As advocates for Rochester's three public higher education providers — Rochester Community and Technical College, Winona State University - Rochester and University of Minnesota - Rochester — the Greater Rochester Advocates for Universities and Colleges Board supports the upcoming Rochester Public Schools referendum.
State support for public education, both K-12 and higher education, has not kept pace with the rising cost of delivering a quality education. For a modest monthly increase, taxpayers will help maintain current class sizes, a comprehensive curriculum, student support services and extra-curricular activities.
One of Rochester and Southeast Minnesota's greatest needs, now and in the future, is ensuring an adequate supply of skilled workers. Support of the referendum will help ensure all high school graduates are college or career ready.
Curriculum and program offerings like STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), foreign language and arts, and Advanced Placement courses, along with education environments like the Alternative Learning Center and CTECH (Career and Technical Education Center at Heintz) Campus, offer students the broad range of educational opportunities needed to thrive in today's economy.
A yes vote will help attract new and retain existing business and industry. A yes vote will help make Rochester a better place to live, work, learn and play. Vote yes on Nov. 3 and invest in our future.
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Jess Ihrke
Vice chairwoman of the GRAUC board of directors
Rochester
