Rockford schools to get more resources

ROCKFORD (AP) – Nine Rockford schools will be getting additional resources to help administrators deal with discipline and truancy problems and a lack of parent involvement.

Officials with the Rockford School District say the schools are in what they’re calling a neighborhood empowerment zone.

That’s a part of Rockford with high crime rates and a higher volume of 911 calls.

Officials say more than 90 percent of students at the schools also are economically disadvantaged and qualify for free or reduced lunch rates.

The Rockford Register Star reports that the district plans to give the schools more staff, including a full-time intervention specialist at each.

Assistant Superintendent Martha Hayes says the goal is to change student behavior and ultimately boost student achievement.