ROCHELLE – The Rochelle Township High School Board of Education held its monthly meeting Monday, covering academic updates, financial reports, personnel changes, and program approvals.
Principal Dr. Christopher Lewis reported that all feeder schools are participating in the second year of the Pre-ACT 8 program, with scores being mailed to families to track student progress. Teachers reviewed results during the October Institute Day, which focused on AI training and classroom integration. Dr. Lewis also highlighted Teacher Communication Week, during which 350 parent contacts were made regarding student progress, and upcoming events including Make a Difference Day on November 1 and a Veterans Day assembly on November 11. New marching band uniforms were also showcased.
On personnel matters, Anthony Powell was approved as a paraprofessional, and the board approved an updated non-certified employee handbook following internal and legal review. Superintendent Dr. Jason Harper presented financial and program updates. Business Manager Kevin Dale and intern ROE Director Matt Zilm presented a preliminary levy report projecting an overall increase of $536,288 to $11.29 million, under the 5% threshold for a truth-in-taxation hearing. Mid-year revenue and expenditure reviews show the district has collected about 35% of projected FY26 revenue and has approximately 44.5% of expenditures remaining.
The board also approved an intergovernmental agreement allowing the Kishwaukee Education Consortium to continue its Alternative Learning Opportunities Program for students across the district’s footprint. No changes in programming are planned.
The October housing report shows 861 students currently enrolled at Rochelle Township High School, down slightly from 863 last year. The incoming freshman class numbers 214, while 192 seniors could include juniors eligible to graduate early. Enrollment projections indicate 868 students for next year and 855 for 2027.