Dear Parents, Guardians, and Staff,
We are writing to inform you that the Boil Order Advisory for the Junior High/High School building has been officially lifted.
All required water quality tests have been completed, and the results confirm that our water supply is safe for drinking, cooking, and all other uses.
Thank you once again for your cooperation, understanding, and patience during this required safety measure.
Sincerely,
Marcus Bush
Superintendent
Following the water main break that occurred at the new elementary construction site on Friday, we are writing to provide a necessary update regarding the water status at the Junior High and High School buildings for the start of the week.
Precautionary Boil Order
Out of an abundance of caution and in conjunction with the Rock Island County Health Department, the Junior High and High School buildings will be placed under a precautionary boil order for Monday, November 17th, and Tuesday, November 18th.
This measure is being taken to allow the necessary time for thorough testing of the water system following the repair of the main. We expect to receive clearance from the Health Department following this testing period.
School Day Operations
Please be assured that we are taking all necessary steps to ensure a safe and productive learning environment during this time:
Drinking Water: The school will provide ample bottled water for all students and staff. We also strongly encourage students to bring their own reusable water bottles filled from home to supplement the supply.
Hand Hygiene: We will provide hand sanitizer in all classrooms and common areas. We want to confirm that all restrooms and toilet facilities are fully operational and in working order.
Food Service: The lack of potable tap water may require us to make temporary changes to our breakfast and lunch menus. If any changes are necessary, we will communicate these details to you as soon as possible.
We understand that this is an inconvenience, and we sincerely apologize for this disruption to your week.
Thank you once again for your incredible patience and understanding as we work through this repair process and continue toward future progress at Rockridge. We will provide a further update on the water status Tuesday evening.
Sincerely,
Marcus Bush
Superintendent
The Illinois Elementary School Association (IESA) is honored to announce that Curtis Fischer-Oelschlaeger of Rockridge Junior High School (Music) and Shauna Segler of Dunlap Middle School (Speech) have been selected as the Illinois Outstanding Music Educator and Outstanding Speech Educator for the 2025-26 school year!
Both individuals are the middle school state-level winners and the national nominees for the NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations) Outstanding Educator Awards. This is the first year NFHS has recognized educators at the middle school level, with national winners to be announced later in the 2025-26 school year. Nominees for the NFHS Outstanding Educator Awards must exemplify the highest standards of ethical conduct and carry the endorsement of their respective state association. An NFHS awards committee reviews nominations and selects regional award winners.
Curtis Fischer-Oelschlaeger, known as "Mr. O" has been the heart of the Rockridge Music Program for 28 years. He has hosted contests for more than 20 years, served on the IESA Music Advisory Committee, and works closely with both elementary and high school music staff to create a thriving, cohesive program. His leadership has inspired students at every level and helped Rockridge Music become one of the premier programs in Illinois.
Shauna Segler, coach of the Dunlap Middle School Speech Team, has built one of the most inclusive and dynamic junior high speech programs in the state. Each year, she welcomes 80 to 100 students, fostering confidence, camaraderie, and communication skills. Beyond coaching, Shauna has hosted numerous contests, served as a judge, and presented at the IESA Speech Workshop.
The IESA congratulates Curtis and Shauna on this well-deserved state recognition and wishes them the very best as they move forward in the national selection process!
Rockridge Junior High is pleased to be awarding Aubree Chism with the 6th-grade Student of the Month award. She is the daughter of Allison Beckman and granddaughter of Carleton and Kimberly Beckman. She has two siblings, Carson Beckman (2nd grade) and Destinee Morrison (Kinder), who also attend Rockridge. Outside of school, Aubree enjoys a variety of activities, including soccer and art. While at school, she participates in the Art Club. Her favorite subjects in school are Social Studies and Math. Her favorite book is “The One and Only Bob”. Her favorite food is “walking tacos”. Her favorite memory thus far this school year has been going to Art Club after school. In her free time, she enjoys coloring and playing on Canva. She really looks up to her grandpa because he is really kind and helpful. In the future, Aubree would like to pursue a career in Zoology. One thing Aubree would want people to know about her is that she loves Koala bears.
Notes from the Staff:
Mrs. Riess stated, “Aubrey strives to always do her best on her school work. She is eager to participate in class discussions and is polite and kind to others.”
Mrs. Wright said, “Aubree is always engaged during learning time. She produces thoughtful, high quality work. Aubree is responsible and kind to others.”
Mrs. Casey stated, “Aubree is always willing to help and is responsible in class. She does well in class and goes above and beyond in her schoolwork.”
Mrs. Schwigen added, “Aubree is a wonderful student who consistently participates and engages during our MTSS lessons. She carries this positive work ethic into PE class, where she always strives to do her best.”
Aubree is pictured with Mrs. Casey.
What truly sets Lori apart is her positive attitude and commitment to our school's well-being. Lori doesn't just manage the kitchen; she creates a welcoming environment for students and staff. Lori takes the time to learn students' names, pays attention to students’ needs, and always has a smile and a friendly word for everyone. Her kitchen staff consistently reports that she fosters a supportive and collaborative environment, which makes the whole team stronger. Lori is flexible with last-minute changes, and happily takes on work that is above and beyond expectations. When you walk into Lori’s kitchen, it is decorated for the holidays or the season, and she even does special events like Tailgate Fridays, Senior Community Member luncheons, a Thanksgiving-themed “dinner,” a Santa lunch, and other themed meals. Lori is always present, working hard and engaging with the students and the people around her. Lori is one of the best, and we cannot thank her enough for the positive, warm, and welcoming atmosphere she has created in our school. The positive climate in the junior high and high school cafeteria is undeniable, and we have Lori to thank for that.
