Jordan Shearer

This year, the district's enrollment on Oct. 1 was 17,323, equating to a 1.46% decline from the same day in 2023.

The amount of energy Rochester Public Schools has saved over the last six years could be used to run every building in the district for the next 1.23 years.

From start to finish, more than 1,000 people contributed to the murals in one way or another.

John Whelan and Karen MacLaughlin debated for Position 3. Stephanie Whitehorn answered questions alone as Christina Barton did not attend the event.

The district is estimating it would need to cut a minimum of $16.7 million from its budget if the referendum fails this November.

The candidates were asked nine questions by the teachers union in order to be considered for endorsement.

Between the three taxing entities, there would be an additional $37 million collected from the community.

If voters don't approve the district's referendum this November, it will result in a minimum of $16.7 million worth of budget cuts.

"The issues we’re talking about here tonight go far beyond what happens in our schools and classrooms to really powerfully impact the wellbeing of our entire community," Superintendent Pekel said.

An online petition running under the banner “Support Rosa Parks Charter High School's Fight for Existence” received 291 signatures as of Friday, Sept. 6.