Former director accused of stealing money from Rockford charter school

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) – The former director of Jackson Charter School in Rockford faces charges of theft and misconduct, the Illinois State Police reported Monday.

Emily Wallen, 39, was arrested Monday and charged with for one count of theft of between $10,000 and $100,000, a Class 2 felony, and one count of official misconduct, a Class 3 felony. ​

Wallen is currently lodged the Winnebago County Jail and is due in court at 1:30 p.m., Tuesday.

According to a news release, in September 2024, the Illinois State Police uncovered evidence that Wallen allegedly used Jackson Charter School funds for personal gain during the time of her employment.

Wallen was employed by Jackson Charter School for eight years and served as director from July 2022 to August 2024.

She is currently employed as an assistant principal at Menta Academy Northwest in Machesney Park, according to her LinkedIn profile.

Jackson Charter School released statement Monday afternoon, saying Wallen resigned from her position on July 29, 2024 and “has not been affiliated with RCSO or Jackson Charter School since then.”

“The Board would like to express its sincere appreciation for the work of the investigators with the Illinois State Police,” said Jackson Charter School Board President Tamir Bell. “The Board will have no further statements regarding this matter.”

Eyewitness News reached out to Menta Academy Northwest but has not received a call back as of this report.