The Rochester Community Schools district is gearing up for an exciting new school year, with staff reports commencing tomorrow and students returning next week. Superintendent Rousseau expressed enthusiasm about the revitalization of school buildings through various programs, including LINC and peer mentoring initiatives. This year's theme, \"Learn, Lead, Inspire,\" aligns with the district's strategic plan, which emphasizes teaching, learning, leadership, professional development, and community engagement.

In preparation for the school year, the district has opted for a focused approach rather than a traditional welcome back event, allowing staff time for professional development and to acclimate to their roles. The strategic plan will be communicated to all staff via email and meetings, ensuring everyone is informed of their responsibilities and the district's goals.

A significant focus of the meeting was on safety and security updates. Superintendent Rousseau highlighted the formation of a safety and security leadership team, which includes representatives from local law enforcement and safety consultants. This team has been actively updating the district's Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) and will conduct training sessions for staff on emergency management and active intruder protocols.

Additionally, improvements have been made to enhance safety across the district. These include the installation of stop signs at critical locations, enhanced training for safety staff, and the addition of security features such as window tints, thumb locks, and over 200 new security cameras. The district is also ensuring that Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are readily available during athletic events.

Overall, the district is taking proactive steps to ensure a safe and engaging environment for students and staff as they prepare for the upcoming school year.