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

No events available.
Required Notices
July 2026 Rolling with The Rock Newsletter - ESY
07/01/2026
July 2026 Rolling with The Rock Newsletter - ESY
Catch up on the latest school news, celebrate new beginnings, and discover the exciting learning taking place throughout our school.
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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 messageNicole Englehart PRC Executive Director

It is a true honor to serve as Executive Director and to be part of a school community where every student is known, valued, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.

This past year has been one of incredible growth. Together, we launched our first student-run microbusiness, published our first PRC yearbook, and expanded community partnerships that provide meaningful work experiences for our students. These milestones represent more than new programs—they reflect our belief that every student deserves opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive.

As we look to the future, I am excited to continue building on that momentum. My vision is to foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and high expectations while ensuring every student leaves PRC with the confidence, skills, and independence to lead a meaningful life. I also want every family to feel connected, every staff member to feel supported, and every community partner to know the impact they have on our students’ success.

It is a privilege to lead PRC into this next chapter, and I look forward to building a future where every student has the opportunity to thrive.

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