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  • February Rocket Review Hot off the Press

      February 2026 Edition February 18, 2026 Board of Education Meeting During the February 18th board meeting Interim Superintendent Sivertsen reviewed the originally recommended Deficit Reduction Plan, which included a cost savings of 3.1 million. All data used in the presentation were obtained from the Illinois State Board of Education, the district’s annual financial report (AFR), and district archives. He also presented a revised reduction plan that cuts 2.2 million dollars. The difference between the original plan and the approved Deficit Reduction Plan was keeping the technology department but consolidating the director position, reducing the salaries of the CSBO and Assistant Superintendent of Student Services positions. The initial staff reduction was 39, and the approved revised staff reduction is 22. This plan keeps an Art teaching position to maintain the AP Art classes and allows for attrition to align staffing at RHS Social Studies and Elementary/Intermediate physical education. The position of Auditorium Coordinator will also be retained. Rochester High School enrollment is projected to decrease by 54 students for the 26-27 school year and by 93 the following year. The approved deficit reduction plan will align school personnel with enrollment. The Board of Education vote was not unanimous, with Mr. Chiles voting present. See Plan Here   Elementary Schools Present Kindness Programs EC - 1 Principal Van Fossan Declares Program a Success This week our 1st grade students performed their "Kindness Program". This program featured 3 songs all with the underlying theme of Kindness. We are thankful for the time and dedication Mrs. Ingold and our amazing 1st grade students put into this spectacular program.    2-3 Principal Krepel and Staff Enjoy Kindness Program. In recognition of Kindness Week last week, our students participated in a variety of activities focused on promoting empathy, respect, and positive school culture. Throughout the week, students intentionally practiced and shared acts of kindness. During morning meetings, many students reflected on and recognized kind actions demonstrated by their peers. The Kindness Mailbox is up and running at RES 2–3! Life skills teacher, Miss Lehman, has created a thoughtful system that allows students to write letters to staff members across the building. Her students take great pride in sorting and delivering the notes, ensuring each message reaches each teacher. What began as a simple idea has quickly grown into a powerful act of connection. The mailbox has become an uplifting source of encouragement for our staff and a meaningful opportunity for students to practice empathy, communication, and leadership. It has been an amazing school community building initiative. It is strengthening relationships and spreading positivity throughout RES 2–3.   Rochester Fine Arts Department Presents Musical The Rochester High School Fine Arts Department presents our Spring Musical “Newsies”. Rochester High School’s version of the Broadway Musical will be at the RHS Auditorium on February 27-March 1, 2026 - Friday and Saturday at 7:00 p.m., Sunday at 2:00 p.m.   Scholastic Arts Results Scholastic Art Results: 35 schools submitted 676 pieces of artwork to the 2026 Scholastic Art Awards. Rochester High School took 8 Gold Keys out of 39, 13 Silver Keys out of 67, and 21 Honorable Mentions out of 120. There were five American Vision Nominees, of which Rochester was one. Two of the three Gold Key portfolios were Rochester’s, three of the four silver key portfolios belong to Rochester, and one of the six Honorable Mentions was awarded to Rochester. Total: 51 awards out of 231. Gold Key finalists will have their artwork submitted to the national judging in New York City.   In Our Hearts...... In our hearts - We mourn the tragic loss of two of our RHS students. There will be a candlelight vigil for RHS students and staff from 5:15 p.m. - 6:15 p.m. at the RHS Soccer Field on the elementary campus on Sunday. The families are in our thoughts and prayers. If any students or staff need anything, please contact the high school office. Take care of yourself and each other!    RIS Students Ace Spelling Bee On Wednesday, February 18th, six outstanding students from Rochester Intermediate School proudly represented our school at the Sangamo County Schoolmaster's Spelling Bee held at the beautiful Northfield Inn in Springfield. Competing against some of the top elementary and middle school spellers in the county, our students demonstrated poise, preparation, and perseverance throughout the event. 4th Grade Participants Norah Clark Melanie Romang 5th Grade Participants Noah Lee Casey Short 6th Grade Participants Savannah Franklin Peyton Diebold We are incredibly proud to announce that Norah Clark, a 4th grader at RIS, was named Champion of the 4th Grade Division! Norah’s hard work, dedication, and calm confidence on stage earned her this impressive accomplishment. Competing in a high-pressure environment takes courage, and Norah rose to the occasion in remarkable fashion. All six of our students represented Rochester Intermediate School with excellence. Preparing for a spelling bee requires hours of practice, study, and determination. Standing on stage in front of judges, families, and peers requires even more confidence and resilience. Each of these students exemplified our Rocket Learner traits by embracing the challenge and giving their very best effort. Events like the Sangamo County Spelling Bee highlight the academic talent within our school and community. We are grateful for the opportunity our students had to participate and for the support of their families and staff who helped them prepare. Please join us in congratulating Norah, Melanie, Noah, Casey, Savannah, and Peyton on an outstanding achievement. We are proud of you all!    JR High Wrestlers Have a Successful Season Our 8th grade wrestlers recently sat down with Mr. Hawkins to reflect on a strong season and the experiences that have made it memorable. This year’s group has put together an impressive body of work, combining for an outstanding overall record of and 8 black-eyes The 8th grade leaders include Jake Webb (26–2), Ian Kiel (16–14), Max Branham (26–0), Luke Henson (30–4), Brenton Patterson (29–3), Colton Nickles (30–3), Nash Beagle (8–2), Kashton Kallister (5-6), and Chase Stubbs-Williams (7–0). The team is led by Head Coach Camden Ramsey, with Assistant Coaches Connor Sweeney and Cole Peters. When asked about their favorite part of the season so far, the wrestlers shared that it’s the time spent together, especially riding home on the bus with friends after meets—and, of course, winning, which they have done a lot of this year. We invite everyone to come out and support our wrestlers on 8th Grade Night, Tuesday the 24th. Regionals will take place on the 28th, and sectionals will be hosted here at home. Let’s pack the gym and give our athletes a true home-mat advantage as they finish the season strong.   Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board Therapy Dogs Comfort Rochester Students During Trying Times Thank you to ILETSB CIT therapy dogs and Jen Woolridge from Chatham for their support of our students on Monday and Tuesday.  From left to right K-9 Max. SIU-E K-9 Trooper. ILETSB (Springfield) K-9 Ghost. MTU 7  (Peoria) K-9 Petals (in training) Cook County Sheriffs Office K-9 Zilly.  Cook County Sheriffs Office K-9 Chase.  SIU-E  

    Friday, Feb 20 2026

  • Board of Education Community Forum

    Dear Rochester Families, Staff, and Community Members, The Rochester CUSD #3A Board of Education takes its responsibility to students, staff, families, and taxpayers very seriously. As part of that responsibility, the Board is committed to open communication, transparency, and thoughtful decision-making as it reviews the district’s financial outlook and works to ensure students continue to receive a high-quality education. To support that commitment, the Board of Education is hosting a Community Forum on Tuesday, February 10, from 6:00–8:00 p.m., in the Rochester High School auditorium, focused on the proposed deficit reduction plan. It will also be streamed online via the  District YouTube page . The Board President will begin the forum with brief opening remarks, followed by an overview of the district’s financial information presented by a member of the Board’s financial committee. The primary purpose of this forum is for the Board to listen. Community members will have the opportunity to share thoughts, concerns, and perspectives directly with the Board of Education. No vote or formal action will take place during the forum.  To ensure the forum is structured, respectful, and allows as many voices as possible to be heard, the Board of Education will not respond to or answer questions or comments during the forum. Community members who wish to speak will be selected through a random lottery process, and each speaker will be allotted up to three minutes to share their comments. The forum will conclude promptly at 8:00 p.m., as it is limited to a two-hour time frame. These guidelines are intended to provide an equitable opportunity for participation and to allow the Board to focus fully on listening to community input.  Community input during this forum is an important part of the Board’s public decision-making process as it prepares for a vote on this matter at the February 18 Board of Education meeting. The Board remains dedicated to being fiscally responsible with taxpayer dollars while ensuring that Rochester students continue to receive an education that prepares them to succeed in their chosen futures. Sincerely,  Rochester CUSD #3A Board of Education

    Wednesday, Feb 04 2026

  • January 2026 Rocket Review: District Financial Update

      January 2026 Rocket Review: District Financial Update   Deficit Reduction Plan Presented to the Board of Education At the January Board of Education meeting, Interim Superintendent Rolf Sivertsen presented a deficit reduction plan for the Board’s consideration. The plan outlines steps to balance the district’s budget while continuing to provide Rochester students with a high-quality and enriching educational experience. This presentation follows a December Board of Education meeting in which Superintendent Sivertsen presented an overview of the district’s financial deficit and the factors contributing to it, including reductions in federal and state funding. Following that discussion, the Board requested the development of a formal deficit reduction plan. In fiscal year 2026, Rochester Schools experienced a revenue loss of approximately $1.25 million. Looking ahead, the district is projected to face a $1.7 million deficit in fiscal year 2027. Over a two-year period, the Education Fund balance would be reduced by more than $2.2 million if no corrective action is taken. Without intervention, the district’s Education Fund balance would fall to approximately $1.9 million by the end of fiscal year 2028, placing the district in a financially unstable position. To address this challenge, the superintendent proposed reducing costs by approximately $3 million annually. This level of reduction would balance the budget and allow the district to rebuild reserves to better manage future cost increases or additional funding losses. The proposal comes at a time when the State of Illinois has reported a projected $2.2 billion budget deficit. State Superintendent Tony Sanders has also publicly stated that state education funding is expected to remain flat in the coming years. Other districts facing deficits include: Chicago Public Schools - $734 million Springfield District 186 - $17.9 million Harlem School District - $3.1 million Taylorville School District - $950k   District Financial Forecasts Provide Long-Term Budget Outlook Rochester Schools recently shared updated financial forecasts by fund, outlining projected revenues, expenditures, and fund balances through fiscal year 2030. The forecasts are based on audited financial reports, current budget assumptions, and known revenue and cost trends. The projections show that while some funds remain stable, the district’s Education Fund is expected to experience ongoing financial pressure in the coming years. Without corrective action, expenditures are projected to outpace revenues, leading to a steady decline in fund balance beginning in fiscal year 2026 and continuing through fiscal year 2028. By that point, the Education Fund balance would fall below a sustainable level for district operations. The forecasts also reflect rising costs in areas such as salaries, benefits, transportation, and debt service, along with limited growth in state and federal revenues. Enrollment trends and statutory limits on revenue generation further contribute to the district’s long-term financial outlook. Community members are encouraged to review the full financial projections to better understand the district’s current financial position and long-term planning assumptions. View the Financial Forecasts by Fund here: https://aptg.co/H5bVCn   Proposed Deficit Reduction Plan Available for Community Review At the January Board of Education meeting, Interim Superintendent Rolf Sivertsen presented a deficit reduction plan for the Board’s consideration in response to ongoing financial challenges facing Rochester Schools. Community members are encouraged to review the full proposed Deficit Reduction Plan to learn more about the district’s financial position and the recommendations presented to the Board. View the Deficit Reduction plan here: https://aptg.co/NHJnkf. District Financial Outlook Presented to the Board of Education at December Meeting At the December Board of Education meeting, Interim Superintendent Rolf Sivertsen presented an overview of the district’s financial outlook, outlining emerging budget challenges driven by reductions in federal and state funding. The December presentation served as an initial review of the district’s financial position and helped inform subsequent discussions by the Board. Following that meeting, the Board requested the development of a formal deficit reduction plan to address the challenges outlined. Community members are encouraged to review the December financial presentation to better understand the factors contributing to the district’s current budget situation. View December presentation here: https://www.parentsquare.com/feeds/68374285 The financial information presented in December reflected data available as of December 2025 and was intended to provide an overview of the district’s financial position at that point in time. Updated information and projections were later shared as part of continued financial planning discussions.   Community Invited to Submit Questions on Proposed Deficit Reduction Plan Rochester Schools is committed to transparency and open communication as the district continues discussions related to its financial planning and long-term stability. A dedicated link is now available for community members, staff, and students to submit questions related to the district’s financial outlook and planning efforts. Submitted questions will be reviewed and answered as information becomes available and as timely as possible. This process provides an additional opportunity to share information and address common questions while the district continues its regular operations and responsibilities. Submit Question View Financial Q&A

    Wednesday, Jan 28 2026

  • Rescheduled Regular Board of Education Meeting

    Dear Rochester Families, This email is to inform you that the Board of Education has rescheduled it's regular meeting for Tuesday, January 27th, 2026. The Board made this decision to ensure that all Board members can be in attendance, as several important items will be discussed. To better accommodate visitors, the meeting will be held in the Rochester High School auditorium and will also be streamed on the District's YouTube page, as is regular practice. Thank you for your flexibility, dedication, and continued support. Sincerely, Rochester CUSD #3A

    Thursday, Jan 15 2026

  • Important Leadership Update for RHS & RJHS Beginning...

    Dear Rochester Students, Parents, Friends, and Guardians, Please see the attached letter from Interim Superintendent Rolf Sivertsen regarding an important leadership transition for the High School and Junior High campuses beginning with the 2026–2027 school year. Sincerely, Jon Hansen Director of Communications

    Monday, Nov 10 2025

  • Now Hiring: Special Education Paraprofessionals

    Now Hiring: Special Education Paraprofessionals Rochester CUSD #3A – Early Childhood to Grade 1 (EC-1)  Rochester CUSD #3A is seeking two dedicated and compassionate Special Education Paraprofessionals to join our team at EC-1!  Support students with diverse needs in a positive, collaborative environment.  Position: Special Education Paraprofessional (2 openings)  Hours: 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM  Starting Pay: $16.00 per hour plus benefits Ideal candidates are caring, patient, and committed to helping all students succeed.  Experience in a school or childcare setting is preferred but not required.  Apply today to make a difference in the lives of young learners!  For more information or to apply, visit the Rochester CUSD #3A district website:  https://www.rochester3a.net/o/rochester3a/page/employment

    Friday, Oct 24 2025

  • Regular Board of Education Meeting - Wednesday, Octo...

    Dear Rochester Families, The Rochester Board of Education is scheduled to hold a regular board meeting  tomorrow, Wednesday, October 15th, 2025  in the Bruce Hays Administration Center (4 Rocket Drive, Rochester, IL) at 6:30 PM. This meetings agenda includes important school business and recommendations including: Recognition of district staff for publication on artificial intelligence (AI) School Improvement Plan Presentations by building administrators Winter weather equipment A proposed partnership with the Illinois Youth Symphony Orchestra to offer after school strings Possible approval of a student created mural for the new high school addition See all the items up for discussion in the Board Agenda and review supporting materials in the  Board Packet . This meeting will be streamed live via the district's YouTube Page .

    Tuesday, Oct 14 2025

  • Special Board of Education Meetings October 6th & 7t...

    Dear Rochester Families, The Rochester CUSD #3A Board of Education will hold two special board meetings this week at the Bruce Hays Administration Center (4 Rocket Drive, Rochester, IL 62563): Monday, October 6 at 5:30 PM Tuesday, October 7 at 5:30 PM Both of these meetings will immediately enter closed session for the purpose of interviewing candidates for the permanent superintendent position. You can view the agendas using the following links: Oct. 6th Agenda Oct. 7th Agenda Sincerely, Rochester CUSD #3A

    Monday, Oct 06 2025

  • Invitation for Seniors: Apply to Be the Student Repr...

    Rochester CUSD #3A is excited to announce a new opportunity for our students! For the first time, the Board of Education will include a  Student Representative —a senior who will serve in an advisory, non-voting role and provide valuable student perspective during board discussions. This role is designed to give students a voice at the table, build leadership skills, and strengthen the connection between our students and district leadership. Eligibility: Current full-time Rochester High School senior In good academic standing Meets eligibility requirements for extracurricular participation Strong communication skills and interest in representing peers Responsibilities include: Attending all Board of Education meetings Preparing and presenting a student report at each meeting Acting as a liaison between students and the Board 📅  Applications are due by October 31st. 👉 To learn more about how this position will influence education at Rochester CUSD #3A click here: https://www.rochester3a.net/article/2441992 To apply to become the student representative click here: Apply Here

    Tuesday, Sep 23 2025

  • Rochester Preschool Program Earns Gold Circle of Qua...

    Rochester CUSD #3A is proud to announce that our Preschool for All (PFA) program at Rochester Elementary EC-1 has earned the Gold Circle of Quality designation from ExceleRate Illinois, the state’s quality recognition and improvement system for early learning and development programs. The Gold Circle of Quality is the  highest level of recognition  awarded by ExceleRate Illinois. It reflects our district’s strong commitment to: Instructional excellence in early learning classrooms High-quality family services and partnerships Ongoing professional development for staff Strong program administration and compliance with state standards ExceleRate Illinois helps families identify quality early learning programs across the state, giving parents confidence that their child is receiving the best possible start to their education. Rochester’s Gold Circle rating was determined through a rigorous monitoring process that included classroom assessments and a comprehensive compliance review. “This recognition affirms the outstanding work of our early childhood educators,” said Interim Superintendent Rolf Sivertsen. “Our staff continues to go above and beyond to provide nurturing, engaging, and high-quality learning experiences for our youngest Rockets.”

    Thursday, Sep 04 2025