Rochester schools considering more security

In the wake of last week’s mass killing in a Connecticut elementary school, Rochester Community Schools is discussing adding a new security system to control building access. At Monday’s board of education meeting, interim superintendent Tresa Zumsteg said the district’s crisis team had met that morning to discuss what the district is doing well and what could be improved. “The one thing people felt strongly about is they do want to have our entrances where they relock after students come … [Read more...]

Rochester to begin limited Schools of Choice

Next semester, Rochester Community Schools will begin admitting a small number of nonresident students in order to receive a bump in state funding. The board of education voted unanimously Monday to open six slots for out-of-district students who live In Oakland County. Three will be in the ACE alternative high school; the other three will be in the Seat Time Waiver program, which is operated by ACE. By adding Schools of Choice to its offerings, the district stands to receive an additional … [Read more...]

Rochester Schools to pay Clarke severance

The severance package for outgoing Rochester Community Schools Superintendent Fred Clarke could cost the district up to $180,934 if he doesn’t find another job soon. On Monday, the board of education formally accepted Clarke’s resignation and appointed Tresa Zumsteg, Ph. D. as Interim Superintendent. Under Clarke’s severance agreement, he will be paid for 35 vacation days and will receive severance pay equivalent to the amount of salary he would have been paid if he had remained employed … [Read more...]

School board selects interim superintendent

The Rochester Board of Education voted Monday to enter into contract negotiations with a candidate for interim superintendent. Tresa Zumsteg, Ph.D. was chosen by a board committee to replace outgoing Superintendent Fred Clarke, who over the summer announced his intention to find another job. He has not yet resigned, so it’s not yet known when Zumsteg will start. Zumsteg will be paid on a per diem basis to work alongside Clarke getting ready to take over. Once Clarke leaves, she will … [Read more...]