Rock Island Academy and district partners were excited to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new addition to the school. This addition and construction project is part of the district’s short and long-term facility management plan to modernize and enhance all schools, ensuring that scholars, staff, families, and the broader community have access to safe, efficient, and high-quality learning environments.

“I am grateful for the awesome task our dedicated Board of Education members have entrusted our team with,” said Superintendent Dr. Sharon Williams. “We have an ambitious short and long-term plan entitled Building Our Future: you are witnessing this plan come to life today and over the next several months as we add on and improve this wonderful school. I am most excited about restoring our library space - the heart of our schools.”

Principal Dr. Thomas Ryan expressed excitement about the new addition. “This is awesome, and it’s all for our scholars,” said Dr. Ryan. “I can’t thank enough people – Dr. Williams, the school board, and the community. They say it takes a village, but the village has to show up, and today, the village has shown up.”

Many scholars, staff, and community partners were on hand to witness this historic moment. “Thank you to our Board of Education members, our school community, partners and elected officials, and scholars for being here today,” Dr. Williams added.

We would like to extend a sincere thank you to our partners – Russell, IMEG, IDG+, and RLG – for their expertise and collaboration in this journey to enhance our schools.