College Counselors
- Fee Waivers for College Applications & Admissions Tests
- Resources for Classrooms, Teachers & Children
SAP
Say “I have a School Assistance Program (SAP) with Rockford Public Schools” when you call 800.442.0809 and press “1.” Every RPS family member in your household is eligible. The Rockford Education Foundation (REF) has proudly partnered with Rockford Public Schools to provide expert counseling, therapy, and resources through Pine Rest’s School Assistance Program (SAP).
Please note
Winter weather
As the weather cools down, please remember to pack an extra set of clothes for your child — including socks, underwear, a t-shirt, and sweatpants — to keep in their backpack during the fall and winter months. Also, don’t forget to label your child’s coats, boots, and other belongings with their name. Thank you!
Alerts
For up-to-date information regarding Rockford Public Schools delays and/or closings, events and safety alerts, send a text message of “Y” or “Yes” to our district’s short code number, 67587. Opt out any time by simply replying to one of our messages with “Stop”. Be sure to tune in on icy or snowy mornings!
Thanksgiving Break
School will be closed November 26th, 27th, and 28th.
