Considering moving to Rockton, IL (Chicago, Rockford: crime rates, daycares, job transfer)

[Hawkeyegirl]

We are considering relocating to Rockton, IL from Iowa City, IA due to a job transfer. Any info on this town would be great. We have a 2 yr old and a 4 yr old so we're concerned about the school system and about the crime rate. Other towns in the area seem to have rising crime rates and gang activity. my husband will be working in Beloit, WI so we're looking for a safe community, with good schools. Any information is appreciated. Thanks alot!

[Drover]

I don't think you're going to have many gang problems in Rockton. Even Rockford looks/seems nastier than it really is. Have you considered looking on the WI side of the border? Maybe Janesville?

[rica73]

I live in Rockton and moved up from Rockford I have a first grader and a third grader the school district is great and we love it here.

[Hawkeyegirl]

Thanks for the information. What is the approximate size of classes in the Rockton schools? Also are there several daycares and preschools to choosefrom? We're also interested in what kind of programs there are for children such as gymnastics, t'ball, swimming, etc. I really appreciate any information.

[rica73]

I can tell you that in my 3rd graders class there are 26 kids and in my 1st graders class there are 24... Plenty of daycares I have a few friends that do daycare..There also is a ymca in the town of Roscoe that is just minutes from Rockton...There is a place in the area called Kids Spot they offer Gymnastics and in the back of the building is a area for Piano lessons the place is great...Let me know if you need more info

[Boricua]

I used to live in a small town, called Pecatonica, on the west side of Rockford. There is an incredible tumbling and trampoline gym there. It is called J&J. They have swim lessons, dance classes and also tumbling and trampoline. It is worth the drive (not too far from Rockton.) They are reputable and have both recreational and competetive classes.

My brother is thinking of moving to Rockton. I have only heard good things about it and that it is growing.

[Hawkeyegirl]

Thank you so much for the information, especially about gymnastics. I'll definately have to check it out. So far Rockton sounds like a great town to consider.

[bagiver2]

Rockton, Roscoe, upper Machesney Park and South Beloit are great places to live. There is no gang activity like in the large urban cities. The school systems are all good. A lot of building, new subdivisions, newer schools. All the schools have sports. The thing to consider with kids, is what do they need....that is, if you need special education, Roscoe, and Machesney Park schools have more progressive programs. All have accelerated programs. Machesney park (harlem schools) also has a dedicated drama/arts program for 5th through 8th grades. Roscoe/Rockton middle and high schools do not have their own swimming pool, but have made arrangements to use another pool.
I mention sports, because it is often the first thing on the chopping block when there are budget deficits; Belvidere (to the east of Roscoe) has had a lot of growth from people moving ther from Chicago; their school faces a budget deficit and their school board has talked about cutting sports out completely. It is usally threatened, but rarely happens. The entire area is family/children oriented and friendly, with many physical and mental opportunities for kids.

[Hawkeyegirl]

We are definately moving to Rockton now this summer. We are planning on building near Stepen Mack Middle School. I will be working at St. Anthony's Hospital in Rockford. Any ideas on the quickest route to get there, and the approximate travel time? Any advice on the area.

[cavewoman]

Never heard of any gang activity here....as far as the comments on J&J and Pecontonica....I love that town!
However, getting there from Rockton is over 45 minutes. Plenty else to do in this area. I do know about J& J, sweet owners. Wifes...I remember working with them.
Hope they have what they need to keep afloat. Its hard to have a place like that and earn money.