Admin

Together for Independence

The Philip J. Rock Center and School is more than a facility; it is an extended family to parents and their children who live with both hearing and vision disabilities. Our devoted staff accompany the kids throughout the day, constantly working toward the goal of helping each student live as independently as possible according to their personal abilities. The shared vision of Together for Independence makes this a reality.

Referral Process

Classrooms

The Philip J. Rock Center and School was the first established publicly funded Residential School for students who were deaf and blind in the country. We currently have the capability to serve students who are deafblind, blind or visually impaired, or deaf or hard of hearing who require a functional academic curriculum. We service students from the age of three through their twenty-second birthday year.

Intermediate Transition

Upcoming Events

Required Notices
May 2026 Rolling with The Rock Newsletter cover image
06/01/2026
May 2026 Rolling with The Rock Newsletter
Join us as we look back at our 2025-2026 year of growth in our end-of-the-year newsletter, which highlights many of the experiences, accomplishments, and memories that made this year so special.
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There's always something to smile and laugh about here.
03/22/2026
March 2026 Update: The Journey Continues
There's always something to smile and laugh about here.
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We're hiring! Join The Rock!
07/02/2024
We're Hiring! Come join The Rock!
Check out the available job opportunities at The Rock.
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Mission Statement 

The community of the Philip J. Rock Center and School, consisting of the parents, educational staff and support staff work together so all students learn the skills needed to become valued and accepted members in their home, local and future adult communities.

Stay Connected! Get the PRC Mobile App

Philip J Rock Center and School's PRC ToGo mobile app for your smartphone or tablet is the fastest and easiest way for you to access the latest PRC information on the go, any time!

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PRC Is A 2026 NSPRA Award Recipient NSPRA Award Badge

PRC is a proud recipient of a 2026 NSPRA Award of Excellence-Video-Series for videos in the Journey to the New Philip J Rock Center & School series, developed by West40 ISC (IL).

Executive Director's message Bonnie Jordan

It is with deep pride that I share this message in my final month as the Executive Director of the facility that I will forever call my home. Nicole Englehart will be taking my position July 1, 2026, and based on what she has accomplished this year alone, the future of our students is in very good hands.

Senate President Philip J. Rock often described the establishment of this school as his finest legislative accomplishment. He believed that every child deserved access to education, dignity, and opportunity. To help carry that vision forward has been one of the great honors of my career.

One of my greatest points of pride has been getting this new facility built. The new Rock will continue to meet the evolving needs of our students and to support learning, growth, and opportunity for years to come. This building was built with love, and I am truly excited for the future and for the continued educational growth that awaits our students within these walls.

Most of all, I want you to know how proud the Rock team is to serve your children. It has been an honor to work alongside such a dedicated and compassionate group of professionals whose work is guided by purpose and heart. As I close this chapter, I do so committed to continuing as a Voice for the Voiceless, and with complete confidence in the future of the Philip J. Rock Center and School. Thank you for allowing me to be part of this remarkable story.

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