Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation

09/12/2026

Longfellow Liberal Arts 5 Senses Detectives! Another PRIME Grant in action!

09/09/2026

We are tremendously excited to report that the pool inside the new RIHS Aquatic Center will be named the Dr. Gary Ackerson Natatorium. The announcement was made at the RIMSD41 School Board meeting last night.

From 1961 through 1969 Dr. Ackerson built the RIHS swim program into one of the premier high school swimming programs throughout Illinois. His exceptional coaching and impact produced 57 High School All-Americans, 2 national champions, and a record of 93-30 for the RIHS Swim Team. He earned the Illinois Swim Coach of the Year honors in '69. Coach Ackerson initiated the age-group swim program, adult swim classes, and the Learn to Swim program. He returned to coaching whenever and wherever needed at RIHS and within the community.

Dr. Ackerson had a 30-year career in the RIMSD as a coach, educator, and administrator. He was honored with the "Those Who Excel Award" from the state of IL and conducted doctoral research on teacher selection and evaluation practices—work that continues to benefit the district. He made transformational contributions to the district and for its students in and out of the classroom.

Gary Ackerson served on the Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation board and was its Director for a number of years. Gary continued to support the mission of the RIMEF and our community even after his retirement from the district.

Dr. Ackerson instilled a culture of accountability, hard work, and pride for Rock Island schools, students, and our community. He is incredibly deserving of recognition.

09/07/2026

Did you see the Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation in the Rock Island Labor Day Parade this morning? We were given the 2026 Professional Excellence Award for the support we and our donors provide to the school district! Board President LaShanta Williams and Board VP Eric Moore rode as well.

It was great to hear shouts of "Go education!" and "Thank you for what you do!" along the route. It was especially fun to get adults & kids to wave back - especially since we didn't give out any candy!

08/31/2026

Remember - the dollars you save with the purchase of this card help fund programs and materials for our classrooms!

Please support and buy a Major Saver card!!! Thank you!

08/26/2026

Listen to students and teachers talk about the impact and importance of our PRIME Grant program. For the 2026-2027 academic year, the RIMEF awarded over $260,000 for programs and materials for RIMSD classrooms and schools!

Students and teachers reflect upon the impact PRIME Grants have in ...

08/19/2026

Get your card and support our Rock Island-Milan schools and students - campaign kick-off is today!

05/17/2026

Celebrating academic achievement at Rocky and awarding $215,450 in scholarships to Rock Island High School seniors!

05/16/2026

05/16/2026

05/15/2026

What a celebration of RIHS students and their achievements! At the Austin Academic Achievement Awards and RIMEF Scholarship Night, the RIMEF recognized 67 Top Ten students and awarded $215,450 in scholarships to the Class of 2026!

Congratulations to all our deserving RIHS scholars!