FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 24, 2024
Rochester Public Schools Launches Dedicated Referendum Website
Website provides voters with information on proposed operating levy increase to stabilize the district’s finances and preserve student programs
ROCHESTER, MN. – Rochester Public Schools has launched a website to inform residents about the upcoming school referendum on the ballot this November. The dedicated website – RochesterSchools.org/referendum – provides details about the district's proposed operating levy increase to “Ignite Student Learning.”
As part of the general election on November 5, district voters will consider a proposal to increase the school operating levy by $1,133 per pupil annually. This investment would raise $19.4 million in revenue – the minimum amount needed to help protect staffing levels, class sizes, and student programs and services.
Like many school districts across the state, Rochester Public Schools has made difficult budget cuts over the past three years that have impacted student services, reduced teachers and staff, and prompted the possible closures of three schools. The State of Minnesota provides the majority of funding for school districts, but this funding has not kept pace with the rising costs of education.
“We can't continue to provide a quality education without adequate and stable funding,” said Superintendent Dr. Kent Pekel. "With help and feedback from residents, the district has developed a plan to avoid more devastating cuts. I strongly encourage our community to learn more about the referendum and the consequences it will have for our students and our future.”
As a result of the shortfall in state funding and other factors, school districts across Minnesota have been forced to turn to their local communities to secure funding for programs that many community members consider indispensable. While Rochester Public Schools is the seventh largest in Minnesota, the district ranks last in voter-approved operating levy funding compared to other districts with over 10,000 students across the state.
Without additional funding, the district will be forced to make about $19.4 million in cuts ahead of the 2025-2026 school year that would vastly change education across all our schools. This would include closing multiple schools, eliminating teacher and staff positions, increasing class sizes, and reducing courses and programs at all grade levels.
“This is truly a pivotal moment for our district,” said School Board Chair Cathy Nathan. “The ‘Ignite Student Learning’ plan would allow the district to continue providing the support our students need, rather than diminish the opportunities we can provide.”
If the referendum is approved by voters, a home valued at $350,000 would see an estimated property tax increase of $29 per month starting in 2025. Residents can find their estimated tax impact using the tax calculator at RochesterSchools.org/referendum.
Residents can visit RochesterSchools.org/referendum to learn more about the referendum and its impact on our schools. The website includes detailed information about the district’s financial challenges, the proposed investment plan, the cost of the plan, and voting. Residents can submit questions and feedback by emailing rpsvote@rochesterschools.org or calling 507. 328.4777.
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