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RPS health director seeks board guidance on reopening Auburn clinic with Miles Square
Summary
Health services director Ronnie Sturm presented options to reestablish comprehensive care at the vacant Auburn school‑based health center, citing local interest from Miles Square (UIC‑affiliated) and an estimated 4–5 month timeline to full capacity if the district proceeds.
Ronnie Sturm, director of health services for Rockford Public Schools, asked the board for guidance on reopening the Auburn school‑based health center after the prior provider (Crusader) exited in July. Sturm said the administration is weighing two paths: issue a request for proposals (RFP/RFQ) to gauge local partner interest or proceed with Miles Square, a provider that has already expressed interest and operates nearby.
Sturm described Miles Square as affiliated with UI Health and UIC Medical School, operating local clinics and training providers. She said Miles Square provided a preliminary estimate to refurnish the Auburn clinic and cover first‑year salaries with the expectation that ongoing operations would be supported through grants and insurance billing. "Their estimate was 1 to 2 months once they got the go ahead," Sturm said of initial setup, and added that Miles Square estimated 4–5 months to reach full capacity.
Board members asked for a detailed breakdown of start‑up costs, historical utilization data for the prior clinic and obstacles Crusader experienced. Sturm said she has utilization data and would provide it to the board, and that Crusader adjusted its medical model before leaving. Trustees also asked whether the district must run an RFP or could directly contract; Sturm said she would gather answers and reported she had been unable to find other local providers who expressed interest beyond Miles Square in recent outreach.
Sturm emphasized the goal of returning vision, medical, behavioral and wraparound services for students, including services for chronic conditions such as asthma.
