Rochester Public Schools -

Let's give a round of applause to Longfellow! 👏 They faced the wild! Longfellow students conquered the MN Zoo's ZOOMS Design Challenge, winning the Conservation Award. 🐯 The ZOOMS STEM Design Challenge presented by Flint Hills Resources offers students a chance to develop a solution to a ‘real’ problem faced by Zookeepers and staff at the Minnesota Zoo. From designing an enrichment to building a model of a renovated animal exhibit, the problem will challenge students to use their science and math knowledge, creativity, problem-solving, and research skills during the engineering design process to best solve the problem and present a solution.

Who have you celebrated during Women's History Month? Sabrina Mayol, Lincoln and Folwell Elementary's equity specialist, spoke to students about Malala Yousafzai, a Nobel Peace Prize recipient who advocates for women's education. See some of the photos from Ms. Mayol's readings of Malala's book, Malala's Magic Pencil. #CelebrateRPS

Stay connected with Rochester Public Schools! 📱 Did you know we have a FREE app packed with features to keep you in the loop? Get instant weather alerts, school updates, lunch menus, and easily add school events to your phone's calendar! Share events with family and friends in a tap. Don't miss out – download the RPS app today and simplify your school life! Android: https://bit.ly/3q4YKls | iPhone: https://apple.co/456qdlD

Over the last few weeks, groups of eleventh-grade Economics students at John Marshall High School have worked together to understand the community's needs and Rochesster's downtown local economy and create a business to support both. These future entrepreneurs need your support as they Pitch their final ideas. Come help us celebrate their hard work on Friday, March 21, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. and 12:30 to 2 p.m. at the Historic Chateau Theatre.

Earn your Bilingual Seal! Graduating high school students in Minnesota who have a multilingual background and/or are studying a language other than English, are eligible to earn a bilingual seal after their graduation. Fill out the survey at tinyurl.com/RPSSeals2025 and register for an exam time.

🍀 Leprechaun Reveal! Ms. Mammel Takes the Gold! 🌈 Last week, Willow Creek students showed their amazing generosity by collecting "gold coins" through donations to vote for their very own Leprechaun! These donations will help support the school's end-of-the-year celebration for students and staff. Willow Creek kicked off its last day of fundraising with a special appearance by its Cheer Team, who showed their skills!

Our schools are gearing up for the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCAs)! 📝💻These tests cover reading, mathematics, and science and are based on the Minnesota Academic Standards. Schools use the results to fine tune their instruction and better support all students' learning. Want to learn more about the MCAs? Visit: https://education.mn.gov/MDE/fam/tests/

the profound impact our school social workers have on our school community. They tirelessly provide emotional support, guidance, and resources that enhance our students’ academic and personal growth. Whether it’s leading group sessions, one-on-one counseling, or developing strategies for overall student well-being, school social workers can be found in every RPS school. Read this week's #CelebrateRPS here: https://rochesterpsmn.edurooms.com/engage/celebraterps/newsletters/celebraterps-march-10-2025 Submit your #CelebrateRPS story here: https://www.rochesterschools.org/o/rps/page/celebrate

Congratulations to these Century students! After two days and 7 rounds of challenging chess, the Century Varsity Chess team attained 19.5 points! This was good for a three-way first-place tie, the first ever in the 60 + years of the tournament. Left to right are 9th graders Joshua Wang, Calder Nguyen, and coach Chuck Handlon; 10 graders & Captain Cole Lappi; and 9th graders Andrew Merkel and Johann Myburgh.

Our 5th graders are leveling up their construction skills! 🏗️ Yesterday, the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) visited Overland and gave a masterclass in bridge building. Looks like some future engineers are in the making! #MnDOT #DeeperLearning

What's for lunch? The question on every student's mind. Use our lunch menus to make sure you're in the know and you have the answer to your student's questions: https://www.rochesterschools.org/page/school-meals-and-menus

February treated us well! Here's our photo send-off of all our learning, festivities, and fun this month!

Your path to success starts here! At RPS, we don't just wait for students to find their way – we build a map for postsecondary & career pathways from kindergarten to 12th grade to help students discover their dreams and empower them to discover their strengths and passions every step of the way. #CareerReady #PublicSchoolsWeek Read more about our strategic plan: https://www.rochesterschools.org/o/rps/page/rps-strategic-plan

At Rochester Public Schools, we believe that all students deserve to feel safe and accepted at school. We are committed to fostering a positive learning environment where every student can thrive. #StudentWellbeing #PublicSchoolsWeek Read more about our strategic plan: https://www.rochesterschools.org/o/rps/page/rps-strategic-plan

We understand that student success extends beyond the classroom. That's why at Rochester Public Schools, we're dedicated to engaging parents and caregivers in their child's academic, social, and emotional journey. Together, we're nurturing the whole child! #FamilyEngagement #PublicSchoolsWeek Read more about our strategic plan: https://www.rochesterschools.org/o/rps/page/rps-strategic-plan

What does "deeper learning" look like? It's hands-on projects, collaborative problem-solving, and real-world connections! We're committed to providing every student with opportunities to elevate their education and unlock their full potential. See the difference deeper learning makes at Rochester Public Schools #PublicSchoolsWeek #Deeperlearning Read more about our strategic plan: https://www.rochesterschools.org/o/rps/page/rps-strategic-plan

As we work to uplift student voices, we let students share their perspectives on Black History Month. Meet Tyshawn, a high school student inspired by Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. #StudentVoice #BHM https://youtube.com/shorts/5QDKTTP_rTk?feature=share

At RPS, We're empowering young leaders to tackle the issues they care about! We see students and classes do amazing things to support the Rochester community, like fundraising for local charities, donating their time to make and serve meals, researching or creating a solution to solve a problem they've come across, and spreading awareness on topics they care about. and Let's build schools and communities where youth are driving change! #StudentVoice #PublicSchoolsWeek Read more about our strategic plan: https://www.rochesterschools.org/o/rps/page/rps-strategic-plan

Please give a round of applause to MMEA’s 2025 High School Music Educator of the Year, Amanda Kaus! Amanda has dedicated over 13 years to educating Rochester Public Schools' students, specifically teaching Century High School music and band classes. This award is added to the many achievements Amanda has received so far in her career. The MMEA Music Educator of the Year award recognizes exemplary music teachers throughout Minnesota who have demonstrated excellence in teaching, leadership, and advocacy in music education.

Kim Fanning has dedicated thirty years to her role as an Adult Literacy Coordinator, making a significant impact in the community. Throughout her career, she has taken on numerous responsibilities. For a decade, she served as the volunteer coordinator, where she played a vital role in connecting hundreds of community members with students at Hawthorne Education Center. This collaboration greatly enriched the experiences of both volunteers and students alike. For the past twenty years, Kim has been managing the College and Training program, focusing on helping students create educational plans that enhance their academic skills. These plans are designed to facilitate their transition into post-secondary education and ultimately lead them to fulfilling careers in their areas of interest. Kim dedicates endless hours to assist students in researching careers, navigating educational pathways, offering guidance, and identifying resources to overcome any barriers hindering their success. Over the years, she has successfully guided thousands of students in achieving their educational goals. Kim is always accessible to her students, often receiving calls on Sunday nights from those seeking help with homework, technical issues, or personal matters. She is a steadfast advocate for her students, working tirelessly with school administration, teachers, and community partners to ensure they receive the support they need. For three decades, Kim has consistently gone above and beyond, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to her students and their success.