ROCHESTER, Minn. — Rochester Public Schools (RPS) reported a notable increase in student enrollment as of October 1, surpassing both external and internal projections. The district says this increase will positively impact the district's revenue.

A study by former Minnesota State Demographer Dr. Hazel Reinhardt projected 16,234 students for RPS this fall. District staff estimated slightly more at 16,265. However, actual enrollment reached 16,728 students, significantly exceeding both projections.

The largest enrollment increases were seen in kindergarten and 12th grade, indicating strong confidence in RPS for both starting and completing education. Including early childhood and other programs, total enrollment was 17,441 students, up from 17,323 last year.

This growth is expected to gen

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