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  • 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

  • August 2025 Rocket Review

    August 2025 Edition   A New Year, A Fresh Launch The first days of school always feel a bit like a rocket launch—countdown buzzing, energy building, hearts full of possibility. As doors open across Rochester Schools, we’re reminded why this community is so special: students who are eager to learn, staff who go the extra mile, and families who show up for one another. That spirit fuels our long-standing Tradition of Excellence. Walk our hallways this week and you’ll see it everywhere: kindergarteners clutching new backpacks, seniors leading with confidence and kindness, teachers greeting students by name, and teams rehearsing, reading, solving, and creating. It’s the sound of a district setting high expectations and meeting them—together. Leadership Updates Across Rochester Schools Rochester Schools is pleased to announce several leadership appointments as we begin the new school year: David Hawkins is the new Principal of Rochester Junior High School. He joined the district as an English teacher, later served as Assistant Principal at Rochester High School, and now steps into the RJHS principal role. Matt Lauber has been named Assistant Principal at Rochester High School. He previously served as an administrative intern at Southeast High School and an assistant principal at Rochester Junior High, where he built strong relationships with students and staff. Tony Nika will serve as Assistant Principal at Rochester Intermediate & Athletic Director for grades 6-8. He brings experience as a special education teacher, administrator, and longtime coach. Mackenzie Escher has been appointed Special Education Administrator for the district. A Rochester special education teacher since 2023, she brings classroom expertise and a student-first mindset. These appointments strengthen support for students and staff across the district as we launch the 2025–26 school year. Rochester High School Earns Top Marks in U.S. News 2025–26 Rankings For the second time, Rochester High School has been recognized among the nation’s best in the newly released U.S. News & World Report 2025–26 Best High Schools. RHS ranks #2 in the Springfield metro area, #152 in Illinois, and #4,141 nationally—a reflection of our students’ hard work, our staff’s dedication, and our families’ support. U.S. News evaluates schools based on state test performance, graduation rates, and college readiness. We’re proud to see Rochester’s Tradition of Excellence reflected in these results and grateful to the teachers, support staff, and families who make this possible every day. For full details, see Rochester High School’s profile on U.S. News.    Student Leaders Present Initiatives to Build Belonging at RHS High school seniors Ashley Ziebert, Ella Kieffer, Hadleigh Maley, Johnna Moffett, Mylie Deatherage, and Sara Johnson presented to the Board of Education about two student-led efforts designed to boost engagement and belonging at Rochester High School. They highlighted the Freshman & New Student Orientation, where upperclass mentors welcome new Rockets with tours, Q&A, and first-day support, and Paint the Lot, which gives seniors the opportunity to personalize their parking spaces with approved designs that showcase school spirit. The Board thanked the students for their leadership and commitment to a positive start to the year. RHS Marching Band to Receive New Uniforms After 15 years of use, the Rochester High School Marching Band will receive new uniforms. The Board of Education has approved purchasing the updated look from DeMoulin Bros. & Co., the same manufacturer that produced the current set. The recommendation—made by the band department and a uniform committee—highlighted DeMoulin’s proven durability and strong customer support, including a Greenville, Illinois–based representative who works closely with school programs. The new design will refresh the band’s appearance while maintaining comfort and durability for students. Timeline Estimated delivery is about 10 months after the order is finalized. Based on the current schedule, the uniforms are expected to arrive in late spring/early summer 2026, in time for preparations for the next marching season. Cost Snapshot (per uniform; shipping not included) Coat: $363.00 Cape: $189.00 Bibber: $172.00 (or $154.00 without embroidery) Shako (with hat box): $110.00 Plume: $33.00 Per-uniform total: $867.00 Order size: 110 uniforms → $95,370.00 Garment bags with logo: $19.45 × 110 → $2,139.50 Estimated project subtotal: $97,509.50 (before shipping) These uniforms will support the band’s Tradition of Excellence on the field and in performance for years to come. Go Rockets!    Board Approves Administrator Contracts for 2025–26 At its recent meeting, the Board of Education approved contracts for 12 district administrators for the 2025–26 school year. This action follows the Board’s approval of a new agreement with the Rochester Education Association, ensuring stable leadership and continuity of learning as we begin the year.   Board Approves Reduction in Force Affecting Two District Positions In response to the financial forecast for Rochester CUSD and reductions in state and federal revenue, the Rochester CUSD 3A Board of Education approved a resolution to decrease the number of full-time educational support personnel and discontinue a particular type of educational support service, effective at the conclusion of the 2025-2026 school year. As a result, the Board approved the non-renewal and honorable dismissal of two positions: Jon Hansen, Director of Communications & Engagement Brent Ashbaugh, Student Information Systems (SIS) Administrator The action is a reduction in force and is not related to employee performance. In line with Section 10-23.5 of the Illinois School Code (105 ILCS 5/10-23.5), when reductions are necessary, the sequence of dismissal among full-time educational support personnel is based on length of continuing service, unless a collective bargaining agreement provides an alternative method. The district does not have such an alternative in place at this time. Rochester CUSD 3A remains focused on ensuring continuity of services for students and families as the district plans for the 2026–27 school year. District Shares Update on Financial Challenges On August 8, Interim Superintendent Rolf Sivertsen released a community letter outlining the financial pressures facing Rochester CUSD 3A and the steps the district is taking to address them. In the message, Mr. Sivertsen noted that—like many districts across the country—Rochester is experiencing reduced state and federal revenue, contributing to a projected $1.5 million deficit for the current budget cycle. “This is a serious funding issue that will affect school districts across Illinois and the nation. If left unaddressed, it could lead to a financial crisis for our district. These budget reductions mean we must make thoughtful, strategic staffing adjustments to ensure we continue meeting the needs of our students,” Mr. Sivertsen said. What this means The district will prioritize student safety, classroom instruction, and essential services while identifying reductions outside the classroom where possible. Any staffing adjustments will be planned, transparent, and student-centered. Stay informed You can read Mr. Sivertsen’s full letter—including a simple breakdown of the revenue changes and next steps—on our website.    New Hires August 6th Hires Licensed Staff: Carrie Zucco - RJHS Science Teacher Support Staff Kennedy Gerton - RJHS Library Aide/ Study Hall Supervisor Jessica Heath - Blastoff Kids Academy Assistant Jessica Heath - Special Education Aide Meagan Nation - RES School Nurse Tracy Rodgers - Recess Supervisor Brandi Winning - RHS Library Aide Extra-Curricular Staff Lindsay Howard - RJHS Assistant Softball Coach Madison Bartolozzi - Assistant Cheerleading Coach (Basketball) August 20th Hires Support Staff Tonya Udell - RES Recess Supervisor Jade McKinney - RHS Student Services Secretary Nicole Riddley - Special Education Aide Extra-Curricular Staff Kristen Heiple - 6th grade Assistant Girls Basketball coach Matthew Vala - RHS Play Director Nicole Damhoff - RHS Assistant Cheerleading Coach (Football) Volunteer Staff Steven Bliss - RHS Girls Tennis Sarah Hankins - RHS Robotics Team Grace Winkler - RHS Girls Tennis   Resignations Thank you for your service! August 6th Henry Meurs - Permanent Substitute Teacher Ellen Bortmess - RJHS Assistant Softball Coach Rolando Salazar - Head Boys & Girls Tennis Coach August 20th Kris Kahler - Director of Business Services Kim Poole - RJHS Principal Tiffany Hunter - Recess Supervisor Madison Merry - Special Ed. Aide Chuck Sours - Assistant to Director of Transportation August 6th Summary of Minutes August 20th Summary of Minutes

    Thursday, Aug 21 2025