School Board Meeting - October 20, 2026

The Rochester Public Schools ISD 535 regular school board meeting on October 20, 2026, reviewed enrollment and financial outlooks and approved a major fund-balance action. Staff reported declining enrollment and projected adjusted average daily membership of 16,578 for 2026–27, compared with 16,945 in 2025–26. The district will incorporate updated enrollment figures into a five-year budget forecast expected in November. Staff also noted $1.1 million in new English learner cross-subsidy revenue and discussed rising health-care costs, including a 20% premium increase for the plan year beginning January 1, 2027.

The board approved a resolution committing $10.5 million of the general fund’s fiscal-year 2026 fund balance to address the deficit in the employee health claims internal service fund, with an interfund transfer to be made in fiscal year 2027. Members discussed the fund’s $4.8 million negative balance as of June 30, 2026, and the need for longer-term financial planning. The board also adopted the RPS 2030 strategic plan. No contract awards, bids, or vendor selections were identified.