ROCKFORD, IL - Rockford Public Schools held its 14th annual Academy Expo Oct. 15, 2025, at Mercyhealth Sportscore Two in Loves Park.

Each year, the expo serves as an opportunity for Rockford area high school freshman to learn more about future careers available to them in the region.

"Many of us only knew the jobs our parents had or family members had," said Bridget French, executive director of College and Career Readiness for Rockford Public Schools. "This event helps expose them to all kinds of different careers in the community that they may leave and come back to or go straight into after high school."

Students use the experience to help them choose an academy and pathway for their studies during high school. The expo also helps students connect what they learn in school to future

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