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School board approves adding ASL, phases out Latin and advanced German
Summary
The Rochester Public Schools board voted to phase out Latin over two school years, to end German 3–4 after 2027–28 while keeping German 1–2, and to introduce American Sign Language as an in-person world language beginning 2026–27; students currently enrolled may complete their coursework.
The Rochester Public Schools board voted Oct. 21 to alter the district—s world language offerings: Latin will be phased out over two years, advanced German (German 3 and 4) will be discontinued after the 2027–28 school year while German 1 and 2 will remain, and American Sign Language (ASL) will be introduced as an in-person world language option beginning in the 2026–27 school year.
The resolution makes clear that students already enrolled in Latin or advanced German may finish their course of study.
The motion was moved and seconded and carried after brief discussion. Chair Nathan read the resolution and the board voted verbally "aye"; no roll-call tally was recorded on the public transcript.
Board members praised the addition of ASL. One board member said she had received messages from community members "how excited they are to see American sign language added to our offerings," and another thanked staff for the clarification in the resolution that allows current students to complete their sequences.
The change will be implemented through the district—s course planning and scheduling process; staff presented the world-language recommendation as part of a broader conversation about the 2026–27 course registration guide. No additional budgetary details were provided during the Oct. 21 meeting.
The board—s action is recorded as a formal resolution and will be incorporated into the course catalog and registration materials for the relevant years.
