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ROCKFORD — A nonprofit that works to raise student achievement in Rockford Public Schools and foster economic growth has named its new leader.

Emily Klonicki, who most recently worked as the assistant director and head of youth and information services for the Rockford Public Library, became Alignment Rockford’s executive director on Monday.

She replaces Anisha Grimmett, who ran the organization from October 2017 until stepping down at the end of October 2021.

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“We are excited to have Emily join us,” Becky Kendall, president of the Alignment Rockford governing board, said in a news release. “Her skills, passion and experience in executive leadership will continue to advance the role and impact of Alignment Rockford in our community.”

Klonicki served as the library’s liaison for its work with Alignment Rockford for the past three years. Before working for the Rockford Public Library, she worked in executive leadership for libraries in the region.

“My work with Alignment Rockford over the past three years has given me a great opportunity to learn about and understand the critical ways that Alignment Rockford is serving our students and families in Rockford,” Klonicki said in a news release. “I am honored and delighted to be joining the team and moving this important work ahead.”

Klonicki lives in Rockford with her two children, who are both Rockford Public Schools students.