Rochester Schools Finance Leader Takes Private Sector Position

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - A top administrator with the Rochester Public Schools is leaving for a job in the private sector.

A statement issued by the Rochester School District says Chief Administrative Officer John Carlson’s resignation will be effective at the end of the month. He has accepted the position of Director of Finance at Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union in Rochester.

The news release says Carlson joined the Finance Department at Rochester Public Schools 14 years ago. He served in various roles within that department before becoming the Chief Administrative Officer in 2022.

Superintendent Pekel Praises Carlson’s Leadership

Superintendent Kent Pekel said, “The leadership that John Carlson has provided for our operations departments has been a key contributor to the progress we have made over the past several years. Accomplishments during his tenure include six flawless external audits in a row, development of a new budget model, redesign of our transportation routes to implement new school start times, and much more.”

RPS Begins Search for New Chief Administrative Officer

The school district’s statement says the search for a new Chief Administrative Officer is already underway. The job description indicates the person holding the position provides leadership for the school district’s administrative and operational departments while also playing “a key role in advancing the priorities outlined in the RPS Strategic Plan.”