The Rochester School District is inviting all district families to kick off the 2025–2026 school year with its Start Strong Back to School Event on Monday, August 25, 2025. The event will run from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Rochester Rec Center, located in the James W. Foley Memorial Community Center, 150 Wakefield Street.
Organized in partnership with Rochester Recreation & Arena, the celebration aims to give students and families a supportive and energized start to the school year. The event will feature youth activity sign-ups, giveaways, and family resources to help prepare students for a successful year ahead.
Themed around the idea that “We’re stronger when we start together”, the event is free and open to families of students enrolled in the Rochester School District. It will also provide an opportunity for families to connect with community organizations and school partners.
This year’s event is made possible with the support of numerous partners, including the Choose Love Movement, Granite United Way, Rochester Public Library, Rochester Police Department, Rochester Girls Softball League, Community Action Partnership of Strafford County, Gather, and many more.
Families are encouraged to attend, enjoy the festivities, and gather valuable resources to ensure their students start the year strong.
To help students feel their best on the first day, a number of local hair stylists will be on site providing free back-to-school haircuts, ensuring every student can start the year feeling great.
Many of Rochester’s Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs) will also be on hand with information about school-based programs and activities, and families can explore offerings from a variety of community organizations, including:
- Cub Scout Pack 184 / Scouts BSA Troop 184
- Salmon Falls School PTA
- Chamberlain Street School
- Rochester Girls Softball (RGSL)
- East Rochester PTA
- Strafford County Public Health Network
- Rochester Youth Hockey
- Rochester Recreation & Arena
- McClelland PTA
- Rochester Public Library
- Strafford County 4-H
- Community Action Partnership of Strafford County
- Girls on the Run New Hampshire
- Howie’s Field of Dreams
- Rochester Child Care Center Inc
