Congrats to our Rock Island High School early grads! 🎓🎉
This school year, 70 seniors graduated early, and we couldn’t be prouder of each and every one of them. We wish you all the very best and can’t wait to see everything you will accomplish in the future!
🎙️We’re excited to introduce 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.
Our inaugural episode kicks things off with an engaging conversation featuring hosts John Hawley of the Rock Island Center for Math and Science and Ian Scott of Thomas Jefferson Elementary, joined by special guest Mike Mertel from Rock Island High School. Together, they dive into the realities of high school teaching, the impact of the Education Internship program, and the incredible work happening every day in classrooms across the district.
🎧 Don’t miss this powerful first episode: listen in, get inspired, and celebrate the people who make RIMSD #41 exceptional!
December 15, 2025
GRADUATING STUDENTS: Return your chrome book to the Chrome Depot when you finish finals.
The Rocky girls bowling team placed 6th place, only 17 pins out of 4th place at the UT invite this past weekend. Delaney Dempsey was top bowler for Varsity and close behind was Journey Horton.
JV place 2nd overall and brought home some hardware. Christianne Hare was top bowler for the JV and also received a 2nd place medal for high game of a 160.
Rocks will battle Moline in a dual meet this Wednesday at Backyard Bowl @3:30. Please join us on cheering on our Bowling Rocks
This is your last week to purchase a yearbook in room 211. Yearbooks are $60. You can purchase a book online through winter break at www.yearbookordercenter.com, using order code 8228. No extras will be ordered, so don't miss out!
Just a reminder for our schedule this week: today,Monday is a full school day, Tuesday’s dismissal is 12:20 (1st, 2 and 8th hour), Wednesday (3rd and 4th hour) and Thursday’s (5th and 7th hour) dismissal time is 10:50. Friday the 19th is make-up finals only. If you miss a day of finals you need to reach out to your teacher to make arrangements to come in to take your final on Friday.
Seniors! Now is your chance to win part of nearly $190,000 in scholarship awards just available to Rock Island High School Seniors! Whether you'll be attending a trade/vocational school, a 2-yr community/junior college, or a 4-yr college/university, there may be a scholarship for you! Only one application to complete. The Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation 2026 Scholarship Application is online at www.rimef.org. Deadline is February 27, 2026. Please contact Ms Ponsetto in Rm 142 if you have any questions.
December 12, 2025
Seniors! Now is your chance to win part of nearly $190,000 in scholarship awards just available to Rock Island High School Seniors! Whether you'll be attending a trade/vocational school, a 2-yr community/junior college, or a 4-yr college/university, there may be a scholarship for you! Only one application to complete. The Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation 2026 Scholarship Application is online at www.rimef.org. Deadline is February 27, 2026. Please contact Ms. Ponsetto in Rm 142 if you have any questions.
Seniors! It is not too late to join Silver Cord Service Program. You will need to start soon so you can earn 50 hours of volunteering before graduation. See Mr. Dunker (room 29) or Mr. Carlin (bandroom) if you have any questions.
Please return overdue books to the library before the end of the semester. And since you're stopping by, take a look at all of the new books we have received in the last two weeks. Winter vacation is the perfect time to escape into a great book-- we encourage you to check out library books over the break!
Early Graduate Celebration & Informational Meeting,
Where: RIHS Cafeteria When: Friday, December 19th at 8:30 a.m
December 11, 2025
ALL detentions must be served End of day December 11th in order to meet the detention criteria for finals?
ROCKY’S WINTER WONDERLAND ROCKY’S WINTER WONDERLAND Tailgater Join us for an afternoon of winter-themed fun! This special event is FREE for qualifying students and packed with activities, DECEMBER 12, 2025 | 3:30-5:30, RIHS CAFETERIA
Time is running out to purchase your yearbook! Yearbooks are on sale in room 211 for the next weeks. Yearbooks can still be purchased online through Winter Break. Books are $60. No extras will be ordered. Don't miss out!
Thursday December 11th, 2025 Western IL University will be located in the cafeteria from 11:30-1:00. Please be sure to stop by and talk to Mr. Ruiz about your possible future plans at Western!
Attention seniors- there will be a scholarship meeting this Thursday during 6th hour in the auditorium. We will be going over details for the Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation (RIMEF) scholarship, along with other resources on scholarships. Seniors, you will need to go to homeroom first for attendance and then you will make your way to the auditorium after. See you there!
Pre-Sale student tickets for the Moline Basketball game this Friday will be on sale in the Athletic Office during lunch beginning on Wednesday. Presale tickets will be $2.00 instead of the normal $3.00! Get your tickets early and support the Rocks!
Everyone is invited to attend the RIHS Choirs Winter Concert on Thursday, December 11, at 7 pm in the auditorium. Concert, Symphonic, and Chamber Choirs will perform holiday music that is sure to make you jolly and bright.
Seniors! It is not too late to join Silver Cord Service Program. You will need to start soon so you can earn 50 hours of volunteering before graduation. See Mr Dunker (room 29) or Mr Carlin (bandroom) if you have any questions.
Any EAC members who have been selling World's finest chocolate, please stop by Mr. Dunker's room with the money before finals are over. If you want to continue selling please speak with him.
Just a reminder for our schedule next week: Monday is a full school day, Tuesday’s dismissal is 12:20 (1st, 2 and 8th hour), Wednesday (3rd and 4th hour) and Thursday’s (5th and 7th hour) dismissal time is 10:50. Friday the 19th is make-up finals only. If you miss a day of finals you need to reach out to your teacher to make arrangements to come in to take your final on Friday.
December 10, 2025
Seniors! It is not too late to join Silver Cord Service Program. You will need to start soon so you can earn 50 hours of volunteering before graduation. See Mr. Dunker (room 29) or Mr. Carlin (band room) if you have any questions.
Seniors! Now is your chance to win part of nearly $190,000 in scholarship awards just available to Rock Island High School Seniors! Whether you'll be attending a trade/vocational school, a 2-yr community/junior college, or a 4-yr college/university, there may be a scholarship for you! Only one application to complete. The Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation 2026 Scholarship Application is online at www.rimef.org. Deadline is February 27, 2026. Please contact Ms. Ponsetto in Rm 142 if you have any questions.
ALL detentions must be served End of day December 11th in order to meet the detention criteria for finals?
Time is running out to purchase your yearbook! Yearbooks are on sale in room 211 for the next weeks. Yearbooks can still be purchased online through Winter Break. Books are $60. No extras will be ordered. Don't miss out!
Attention seniors- there will be a scholarship meeting this Thursday during 6th hour in the auditorium. We will be going over details for the Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation (RIMEF) scholarship, along with other resources on scholarships. Seniors, you will need to go to homeroom first for attendance and then you will make your way to the auditorium after. See you there!
Wednesday December 10th, 2025 Sgt. Mitchell with the United States Army will be located in the cafeteria from 11:30-1:00. If you have any questions or interests be sure to stop by and inquire.
Thursday December 11th, 2025 Western IL University will be located in the cafeteria from 11:30-1:00. Pre-Sale student tickets for the Moline Basketball game this Friday will be on sale in the Athletic Office during lunch beginning on Wednesday. Presale tickets will be $2.00 instead of the normal $3.00! Get your tickets early and support the Rocks! Please be sure to stop by and talk to Mr. Ruiz about your possible future plans at Western!
EAC will be working in the greenhouse after school on Wednesday.
"Interested in hands-on experience in building affordable housing. Youth Build Quad Cities is offering a free, 10-month program for juniors and seniors ages 16-19. The program includes construction training and life skills training. If you’re interested, let your school counselor know. You may also see Mr. Rice in the cafeteria on December 10th and 11th to sign up or learn more."
Congrats to Rocky’s newest gold and silver state medalists, David and Izaak! Your Rock Island–Milan family is incredibly proud of you. Way to represent! ❤️💛
December 9, 2025
Seniors! Now is your chance to win part of nearly $190,000 in scholarship awards just available to Rock Island High School Seniors! Whether you'll be attending a trade/vocational school, a 2-yr community/junior college, or a 4-yr college/university, there may be a scholarship for you! Only one application to complete. The Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation 2026 Scholarship Application is online at www.rimef.org. Deadline is February 27, 2026. Please contact Ms Ponsetto in Rm 142 if you have any questions.
ALL detentions must be served End of day December 11th in order to meet the detention criteria for finals?
Rock Island girls bowling remains undefeated in dual meets as they won against Geneseo last night. Journey Horton led the way for varsity with a 518 and Christina Min led the way for JV with a 373.
Come cheer on the rock this Saturday as they bowl in the UT invite at Highland Park Bowl
EAC will be working in the greenhouse after school on Wednesday.
Wednesday December 10th, 2025 Sgt. Mitchell with the United States Army will be located in the cafeteria from 11:30-1:00. If you have any questions or interests be sure to stop by and inquire.
"Interested in hands-on experience in building affordable housing.YouthBuild Quad Cities is offering a free, 10-month program for juniors and seniors ages 16-19. The program includes construction training and life skills training. If you’re interested, let your school counselor know. You may also see Mr. Rice in the cafeteria on December 10th and 11th to sign up or learn more."
December 8, 2025
Wednesday December 10th, 2025 Sgt. Mitchell with the United States Army will be located in the cafeteria from 11:30-1:00. If you have any questions or interests be sure to stop by and inquire.
Thursday December 11th, 2025 Western IL University will be located in the cafeteria from 11:30-1:00. Please be sure to stop by and talk to Mr. Ruiz about your possible future plans at Western!
The girls bowling team traveled to Lake Zurich for their 1st invite of the year. The Rocks varsity finished 10th out of the 19 teams. Delaney Dempsey finished 12th overall which earned her a medal. She also had the high game for the Rocks with a 210. Krystal Robbins also earned 22nd place individually.
Jv places 11th. Christianna Hare placed 16th individually. Raphaella Hodonou place 24th individually and Jada Gottscent earned 27th place, Jada also had the high game for the JV with a 155, The Rocks will head to Geneseo tonight to battle the Leafs.
Esports- Esports Students participating in the Black Hawk College visit today meet in Mrs. Vroman's room 322 after school. The bus will pick us up in front of the school like last time.
EAC recycling day tomorrow see you in room 29 @ 7:30 AM Wednesday is a greenhouse workday after school.
Time is running out to purchase your yearbook! Yearbooks are on sale in room 211 for the next weeks. Yearbooks can still be purchased online through Winter Break. Books are $60. No extras will be ordered. Don't miss out!
The last Pride Store of the semester will be tomorrow!
Can you please add that ALL detentions must be served End of day December 11th in order to meet the detention criteria for finals?
Seniors! Now is your chance to win part of nearly $190,000 in scholarship awards just available to Rock Island High School Seniors! Whether you'll be attending a trade/vocational school, a 2-yr community/junior college, or a 4-yr college/university, there may be a scholarship for you! Only one application to complete. The Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation 2026 Scholarship Application is online at www.rimef.org. Deadline is February 27, 2026. Please contact Ms Ponsetto in Rm 142 if you have any questions.
Attention seniors- there will be a scholarship meeting this Thursday during 6th hour in the auditorium. We will be going over details for the Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation (RIMEF) scholarship, along with other resources on scholarships. Seniors, you will need to go to homeroom first for attendance and then you will make your way to the auditorium after. See you there!
ROCKY’S WINTER WONDERLAND ROCKY’S WINTER WONDERLAND Tailgater Join us for an afternoon of winter-themed fun! This special event is FREE for qualifying students and packed with activities. DECEMBER 12, 2025 | 3:30-5:30, RIHS CAFETERIA
Congratulations to our Rocky Special OLympic Bowlers David Pack-Lewis who took Silver and Izaak McMeans who brought home GOLD at the State Tournament held in Decatur over the weekend. We are so PROUD!
The RIHS Counseling department and administration invite you to attend their annual Showcase Night on December 18, 2025, from 5–7 PM in the RIHS Auditorium. This year’s event will feature sessions designed to help our current scholars succeed throughout high school and transition confidently into life after graduation. Staff will be available to assist with financial aid applications, scholarships, college planning, and more.
Please see the flyer for additional details.
December 5, 2025
Reminder: Detentions must be served by the end of day December 11th in order to meet the detention criteria for finals?
Be part of a tradition at Rocky! Audition for the 2026 Rocky Talent show. The theme this year is LOVE IS IN THE AIR. The date is February 15. We are looking for any and all kinds of talents. Auditions are after semester final tests each day in room 117. You can also email a recording to Mr. Behnke. Don't miss your chance to shine!
Seniors! Now is your chance to win part of nearly $190,000 in scholarship awards just available to Rock Island High School Seniors! Whether you'll be attending a trade/vocational school, a 2-yr community/junior college, or a 4-yr college/university, there may be a scholarship for you! Only one application to complete. The Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation 2026 Scholarship Application is online at www.rimef.org. Deadline is February 27, 2026. Please contact Ms. Ponsetto in Rm 142 if you have any questions.
We couldn’t be prouder to celebrate our two incredible RIHS Special Olympics bowlers, David Pack-Lewis and Izaak McMeans, during this morning’s Walk of Champions! Thank you to all the Rocky scholars who cheered them on, and to their dedicated coach, Stacy Rel.
David and Izaak will compete at the State Tournament tomorrow, December 6, in Decatur, IL! More details about the competition can be found here: https://www.soill.org/state-bowling-tournament/
Good luck, David and Izaak! 🎳❤️💛
December 4, 2025
Seniors! Now is your chance to win part of nearly $190,000 in scholarship awards just available to Rock Island High School Seniors! Whether you'll be attending a trade/vocational school, a 2-yr community/junior college, or a 4-yr college/university, there may be a scholarship for you! Only one application to complete. The Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation 2026 Scholarship Application is online at www.rimef.org. Deadline is February 27, 2026. Please contact Ms Ponsetto in Rm 142 if you have any questions.
Have you purchased your 2025-26 yearbook yet? You only have a few more weeks! Yearbooks are sold in room 211 until Winter Break. They are $60 and can be purchased with cash or check. They can also be purchased online at www.yearbookordercenter.com, using order code 8228. Don't miss out! No extras will be ordered!
Be part of a tradition at Rocky! Audition for the 2026 Rocky Talent show. The theme this year is LOVE IS IN THE AIR. The date is February 15. We are looking for any and all kinds of talents. Auditions are after semester final tests each day in room 117. You can also email a recording to Mr. Behnke. Don't miss your chance to shine!
Tonight the 4-1 Rock Island Lady Rocks host the Quincy Blue Devils in the Girls Gym. Lady Rock Junior Forward Marley Smith will be singing the National Anthem. Quarry Crazies, the THEME tonight is: JERSEY SHORE! We need a Big Crowd tonight to help us get over the top! We need your energy! Let's have our student section loud, and rockin '!!!! Sophs start at 5:30 pm, Varsity to follow at 7:00 pm !!!!!
ROCKY’S WINTER WONDERLAND ROCKY’S WINTER WONDERLAND Tailgater Join us for an afternoon of winter-themed fun! This special event is FREE for qualifying students CAFETERIA (All detentions but be cleared up by tomorrow, Friday December 5th) packed with activities. DECEMBER 12, 2025 | 3:30-5:30, RIHS CAFETERIA
Lady Rocks Wrestling Makes History in Inaugural Season Last night, the Rock Island Lady Rocks wrestling team—competing in its first year as an official program—earned a historic milestone by winning the first dual meet in school history. The Lady Rocks defeated Sterling High School 42–24, marking an impressive achievement in their inaugural season. Congratulations to the athletes and coaching staff on this outstanding accomplishment.
Join us in a spirited celebration of our Special Olympics Bowlers as they proudly qualify for the state tournament! Let’s show our support by bringing your class to line the halls and cheer loudly for our incredible state qualifiers. ** Details of the Event: Friday, December 5, 2025, Time: 8:00am, Location: First floor. Don’t miss this opportunity to rally behind our exceptional bowlers. Let’s make it a memorable send-off!!!
December 3, 2025
ROCKY’S WINTER WONDERLAND ROCKY’S WINTER WONDERLAND Tailgater Join us for an afternoon of winter-themed fun! This special event is FREE for qualifying students (all detentions must be cleared up by Friday) and packed with activities, DECEMBER 12, 2025 | 3:30-5:30, RIHS CAFETERIA
Be part of a tradition at Rocky! Audition for the 2026 Rocky Talent show. The theme this year is LOVE IS IN THE AIR. The date is February 15. We are looking for any and all kinds of talents. Auditions are after semester final tests each day in room 117. You can also email a recording to Mr. Behnke. Don't miss your chance to shine!
December 2, 2025
Have you purchased your 2025-26 yearbook yet? You only have a few more weeks! Yearbooks are sold in room 211 until Winter Break. They are $60 and can be purchased with cash or check. They can also be purchased online at www.yearbookordercenter.com, using order code 8228. Don't miss out! No
extras will be ordered!
EAC will be meeting before school Tuesday in the little theater @ 7:30. Then we will also be
staying after school to work in the greenhouse @ 3:30.
ROCKY’S WINTER WONDERLAND Tailgater: Join us for an afternoon of winter-themed fun! This special event is FREE for qualifying students and packed with activities, including: Music & Dancing | Karaoke |
Cookie Decorating | Gaming Stations | Bling Station | Coloring Station | Food & Drinks (including hot chocolate!) | And so much more! DECEMBER 12, 2025 |3:30-5:30, RIHS CAFETERIA
Seniors! Now is your chance to win part of nearly $190,000 in scholarship awards just available to Rock Island High School Seniors! Whether you'll be attending a trade/vocational school, a 2-yr community/junior
college, or a 4-yr college/university, there may be a scholarship for you! Only one application to complete. The Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation 2026 Scholarship Application is online at www.rimef.org. Deadline is February 27, 2026. Please contact Ms Ponsetto in Rm 142 if you have any questions.
December 1, 2025
Tis the season to get some NEW Rocky Merch! Check out the link in your Google classroom to place your orders by December 1st at Midnight. Great T-shirts, long sleeve shirts, crewnecks, and hoodies are available to get geared up for this basketball and holiday season. All items are available for purchase by anyone with the QR Code. Purchases may be delivered to your home for a fee or picked up for free on December 12th in the Fieldhouse foyer before the Moline Basketball game. You MUST have an ID to pick up your order.
EAC will be meeting before school Tuesday in the little theater @ 7:30. Then we will also be staying after school to work in the greenhouse @ 3:30.
Dear RIMSD 41 School Community,
We’re pleased to share that the 2026–2027 and 2027–2028 school calendars are now finalized and available for viewing. These calendars outline key dates for the coming years, including the first and last days of school, breaks, and holidays.
You can access the calendars at: https://www.rimsd41.org/page/school-district-calendars.
Thank you!
The EAC will have a greenhouse workday after school today. Please come to the greenhouse by 3:30. Near room 305.
Tis the season to get some NEW Rocky Merch! Check out the link in your Google classroom to place your orders by December 1st at Midnight. Great T-shirts, long sleeve shirts, crewnecks, and hoodies are available to get geared up for this basketball and holiday season. All items are available for purchase by anyone with the QR Code. Purchases may be delivered to your home for a fee or picked up for free on December 12th in the Fieldhouse foyer before the Moline Basketball game. You MUST have an ID to pick up your order.
Boys Swimming and Diving Season: November 24th – February 21st.We have swim practice in the evenings at Augustana College: 3501 7th Ave RI To join you must be able to swim one lap without stopping. Required equipment: Swim Suit, Goggles, Towel Come November 24th and 25th at 7:15 pm to try it out. Augustana College Lindburg Pool. Any questions please contact Coach Brown: Rebecca.brown@rimsd41.org
Remind no school Wednesday, November 26- Friday, November 28th
Classes will resume on Monday, December 1, 2025.
