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Riverdal principal cites gains in literacy and math but flags 48% chronic absenteeism
Summary
Riverdal Elementary’s principal presented academic growth and interventions — including Walk to Learn and explicit instruction — but said chronic absenteeism remains high at 48% and announced a Feb. 9 parent engagement meeting to address attendance and expectations.
Riverdal Elementary School Principal Tommy Gibbons briefed the Rockford Board's Committee of the Whole on school-level progress and continuing challenges.
Gibbons said Riverdal has seen gains in student outcomes: a reported 3% increase in ELA proficiency and a 5% increase in math proficiency year over year, a 12‑point rise in ELA growth and a 5‑point math growth increase, and a 14‑point improvement in the school’s overall index score compared with previous years. To support students, Riverdal has implemented the 'Walk to Learn' flex grouping model, explicit instruction routines, CHAMPS classroom management and literacy progress monitoring.
At the same time, Gibbons said the school faces persistent challenges: high poverty, many English learners, a mobility rate he described as 'pretty high,' and a chronic absenteeism rate of 48%. He told the board that Riverdal is entirely bused ('a zero walk building') because of traffic safety around the school and that the district is planning a parent engagement meeting on Feb. 9 to discuss expectations and supports.
Gibbons credited staff work for measurable gains but said staffing turnover (six retirements last year and many non‑tenured teachers) and student needs remain obstacles. 'We missed that cut by just a few points,' he said of a designation threshold, and outlined targeted next steps including tiered supports in math, writing interventions, and continued parent outreach.
Next steps: Riverdal will host a parent engagement night on Feb. 9 to collect input on expectations and supports and the district will continue to monitor interventions and staffing needs.
