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.
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.
JMHS Students only: Monday, November 4th, 7th and 8th periods come to a Movie Matinee!
$1 will be collected at the door. Please talk with your teachers today about work missed.
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
Have fun Trick or Treating everyone!!
The English department NEVER fails to bring the fun! They are dressed as a Nerds Rope today :)
Let the Halloween fun begin!
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
Interior Design and Fashion Design projects 👏
Our Career Awareness Class is seeking more local presenters. Current needs are career fields below. Please contact the teacher directly at: shspalleeshansen@rochesterschools.org
Agriculture/AgriBusiness
Animal Systems
Veterinary
Environmental Services
Food Products and Processing
Natural Resources
Plants
Power, Structural and Tech Systems
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
Mark your calendars for our next Caregiver Info Session: Strategies for Emotional Support & Communication with Your Teen
Did you miss the Caregiver Info Session last night on supporting your student's academic success? If so, feel free to check out the slide show, student planner, and handouts that were provided. Next session will be November 19th.
Slideshow: https://shorturl.at/HCcXx
Planner: https://shorturl.at/rVDWb
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.
Reminder, TONIGHT, parent info session with a focus on our freshmen families (though all are welcome). Free childcare and light snacks.
Jayvionna is all smiles after getting accepted into her first choice... Carlson School of Management at the U of MN. Were proud of you 👏👏👏
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.
Reminder, tomorrow night is the October Caregiver Info Session: Strategies for Supporting your Student's Academic Success. Free childcare & lite snacks. Geared toward freshmen families but all are welcome. Get connected. Get informed. Get empowered. Thank you!
