Thurgood Marshall Learning Center

Welcome! ¡Bienvenidos! Karibu! Bienvenue!

Thurgood Marshall Learning Center (TMLC), home of the Titans, is the referral school for the Rock Island Milan School district. It serves approximately 100 students in grades 7 - 12 in an alternative school setting.  In order to best meet the needs of our students and to ensure their success, the Thurgood Marshall staff employs a variety of initiatives and techniques to provide a safe and supportive environment for all students.

Our philosophy at TMLC is to utilize relationships, respect, and resilience to create a pipeline to a productive future for our students. In alignment with our RIMSD #41 2025 Strategic Plan, we work to prepare all children for individual success by providing a safe and inclusive quality education within a multicultural community.

We welcome you to the Thurgood Marshall Learning Center Family, and we appreciate your engagement and support--our doors are open.  We look forward to working with your student and getting to know your family!  

Mr. Mario Sherrell

Interim Principal, Thurgood Marshall Learning Center

Mr. Sherrell is a proven educational leader with more than two decades of experience as a teacher, building principal, and superintendent of schools. He is deeply committed to the success of every scholar and the professional growth of every staff member.

Over the past seven years, Mr. Sherrell has made a significant impact across the St. Louis metropolitan area. In the Mascoutah School District, he led teaching, learning, and assessment with vision and purpose - driving academic gains while centering equity and scholar belonging. Most recently, as Superintendent of East Alton Schools, he championed initiatives that elevated both academic achievement and staff well-being, demonstrating that strong schools are built on collaboration, care, and high expectations.

Mr. Sherrell’s passion for education is contagious, and his leadership is grounded in the belief that every scholar deserves opportunity, support, and a chance to shine. He is eager to roll up his sleeves, partner with staff, and continue building a thriving community at Thurgood Marshall Learning Center. Through collaborative leadership, he will carry forward the school’s legacy of academic excellence, trauma-informed care, and restorative practices as he leads the community into an exciting next chapter.