Dr. Heather Psaltis - MOST HOPEFUL FOR THE FUTURE

Dr. Heather Psaltis has unique insight into the future of the Rockford Public Schools (RPS), and she likes what she sees.

“We have some awesome initiatives in place districtwide, and we’re all rowing in the same direction,” she said. “We’re also expanding upon the choices that families have within the public schools.”

Her job focuses on three main components: supporting school staff, overseeing special programs within the district, and developing educational opportunities for students.

“My role is to support, coach and mentor teachers and principals. As their advocate, my mission is to give school leaders vision and hope for the future,” she said.

Psaltis also manages special educational programs, including Two-Way Language Immersion at Barbour, Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA), Gifted Academy, Maria Montessori at Marsh, and STEAM Academy at Haskell.

In the fall of 2023, RPS will implement the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.

“The IB elementary program will launch at Conklin School and focus on teaching critical thinking skills, allowing students to take responsibility for their learning, teaching Spanish, and encouraging students to apply classroom lessons within their communities,” Psaltis said.

She’s excited about working toward an IB middle and high school program and the implications for its graduates. According to Psaltis, students receiving IB high school diplomas have advanced skills that garner global recognition at colleges and universities.

“In school leadership and at the district’s central office, we have a solid plan for the future of RPS with clear goals, a sense of urgency, equity and implementation to benefit all our students,” Psaltis said. “This is what makes me most hopeful for the future of our schools.”