Rochester CUSD #3A is announcing a leadership transition that will take effect at the start of the 2026–2027 school year. This adjustment is designed to strengthen student learning, support staff collaboration, and enhance alignment across grades 7–12 as students continue progressing through their journey as Rocket Learners.
At the conclusion of the 2025–2026 school year, High School Principal Jeff Reed will retire after many years of dedicated service to Rochester students, staff, and families. Mr. Reed’s career in education has made a positive impact on countless lives, and the district looks forward to celebrating his contributions with the community in the months ahead.
Following Mr. Reed’s retirement, the Board of Education and district administration completed a review of the leadership structure for grades 7–12. As a result, the Board has approved a unified leadership model in which the High School and Junior High Principal roles will be combined into a single position. Beginning with the 2026–2027 school year, Mr. David Hawkins will serve as Principal of both Rochester High School and Rochester Junior High School.
Many families and staff members know Mr. Hawkins well from his years as Assistant Principal at Rochester High School and his current role as Principal of Rochester Junior High School. As a lifelong Rochester Rocket and longtime educator in the district, he brings a deep understanding of the Rochester community, strong relationships across both campuses, and a commitment to ensuring every student is known, valued, and empowered.
As the district prepares for this transition, several key elements will remain the same. Junior high students will continue learning in their current wing of the High School/Junior High campus, and daily programming will remain unchanged. Each school will also continue to have its own dedicated Assistant Principal to support day-to-day operations, instruction, and student services. In the coming weeks, the district will begin the process of selecting a full-time Assistant Principal for Rochester Junior High School.
Rochester CUSD #3A is confident that this leadership structure will strengthen educational alignment, support staff collaboration, and ensure consistent, high-quality learning experiences for all students. The district extends its gratitude to Mr. Reed for his service and looks forward to welcoming Mr. Hawkins into this expanded role as part of the Tradition of Excellence that defines the Rochester community.