Our Community
Ashton-Franklin Center sits in the Rock River Valley of northwestern Illinois on historic Lincoln Highway, surrounded by beautiful rolling hills and vast acres of farm fields. We are located about 40 minutes southwest of Rockford and a little more than an hour west of Chicago’s western suburbs.
The schools truly are the heart of our community, and school events often dominate the social calendar. AFC is fortunate to have an active Parent Teacher Committee (PTC) that organizes fun events throughout the year, along with booster clubs that support our music and athletic programs.
Ashton and Franklin Grove are the largest villages in our school district, with about 1,000 residents each. The Mills and Petrie Memorial Building in Ashton is home to a library and gymnasium, and the Winifred Knox Memorial Library in Franklin Grove is another popular destination for families. You’ll find shopping, restaurants, a movie theater, and other amenities a short drive away in Dixon.
Nature lovers will find plenty to appreciate in the Ashton-Franklin Center area. The 882-acre Franklin Creek State Natural Area features hiking, equestrian, and snowmobile trails; an archery range; hunting and fishing; and picnic sites. The 4,100-acre Nachusa Grasslands is home to a herd of bison and an abundance of other wildlife.
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Our community is anchored by many long-time families and businesses, such as Karlin Foods and Bayer/Huebner Feed Distribution Centers. The area’s largest employer, Crest Foods, is incredibly supportive of our local schools. Crest Foods regularly hires our students for summer work and offers scholarships.
Area colleges include Sauk Valley Community College, Kishwaukee College and Northern Illinois University. Local fraternal and professional organizations include American Legion, Lions Club, Business Boosters and the Lincoln Highway Association.
Community Passes for Athletic Events
We welcome the community to attend our school events, including concerts, theater and sports. Community members can purchase an annual athletic pass for admission to all home events (not including tournament play). Seniors 62 and older can get a pass for free!
Student Sports Pass: $30.00
Adult Athletic Pass (high school events only): $50.00
Adult Athletic Pass (high school and middle school events): $60.00
Family Pass (high school events only): $150.00
Family Pass (high school and middle school events): $175.00
Senior Citizen Lifetime Pass (62 or older) No Fee
* Athletic passes are NOT valid for admission to tournament play.