Rochester Public Schools (RPS) is asking voters to approve an Operating Levy Referendum in this fall’s election. This is a community volunteer-led campaign to pass the Referendum in order to ensure continued student success.

VOLUNTEER

WHAT IS THE REFERENDUM

A chance for your tax contributions to benefit the future of Rochester.

The referendum is a ballot question asking voters in the Rochester Public School District 535 to approve a $19.4 million/year funding increase for 10 years, financed by property taxes for homeowners and businesses in the district in order to help stabilize the district’s finances, protect class sizes, and strengthen academic and career programs.

Detailed information about the referendum is available from the Rochester Public School district.

VISIT RPS INFO PAGE

VOTING YES MATTERS MORE THAN EVER.

If this vote fails, the effects will be deeply felt among students, staff, and our community.

Outcomes outlined by RPS if the referendum fails include: closure of multiple schools, eliminating many teacher and staff positions, increase in classroom sizes, as well as a reduction in programming, student support, mental health services, and career and technical programs.

Why Yes

WHY VOTING YES SUPPORTS STUDENT SUCCESS

Community Investment

Quality education benefits not just the students but the entire community. It enhances property values, attracts families, and contributes to the overallprosperity of Rochester.

Cost Value

Providing the best education to area children comes with costs. These costs reflect our city’s overall growth, keeping up with the demands of an evolving workforce, and providing the services and support children need.

Everyday Benefits

Students need to have all necessary curriculum resources in the right atmosphere. Increased classroom sizes and less staffing make learning difficult and challenging to teach.

Future-Ready Education

Investing in education is investing in the future. By supporting the referendum, you help prepare students for future success, whether in higher education, the workforce, or as engaged citizens.

Long Term Stability

This investment would generate an additional $19.4 million per year for 10 years in revenue to help stabilize the district’s finances, protect class sizes, and strengthen academic and career programs.

Maintain Resources

Counselors and health resources are vital to student mental wellness as well as reading specialists and academic support for vulnerable students. Career and technical education set up our students for success in the workforce.

VISIT RPS FAQ PAGE

Vote Tuesday, Nov. 5th

Information on voting options are available from Olmsted County. Find your polling place and sample ballot or how to vote early and absentee.

VOTER RESOURCES

Support

SUPPORT THE VOTE YES CAMPAIGN

Join the Campaign

This is a volunteer-led campaign, and it will take all of us working together to win on November 5! Sign up via our interest form and click the tabs above for more information. Meetings are typically Monday evenings to plan tactics and goals for communications, fundraising & endorsements, community outreach/events, and getting out the vote.

Click the tabs above for more information about our different areas of need