Rochester Schools Approve $2.2M in Cuts, Plan to Close Grade School

22 positions and one elementary school will be eliminated as district faces budget shortfall

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Rochester School District in Illinois has approved a plan to make $2.2 million in budget cuts, including the closure of one elementary school and the elimination of 22 staff positions. School officials say the district has run into financial problems after heavily relying on COVID-19 relief funds that have now run out.

Why it matters

The budget cuts and school closure reflect the ongoing financial challenges facing many school districts across the country as they grapple with the end of pandemic-era funding. The decision will impact students, families, and the local community in Rochester.

The details

The original reduction plan called for over $3 million in cuts, but the district was able to lower that to $2.2 million. By 2028, the district is projected to be operating in the red. The new plan includes closing one elementary school, cutting 22 staff positions, combining some positions, and reducing pay for some administrators.

  • The Rochester School Board approved the budget cuts plan on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.
  • The district says it will likely be operating in the red by 2028.

The players

Rochester School District

The public school district serving the city of Rochester, Illinois.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Board of Education is requiring administrators to meet with staff and union leadership in the next two weeks to discuss the budget cuts and school closure plan.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing financial challenges facing school districts as they transition away from pandemic-era funding sources, forcing difficult decisions like school closures and staff reductions that can significantly impact local communities.