We are "HUNGRY' for your opinion! Apply to Join Our Food Service Vendor Selection Committee!
Attention School District Families, Students, Staff and Community Members -
The School District is looking for a diverse group of individuals to help us to make recommendations for the selection of our next food service vendor!
What is the purpose of the Food Service Vendor Selection Committee ?
This committee helps the district choose our next food service company. Members will read
proposals and give feedback to the Superintendent. The goal is to make sure our school meals are
healthy, high-quality, affordable, fair, and meet our district’s wellness goals.
Who Can Join?
We welcome people from all parts of our school community—families, teachers, cafeteria and
nutrition staff, building leaders, office and finance staff, and older students (when appropriate).
You don’t need experience with school meals or contracts. Members will be chosen from complete, submitted applications.
What You Need (Required Qualifications)?
● Be fair and honest. Follow the rules about ethics, fairness, and equal treatment for all
vendors.
● Keep information private. Do not share proposal details or prices.
● Be reliable. Attend meetings, complete your reviews on time, and take part in interviews
or site visits.
● Be objective.
● Care about student nutrition. Focus on meal quality, meeting nutrition rules, and
supporting healthy students.
Helpful Experience (Nice to Have)
● Background in food service, health, wellness, school operations, finance, or program
review.
● Familiarity with USDA school meal programs or experience on a review or selection
committee.
Main Responsibilities
● Join panel interviews or demonstrations with the top vendors.
● Meet as a group to agree on decisions and provide recommendations to the
Superintendent.
Time Commitment (Tentative)
● December: 1 orientation session; confirm no conflicts of interest and sign confidentiality
forms.
● December–February: Read and score proposals (a few hours on your own).
● March: Attend 1–2 half-day interview sessions.
● April: Help present or attend the recommendation meeting with district leaders.
● May: (Optional) Offer feedback during the transition to the new vendor.
Important Rules
● Don’t talk to vendors outside of official meetings or ask for gifts or favors.
● Make sure you don’t have any conflict of interest such as a relationship with the potential
vendor or family member employed with a potential vendor.
● Everyone must use the same scoring guide to ensure fairness.
● We can support local food programs, but must follow federal rules.
● Understand the NH Department of Education’s Office of Nutrition Programs & Services helps guide
this process.
Interested?
To apply to join the committee please complete the attached short application at Food Service Vendor Selection Application no later than noon on Tuesday, November 25th.
Please email with any questions Dianne Chase at chase.d@sau54.org by November 24, 2025.
We want a committee that represents the full diversity of our schools and students.
The RMHA and Stratford County Public Health Network are hosting the screening of the movie, “Screenagers: Growing Up in the Digital Age” at the Rochester Opera house Wednesday, November 19th, from 6-8pm. Parents of all ages of students are welcome! This is a FREE event!
During that time, we will have refreshments and a Q&A panel after the film.
Rochester School District
Office of the Superintendent
https://www.rochesterschools.com
Dear RSD Families,
We recognize that the continued government shutdown and freeze on SNAP benefits may have a
significant impact on our community. Please know that during these difficult times, the Rochester School
District remains committed to supporting our families in every way we can.
To assist families, we have created a Family Resource Page on our district website:
https://www.rochesterschools.com/o/rsd/page/family-resources-during-government-shutdown
Families may also contact our Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Team directly by:
Phone or Text: 603-534-8470 Email: RSDFACE@SAU54.org
For questions related to homeless, migrant, or runaway support, please reach out to:
Tracey Donaldson – 603-332-3678 ext. 1112 | donaldson.t@sau54.org
School Meals
The government shutdown has not affected the Free and Reduced Lunch Program. All elementary
students in Rochester will continue to receive free breakfast, and our school meals program will
continue uninterrupted.
If your family is facing financial hardship due to the shutdown or other circumstances, we encourage
you to apply for the Free and Reduced Lunch Program.
Apply online at: https://www.myschoolapps.com/
Additional Community Resources
Rochester is fortunate to partner with many wonderful community organizations that offer vital
assistance. Please do not hesitate to reach out to them if you need support — or, if you are able, consider
volunteering or donating.
New Hampshire Food Bank Mobile Food Pantry Schedule:
https://nhfoodbank.org/find-food/mobile-food-pantry-schedule/
New Hampshire Food Bank Food Map (enter Rochester ZIP to find 9 locations):
https://nhfoodbank.org/find-food/food-map/
Community Action Partnership of Strafford County (CAPSC) – Food pantries (Rochester & Dover)
10 Cold Spring Manor, Rochester, NH | straffordcap.org
SHARE Fund, Rochester – Emergency food, clothing, diapers, and basic needs:
https://www.sharefund.org/
Local Pantries:
Gerry’s Food Pantry – 151 Wakefield St., Rochester (Mon, Wed, Fri)
The Salvation Army – Rochester – 10 Olde Farm Lane | rochesternh.gov
Heating & Energy Support
For families facing heating, fuel, or utility challenges, the following programs can help:
Fuel Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Financial assistance for heating costs, including deliverable fuels,
wood, propane, etc. https://caphr.org/
Electric Assistance Program (EAP): Discounts on monthly electric bills for income-eligible households.
https://caphr.org/
Apply or Learn More: Visit the NH Easy portal at https://nheasy.nh.gov/
If the School District can be of any assistance to you, or if you have questions about how our schools can
support you during this difficult time, please do not hesitate to contact us.
With care and solidarity,
Jared Fulgoni
Superintendent of Schools
Rochester School District
Rochester School District Food Drive to Support Families Impacted by
SNAP Reductions and the Government Shutdown
Rochester, NH — November 2025
see Family Food and Supply Needs List
As the ongoing government shutdown and recent changes to SNAP benefits continue to impact local families, the Rochester School District is launching a Community Food Drive to support students and families in need. The initiative, organized through the FACE Office and local partners, aims to provide non-perishable food and essential household items to ensure that no family goes without during this difficult time.
How You Can Help
Community members, staff, and local organizations are invited to donate non-perishable items that can be used to create Family Food Kits. The goal is to collect items that are nutritious, easy to prepare, and shelf-stable. Key needs include:
• Proteins: canned chicken, tuna, salmon, beans, chili, beef stew, hearty soups
• Fruits & Vegetables: canned corn, green beans, carrots, tomatoes, fruit cups, applesauce
• Grains & Staples: rice, pasta, oatmeal, cereal, pancake mix, cooking oil, flour, sugar
• Kid-Friendly Snacks: crackers, granola bars, popcorn, dried fruit, fruit snacks
• Meal Kits: boxed dinners, instant noodles, ready rice pouches, microwaveable meal trays
• Additional Essentials: diapers, wipes, hygiene products, soap, detergent, pet food
A full list of suggested donations is available at Family Needs List
Drop-Off & Pick-Up Options
Donations can be dropped off at the Rochester School District Central Office at the Community Center, 2nd Floor during regular business hours between 8 am and 6 pm and afterhours in a box outside the office door.
If transportation is a barrier, staff members and volunteers can arrange to pick up donations directly from your home or workplace — just contact the FACE Office to schedule a convenient time.
Our Community, Our Strength
Many of our families rely on federal food assistance, and with the current shutdown and reduced benefits, community support is more important than ever. Together, we can ensure that our students and families have access to nutritious meals.
For more information or to schedule a pickup, please contact:
📧 Call or text us at : 603-534-8470, RSD FACE email
📍 SAU 54 Office, 150 Wakefield Street, Rochester, NH 03867
For families needing assistance see - Family Resources During Government Shutdown
Through collaboration, trust, and a shared belief in every student’s potential, they’re building a culture of excellence that shines in academics, the arts, and athletics.
Thank you for inspiring our students to dream big, work hard, and lead the way forward.
Innovation in Action
At Creteau Regional Technology Center, students are building their futures — hands-on, minds-on, and focused on what’s next.Director Michele Halligan-Foley and her team lead with vision and heart, connecting classroom learning to real-world careers — from advanced manufacturing to healthcare, media, and more. Her leadership empowers students to create, design, and build a brighter tomorrow.
Thank you, Director Halligan-Foley and the CTE team, for inspiring innovation and opportunity every day!
A Fresh Vision for Success – Leading Every Learner Forward
At Bud Carlson Academy, success is personal — and Principal Jacqi Shirey and her team lead the way with innovation, compassion, and a belief in every learner’s potential.
Through personalized learning and encouragement, Ms. Shirey and her team help students find their path, rediscover confidence, and move forward with pride and purpose.
Thank you for inspiring our students to believe in themselves and their future!
Bridging the Middle Years with Purpose and Pride
Middle school is a time of transition — where students learn independence, resilience, and leadership.
We celebrate Principal Lyndsey DeTroia and her team at Rochester Middle School for their unwavering dedication to guiding students through these pivotal years.
Their leadership bridges the gap between childhood and adolescence, creating a culture of learning, confidence, and connection.
Let’s thank Principal DeTroia and her team for helping every student find their voice, their purpose, and their path forward!
The Rochester School District understands that the ongoing government shutdown with furloughs, working without pay and a pause in SNAP benefits may cause financial hardship for many families. Our district remains committed to supporting you through these challenges.
Free & Reduced Meal Program: School meals will continue uninterrupted for all students. Apply anytime at www.myschoolapps.com
.
Visit our Help for Families During the Government Shutdown page at https://www.rochesterschools.com/o/rsd/page/family-resources-during-government-shutdown
for food, utility, and housing assistance, or contact our FACE Team at 603-534-8470 or RSDFACE@SAU54.org
.
Together, we’ll ensure every Rochester family has access to the support they need.
Principal Sarah Anderson’s leadership at Maple Street Magnet School blends
creativity, curiosity, and compassion.
She encourages students to take ownership of their learning and celebrate imagination.
Thank you for inspiring innovation in every student, every day!
Principal Suzanne Boutin knows that education flourishes when schools and families grow together.
Her warmth and creativity inspire students and teachers alike at East Rochester.
Let’s celebrate Mrs. Boutin’s passion for learning and connection!
Dr. Erin Mahoney and Dr. Karl Hubner lead Salmon Falls with a shared vision — sparking curiosity, courage, and joy in every classroom.
Their teamwork sets the stage for lifelong learning.
Thank you both for guiding our students to dream big and achieve more!
Partners in Progress
Together, Principal Maegan Jerr and Assistant Principal Ken Hawkins create
a school culture where collaboration shines.
Their teamwork supports teachers, students, and families in reaching new heights every day.
Thank you for leading McClelland with heart and vision!
“Leading with Energy and Empathy”
Principal Dustin Gray brings enthusiasm, creativity, and compassion to Chamberlain Street School.
His leadership inspires students to believe in themselves and in the power of learning.
Join us in celebrating Mr. Gray’s dedication to making every classroom a place of growth and joy!
Every smile at Gonic begins with Principal Greg Brown’s steady leadership and big heart.
From morning greetings to after-school events, his focus on belonging ensures every child feels at home.
Rochester says “thank you” Mr. Brown for leading with kindness and community!
This month, we’re celebrating the incredible principals, assistant principals, and district leaders who guide our schools with vision, dedication, and heart.
Under the theme “Leading with HEART,” we recognize the qualities that make Rochester leadership truly exceptional:
❤️ H – Honesty and integrity in every decision
💪 E – Empowering students and staff to grow
🌟 A – Accountability and excellence in action
🤝 R – Relationships that build community
🎓 T – Tenacity to see every student succeed
From our elementary schools laying strong foundations, to our middle school teams bridging growth, to our high school and district leaders preparing students for the future — every Rochester leader plays a vital role in shaping success.
This month, join us in saying thank you to the people who make learning happen every day. Drop a ❤️ or a 🙌 in the comments to show your appreciation!
#RochesterLeads #LeadingWithHEART #WeAreFACE #LeadershipMatters #RochesterPride #ThankYouPrincipals
👻 Get ready for The Big Boo Rochester!
Join us for a spooktacular family celebration on Friday, October 10 6:00 - 8:00 PM at the Rochester Community Center!
Enjoy games, treats, music, and festive fun for all ages. Costumes are encouraged — bring your friends and family for a night of Halloween magic!
✨ Bonus: Don’t have a costume yet? Be there for the Costume Exchange — trade, donate, or pick a new look for the big night!
📍 Rochester Community Center
📅 Friday, October 10
🕕 Evening festivities — FREE for everyone!
Join us for a night of family fun!
🗓 Friday, Oct. 10
🕕 6–8 pm
📍 Rec Center, 150 Wakefield Street, Rochester, NH
✨ What’s Happening at The Big Boo:
👗 Costume Exchange – Donate gently used costumes & pick out something “new-to-you”
🏀 Games & Activities – Basketball, toddler play equipment, & Halloween fun for all ages
🎶 Music & Dancing – Show off your best monster moves
🍿 Popcorn & Treats – Enjoy tasty snacks while you play
📸 Photo Booth – Capture memories with family & friends
🎟 Raffle Prizes – Every child gets a ticket (plus extras for donated costumes!)
Brought to you by Rochester PTAs, Rochester Recreation Center, Guyer Travel & other generous donors. Costumes encouraged but not required.
👉 Don’t miss this spook-tacular event for kids in Grades K–5 and their families!
#RochesterSchools #TheBigBoo #CommunityCelebration
