Welcome!
Launch the media gallery 1 playerRankin School District #98
13716 5th Street
Pekin, IL 61554
309-346-3182
www.rankin98.org
Dear Students, Parents, and Community Members:
Welcome to Rankin School District #98 and to the 2024-2025 school year! On behalf of Rankin School District’s Board of Education, Staff, and Administration, thank you for sending your children to our District. Our highly trained and dedicated staff is committed to providing your children the best education possible as we believe, “Our School is a Great Place to Learn.” Our District’s main purpose, and what ultimately directs our decision-making, can be found in our Mission Statement, “Empowering all students to reach their maximum potential and become productive, respectful, responsible, and well-rounded citizens.”
As we embark on this mission, it is necessary that our District be governed by policies and procedures. Thus, our District has annually updated and prepared this handbook (found online) to assist you in providing this important information. Our handbook, which is in alignment with our Board Policy Manual, works cooperatively with the Illinois School Code to guide us along our mission. At the beginning of the year, we will familiarize our students with our overall expectations and code of conduct, but we strongly recommend that parents review this handbook with their children in advance of the school year. Occasionally, our formal resources do not account for all situations or for situations of extraordinary circumstances. In these special cases, our administrative team and Board of Education reserve the right to modify as necessary and provide the essential judgment and guidance needed.
It is my personal belief that all successful organizations and teams prioritize communication as a backbone principle. Thus, one of our District’s yearly goals is to partner with all parents in the educational process of our students. We encourage parents to develop strong relationships with their children’s teachers and to stay current with our District’s news and information. Our District’s website www.rankin98.org serves as a tremendous resource and can assist in the process of being informed.
Our District is beyond grateful for the community’s support for the education of our students. Also, we are extremely proud of our students and their accomplishments. Please note that the District’s website and our social media page will be updated regularly to document and highlight positive happenings and pertinent information. We also livestream various events throughout the year that take place outside of the “regular school day.” As our District continues to push forward, our Vision Statement, “Building the foundation for the future by engaging youth through rigorous and diverse educational opportunities,” guides us as we strategically plan for the future.
Trusted leader and Principal, Mrs. April McLaughlin, and I serve as your administrative team. We can be reached regularly via the District’s phone number 309-346-3182 and/or by email at amclaughlin@rankin98.org and mgordon@rankin98.org. While we encourage you to develop a high level of communication and involvement with your children’s teachers, we are able to assist you regarding the various questions and situations you may encounter.
Again, welcome to Rankin and to the 2024-2025 school year! Embracing Our Roots, Branching Out Together! Go Rebels!
Sincerely,
Dr. Matt R. Gordon, Superintendent