Living in Rochester MN - Community Information
This is only a partial resource list for the wide range of opportunities in the Rochester Community. Both the Rochester Chamber of Commerce (www.rochestermnchamber.com) and Rochester Visitor and Convention Bureau (www.rochestercvb.org) offer broad lists in numerous other categories. Also visit the City of Rochester website (www.rochestermn.gov) for a complete listing of city administrative offices, city policy and city supported programs such as the public library, park system and more.
Arts
Rochester Art Center
From its modest start in 1946 to its current 36,000 square-foot facility, occupied in Spring of 2004, its growth is demonstrated in the variety of programs and exhibits offered throughout the year.
Rochester Civic Theatre
Delivers year round theatre productions along with a full schedule of educational and outreach programs.
Rochester Repertory Theatre
Presenting quality classical and contemporary theatre productions.
Quilters Sew-ciety
For individual who love to make and/or admire quilts; educational programming, one-on-one sharing and more.
SEMVA Art Gallery
SEMVA is a cooperative gallery featuring artists residing in Southeastern Minnesota.
Business Organizations
American Business Women Association
Provides opportunities for business women to grow personally & professionally through leadership, education and networking opportunities.
Greater Rochester Express Network (GREN)
Brings together women of diverse occupations for leadership, education and networking, as well as presentations by motivational speakers.
Educational Opportunities
ISD 535 Rochester Public Schools
Interested persons are encouraged to visit this website to learn about our schools and community.
ISD 535 Community Education
Lifelong learning for all!
Rochester Catholic School System
A Catholic culture dedicated to the commitment of values-based education in a Christ-centered environment while delivering quality education preschool thru 12 at four elementary schools and one high school.
Rochester Central Lutheran School (RCLS)
RCLS provides quality education (pre-K through 8th grade) in a Christian environment.
Rochester Community & Technical College (RCTC)
RCTC offers over 70 programs of study along with several 2+2 options in Rochester.
Rochester Montessori School
Pre-K through 6th grade education adhering to the Montessori model where families are welcome and children are respected.
Saint Mary’s University of MN - Rochester Center
Offers undergraduate, bachelor completion and advanced degree programs.
Schaeffer Academy
K through 12 Christian and classical school which offers fine arts, athletics and college preparatory academics.
Studio Academy Arts High School
Free, public high school emphasizing academics, arts and community.
University of MN Rochester
Offers more than 30 doctorate, master's and bachelor's degrees, as well as certificate and licensure programs, as well as noncredit courses for continuing and professional development.
Winona State University – Rochester
Offers degree-completion programs, or what is also referred to as "Path to Purple" programs, which allow students to select from 12 baccalaureate degrees by transferring credits from RCTC. Five graduate degrees, within 16 programs, can also be completed entirely in Rochester.
Music
Chorale Arts Ensemble
Providing outstanding choral music since 1985.
Honors Choirs of SE MN
Four auditioned choirs for singers in grades 3-12 from through the region.
Rochester Area Girls Choir
Open to talented young ladies ages 7 to 14 years.
Rochester Community Band
Open to musicians of all ages and playing levels without auditions.
Rochester Civic Music
Provides varied indoor and outdoor concerts throughout the year.
Rochester Symphony Orchestra
Has provided over 90 years of classical music performances. Auditions required for interested musicians.
Others
History and Nature Center
History Center of Olmsted County
Quarry Hill Nature Center
Surrounded by 320 acres of forest, prairie and oak savannah, the center is free and open to the public. Nominal fee may be charged for classes and special events.
Parenting and Child Care
Aldrich Memorial Nursery School
Over 60 years of excellence in early childhood education; provide developmentally based half-day programs for the pre-school child.
Child Care Resource and Referral
A resource for parents, child care providers and community members for all aspects of early childhood.
Children’s Place Nursery School
A licensed preschool offering 2 or 3 day programs, enrichment and Pre-K programs.
Civic League Day Nursery
Rochester’s oldest childcare center caring for children ages 16 weeks to Kindergarten.
Parents Are Important in Rochester – PAIIR
PAIIR is for EVERY parent! Offers fun classes, workshops and events for families with young children.
Seniors
Elder Network
Offers peer support, respite, caregiver support, transportation and visitation to seniors in the Rochester community.
Rochester Senior Center
Provides programs, recreation and services to older adults.
Numerous other organization and programs are available to seniors. The agencies noted above are great sources for other resources addressing specific senior needs.
Service Organizations
American Association of University Women (AAUW)
Service organization that advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education and research.
