Meet the Principal

Welcome to Welsh Elementary School!

I am beginning my 16th year with Rockford Public Schools. I taught 5th grade for many years at Lewis Lemon, Beyer and Welsh elementary schools. After a year as Dean of Students, I have begun my career as the Principal of Welsh Elementary School. My wife and I have resided in the North End of Rockford since moving from Chicago 20 years ago. Our two girls were born at Rockford Memorial Hospital and have always lived in this community. I am a proud public servant to the children and families of the neighborhood in which I live and work.

At Welsh we are committed to ensuring that our students acquire the skills necessary to be successful in school and life. Through providing positive learning environments for our children, we are able to focus on their social-emotional and academic well being. By delivering quality grade level Tier-1 instruction, and crafting student focused interventions when we meet during planned small group time, we are able to address each student’s individual needs. At Welsh, all of our instructional decisions are based on our belief that literacy is a civil right.

Please feel free to call us with any questions, comments, or concerns about the academic programming at Welsh Elementary School, 815-966-3260.

Tom O'Brien |  thomas.obrien@rps205.com