Rochester's 1994 track team. The first State Championship for the team.
Rich legacies of a town like Rochester have been made by pioneers, teachers, and athletes. It was founded in 1819 during the building of the first cabin of James McCoy, and was the start of everything that we know today. The spirit of invention and determination that made Rochester in the early days can still be felt all over the town.
In 1823, Rochester made an important step forward with the installation of its first school, set up in a log cabin, unlike the schools we know today. Through such a history thing, it created generations of learners, future leaders, and an education-loving orientation in the community.
“As a teacher, I take pride in making every student feel included. I want all Rochester students to find their voice and truly belong here.” English teacher, Heather Tweryon, says. “While our sports programs are a source of pride, Rochester offers so much more. From athletics, drama, choir, band, fine arts, and clubs—there is something for everyone! Students just need to discover what fuels their passion.”
Rochester has education milestones on its shoulders, but it has also been growing in sports, particularly the high school football team. Coach Derek Leonard has been successful with the team, scoring nine state championships.
“It has grown the school spirit with so much more orange and blue being worn at school than when I started in 1995.” History teacher, Curt Fitzgerald, said. “This football program has always added more enthusiasm and support during Homecoming week. More student athletes than ever are playing collegiate sports at some level, too.” Leonard’s devotion to teaching and his commitment to developing talent have transformed the football program into a source of pride for all community members, and his bond with them has strengthened during games.
Furthermore, Rochester is a historic stop for many famous people, including Abraham Lincoln, who visited the area several times. Lincoln’s connection to Rochester highlighted the place in the bigger picture of American history.
Rochester’s official incorporation as a village on February 1, 1869, marked a new chapter in its story. “Our community is something special. It’s inspiring to see so many graduates choose to stay, raise their families, and contribute here.” Tweryon says, “That speaks volumes about the strength of our schools and community as a whole. Rocket alumni stay because they know how great we are!”
With the division of the history of Rochester into its older past and its more liberal present going forward, this was where the greater part of history would combine with the increase in the people’s population.
Today, as people stroll around Rochester, they are reminded of their history at every bend on the way. Tradition and the merging of progressive elements define Rochester as a town. From what is there now to winning state championships and connections to American history, the townspeople are made proud and strong by unity.
It is the legacy that inspires Rochester’s look toward the future in the belief that new highs can be reached in education and spirit by generations honoring their roots. Once etched in collective memory beneath a marvelous town, the influences of pioneers such as James McCoy, visionary educators, and devoted athletes like Derek Leonard will remain part of the legacy.