Our value of ensuring excellence through evidence means we use data and proven practices to help our students grow. To date, 90% of RPS 8th graders have used Xello to discover careers connected to their personal interests. By using these tools, we are investing in our community’s future and preparing the next generation of thinkers and doers. Discover more about how our students use the Xello tool at www.rochesterschools.org/xello.

#PublicSchoolsWeek #PSW26
22 days ago, Rochester Public Schools
90% of 8th graders used Xello to discover career interests
At Rochester Public Schools, we want every student to be “Challenged to Strive and Supported to Thrive.” With more than 120 extracurricular options for our secondary students, we live out our Value of building belonging and connection. By offering a wide variety of activities, we ensure every student can find a place where they belong, helping them develop the social skills and confidence needed to pursue a fulfilling path. Learn more about our mission at www.rochesterschools.org/about.

#PublicSchoolsWeek #PSW26

23 days ago, Rochester Public Schools
120+ extra curricular options
To help our students flourish, we focus on our value of supporting the whole student. This includes their physical well-being, which is why our nutrition team serves over 16,000 meals every single day. Meeting these basic needs is essential to our mission: to equip every student with the resilience to pursue a fulfilling path. Learn more about our Student Nutrition Services Department at https://www.rochesterschools.org/student-nutrition.

#PublicSchoolsWeek #PSW26
23 days ago, Rochester Public Schools
5,313 breakfasts and 11,191 lunches served daily
We are proud of our vibrant school communities! Building belonging and connection is a key RPS Value. With 87 languages spoken by our students, we have much to celebrate. Embracing these perspectives creates an environment where every student feels at home and ready to learn. Learn more about our values at www.rochesterschools.org/about.

#PublicSchoolsWeek
24 days ago, Rochester Public Schools
87 languages spoken by 4188 students
Meet Sonya! She's here to pull back the curtain and help you lead the way in your students’ learning journey. Through our Caregiver and Parent Empowerment (CAPE) virtual courses, Sonya provides the roadmap you need to support your elementary student and master the "ins and outs" of our District.

Don't do it alone—join an online session in March and get the inside scoop! Save your spot here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1SriIzGC_CNlScaRNM0hOWHRlbTy-5s6Wf_a9NZVBbUU/viewform?edit_requested=true
28 days ago, Rochester Public Schools
Sonya Chives, Family Engagement specialist leading a Caregiver and Parent Empowerment online session for elementary schools on her work computer while looking at the camera and smiling.
Learning is for everyone! Today was a professional development day across the district. Over 90 courses were offered to all staff including teachers, academic ESPs, transportation ESPs, related service providers, and more. These courses help our staff succeed in their chosen path. It was a great day to hone our skills further to better equip our students for their futures!
about 1 month ago, Rochester Public Schools
Adults journal their reflections in a classroom.
A woman in a black dress presents on intercultural communications in front of a smartboard.
A man in a denim shirt is transfixed by the speaker. Handouts and a thumbs-up paddle sit on the desk in front of him.
The RPS School Board will meet tomorrow at 5:30 p.m. in the Edison Board Room (615 7th St SW). On the agenda for tomorrow’s Regular Meeting is Project Momentum Update, AIPAC Vote on Concurrence, RPS Improvement Targets Proposal, and 2026 Primary Election.

If you cannot attend in person, you can livestream the meeting at https://www.youtube.com/isd535.

You can view all full meeting agendas at https://rochesterschools.org/simbli.
about 1 month ago, Rochester Public Schools
RPS School Board Meeting, Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, 5:30pm Regular Meeting
Oraculi and RPS have partnered to give students the guidance and support to create ambitious projects for their submissions to the Rochester Regional STEM Fair! Read about how our middle schoolers are creating projects that develop their passions for science while learning from real-life scientists as their mentors!
https://www.rochesterschools.org/article/2704917
about 1 month ago, Rochester Public Schools
1080x1350 social size exploration (45) (1)
STEM plant experiment
students testing soil
students testing hydration methods for plants
An apparatus to pump saltwater into fresh water

RPS Families: This is a reminder that there is no school on Monday, February 16. Staff will be participating in professional development. Additionally, our Registration and Records Department and Human Resources Department at the Edison Building will be closed on Monday.

Enjoy the long weekend, and we'll see you next Tuesday.

about 1 month ago, Rochester Public Schools
No School for Monday, February 16
Looking for a position that offers a family-friendly schedule with no nights, weekends, or holidays? Maybe you're looking to work in a fun, high-energy environment? Rochester Public Schools is seeking Student Nutrition Services positions at elementary, middle, and high schools.

RPS is an equal opportunity provider.
about 1 month ago, Rochester Public Schools
Rochester Public Schools Now Hiring Student Nutrition Associates & Substitutes; $21 per hour starting pay; RPS is an equal opportunity provider.

What better way to empower our students than to let one make the biggest call of the year?

We’ve put Century High School sophomore Jaycob Krebs through a rigorous "winter weather boot camp." From tracking barometric pressure to mastering the art of the early morning cancellation, Jaycob is ready to serve as our official Snow Day Specialist.

Watch Jaycob's rise to the top: https://youtu.be/q0wSaTkcKpM

about 1 month ago, Rochester Public Schools
At RPS, our mission is to equip every student with the knowledge, independence, and resilience to pursue a fulfilling path. Our School Counselors are the heartbeat of that mission, especially when it comes to supporting our students. They do more than guide. From setting goals and exploring interests to overcoming barriers and planning for life after graduation, they provide the essential strategies our students need to thrive in school and life.
about 1 month ago, Rochester Public Schools
Melissa Hough working at her desk smiling at the camera with the text "I believe all children should have access to proactive mental health support. It is incredibly rewarding to help kids discover ways to solve problems, deal with stress, and become the best versions of themselves."
Image of Jen Helgemoe in the locker bank at Willow Creek with the text "I chose to become a school counselor because I wanted to make a difference in the lives of students. I want students to feel supported and valued. "

Over 300 Elton Hill Eagles bundled up to walk around their school neighborhood in the crisp winter air before dismissal. This march helped reinforce safe practices, such as crossing at intersections and walking slowly on ice and slush.

Winter Walk to School Day is conducted in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and is part of the Safe Routes to School program. Safe Routes to School supports students by equipping them with the knowledge to get to school by walking, biking, skateboarding, or just about any way that doesn't involve a motor vehicle. And yes, that means in the winter too!

about 1 month ago, Rochester Public Schools
Frosty Footsteps Winter Walk Celebration, February 4; pic of kids and crossing guard crossing an intersection in the winter, Rochester Public Schools logo; Department of Transportation; Minnesota Safe Routes to School
Frosty Footsteps Winter Walk Celebration, February 4; pic of kids and crossing guard crossing an intersection in the winter, Rochester Public Schools logo; Department of Transportation; Minnesota Safe Routes to School
Picture of several kids walking in a snowy neighborhood waving at the camera;  Rochester Public Schools logo; Department of Transportation; Minnesota Safe Routes to School
Wideshot of a winter scene and kids crossing a intersection crosswalk;  Rochester Public Schools logo; Department of Transportation; Minnesota Safe Routes to School
A line of children trail the sidewalk; the kid in a black jacket at the front smiles;  Rochester Public Schools logo; Department of Transportation; Minnesota Safe Routes to School
Kids march in a long line in a snowy neighborhood;  Rochester Public Schools logo; Department of Transportation; Minnesota Safe Routes to School
Huge congratulations to the cast of Mayo High School’s One Act Play! After taking 1st Place at Subsections and a unanimous 1st Place at Sections, they are officially headed to the State Festival! This marks Mayo’s 4th trip to State in just 7 years. Their production of “Queens” by Kristen Doherty takes them into the purgatory of King Henry VIII, where he is haunted by his six queens and two malevolent court fools. They'll be performing at St. Catherine University in St. Paul this week. Break a leg, Spartans!
about 1 month ago, Rochester Public Schools
Students in Mayo One Act play
Students in Mayo One Act play
Students in Mayo One Act play
Students in Mayo One Act play
Looking to help give back to students? Interested in science and innovation? Sign up to volunteer as a judge for the Rochester Regional STEM Fair: https://rochester.ce.eleyo.com/course/25711/2026-adult-winter-spring-catalog-tentative/volunteer-rochester-regional-stem-fair

Over 200 middle and high school students will be presenting their projects at the 68th Annual STEM Fair. Judges offer feedback to students, and a rubric (and lunch) is provided.

When: February 27, 2026, from 9:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Where: RCTC Sports Center

Sign up, be inspired, and give back to our future innovators!
about 1 month ago, Rochester Public Schools
Rochester Regional STEM Fair Judges Needed. Join us as a volunteer on Friday, February, 27, 2026 from 9:45 to 1:00 p.m. at RCTC Sports Center and lunch will be provided.
At its scheduled meeting on February 3, the Rochester Public Schools (RPS) Board of Education voted unanimously to approve a resolution ratifying the district’s continued commitment to providing a safe and welcoming learning environment for all students, regardless of immigration status.

Read more: https://www.rochesterschools.org/article/2683660
about 1 month ago, Rochester Public Schools
Media Release

At Mayo and Century, the Teens Offering Peer Support (TOPS) program is providing a sanctuary for students when life feels a little too heavy. Whether you need a mental reset or a helping hand, TOPS is a stigma-free zone where everyone belongs.

What’s inside the TOPS room?

  • The Vibe: Soft lighting, calming music, and comfy seating perfect for a heart-to-heart with a peer or advisor.

  • The Creative Corner: Tables dedicated to crafting and decompressing.

  • The Resources: A wealth of mental health tools and professional support, and even a free "thrift" for students.

Learn more at www.rochesterschools.org/article/2679792

about 1 month ago, Rochester Public Schools
High school junior at Mayo High School finds acceptance and a listening ear from an advisor at the TOPS program.
Outside an open door are hung decorative handmade bios of Peer Supporters on colorful construction paper. The sign by the door reads, "T.O.P.S. Teens Offering Peer Support."
A high school student smiles at the camera holding a colorful paper crane he just folded.
Two high school students concentrate on writing and painting at a wooden table. Behind them, on the white brick wall, are dozens of small paintings down by other students.
A student in conversation looks off to the side and smiles wistfully.
A picture collage of various resources such as mental health brochures, books, calendars, toiletries, shoes, and clothes.
The RPS School Board will meet tomorrow at 4:00 p.m. in the Edison Board Room (615 7th St SW). On the agenda for tomorrow’s Regular Meeting is: Superintendent Goals for 2025-2026: Mid-year Progress Check, 2026 Primary Election, Student Information System Adoption.

If you cannot attend in person, you can livestream the meeting at https://www.youtube.com/isd535.

You can view all full meeting agendas at https://rochesterschools.org/simbli.
about 2 months ago, Rochester Public Schools
RPS School Board Meeting, Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026, 4-6pm, Regular Meeting
RPS Superintendent Kent Pekel says data gathered by the school system shows a large increase in absenteeism coincided with the arrival of thousands of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in Minnesota and their high-profile actions to detain undocumented immigrants. He says the number of students missing school has increased by about 500 when compared with December. Listen to the podcast episode: https://krocnews.com/ice-crackdown-higher-student-absenteeism-rochester/
about 2 months ago, Rochester Public Schools
Real-world application is one of the ways our science curriculum resonates with our students. Recently, juniors and seniors in Ms. Unterholzner's Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology course began dissecting cow eyes as part of the nervous system unit. By exploring the eye's structure first-hand, these students are gaining a better understanding of how we perceive the world around us. There's nothing quite like "learning by doing" to make complex biology click!
about 2 months ago, Rochester Public Schools
Students participating in hands-on learning
Students participating in hands-on learning
Students participating in hands-on learning
Students participating in hands-on learning
Students participating in hands-on learning