Superintendent Search Update - March 26, 2026

March 26, 2026
Dear Rochester School District Community,
I am writing to provide an update on the Superintendent recruitment process.
Over the past several weeks, the Board conducted a comprehensive search, including outreach and a competitive selection process that resulted in four finalists. We recently completed final interviews with these candidates.
Following that process, our selected candidate informed us that they have accepted another professional opportunity.
Given the timing in the hiring cycle and the importance of securing the right long-term leader for Rochester School District, the Board has made the intentional decision to appoint an interim superintendent for the 2026–27 school year.
This decision allows us to:
Ensure stability and continuity for students and staff
Take the necessary time to engage our community meaningfully
Conduct a deliberate and well-positioned search for a permanent superintendent in the next cycle, when the candidate pool is stronger and more competitive
We believe this approach best positions the district for long-term success rather than rushing a decision under constrained timelines.
In the coming weeks, we will share additional information about the interim appointment and opportunities for community input as we begin planning for the next phase of the search.
We are grateful for the engagement and support of our staff, students, families, and community throughout this process. Your partnership remains essential as we move forward.
Sincerely,
Grant Rodeheaver
Board President

Superintendent Search

Our Search for the Next Rochester Superintendent

After 38 years in education, Dr. Jennifer Bethman announced her retirement in January. Now, the Rochester School District Board of Directors is searching for the next superintendent for Rochester School District.

This page will be used to share the Board’s process for selecting the next superintendent, including information for candidates, engagement opportunities for the Rochester community, and updates on the selection process.

Choosing a new superintendent is one of the most important decisions for our schools and our community. We strongly believe that finding the best candidate will only be accomplished with our community’s partnership and involvement. Your input will help shape the leadership profile and guide the board toward a final decision.

Community Engagement

Rochester School Board has retained the executive search firm Northwest Leadership Associates (NWLA) to conduct a nation-wide search for the next superintendent. The first step in this process is developing a leadership profile that will help identify the ideal candidate. Here is how you can be involved:

Anonymous Survey: Community members were asked to participate in an Leadership Profile survey February 9 through March 13, 2026. This anonymous survey may be completed online. Your feedback is valuable and helps guide our planning and decision-making.

February 18, In Person Community Forum in the Rochester Primary School Gym. All members of the community were invited to come and share what they believe is important and should be considered in the Search for our new Superintendent.

Resources

Strategic Plan - Rochester School District’s five-year Strategic Plan, recently adopted, guides the work of our district and reflects our commitment to knowing, valuing, and supporting every student. Developed with input and representation from staff, students, families, board members, and community partners, the plan provides the foundation for decision-making and accountability across the district.

Student Demographics - Rochester School District’s enrollment has remained steady in recent years, even as our student demographics have shifted over the past decade. We have seen increasing cultural and linguistic diversity, strengthening our schools and sharpening our focus on inclusive practices and meeting the diverse needs of every student.

TIMELINE	ACTIVITY
February 6	School Board selects NWLA
February 9	Position Announcement Posted
February 9	Leadership Profile Survey Posted on Website
February 18	Community Forum
March 13	Anonymous Survey Closes
March 23 & 24	Finalists in the District
March 23 & 24	Staff & Community Forums held with Each Finalist
March 25	Announced an Interium Superintendent will be hired
April	School Board Meeting - Action of Interium Superintendent Hire
Fall 2026	Superintendent search process conducted for 27-28