School Board Meeting - September 15, 2026

The Rochester Public Schools ISD535 held a regular school board meeting on September 15, 2026. The meeting included recognition of IT professionals and community school facilitators, and a detailed presentation by Superintendent Kent Pal on the proposed RPS 2030 strategic plan. The plan focuses on multi-tiered systems of support in literacy, mathematics, and student behavior, career pathways, and organizational excellence, with an emphasis on coherence and measurable outcomes. The board discussed feedback from stakeholders, including parents and staff, and the integration of culturally responsive strategies. Additionally, the board reviewed the preliminary school district property tax levy for 2027, presented by the director of finance, Andy Croxstead. The levy process involves certification with the Minnesota Department of Education and includes components for general fund, debt service, and community education. The board was informed of modest projected changes in enrollment and levy amounts, with final approval scheduled for the October 6 meeting. No specific contract awards or procurement decisions were made during this session, but the strategic plan and levy discussions have implications for future budget allocations and resource planning.