Honoring all who served. Thank you, Veterans.
“The community’s approval of the Ignite Student Learning Referendum will enable Rochester Public Schools (RPS) to avoid closing schools, raising class sizes, and making major cuts to positions and programs that serve our students. It will provide RPS with the financial stability we need to continue implementing our ambitious strategic plan and to remain focused on our academic mission. Most importantly, it is an investment in our students that will pay off in the skilled workforce that Rochester needs to thrive in the decades ahead. We look forward to providing regular updates to the community on how the referendum funds are being used, and we will work hard to continue earning and strengthening the trust that the community has placed in us through its approval of the referendum on November 5, 2024.”
As the polls close and we await results, we want to thank everyone who participated in this important community decision about Rochester Public Schools.
It’s Election Day! Eligible voters have until 8 p.m. to vote on the Ignite Student Learning referendum seeking a levy increase for RPS to avoid school closures, protect class sizes, and continue helping every student succeed.
Visit RochesterSchools.org/Referendum to learn more.
What's at stake for RPS in this referendum?
If the Ignite Student Learning referendum is approved, additional funding will support academic programs and student services, maintain class sizes and vocational training, and protect faculty and staff positions.
If rejected, major budget cuts will lead to the closure of three schools, increased class sizes, reduced staffing, and diminished programs for academic growth and vocational training.
Learn more at https://referendum.rochesterschools.org/the-plan.
A reminder that there is no school on Tuesday, November 5. Teachers and administrators will participate in a Curriculum Planning Day, planning instruction and participating in professional development. We will see students back in school on Wednesday, November 6.
Tomorrow is Election Day! Today is the last day for early voting. You can vote today from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 2122 Campus Drive SE, Suite 300, Rochester, MN, or 201 4th St. SE in Rochester, (Conference Room 104), Rochester, MN.
Don't forget to vote on the Ignite Student Learning referendum to increase the operating levy and allow RPS to continue helping every student reach their full potential.
Learn how to make your voice heard: https://referendum.rochesterschools.org/voting-information
It's almost time to "fall back!" Daylight Saving Time concludes on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at 2 a.m. Don't forget, our clocks need to "fall back" one hour.
This weekend, you can vote early in person on Saturday, November 2, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday, November 3, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Olmsted County Elections Office at 2122 Campus Dr. SE, Suite 300, Rochester, MN 55904.
Learn more: https://referendum.rochesterschools.org/voting-information
"Prior to Advanced Learning classes, my kids didn't enjoy school and were bored. Now, they are both thriving and have found their place. They love the faster pace and challenge to think differently and explore topics a bit further than the traditional classroom," Connie said.
Learn more about how Advanced Learning classes have made a difference for our students - https://www.rochesterschools.org/article/1850420
Calling all elementary parents and caregivers! In partnership with the City of Rochester, we are seeking your feedback on a Safe Routes to School Plan for our Elementary Schools.
Please share your thoughts in this 2-minute survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SRTS_eng.
Or add your voice to our interactive map: https://mnsaferoutes.altaplanning.cloud/
How will the School District Question show up on your ballot? See below:
"The board of Independent School District No. 535 (Rochester Public Schools), Minnesota has proposed to increase the School District's general education revenue by $1,133 per pupil, subject to an annual increase at the rate of inflation. The proposed new referendum revenue authorization would be first levied in 2024 for taxes payable in 2025 and applicable for ten (10) years unless otherwise revoked or reduced as provided by law. Shall the new referendum authorization proposed by the board of Independent School District No. 535 (Rochester Public Schools), Minnesota be approved?"
Voters will then select "yes" or "no."
If you're eligible, have you made a plan to vote? Learn about how to vote early: https://www.sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/other-ways-to-vote
Where does Rochester rank in the funding we receive? In this short video, Superintendent Pekel shares a fact about funding for RPS that has surprised people across our community. Check it out: https://youtu.be/b7edFAoSosU
As the weather gets colder and it remains darker during morning commutes, a reminder to go slow around school zones and pay attention to school buses. Always be prepared to stop for school buses.
🛑 Stop for a school bus with its flashing red lights activated and the stop-arm extended.
🛑 Stop at least 20 feet from a school bus.
🛑 Remain stopped until the stop-arm is retracted and the red lights are turned off.
From elementary to high school, our Advanced Learning specialists create an environment for students who need more challenges, critical thinking, reimagination, and creativity. They serve as a special support for both students and staff within our schools. Read more of our Advanced Learning specialists' perspectives: https://www.rochesterschools.org/article/1847517
Do you have any questions about the referendum? Want to learn more before you head to the polls? Join us tonight for our final virtual referendum information session at 7 p.m.
We're ⭐one week⭐ away from Election Day! On the ballot, voters will consider the Ignite Student Learning proposal to raise the operating levy, stabilize RPS’ budget, and protect essential student programs and services.
Check out our Straight Answers to 20 Big Referendum Questions webpage to learn more: https://referendum.rochesterschools.org/straight-answers.
RPS serves more students in our community than all other schools combined. The Ignite Student Learning referendum asks voters to consider funding to protect the resources that help these students thrive.
Learn about this important decision: RochesterSchools.org/Referendum
This week, with the help of TRBHI, a company owned by an RPS parent, we launched a new AI Chatbot to help answer questions about the referendum. You can view the Chatbot and ask your specific questions at https://thedecision.ai/.
Listen to students and staff explain what’s at risk this election with the Ignite Student Learning referendum. If voters reject the levy increase, RPS will face major cuts, including to counseling and programs that promote student health and well-being: youtu.be/qDSmxDIqbAQ
