Superintendent Search Update - April 2, 2026

April 2, 2026
Dear Rochester Families and Staff,
We are writing to share an important update regarding the leadership of the Rochester School District.
Following our recent communication regarding the Superintendent search, the Board of Directors has selected Justin Black, Director of Curriculum and Technology, to serve as Interim Superintendent for the 2026–2027 school year, effective July 1, coinciding with Superintendent Jennifer Bethman’s retirement.
Mr. Black is a familiar and trusted leader within Rochester. Over his 27-year career in the district, he has served as a teacher, building administrator, and most recently as Director of Curriculum and Technology. His appointment is a deliberate decision to ensure a smooth and stable transition. Mr. Black’s deep institutional knowledge, longstanding relationships, and commitment to Rochester position him well to lead the district with continuity and focus. The Board has full confidence in Mr. Black’s leadership during this transition.
Our priority for the coming year is to maintain momentum on our strategic plan and continue strong support for our schools and classrooms. Selecting an interim leader who understands our district allows us to remain focused on what matters most, student learning and staff success, without disruption.
We also want to recognize Superintendent Jennifer Bethman for her four years of dedicated service and leadership. We will share more information soon about opportunities to celebrate her contributions to the district.
Looking ahead, the Board will resume its partnership with Northwest Leadership Associates this fall to conduct a comprehensive search for a permanent superintendent, with the goal of appointing a leader for the 2027–2028 school year. We are committed to an inclusive and thoughtful process to identify the best long-term fit for our community.
Thank you for your continued support of Rochester schools.
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.

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
March 25	Announced an Interium Superintendent will be hired
April 2,	Selection of Interim Superintendent announced
April	School Board Meeting - Action of Interium Superintendent Hire
Fall 2026	Board determines how to move forward with superintendent search process for 27-28