The Rochester School Committee met on Wednesday, June 4 in Rochester Memorial School and began with a recognition of two retirees: special education teacher Bridget Wollenhaupt and speech pathologist Janet Bejtlich. Both were praised for their years of service and dedication to their students. Next, new Rochester School Committee member Kirstin Jimenez was recognized for recently being voted in following the recent election.
Following these recognitions was the discussion and approval of various curriculums, namely OpenSciEd science curriculum and Envisions math curriculum. The program by OpenSciEd is approved by students and teachers, while also increasing testing scores. The committee also said it has also already been approved at Old Rochester Regional and in Marion. Working with teachers, Superintendent Michael Nelson said, the Envisions math curriculum was also put forward. Marion also recently approved Envisions math. Both curriculums were approved with unanimous votes in order to “align curriculum across the district.”
Discussion then began on the 2025-2026 student handbook, which was soon approved unanimously without alteration by the committee. Nelson then spoke on all six Rochester schools adopting the two-year school improvement plan “Vision 2028.” The first year of the plan has just concluded, with Nelson offering a progress report. He said they are well ahead of schedule.
The next meeting of the Rochester School Committee will be held following the start of the next school year (August 27) on Thursday, September 25.
Rochester School Committee
By Sam Bishop