Rochester CUSD #3A is announcing a leadership transition at Rochester Junior High School as part of broader district efforts to address state and federal funding reductions. Interim Superintendent Rolf Sivertsen has shared the details in a letter to families, outlining the staffing changes, the financial challenges facing our schools, and the collaborative steps being taken to ensure strong support for students.
Dear Rochester Families,
I want to provide you with an important update regarding recent staffing changes at Rochester Junior High as well as the financial outlook for our district. First and foremost, please know that our teachers, staff, and administrators remain fully committed to delivering the highest quality education to every student we serve. Our district’s long-standing Tradition of Excellence will continue to guide our decisions and our work each day.
Recently, the assistant principal at Rochester Intermediate School resigned to pursue another opportunity. To address the larger student population at RIS, the current assistant principal at Rochester Junior High will be reassigned to the Intermediate School for the upcoming year.
Due to budget constraints, we will not be hiring a replacement assistant principal for the Junior High at this time. We recognize that this transition in leadership brings some uncertainties, but please know we are working closely with our teachers, support staff, and remaining building leaders to find the best solutions to continue providing our students with exceptional support and guidance.
Like many schools across the country, Rochester CUSD is facing financial challenges due in part to reductions in state and federal revenue. The table below is a breakdown of the projected losses in revenue our district will face this year alone from the state and federal government.
Description | Amount |
Interest Earned | $85,000 |
Special Ed Tuition Reimbursement | $77,500 |
Drivers Education | $5,500 |
Pre-K for All | $12,000 |
Title Grants | $8,000 |
School Improvement Grant | $26,000 |
Tile IV Grant | $15,000 |
Medicaid | $34,000 |
ESSER Grant | $1,253,134 |
Total | $1,516,834 |
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
This morning, I met with the Rochester Education Association to share details about this issue. I also met with a group of Junior High teachers to listen to their concerns and gather their suggestions regarding the assistant principal reassignment. I’m grateful for their thoughtful input and dedication to finding the best ways to continue supporting our students. It is truly reassuring to work alongside such caring and passionate educators who are deeply committed to our students’ success.
We appreciate your understanding as we navigate these changes together, and we remain focused on providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment where every student is known, valued, and empowered to grow on their journey as Rocket Learners - to excel in their chosen future
Sincerely,
Rolf Sivertsen
Interim Superintendent
Rochester CUSD #3A