Rochester City School District public meetings in 2022

Special Meeting to Convene for Consideration of Resolutions

The Rochester Board of Education met to consider resolutions regarding district leadership. The Board voted to appoint Dr. Carmine Peluso as the District's Superintendent of Schools effective January 1, 2023.

• Appointment of Dr. Carmine Peluso as Superintendent of Schools
• Superintendent salary not to exceed $255,000 per year
• Superintendent term ending December 31, 2025

The Board of Education met for a special session to consider resolutions. The board approved an agreement for the Superintendent of Schools. The meeting included a brief executive session regarding personnel appointments.

• Approved Agreement - Superintendent of Schools (Resolution No. 2022-23: 340) (7-0)
• Approved motion to convene in Executive Session to discuss personnel appointments (7-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session (7-0)

December Business Meeting

The Board approved the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and Single Audit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022, and advanced them to NYSED. They also accepted November 2022 unaudited financial reports and the first quarter student activity funds report. The board may enter executive session to discuss personnel and collective bargaining matters before the public portion of the meeting.

• Accepted ACFR and Single Audit for June 30, 2022 (Resolution 2022-23:295)
• Approved November 2022 Unaudited Financial Report and Trend Analysis
• Approved retirements of Gary Cooper (paraprofessional, Wilson Foundation)
• Approved resignations including Assistant Principal Julie Ricciuto (RISE Community School)
• Granted unpaid leaves of absence for 16 employees listed by name and location

The Board approved the June 30, 2022 financial reports and selected a new independent external auditor. Members also approved several personnel appointments, health plan agreements, and additional pay for school programs.

• Approved June 30, 2022 ACFR and Single Audit (7-0)
• Appointed Drescher & Malecki LLP as Independent External Auditor (7-0)
• Accepted November 2022 Unaudited Financial Report and Trend Analysis (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including retirements, resignations, and final payments to BRG Corporation and Pipitone Enterprises, LLC (7-0)
• Approved professional educator appointments, civil service titles, and tenure grants (7-0)
• Authorized Medicare Advantage and Excellus Health Plan agreements (7-0)
• Authorized Memorandum of Agreement with University of Rochester, School of Nursing (7-0)
• Authorized additional pay for afterschool and Saturday programs at Monroe Lower, Franklin Lower, and Rochester International Academy (7-0)

Finance and Resource Allocation Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District Finance Committee accepted minutes from October and reviewed financial reports for November. The board discussed 2023-24 budget priorities and forwarded reports for the December 22 business meeting.

• Accepted October 18 Finance COW minutes
• Forwarded November financial reports to Dec 22 Business Meeting
• Discussed 2023-24 budget priorities and preliminary forecast
• Approved executive session for personnel and legal matters
• Next meeting scheduled for February 14, 2023

The committee approved the October 18, 2022 minutes and forwarded the November 2022 Unaudited Financial Report and Trend Analysis for consideration at the December 22 business meeting. Members reviewed a preliminary 2023-24 budget forecast and the November Claims Audit Report, which recorded 2,781 transactions totaling $50,107,569.77.

• Accepted October 18, 2022 Finance COW minutes (7-0)
• Forwarded November financial reports for December 22 Business Meeting (7-0)
• Convened into executive session at 6:57 pm (7-0)
• Ended executive session at 8:08 pm (6-0)

State Monitor Public Hearing

The Rochester City School District Board of Education is holding a public hearing to review the proposed 2022-23 academic and financial plans presented by State Monitor Dr. Shelley Jallow. The meeting includes a moderated session for public comments and is held at the district's conference room on West Broad Street.

• Presentation of 2022-23 Academic and Financial Plans by State Monitor
• Public comment period on the proposed plans
• Meeting held at 131 West Broad Street, Conference Room 3A/B
• Livestream available on RCSD website

The State Monitor presented the proposed 2022-23 Academic and Financial Plans. A parent provided comments regarding language accessibility and PTA involvement. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

Special Meeting to Convene for Consideration of Resolutions

The Rochester Board of Education approved emergency conditional hires and permanent appointments for teachers, teaching assistants, and support staff, and accepted resignations for several positions.

• Hires 5 emergency conditional substitute teachers with salaries up to $54,184/yr.
• Appoints 13 new teachers and teaching assistants with salaries up to $73,065/yr.
• Hires 3 permanent classified staff including a Director of Financial Management at $113,300/yr.
• Accepts resignations for 15 staff members including teachers and paraprofessionals.
• Hires 2 provisional civil service staff including a Recruiter at $89,000/yr.

The Board of Education approved a series of personnel actions including hires, resignations, and terminations. Members also authorized additional pay for professional learning and approved a lease agreement and a bond request.

• Approved contract substitute emergency conditional hires (6-0)
• Approved professional educator, civil service, and administrative appointments (6-0)
• Accepted resignations and retirements (6-0)
• Approved personnel terminations (6-0)
• Authorized additional pay for professional learning at School no. 19 (6-0)
• Approved pay amendments for professional learning at Receivership #28 and Monroe Upper (6-0)
• Authorized lease agreement with Key Government Finance, Inc. (6-0)
• Approved amended bond request Resolution 2022-23: 247 (6-0)

Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole

The Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole will receive a presentation on teaching and learning updates, including attendance, chronic absenteeism, and quarterly data on freshman GPA, assessments, and graduation projections. The board will also vote to approve minutes from the previous meeting and may enter executive session to discuss personnel matters and legal concerns. No public speakers or written comments were submitted.

• Review and approval of minutes from November 8, 2022 ESA COW meeting
• Presentation and discussion on attendance and chronic absenteeism data
• Quarterly data review: freshman GPA, assessment results, and graduation projections
• Possible executive session to discuss appointment of specific individual and matters with General Counsel
• No speakers or written comments on agenda topics

The Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole approved the minutes from its November 8, 2022 meeting. Members reviewed Teaching and Learning updates regarding chronic absenteeism, freshman GPA, and graduation projections. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved November 8, 2022 ESA COW minutes (5-0)

Emergency Special Meeting

The Board of Education held an emergency special meeting including an executive session. The board met to discuss matters regarding the appointment of a specific individual and matters of concern with General Counsel.

• Motion to convene into Executive Session
• Motion to return to Open Session at 8:20pm
• Motion to adjourn the meeting

Audit Committee Meeting of the Whole

The Audit Committee Meeting of the Whole reviewed the district's 2022 financial results and the draft Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. The board also voted on three student long-term suspension appeals. A confidential discussion with the external auditor was held in executive session.

• Upheld suspension decisions for hearing files 62 and 81
• Reduced suspension and records to 10 days for hearing file 82
• Presentation on District 2022 Financial Results by Freed Maxick CPAs
• Motion to forward the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for fiscal year ending June 30, 2022 to the December 22, 2022 Business Meeting
• Update from the Auditor General

The committee approved the 2022 financial results presentation, which noted a general fund surplus of $33.3 million and a net position increase of $82.3 million. The board voted to move the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report to the December 22 Business Meeting. Long-term suspension appeal decisions were also formally adopted.

• Approved October 4, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Adopted decisions on long-term suspension appeals Resolution 2022-23: 279 (6-0)
• Approved forwarding ACFR to December 22, 2022 Business Meeting (6-0)
• Approved entering Executive Session for confidential meeting with External Auditor (6-0)

Policy Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District Policy Committee of the Whole will convene and may begin with an executive session. The meeting includes approval of the agenda and the November 3, 2022 minutes, review of NYSSBA policy recommendations, and discussion of policies on accountability, goals and metrics, and videoconferencing. An executive session is planned to consider matters leading to the appointment of a specific individual and concerns with the General Counsel.

• Motion to approve the Policy COW meeting agenda (approved)
• Motion to approve minutes from the November 3, 2022 Policy COW meeting (approved)
• Review of NYSSBA policy recommendations (no updates)
• Board discussion of Policy 0300 Accountability, Policy 2000 Goals and Metrics, and Policy 2350 Videoconferencing
• Executive session to discuss appointment of a specific individual and matters with the General Counsel

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the November 3, 2022 minutes. Members discussed potential revisions to the videoconferencing policy and compared board goals and metrics against NYSSBA accountability standards.

• Approved Policy COW Meeting Agenda (6-0)
• Approved November 3, 2022 Policy COW Meeting Minutes (6-0)
• Agreed to update videoconferencing policy to allow three Commissioners to videoconference if a quorum is present in person
• Agreed to allow virtual meetings if a New York State government official declares a state of emergency
• Agreed to require 24-hour advance notice to the Board Clerk for videoconferencing, barring extenuating circumstances

Special Meeting to Convene In Executive Session

The Board of Education convened a special meeting to enter an executive session closed to the public. The session was held to discuss the employment of a person or corporation or to receive counsel from the General Counsel.

• Executive session to discuss employment matters or legal counsel

November Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education approved the final payment for the Jefferson Educational Campus renovation and authorized a contract for safety inspection services. The meeting also included the acceptance of minutes and various committee reports.

• Approve final payment - BRG Corporation (Jefferson Educational Campus) - $70,774.70
• Authorize Agreement - CME Associates, Inc. - $90,000.00
• Accept Unaudited October 2022 Financial Reports
• Approval of Minutes for September 13, 2022 and October 11, 2022
• Board Reports from CIGR, ESA, Finance, HR, and Policy Committees

Emergency Special Meeting

This was an emergency special meeting of the Rochester Board of Education. The board voted unanimously to convene in executive session (closed to the public) to discuss matters related to the employment of a particular individual. After one hour, the board returned to open session and adjourned. No other business was conducted.

• Board voted 5-0 to enter executive session to discuss employment of a particular individual
• Executive session lasted from 5:37 PM to 6:37 PM
• Meeting was held at Central Office, 131 W. Broad Street, Conference Room 3A/B

HR Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District HR Committee called the meeting to order and accepted the minutes from the September 20, 2022 HR Committee. Members discussed a staff diversity and staffing update and reviewed the 2023‑24 board budget priorities. The board then moved into executive session to consider matters leading to the appointment or employment of a specific individual or corporation, returned to open session, and adjourned.

• Accept minutes from the September 20, 2022 HR Committee of the Whole
• Staff Diversity & Staffing Update presentation
• Discussion of 2023‑24 Board Budget Priorities
• Motion to convene executive session to discuss a personnel appointment
• Motion to adjourn the meeting

The committee accepted the minutes from the September 20, 2022 meeting. Members discussed staff diversity, staffing updates, and 2023-24 budget priorities including pay equity. The committee convened in executive session to discuss personnel appointments or employment.

• Approved minutes from September 20, 2022 HR COW (5-0)
• Approved motion to enter Executive Session at 7:14 pm (6-0)
• Approved motion to return to Open Session at 8:27 pm (5-0)

Board Work Session: FMP Discussion

The Rochester City School District Board of Education held a work session to discuss the Facility Master Plan Phase III. The meeting included a presentation on the plan and an executive session.

• FMP Phase III Discussion
• Academic Plan - Table 5 Recommendations 4 and 9
• Executive Session to discuss personnel and student matters
• Adjournment at 9:11 p.m.

Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District Board of Education approved the minutes from the October 11, 2022 Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole meeting. The session focused on reviewing the State Monitor Academic Plan, updates on attendance and chronic absenteeism, and the Rochester Early Childhood Assessment Partnership (RECAP) report.

• Approval of October 11, 2022 ESA COW minutes
• Review of State Monitor Academic Plan
• Teaching & Learning Updates: Attendance & Chronic Absenteeism
• Rochester Early Childhood Assessment Partnership (RECAP) Report
• Discussion of executive session matters

The committee approved the minutes from the October 11, 2022 meeting. Members reviewed presentations on the State Monitor Academic Plan, student attendance and i-Ready data, and the Rochester Early Childhood Assessment Partnership (RECAP) report.

• Approved minutes from the October 11, 2022 ESA COW Meeting (7-0)

Special Meeting to Convene for Consideration of Resolutions

The Rochester Board of Education met to consider several resolutions regarding personnel and funding. The board approved additional pay for teachers at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. School No. 9 and appointed multiple professional educators and contract substitutes.

• Authorized $119,761 from American Rescue Plan funding for an afterschool program at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. School No. 9
• Appointed 17 professional educators to tenure areas including Elementary, Guidance, and Special Education
• Appointed contract substitute teachers for Visual Arts, Business & Marketing, and Elementary education
• Approved pay rates of $41 per hour for 25 teachers at School No. 9 for enrichment and intervention services

The Board approved Resolutions 217 through 230, covering a range of personnel actions including hires, resignations, and salary adjustments. Discussion regarding 2023-24 Board Budget Priorities was postponed to November 15, 2022.

• Approved additional pay for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. School No. 9 Afterschool Program (5-0)
• Approved professional educator appointments and contract substitutes (5-0)
• Approved provisional and permanent Civil Service appointments (5-0)
• Accepted resignations and retirements (5-0)
• Approved personnel terminations and recalls (5-0)
• Approved acting administrative and non-tenure bearing appointments (5-0)
• Approved retroactive salary increases for BEG, Exempt, and SEG employee groups (5-0)
• Adopted decisions on long-term suspension appeals (5-0)

Policy Committee of the Whole

The Policy Committee of the Whole reviewed multiple instructional and administrative policy items. Most proposed updates were voted to be forwarded out of the committee for next steps.

• Forwarded Instructional Staff and Materials (4010) policy
• Forwarded School Calendar (4110) policy
• Forwarded Pre-Referral Intervention Strategies in General Education (4205) policy
• Forwarded Response to Intervention RTI Process (4206) and AIS Program (4206-E) policies
• Forwarded Display of the Flag (4311.1) policy

The Policy Committee of the Whole reviewed and voted to forward several district policies, including those regarding instructional staff, school calendars, and special education strategies. The committee also discussed potential updates to the board's goals, accountability, and videoconferencing policies.

• Forwarded Instructional Staff and Materials (4010) (5-0)
• Forwarded School Calendar (4110) (4-1)
• Forwarded Pre-Referral Intervention Strategies in General Education (4205) (5-0)
• Forwarded Response to Intervention RTI Process (4206) & AIS Program (4206-E) (5-0)
• Forwarded Display of the Flag (4311.1) (5-0)
• Forwarded School to Work Transition Initiative (4314.2) with name change (5-0)
• Forwarded Service Learning (4314.3) with name change (4-0)
• Forwarded Alternative and Homebound Instruction (4327) (3-2)

Community and Intergovernmental Relations Committee of the Whole

The committee approved its agenda and the minutes from the September 6 meeting. It discussed a Children’s Agenda on non‑suspension solutions, professional development updates, the 2022 Family & Community Engagement Forum, and 2023 legislative priorities. The Board Budget Priorities item was postponed to a November 8 special meeting, and the board entered executive session to consider an appointment and General Counsel matters before adjourning.

• Motion to approve the CIGR COW meeting agenda (approved)
• Motion to approve minutes from the September 6, 2022 CIGR COW meeting (approved)
• Discussion of Children’s Agenda – Teach‑In Solutions Not Suspensions
• Board Budget Priorities item postponed to November 8, 2022 special meeting
• Executive session to discuss appointment of a specific individual and General Counsel concerns

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from September 6, 2022. Members discussed the 'Solutions Not Suspensions' report and 2023 legislative priorities. Budget priorities were postponed to a special meeting on November 8, 2022.

• Approved CIGR COW Meeting Agenda (4-0, 1 not present)
• Approved September 6, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0, 1 not present)
• Postponed Board Budget Priorities to 11/8/22 Special Meeting

Board Work Session: FMP Discussion

The Rochester Board of Education held a work session on October 25, 2022, beginning with a call to order and acceptance of the agenda. Board members presented and discussed the Facilities Master Plan Phase III, as outlined in the attached PDF. The board then entered executive session to consider confidential personnel and student matters, and later returned to open session before adjourning the meeting.

• Call to Order and acceptance of agenda
• Presentation and discussion of FMP Phase III (Facilities Master Plan)
• Motion to convene executive session on demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal, or removal of a person and confidential student matters (motion carried)
• Motion to return to open session (motion carried)
• Adjournment of the meeting

October Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education approved minutes from September and October, accepted unaudited September financial reports, and granted unpaid leaves of absence and retirements for staff. The meeting included reports from various committees and the superintendent.

• Approval of September and October Board minutes
• Acceptance of Unaudited September 2022 Financial Reports
• Granting unpaid leaves of absence for 14 staff members
• Accepting resignations for retirement for 2 staff members
• Appointment of Reyita Perez to a grant-funded position at $94,985/yr.

Finance and Resource Allocation Committee of the Whole

The Finance and Resource Allocation Committee of the Whole met on Oct 18, 2022 to accept the August 16 minutes and consider several financial items. The committee approved the 2023-24 budget calendar and moved the September 2022 unaudited financial report to the Oct 20 business meeting. Additional discussions covered the draft November 2022 resolution packet, the state monitor fiscal plan update, and the 2022-23 grant summary before an executive session and adjournment.

• Accept minutes from the August 16, 2022 Finance COW (motion carried)
• Forward September 2022 unaudited financial report to the Oct 20 business meeting (motion carried)
• Approve the 2023-24 budget calendar (motion carried)
• Review draft November 2022 resolution packet (discussion)
• Discuss state monitor fiscal plan update (discussion)

The committee approved the 2023-24 Budget Calendar and forwarded the September 2022 financial reports to the October 20 Business Meeting. Members also reviewed the State Monitor's fiscal plan and the 2022-23 grant summary and forecast.

• Approved 2023-24 Budget Calendar (5-0)
• Forwarded September 2022 financial reports for October 20 Business Meeting (5-0)
• Accepted minutes from August 16, 2022 Finance COW (5-0)

Charter School Public Hearing - Genesee Community Charter School

The Rochester Board of Education is holding a public hearing to gather community input on a charter renewal application for Genesee Community Charter School. The school is seeking a renewal term from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2028. Input will be provided to the New York State Education Department.

• Proposed charter renewal for Genesee Community Charter School (K-6, 225 students)
• Proposed amendment to the school's organizational chart for the 2023-2024 school year
• Proposed merger with the board of Genesee Community Charter School – Flour City Campus

The Board of Education conducted a public hearing to gather community input regarding an application to establish a new charter school. No speakers or comments were submitted to the record. The matter is slated for Board approval at the November 17, 2022 Business Meeting.

Charter School Public Hearing - Urban Choice Charter School

The Rochester Board of Education is holding a required public hearing on the renewal of Urban Choice Charter School's charter. The current charter runs from July 2021 to June 2023, and the school is requesting renewal for July 2023 through June 2028. No public speakers or written comments were submitted.

• Public hearing on Urban Choice Charter School renewal (current term July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2023; requested term July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2028)

The Board of Education conducted a public hearing to gather community input regarding an application to establish the Urban Choice Charter School. No speakers or comments were submitted to the record. The matter is slated for Board approval at the November 17, 2022 Business Meeting.

Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District Board of Education approved the minutes from a previous meeting and discussed updates on student attendance, chronic absenteeism, and the district's receivership.

• Approved minutes from September 13, 2022 meeting
• Review of attendance and chronic absenteeism data
• Presentation on I-Ready data
• Overview of Receivership data and progress
• Comprehensive report on Summer School program

The committee approved the minutes from the September 13, 2022 meeting. Members received updates on the receivership process, summer school reporting, and teaching and learning initiatives. No other substantive policy or financial decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from September 13, 2022 ESA COW Meeting (5-0)

Special Meeting to Convene for Consideration of Resolutions

The Rochester Board of Education will consider Resolution No. 2022-23:147 to appoint listed educators to professional educator tenure areas. The appointments include specific individuals with defined probation periods from September 6, 2022 to September 5, 2026 and salaries ranging from $18.00 per hour for teaching assistants to $79,146 per year for certain teachers. The board may enter executive session before the regular portion of the meeting.

• Appointment of Kyle Hayes, Biology 7‑12, School No. 58, salary $48,973/yr.
• Appointment of Kyra Stephenson, Biology 7‑12, School No. 12, salary $73,065/yr.
• Appointment of Francine Martell, Business/Marketing, Career Pathways & Instructional Learning, salary $76,930/yr.
• Appointment of Markeya Brown, Teaching Assistant, Franklin Lower, $18.00/hr.
• Appointment of Heather Smith, Speech & Hearing Handicapped, Related Service & Medicaid Staff/Support, salary $69,266/yr.

The Board of Education approved a series of resolutions regarding staff appointments, resignations, and terminations. The meeting also included a brief executive session to discuss employment matters.

• Approved professional educator appointments (6-0)
• Approved part-time professional teacher appointments (6-0)
• Approved contract substitute appointments (6-0)
• Approved grant-funded administrative positions (6-0)
• Approved school instructor appointments (6-0)
• Approved provisional and permanent Civil Service appointments (6-0)
• Accepted resignations for retirement and general purposes (6-0)
• Approved terminations and administrative appointments (6-0)

Board Work Session: Suspension Process

The Rochester Board of Education held a work session to discuss the district's suspension process, including a presentation on the topic. The board also voted to suspend video conferencing policy to allow remote participation, and considered a motion to amend the 2022-23 board meeting calendar. The meeting included an executive session for personnel matters.

• Discussion of student suspension process with attached presentation (4,445 KB PDF)
• Motion to suspend Video Conferencing Policy 2350 to allow more than one commissioner to participate via Zoom
• Motion to amend the 2022-23 Board Meeting Calendar (proposing to change the October 27, 2022 meeting)

The Board discussed the district's student suspension process and alternative education. The only formal action taken was to reschedule a future business meeting.

• Approved amending the 2022-23 Board Meeting Calendar to move the October 27 meeting to October 20 (5-0)

Audit Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District Audit Committee approved minutes from a prior meeting and authorized modifications to a special education consent decree. The board also discussed a vendor proposal and entered executive session.

• Approval of May 3, 2022 Audit Committee minutes
• Authorization of Consent Decree Modifications and Revisions (Resolution No. 2022-23: 146)
• Discussion on Vender Proposal and Selection
• Executive Session regarding employment or legal counsel
• Next meeting scheduled for December 6, 2022

The Audit Committee of the Whole approved modifications and revisions to the Consent Decree. The committee also accepted the minutes from the May 3, 2022 meeting and held an executive session to discuss vendor proposals and personnel matters.

• Approved Consent Decree Modifications and Revisions (Resolution No. 2022-23: 146)
• Approved May 3, 2022 Audit COW minutes (4-1)
• Approved motion to recess into Executive Session

Policy Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District Policy Committee approved minutes from August and September and voted to forward three policy drafts to the full Board for further consideration. The committee also discussed updates to policies regarding controversial issues, community collaboration, and extracurricular eligibility.

• Approved minutes from August 23 and September 6 Policy Committee meetings
• Forwarded Teaching of Controversial Issues (Policy 4360) to full Board
• Forwarded District/Community Collaborative Presentations (Policy 4830.1) to full Board
• Forwarded Eligibility for Extracurricular Activities (Policy 5305) to full Board
• Discussed Board of Education Goals and Metrics (Policy 2000)

The Policy Committee of the Whole approved the forwarding of three specific district policies out of the committee. The board also approved minutes from previous meetings and agreed to combine two other policies for a future draft.

• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved August 23, 2022 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved September 6, 2022 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Forwarded Teaching of Controversial Issues (Policy 4360) out of committee (5-1)
• Forwarded District/Community Collaborative Presentations, Programs, and Services (Policy 4830.1) out of committee (6-1)
• Forwarded Eligibility for Extracurricular Activities (Policy 5305) out of committee (6-0)
• Agreed to combine policies 0300 and 2000 for a future draft

Board Work Session: FMP Discussion

The Rochester City School District Board held a work session to discuss the Five Year Model Plan (FMP) Phase III. The meeting included a procedural motion to suspend video conferencing policy terms and concluded with an adjournment.

• Discussion of FMP Phase III
• Motion to suspend Video Conferencing Policy 2350
• Executive session regarding employment or legal counsel
• Adjournment at 6:40 p.m.
• Next meeting: Policy Committee of the Whole on October 4, 2022

The Board reviewed updates on Phase III of the Facilities Modernization Project (FMP), including preliminary candidates and academic programming. The Board unanimously approved for Chief Schmidt to begin work on five specific schools. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved through voice vote for Chief Schmidt to start work on Douglass Campus, Edison, Franklin, Monroe, and Wilson Commencement Academy

September Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education approved minutes from prior meetings and accepted the August 2022 financial reports. The meeting also included the suspension of a video conferencing policy to allow multiple commissioners to join via Zoom.

• Approval of minutes from May through September 2022
• Acceptance of Unaudited August 2022 Financial Reports
• Suspension of Video Conferencing Policy 2350 for Zoom
• Acceptance of the 2022 Graduation Audit
• Appointments to grant-funded positions at Monroe Lower and Upper

The Board of Education approved the unaudited August 2022 financial reports and the 2022 Graduation Audit. Members also passed a consent agenda covering personnel changes and final payments for school construction projects. Several administrative minutes from May through September 2022 were approved.

• Approved unaudited August 2022 Financial Reports (5-0)
• Accepted 2022 Graduation Audit (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including final payments to UDN Inc., TME Excavating Corporation, and Spring Sheet Metal & Roofing LLC (6-0)
• Approved provisional and permanent Civil Service appointments (6-0)
• Approved part-time professional educator appointments (6-0)
• Suspended Video Conferencing Policy 2350 to allow multiple commissioners to use Zoom (6-0)
• Approved minutes for meetings on May 26, June 23, August 25, August 26, August 29, and September 1 (5-0)

Charter School Public Hearing - Innova Girls Academy Charter School

The Rochester City School District Board of Education is conducting a public hearing to collect community input on a proposed amendment to the Innova Girls Academy Charter School’s organizational chart. The amendment would apply to the charter term September 1, 2023 – June 30, 2028 and is under review by the New York State Education Department. No formal decision will be made at this meeting; comments will be forwarded to the state department.

• Public hearing on proposed charter amendment for Innova Girls Academy
• Review of organizational chart changes effective the 2023‑2024 school year
• Collection of spoken comments from community members (in‑person and Zoom)
• Board will not decide the revision; it remains pending state approval

Charter School Public Hearing - University Preparatory Charter School for Young Men

The Rochester Board of Education is holding a public hearing to gather community input for the New York State Education Department regarding the renewal of University Preparatory Charter School for Young Men's charter. The hearing is required by state law and will address the school's application to expand from 450 to 525 students.

• Public hearing on University Preparatory Charter School for Young Men renewal
• School seeking five-year charter renewal starting August 1, 2023
• Proposed expansion from 450 to 525 students
• School located at 1290 Lake Avenue, Rochester, NY 14613

HR Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District Board of Education's HR Committee accepted minutes from a prior meeting, voted to suspend video conferencing rules, and adopted a new committee purpose. The meeting concluded with a presentation on staffing and a brief executive session.

• Adopted new Human Resources Committee Purpose
• Accepted minutes from September 7, 2021 HR Committee
• Motion to suspend Video Conferencing Policy 2350
• Presentation on Monthly Vacancy Update & Staffing Recruitment
• Adjourned at 7:02 p.m.

The HR Committee of the Whole adopted a new purpose statement for the committee. Members also received a presentation on district staffing recruitment and vacancy updates. The board approved the minutes from September 7, 2021.

• Adopted the New Human Resources Committee Purpose (7-0)
• Accepted the minutes from the September 7, 2021 HR Committee of the Whole (7-0)
• Suspended Video Conferencing Policy 2350 to allow multiple commissioners to attend virtually (7-0)

Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole

The Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole met to review the Auditor General's graduation audit. The committee decided to forward the 2022 Graduation Audit to the September Business Meeting for formal acceptance.

• Review of Auditor General Updates regarding the Graduation Audit
• Approval of August 9, 2022 meeting minutes
• Decision to forward the 2022 Graduation Audit for acceptance in the September Business Meeting

The Equity in Student Achievement Committee reviewed the 2022 Graduation Audit, including its findings and recommendations. The committee voted to forward the audit for acceptance at the September Business Meeting.

• Approved minutes from August 9, 2022 ESA COW Meeting (6-0)
• Forwarded 2022 Graduation Audit for acceptance in September Business Meeting (6-0)

Special Meeting to Convene for Consideration of Resolutions + Superintendent Search Process

The Rochester City School District Board of Education approved a $240,000 agreement with New York University to operate the ROC Urban Teacher Fellowship Partnership. The board also authorized cooperative bidding and appointed 38 staff members to tenure positions.

• Agreement with NYU for $240,000
• Cooperative bidding authorization
• 38 staff appointments to tenure
• Staff appointments include teachers and teaching assistants
• Meetings held at 131 West Broad Street

The Board of Education approved multiple personnel appointments, resignations, and service agreements. Members also discussed the superintendent search process and decided to utilize a search firm to conduct the recruitment.

• Approved participation in cooperative bidding (6-0)
• Authorized agreement with New York University (6-0)
• Approved professional educator, administrative, and civil service appointments (6-0)
• Approved part-time professional educator appointments (6-0)
• Approved CSE/CPSE Chairperson/Local Education Agency Representative appointments (6-0)
• Accepted resignations for retirement and general purposes (6-0)
• Approved personnel terminations (6-0)
• Authorized agreement with Venus Scott Private Duty Nurse (6-0)

Community and Intergovernmental Relations Committee of the Whole

The Community and Intergovernmental Relations Committee approved a resolution to authorize an agreement with twenty community‑based organization providers under the Universal Pre‑Kindergarten grant, adding Finger Lakes United Cerebral Palsy as a new provider and waiving certain board by‑law requirements. The committee also suspended Video Conferencing Policy 2350 to allow multiple commissioners to join via Zoom and discussed parent engagement, state Pre‑K funding, and upcoming community forum planning. An executive session was held to consider personnel and legal matters before the meeting adjourned.

• Motion passed to suspend Video Conferencing Policy 2350, permitting more than one commissioner on Zoom
• Resolution 2022‑23: 88 authorizes agreement with 20 CBO providers for Universal Pre‑K (budget line $13,808,100)
• Board waived Board By‑Laws Policy 2300 on advance distribution of written materials
• Discussion of State Funding for Pre‑K and introduction of CIGR Parent Representative
• Executive session to discuss appointment of a specific individual and General Counsel matters

The committee approved an agreement for Community Based Organization Providers and suspended video conferencing policy to allow multiple members to attend via Zoom. Members also received presentations on Pre-K funding, parent engagement, and community partnerships.

• Approved Agreement – Community Based Organization Providers (7-0)
• Suspended Video Conferencing Policy 2350 to allow multiple Zoom participants (7-0)

Policy Committee of the Whole

The Rochester Board of Education Policy Committee voted to forward six policies to the full board: District Policy Prohibiting Discrimination or Harassment (0100), Gender Neutral Single-Occupancy Bathrooms (0101), Student Harassment and Bullying Prevention (0115), Equity and Educational Excellence (renamed to Equity, Inclusivity, and Diversity in Education, 0105), Small School Units (0220, with a rescind question), and School Improvement Plan (0400). The committee also discussed NYSSBA policy recommendations and district goals but took no action on those items. The meeting began with a motion to suspend video conferencing policy to allow remote participation.

• Forwarded District Policy Prohibiting Discrimination or Harassment of Students or Employees (Policy 0100) to full board
• Forwarded Gender Neutral Single-Occupancy Bathrooms Policy (0101) to full board
• Forwarded Student Harassment and Bullying Prevention and Intervention Policy (0115) to full board
• Renamed Equity and Educational Excellence (Policy 0201) to Equity, Inclusivity, and Diversity in Education (Policy 0105) and forwarded it
• Forwarded Small School Units Policy (0220) with a note to consider rescinding it, and School Improvement Plan (0400)

The Policy Committee of the Whole approved forwarding several district policies, including those regarding discrimination, harassment, and school improvement, to the full board. The committee also renamed the Equity and Educational Excellence policy to Equity, Inclusivity, and Diversity in Education. Minutes from the August 23 meeting were tabled until October 4.

• Suspended Video Conferencing Policy 2350 to allow multiple Zoom participants (7-0)
• Tabled August 23, 2022 meeting minutes until October 4, 2022 (5-0)
• Forwarded Policy 0100 (Discrimination or Harassment of Students or Employees) (7-0)
• Forwarded Policy 0101 (Gender Neutral Single-Occupancy Bathrooms) (6-1)
• Forwarded Policy 0115 (Student Harassment and Bullying Prevention and Intervention) (7-0)
• Renamed Policy 0201 to Equity, Inclusivity, and Diversity in Education (Policy 0105) (6-1)
• Forwarded Policy 0220 (Small School Units) (7-0)
• Forwarded Policy 0400 (School Improvement Plan) (7-0)

Board Work Session: 2022-23 Board Goals + FMP Phase III

The Board of Education approved four primary goals for the 2022-23 school year focusing on finances, academics, equity, and school safety. The body also accepted the resignation of Superintendent Dr. Lesli Myers-Small and discussed the FMP Phase III strategic plan.

• Approved 2022-23 Board Goals: improve financial condition, increase academic achievement, increase equity, and ensure school safety
• Accepted the resignation of Superintendent Dr. Lesli Myers-Small
• Created Chief of Staff position with a starting salary up to $180,000
• Appointed Callie Andler as Vice Principal at East EPO with a salary of $96,500
• Discussion of FMP Phase III Strategic Plan and Core Model Programs

The Board approved four primary goals for the 2022-23 school year and directed the Superintendent to provide metrics for these goals by September 22, 2022. The Board also authorized an agreement for an Interim Superintendent and approved several personnel actions. Discussions were held regarding the FMP Phase III update.

• Approved 2022-23 Board Goals regarding financial condition, academic achievement, equity, and school safety (7-0)
• Authorized Agreement - Interim Superintendent (7-0)
• Approved appointment to administrative tenure area at EAST (5-0)
• Authorized Amendment to SEG Appendix A (7-0)
• Accepted resignation (7-0)
• Suspended Video Conferencing Policy 2350 to allow multiple Zoom participants (5-0)
• Waived 48-hour submission rule for walk-on resolutions (5-0)

Board Work Session: FMP Discussion (NOTE: Discussion Rescheduled to 9-1-22)

The board held a work session that included a call to order, an executive session, a motion to waive the 48-hour submission rule for Resolution 2022-23:84, and adjournment. The main discussion item on FMP Phase III was noted as rescheduled to September 1, 2022. The board voted unanimously to adjourn at 6:23 PM.

• FMP Phase III discussion rescheduled to 9-1-22
• Motion to waive 48-hour rule for Resolution 2022-23:84
• Executive session closed to the public
• Agenda accepted by board
• Board adjourned at 6:23 PM, motion carried unanimously

The Board Work Session was paused at 5:50pm because of audio and streaming failures on YouTube and Facebook. The Board agreed to reconvene on Thursday to complete the FMP Phase III discussions. No resolutions were considered.

• Tabled FMP Phase III discussions to September 1, 2022
• Adjourned meeting at 6:23pm (6-0)

Board Retreat

The Rochester City School District Board of Education is holding a retreat to review suspension appeal data, discuss board goals, and review K-8 i-Ready data. The meeting may include an executive session to discuss employment matters.

• Review of 2021-2022 Long Term Suspension Appeal Data
• Discussion on Board Goal Setting
• Review of K-8 i-Ready Data
• Potential executive session to discuss employment matters
• Adjournment motion

The Board conducted a retreat focused on reviewing suspension appeal data and K-8 i-Ready reading and math data. Discussion regarding the 2022-23 Board Goals was deferred to the September 1st Board Work Session.

• Tabled development of 2022-23 Board Goals to September 1st session

Business Meeting

The Board of Education met to approve various meeting minutes, a July 2022 financial report, and several personnel actions. The session included a motion to suspend video conferencing policies to allow more than one commissioner to participate via Zoom.

• Suspension of Video Conferencing Policy 2350
• Approval of the Unaudited July 2022 Financial Report
• Appointment of Thomas Alaimo as Biology 7-12 teacher ($74,844/yr)
• Appointment of Javier Chona for Adult Education ($51,775/yr)
• Acceptance of retirements for Cheryl Donatella, Lori Smith, and Gretchen Nesmith

The Board of Education approved a series of human capital resolutions including tenure, appointments, and recalls. The board also approved final payments for construction projects at School No. 42 and School No. 58 and accepted the July 2022 financial report.

• Approved final payment to Leo J. Roth Corporation for School No. 42 (7-0)
• Approved final payment to Kuitems Construction, Inc. for School No. 58 (7-0)
• Accepted Unaudited July 2022 Financial Report (7-0)
• Approved Human Capital Resolutions 24-27, 29-32, and 34 (7-0)
• Granted tenure to listed individuals via Resolution 24 (7-0)
• Approved professional educator and administrative appointments (7-0)
• Approved provisional and permanent Civil Service appointments (7-0)
• Suspended Video Conferencing Policy 2350 to allow multiple Zoom participants (5-0)

Policy Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District Policy Committee approved the meeting agenda and minutes from July. The committee voted to forward ten proposed policy revisions to the full Board of Education for further consideration.

• Approved July 19, 2022 Policy Committee minutes
• Forwarded Booster Organizations (Policy 1222)
• Forwarded Security Breach and Notification (Policy 1300)
• Forwarded Smoking, Tobacco Use, and Electronic Cigarettes (Policy 1530)
• Forwarded Acceptable Use of District Network Policy (Policy 1950)

The Policy Committee of the Whole approved forwarding 13 different district policies out of the committee. The board also discussed parent engagement and school visitation protocols following the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved July 19, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Forwarded Booster Organizations Policy 1222 (6-0)
• Forwarded Security Breach and Notification Policy 1300 (6-0)
• Forwarded Smoking, Tobacco Use, and Electronic Cigarettes Policy 1530 (6-0)
• Forwarded Gifts From the Public Policy 1810 (6-0)
• Forwarded Parent Engagement Policy 1900 (6-0)
• Forwarded Interpreters for Hearing-Impaired Parents Policy 1925 (6-0)

Board Work Session: School Reopening Status

The Rochester Board of Education will consider a $6,000,000 agreement with Estore Staffing Inc. (dba TES Staffing) for temporary staffing services for the 2022-23 school year. The board will also receive a presentation on school reopening status. The meeting may begin with an executive session.

• Consideration of a $6,000,000 agreement with Estore Staffing Inc. for temporary staffing, including clerical, technical, and non-instructional roles.
• Presentation on School Reopening Status for the upcoming school year.
• Possible executive session to discuss employment matters or other permitted topics.
• Resolution being reconsidered from the August 16, 2022 Finance Committee meeting due to technical difficulties.

The Board approved a contract with Estore Staffing Inc. not to exceed $6M, funded via ARP/CRRSA and the general fund. Administration provided updates on school reopening status across facilities, safety, transportation, and staffing.

• Approved agreement with Estore Staffing Inc. (4-0)

Finance and Resource Allocation Committee of the Whole

The Finance Committee approved a $2,957,501.56 agreement with Amplify Education, Inc. for a K-5 science curriculum and accepted the year-end claims audit reports. It also forwarded July 2022 unaudited financial reports to the August 25 business meeting and discussed the purchasing department's RFP process. A motion to waive the 48-hour rule for a resolution was dropped due to technical difficulties.

• Authorized agreement with Amplify Education, Inc. for $2,957,501.56 for K-5 science curriculum (2022-2024)
• Accepted the 2021-22 Year End Claims Audit Report and June 2022 Claims Audit Report
• Forwarded July 2022 Unaudited Financial Report and Trend Analysis to the August 25 business meeting
• Discussed reconsideration of the Agreement for Program Evaluation
• Dropped motion to waive 48-hour rule for resolution 2022-23:16 due to technical difficulties

The committee accepted the 2021-22 Year End and June 2022 Claims Audit Reports. It approved an agreement with Amplify Education, Inc. and forwarded July 2022 financial reports for consideration at the August 25 business meeting.

• Approved agreement with Amplify Education, Inc. (4-0)
• Accepted 2021-22 Year End and June 2022 Claims Audit Reports (6-0)
• Forwarded July 2022 financial reports to 8/25/22 Business Meeting (6-0)
• Approved June 21, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Waived 48-hour submission rule for Resolution 2022-23: 16 (4-0)
• Suspended Video Conferencing Policy 2350 to allow multiple Zoom participants (5-0)
• Tabled Estore Staffing Inc. agreement to August 18 Board Work Session due to internet loss

Districtwide School Safety Plan Public Hearing

The Rochester City School District will hold a public hearing to present its Districtwide School Safety Plan, an all‑hazards emergency management framework revised June 24 2022. The plan outlines mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery procedures and is implemented under direction of the superintendent. Community members may comment during the speakers segment. No formal decisions are indicated.

• Call to Order (procedural)
• Presentation of the Districtwide School Safety Plan (revised June 24 2022)
• PDF copies of the plan and Q&A made available for public review
• Speakers list for public comments on the safety plan
• Adjournment

The Board of Education conducted a public hearing to gather input on the Districtwide School Safety Plan. Two parents provided testimony regarding plan details and transparency. No votes were taken; the plan was slated for Board approval at the August 25, 2022 meeting.

• Held public hearing for input on Districtwide School Safety Plan

Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District Board of Education convened to approve meeting minutes and discuss district-wide student attendance and academic data. The meeting also included a procedural vote to suspend a video conferencing policy.

• Approved minutes from June 14, 2022
• Discussed district chronic absenteeism and iReady reading and math data
• Voted to suspend video conferencing policy 2350 for Zoom participation
• Meeting adjourned at 6:32 p.m.
• Entered executive session to discuss personnel and legal matters

The committee approved the minutes from the June 14, 2022 meeting and voted to suspend video conferencing policy limits to allow multiple members to join via Zoom. Members discussed chronic absenteeism rates and iReady reading and math scores presented by the Chief Academic Officer.

• Suspended Video Conferencing Policy 2350 to allow more than one commissioner to participate via Zoom (6-0)
• Approved minutes from the June 14, 2022 ESA COW meeting (6-0)

Special Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education approved a $5,100 contract with Franklin Covey Co. to provide a leadership program for East High School staff. The meeting also included votes to appoint new teachers, administrators, and support staff.

• Authorize Agreement - Franklin Covey Co. at East ($5,100.00)
• Appointment of 8 teachers to tenure area
• Appointment of 6 administrators to tenure area
• Appointment of 1 grant-funded coordinator
• Appointment of 3 civil service staff

The Board approved a preliminary grade reconfiguration to establish a PreK-6, 7-8, and 9-12 program of instruction. The meeting also included the approval of several personnel appointments and service agreements. Board members discussed the development of 2022-23 goals and the potential use of an external facilitator.

• Approved grade reconfiguration to PreK-6, 7-8, and 9-12 (6-0)
• Approved agreement with Franklin Covey Co. at EAST (4-1)
• Approved agreement with Agile Sports Technologies, Inc. (dba Hudl) (5-0)
• Approved Code of Conduct Committee (5-0)
• Approved various professional, part-time, administrative, and civil service appointments (5-0)
• Approved recalls of teachers, teaching assistants, and administrators (5-0)
• Accepted resignations for retirement and other purposes (5-0)
• Waived 48-hour submission rule for Resolution 2022-23: 14 (6-0)

Board Work Session: 2022-23 Board Goals

The Rochester Board of Education held a work session to discuss and potentially approve the 2022-23 Board Goals. The meeting included a recess into executive session and adjourned at 6:49 p.m.

• Discussion of 2022-23 Board Goals
• Motion to Approve the 2022-23 Board Goals
• Executive Session recess
• Adjournment at 6:49 p.m.
• Next meeting announced for August 9, 2022

Board members discussed proposed goals and metrics for the 2022-23 period. Because the commissioners did not reach full agreement, they decided to revisit the goals during a special meeting on September 9, 2022.

• Tabled 2022-23 Board Goals to 9/9/22 Special Meeting

Contract for Excellence Public Hearing

The Rochester City School District Board of Education is holding a public hearing to discuss the 2022-23 Contract for Excellence. The hearing is scheduled for July 28, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. in Conference Room 3A/B at 131 West Broad Street.

• Public hearing on 2022-23 Contract for Excellence
• Held at 131 West Broad Street, Conference Room 3A/B
• In-person and Zoom options available
• Comments accepted via email or phone until noon on July 28
• No speakers listed for the hearing

The Board of Education conducted a public hearing to gather input for the Contract for Excellence plan for submission to the New York State Education Department. No members of the public attended or submitted comments. The plan is slated for Board approval at the August 25, 2022 Business Meeting.

• Held public hearing for Contract for Excellence plan
• Adjourned hearing with no public comments submitted

Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education approved minutes from previous meetings and accepted the June 2022 financial report. The meeting included a superintendent's presentation and a consent agenda covering unpaid leaves of absence and a retirement resignation.

• Approval of minutes from February, March, May, and July 2022
• Acceptance of Unaudited June 2022 Financial Report
• Unpaid leave of absence for 10 staff members
• Acceptance of retirement resignation for Cherill Osbourne
• Presentation by Deputy Superintendent Carmine Peluso

The Board of Education accepted the unaudited June 2022 financial report and change order report. Members approved a consent agenda including final payments to contractors and various personnel resignations. The Board also granted tenure and approved several professional and civil service appointments.

• Accepted Unaudited June 2022 Financial Report and Change Order Report (6-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including final payments to Hewitt Young SOTA, Maracon Enterprises, and Steve General (6-0)
• Granted tenure to listed individuals (6-0)
• Approved appointments to professional educator area (6-0)
• Approved provisional appointments to Competitive Civil Service titles (6-0)
• Approved permanent appointments to classified Civil Service titles (6-0)
• Approved part-time appointments within professional educator area (6-0)
• Approved amendment to split administrative tenure area appointments (Resolution 2022-23: 872) (6-0)

Board Work Session: Facilities Modernization Program (FMP) Phase III

The Rochester City School District Board held a work session to review the Facilities Modernization Program Phase III timeline, work plan, and finance projections. The meeting included a closed executive session regarding personnel matters before adjourning.

• Presentation on FMP Phase III timeline and work plan
• Review of Phase III finance projections and legislation
• Executive session to discuss employment matters
• Adjournment of the work session
• Next meeting scheduled for Thursday, July 28, 2022

The Board held a work session to review the Facilities Modernization Program (FMP) Phase III. Members discussed various grade-level configuration models and the need to review Policy 4100. No final decisions on reconfiguration were made; the Board agreed to revisit the topic on August 9th after the Administration provides supporting data.

• Decided to revisit reconfiguration conversation on August 9th
• Approved motion to enter Executive Session (7-0)
• Approved motion to return to Open Session (7-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting (7-0)

Special Meeting to Convene for Consideration of Resolutions

The Rochester Board of Education held a special meeting to consider several resolutions. Members approved the Bilingual Education Council (BEC) bylaws. They also approved appointments of numerous educators, administrators, and classified staff, each with specified salaries or hourly rates. All motions carried with board approval.

• Approve the Bilingual Education Council bylaws (motion carried)
• Appoint multiple professional educators to tenure areas with salaries ranging from $47,854/yr to $66,004/yr
• Appoint Jessica Nordquist as Community School Site Coordinator (grant‑funded) at $88,435/yr
• Appoint Robert Burns, Analy Cruz‑Phommany, and Stephen LaMorte to administrative tenure positions with salaries $97,865/yr, $107,000/yr, and $130,000/yr respectively
• Make permanent classified appointments (e.g., April Terrigino – bus driver $24.88/hr; Janette Humphrey – food service $15.00/hr; Raul Navedo – maintenance mechanic $21.15/hr)

The Board of Education approved the Bilingual Education Council bylaws and authorized several personnel appointments, resignations, and terminations. The Board also approved an agreement with Franklin Covey Co. and voted to lift a previous resolution regarding Gallagher Benefit Solutions from the table.

• Approved Bilingual Education Council By-Laws (6-0)
• Approved professional educator area appointments (6-0)
• Approved non-tenure grant funded position appointments (6-0)
• Approved administrative tenure area appointments (6-0)
• Approved permanent Civil Service title appointments (6-0)
• Approved provisional Competitive Civil Service title appointments (6-0)
• Accepted resignations for retirement and general resignations (5-0)
• Approved agreement with Franklin Covey Co. (5-0)

Policy Committee of the Whole

The Rochester Board of Education Policy Committee of the Whole met on July 19, 2022, forwarding several policies to the full board, including community relations, public information, school records, media relations, constitutionally protected prayer in schools, recognition for accomplishment, recruiters in schools, public use of school facilities, public conduct on school property, and facilities development goals/plan. The committee also discussed and sought input on home-schooled students (Policy 1741) and the evaluation of school board operational procedures (Policy 0310). No speakers or public comments were heard.

• Forwarded Community Relations Goals (Policy 1000) to full board
• Forwarded Constitutionally Protected Prayer in Schools (Policy 1150) to full board
• Forwarded Recruiters in Schools (Policy 1240.1) to full board (voted 5-1, Cynthia Elliott opposed)
• Forwarded Facilities Development Goals (Policy 7000) and Plan (Policy 7000-E1) to full board
• Discussed home-schooled students policy (Policy 1741) and board operational procedures (Policy 0310)

The Policy Committee of the Whole approved forwarding 12 different district policies out of the committee. The board also discussed updates to policies regarding home-schooled students and board operational procedures, which remain under review.

• Forwarded Community Relations Goals (Policy 1000) (6-0)
• Forwarded Public Information Program (Policy 1100) (6-0)
• Forwarded School District Records Policy (Policy 1120) (6-0)
• Forwarded Media Relations Policy (Policy 1130) (6-0)
• Forwarded Constitutionally Protected Prayer in Schools (Policy 1150) (6-0)
• Forwarded Recognition for Accomplishment (Policy 1205) (5-1)
• Forwarded Recruiters in Schools (Policy 1240.1) (5-1)
• Forwarded Public Use of School Facilities (Policy 1500) and Public Conduct on School Property (Policy 1520) (6-0)

Business Meeting

The Board of Education met to review financial reports, advisory council updates, and personnel changes. The board accepted the unaudited May 2022 financial report and processed several staff resignations and leaves of absence.

• Acceptance of unaudited May 2022 Financial Reports
• Approval of unpaid leaves of absence for 8 employees
• Acceptance of 6 resignations for retirement purposes
• Acceptance of 11 staff resignations
• Postponement of the review of Bilingual Education Council By-Laws

The Board of Education approved a consent agenda including final payments for school electrical and excavation work. Members also authorized several operations contracts, including a renovation for the Franklin Campus and a natural gas procurement agreement. Multiple human capital resolutions for tenure and appointments were passed.

• Approved May 2022 unaudited financial reports (6-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including final payments to North Coast Electrical Solutions and TME Excavating Corporation (6-0)
• Granted tenure and approved professional, administrative, and civil service appointments (6-0)
• Authorized continuation of services for Reviewed Costs, Inc. (6-0)
• Approved electrical renovation contract for Franklin Campus (6-0)
• Authorized lease agreement amendment with Landsman Development Corporation (6-0)
• Authorized temporary funding advance to RJSCB for Facilities Modernization Program Phase III (6-0)
• Authorized agreements with Wendel Energy Services, LLC and for Natural Gas Procurement (6-0)

Finance and Resource Allocation Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District Finance and Resource Allocation Committee approved minutes from previous meetings and discussed the 2022-23 budget and Medicaid compliance. The group also voted to forward financial reports to the June 23 Business Meeting.

• Approval of minutes from February, March, and April 2022 Finance meetings
• Forwarding May 2022 Unaudited Financial Report to June 23 Business Meeting
• Presentation on Medicaid Compliance
• Discussion of Wellness Policy (Policy 5405)
• Postponement of Procurement Procedures and Practices presentation to August

The committee approved several sets of previous meeting minutes and voted to forward the May 2022 Unaudited Financial Report and Trend Analysis to the June 23 Business Meeting. Members also received presentations on Medicaid compliance and the state transparency report.

• Approved minutes from February 21, 2022 Finance COW (4-0)
• Approved minutes from March 15, 2022 Finance COW (4-0)
• Approved minutes from March 22, 2022 Finance COW (4-0)
• Approved minutes from April 14, 2022 Budget Hearing (4-0)
• Approved forwarding May 2022 financial reports to 6/23 Business Meeting (4-0)
• Approved convening into Executive Session at 7:06pm (5-0)
• Approved ending Executive Session at 8:12pm (4-0)
• Approved adjournment at 8:12pm (4-0)

Special Meeting to Convene for Consideration of Resolutions

The Rochester Board of Education approved a contract with Gallup, Inc. for $990,621 to provide surveys and assessments, and lifted from the table amendments to several personnel resolutions.

• Contract with Gallup, Inc. for $990,621
• Amendments to employee resolutions (retirements, appointments, dates)
• Provisional appointments for 5 staff members
• Contract Substitute appointment for Carol Lowe ($10,987.68)
• Executive session held to discuss employment matters

The Board of Education approved various personnel actions, including civil service appointments, tenure area placements, and resignations. The Board also authorized additional pay for numerous summer professional learning and administrative roles at EAST.

• Approved provisional and permanent Civil Service appointments (5-0)
• Approved appointments to professional educator and administrative tenure areas (5-0)
• Accepted resignations for retirement and general purposes (5-0)
• Approved terminations of listed personnel (5-0)
• Approved additional pay for multiple summer programs at EAST, including curriculum review and new teacher orientation (5-0)
• Tabled appointment to administrative tenure area for Principal School No. 54 until June 23, 2022
• Withdrew agreement with Gallup, Inc. (Black) (Resolution No. 2021-22: 647)
• Approved amendments to Resolution No. 2021-22: 604 (5-0)

Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole

The Equity in Student Achievement Committee will hear presentations on a K-5 science proposal, robotics program, and receivership schools' improvement plans. The board may enter executive session before the public portion. Only action items are approval of prior meeting minutes and adjournment.

• Approval of minutes from May 17, 2022 ESA COW meeting
• Presentation on James Monroe High School Peer Tutor Club
• Program highlight: Robotics (X-Cats and history in RCSD)
• Teaching & Learning Updates including K-5 Science Curriculum Proposal
• Receivership & School Comprehensive Education Plan (SCEP) presentation

The committee approved the minutes from the May 17, 2022 meeting. The remainder of the session consisted of presentations and discussions regarding student clubs, robotics, science curriculum, school receivership plans, and student placement processes.

• Approved May 17, 2022 ESA COW meeting minutes (4-0)

Policy Committee of the Whole

The Policy Committee of the Whole discussed various updates regarding student health, privacy, and safety. The committee voted to forward multiple policy items out of the committee for further action.

• Forwarded Drug Free Schools (Policy 5312.1a)
• Forwarded Wellness Policy (Policy 5405)
• Forwarded Student Health Services Policy (Policy 5420)
• Forwarded Concussion Policy (Policy 5430)
• Forwarded Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect (Policy 5460)

The Policy Committee of the Whole reviewed and voted to forward several student-related and administrative policies out of committee. The committee also discussed updates to policies 1205 and 1240.1, requesting email input from commissioners.

• Forwarded Drug Free Schools Policy 5312.1a (6-0)
• Forwarded Wellness Policy 5405 (6-0)
• Forwarded Student Health Services Policy 5420 (6-0)
• Forwarded Concussion Policy 5430 (6-0)
• Forwarded Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect Policy 5460 (6-0)
• Forwarded Student Records Privacy Policy 5500 (6-0)
• Forwarded Law Enforcement and Immigration Protections for Students Policy 5600 (6-0)
• Forwarded Superintendent Goals and Objectives Policy 3000 and Long Range Financial Policy 6200 (6-0)

Special Meeting to Convene for Board Consideration of Student Disciplinary Matters

The Rochester City School District Board of Education met to formally adopt decisions on long-term suspension appeals. The board upheld the suspension decisions for four students and partially confirmed the decision for a fifth student, reducing their penalty.

• Formally adopted decisions on long-term suspension appeals (Resolution 2021-22: 657)
• Upheld suspension decisions for students (Hearing Files 349, 405)
• Partially confirmed suspension for student (Hearing File 417, penalty reduced to 39 days)
• Partially confirmed suspension for student (Hearing File 438, penalty reduced to end of 2021-22 school year)
• Partially confirmed suspension for student (Hearing File 469, penalty reduced to 18 days)

The Board of Education convened for a special meeting to consider student disciplinary matters. The Board formally adopted decisions regarding long-term suspension appeals.

• Adopted decisions on long-term suspension appeals (Resolution 2021-22: 657) (5-0)

Board Work Session: School Safety

The Rochester City School District Board of Education will hold a work session focused on school safety, featuring presentations on student support and safety data, followed by roundtable discussions.

• Presentation on school safety data and student support
• Roundtable discussions on school safety
• Potential executive session to discuss employment matters
• Adjournment to next policy/governance meeting on June 7

Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education met to approve various meeting minutes and financial reports. The board also considered a donation of 100 refurbished Dell laptops from The Shore Foundation for students at Roberto Clemente School No. 8.

• Acceptance of the April 2022 Financial Report
• Donation of 100 refurbished Dell laptops worth approximately $35,000 to Roberto Clemente School No. 8
• Approval of multiple previous meeting minutes
• Disallowance of Commissioner Maloy's appeal regarding a Governance Report

The Board of Education approved the April 2022 financial report and a series of personnel actions, including appointments and tenure. The Board also accepted several donations for specific schools and denied a request from Commissioner Maloy to present a Governance Report.

• Approved April 2022 Financial Report and Q3 Student Activity Funds (7-0)
• Denied Commissioner Maloy's request to present a Governance Report (5-2)
• Approved consent agenda including donations to Roberto Clemente School No. 8 and Adlai E. Stevenson School No. 29 (7-0)
• Tabled resolution to amend previous resolutions until June 14, 2022 (7-0)
• Approved appointment of contract substitutes with 'prorated' salary amendment (4-3)
• Approved appointments to professional educator tenure area (7-0)
• Approved provisional and permanent Civil Service appointments (7-0)
• Granted tenure to listed personnel (7-0)

Special Meeting to Convene for Board Consideration of Governance and Student Disciplinary Matters

The Rochester City School District Board of Education will meet to formally adopt decisions on five long-term student suspension appeals. The meeting will also include discussions on board governance and a possible executive session.

• Formal adoption of five long-term suspension appeals
• Discussion on board governance and meeting calendar
• Potential executive session on personnel matters
• Meeting adjourned at 7:13 p.m.
• Board members: Cynthia Elliott, Willa Powell, Beatriz LeBron, Amy Maloy, Ricardo Adams, James Patterson, Camille Simmons

The Board formally adopted decisions regarding long-term suspension appeals. Members also discussed the 2022-23 committee schedule, summer meeting reductions, and planning for a Board retreat.

• Approved long-term suspension appeals Resolution 2021-22: 592 (7-0)
• Decided on a reduced meeting schedule for July, excluding the Policy Committee
• Adjourned meeting at 7:13pm (6-0)

Special Meeting to Convene for Consideration of Resolutions

The Rochester Board of Education considered several resolutions appointing staff to tenure and non‑tenure positions. Motions to grant tenure to professional educators and to appoint administrators—including principals, assistant principals, and directors—were adopted. The board also approved an amendment to split one resolution, a grant‑funded community school coordinator role, and an acting assignment for special education. All motions carried.

• Appointment of five professional educators to tenure areas with salaries of $49,846/yr or $58,925/yr
• Appointment of eight administrators (principals, assistant principals, directors) to tenure areas with salaries ranging from $90,000/yr to $112,988/yr
• Amendment to split Resolution 2021‑22: 589 into parts (a) and (b) separating the director of Specialized Services
• Appointment of Alicia Fonseca as Community School Site Coordinator (grant‑funded) at $83,000/yr
• Appointment of Shannon D'Agostino to an acting Associate Director of Special Education at $74,951/yr

The Board of Education approved multiple resolutions regarding staff tenure, civil service appointments, and resignations. One resolution regarding the director of specialized services was split into two parts before approval. One resolution regarding CSE/CPSE appointments was withdrawn.

• Approved professional educator tenure appointments (7-0)
• Approved administrative tenure appointments via Resolution 589a (7-0)
• Approved administrative tenure appointment for director of specialized services via Resolution 589b (6-1)
• Approved non-tenure bearing grant funded position appointment (7-0)
• Approved 'acting' administrative positions (7-0)
• Accepted resignations for retirement and general purposes (7-0)
• Approved termination(s) (7-0)
• Approved provisional and permanent Civil Service appointments (7-0)

Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District Board of Education convened to approve minutes from a prior meeting and discuss updates on teaching, learning, and student data. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session.

• Approved minutes from April 12, 2022 ESA Committee of the Whole
• Teaching & Learning Updates presentation
• Data Presentation from the Office of Accountability
• [POSTPONED] Receivership & School Comprehensive Education Plan (SCEP) Presentation
• Board House Keeping Matters: Proposed changes to Board Bylaws (Policy 2300)

The committee approved the minutes from the April 12, 2022 meeting. Members reviewed teaching and learning updates and data from the Office of Accountability, though no formal policy decisions were made during the session.

• Approved minutes from April 12, 2022 ESA COW meeting (7-0)
• Convened into Executive Session at 7:52pm (7-0)
• Exited Executive Session at 8:38pm (7-0)

Board Work Session: Facilities Modernization Program

The Board of Education held a work session to discuss the history, funding, and Phase III planning of the Facilities Modernization Program. The Board also formally adopted decisions regarding four long-term student suspension appeals.

• Review of Facilities Modernization Program (FMP) Phase III legislation
• Presentation on FMP funding mechanisms and Phase III planning
• Upheld suspension decisions for hearing files 352 and 358
• Reduced suspension penalties to 30 days for hearing files 392 and 393
• Discussion of a 2022 Board Retreat Proposal

Special Meeting: Budget Adoption

The Rochester Board of Education will hold a special meeting to adopt the 2022-23 budget totaling $983,599,049 across all funds. The agenda includes a resolution to close The Leadership Academy for Young Men and relocate Northeast College Preparatory High School to its site. A walk-on resolution for budget adoption has been added after the original resolution was withdrawn.

• Adoption of $983,599,049 budget for 2022-23 fiscal year
• Closure of The Leadership Academy for Young Men (4115 Lake Avenue) after 2021-22 school year
• Relocation of Northeast College Preparatory High School from 940 Fernwood Park to 4115 Lake Avenue
• Use of $10M appropriated fund balance (less than 15% of total)
• $1M from School Food Service Fund appropriated balance for food service upgrades

The Board of Education approved the budget estimates for the 2022-23 fiscal year. The Board also authorized the closure of the Leadership Academy for Young Men and the relocation of Northeast College Preparatory High School.

• Approved 2022-23 Budget estimates (4-3)
• Approved closure of Leadership Academy for Young Men and relocation of Northeast College Preparatory High School from 940 Fernwood Park to 4115 Lake Avenue (4-2, 1 absent)
• Approved recess into Executive Session (7-0)
• Approved return to Open Session (5-0, 2 not present)
• Approved adjournment (5-0, 2 not present)

Charter School Public Hearings - Urban Choice Charter School

The Rochester Board of Education is holding a public hearing to gather community input regarding a proposal for Urban Choice Charter School. The board will provide this input to the New York State Education Department.

• Proposal by Urban Choice Charter School to discontinue the requirement to contract with a comprehensive management services entity
• Plan by Urban Choice Charter School to hire additional staff or partner with consultants for turnaround efforts

The Board conducted a public hearing to gather community input regarding a proposal by Urban Choice Charter School to remove the requirement to contract with a comprehensive management services entity. No speakers or written comments were submitted. The matter was slated for Board approval at the May 26, 2022 Business Meeting.

• Conducted public hearing for Urban Choice Charter School charter revision

Second Budget Deliberation Session

The Rochester Board of Education held its second 2022‑23 budget deliberation session, reviewing budget chapters and receiving updates from the Finance Chair and Superintendent. Board members voted on a motion to amend the budget, adding $23,405,858 for school food service items. An executive session was convened to discuss personnel and legal matters before the meeting adjourned at 9:13 p.m.

• Motion approved to amend the 2022‑23 budget with $23,405,858 for food services
• Finance Chair gave opening remarks and explained the deliberation process
• Superintendent presented a finance update and answered budget questions
• Executive session called to discuss appointment of a specific individual and General Counsel concerns
• Meeting adjourned at 9:13 p.m.

The Board of Education held its final deliberation session for the 2022-23 budget, reviewing school management, capital improvements, and ARP/CRRSA funding. The Board approved a budget amendment to increase funding for food services. No other substantive budget decisions were made during this session.

• Approved $23,405,858 budget amendment for food services (6-0)

Policy Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District Board of Education Policy Committee approved several new and rescinded policies, including a preschool education policy and the rescission of an instructional goals policy. The committee also approved minutes from a previous meeting and voted to suspend rules for video conferencing.

• Approved minutes from March 29, 2022 Policy COW Meeting
• Forwarded Preschool Education Programs Policy (Policy 4320.5) out of the committee
• Forwarded Goals for Instructional Program (Policy 0210) out of the committee
• Forwarded multiple 4000 Series Policies (4000, 4320, 4350, 4730) out of the committee
• Forwarded Admission of Foreign Students (Policy 5152.1) out of the committee

The Policy Committee of the Whole voted to forward several policies out of committee, including those regarding preschool, arts, and homework. The committee also voted to rescind the Goals for Instructional Program policy.

• Forwarded Preschool Education Programs Policy 4320.5 (6-0)
• Forwarded rescission of Goals for Instructional Program Policy 0210 (6-1)
• Forwarded Instructional Goals Policy 4000 (7-0)
• Forwarded Arts Education Policy 4320 (7-0)
• Forwarded Multicultural Global Education Policy 4350 (6-0)
• Forwarded Homework Policy 4730 (6-0)
• Forwarded Admission of Foreign Students Policy 5152.1 (7-0)
• Approved March 29, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Special Meeting to Convene for Consideration of Resolutions

The Rochester Board of Education convened a special meeting to consider resolutions. It approved a $52,500 settlement of a New York State Division of Human Rights claim, upheld most student suspension appeals, and authorized a $50,000 agreement with the Council of the Great City Schools for an operational review. An administrative tenure appointment was withdrawn.

• Settlement of NYSDHR claim (Carleen F. Pierce) for $52,500 from General Fund
• Agreement with Council of the Great City Schools for $50,000 from ARP grant for operational review
• Suspension appeals: 4 upheld, 1 modified (student returned 4 days early)
• Motion to suspend video conferencing policy to allow more than one commissioner via Zoom
• Appointment to administrative tenure area (Stephanie Yehl, $105,000/yr) was withdrawn

The Board of Education approved a settlement for NYSDHR claims and authorized an agreement with the Council of the Great City Schools. The Board also adopted decisions on long-term suspension appeals. One resolution regarding an appointment to the administrative tenure area was withdrawn.

• Suspended Video Conferencing Policy 2350 to allow multiple commissioners on Zoom (7-0)
• Lifted Resolution 2021-22: 541b from the table (7-0)
• Withdrew Resolution 2021-22: 541b regarding appointment to administrative tenure area
• Adopted decisions on long-term suspension appeals Resolution 2021-22: 581 (7-0)
• Approved settlement of NYSDHR claims Resolution 2021-22: 582 (6-0)
• Authorized agreement with Council of the Great City Schools Resolution 2021-22: 583 (4-2)

Audit Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District Audit Committee of the Whole approved the 2022 Freed Maxick audit plan and accepted the 2021 Single Audit report. The meeting also included the review and acceptance of March 2022 claims audit minutes.

• Accept March 2022 Claims Audit Report
• Approve 2021 Single Audit (Resolution No. 2021-22:578)
• Approve 2022 Freed Maxick Audit Plan (Resolution No. 2021-22:579)
• Review and Accept March 2022 Audit COW Minutes
• Executive Session scheduled for employment matters

The Audit Committee of the Whole approved the 2021 Single Audit, which contained no findings or deficiencies. The committee also accepted the March 2022 Claims Audit Report and approved the 2022 Freed Maxick Audit Plan.

• Approved minutes from May 25, 2021 Audit COW (7-0)
• Accepted March 2022 Claims Audit Report (7-0)
• Approved 2021 Single Audit Resolution No. 2021-22:578 (7-0)
• Approved 2022 Freed Maxick Audit Plan Resolution No. 2021-22:579 (7-0)

Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education will approve minutes from the March 18 emergency special meeting and the March 29 special meeting. It will accept the unaudited March 2022 financial report and approve the 2021‑22 third‑quarter change order report. The board will also consider a consent agenda that includes unpaid leaves of absence and multiple staff resignations, and may enter an executive session to discuss personnel appointments and collective bargaining matters.

• Accept the March 2022 Financial Report (unaudited)
• Approve the 2021‑22 third quarter change order report
• Approve minutes of the March 18, 2022 Emergency Special Meeting
• Approve minutes of the March 29, 2022 Special Meeting
• Consent agenda items: unpaid leaves of absence and staff resignations

The Board of Education approved the March 2022 unaudited financial report and the third quarter change order report. The board also approved a series of personnel resolutions including tenure, appointments, and additional pay for specific schools. One administrative appointment was tabled until May 3, 2022.

• Approved March 2022 unaudited Financial Report (7-0)
• Approved 2021-22 third quarter change order report (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including leaves of absence, resignations, and special education recommendations (7-0)
• Granted tenure to listed individuals (7-0)
• Approved appointments to professional and administrative tenure areas (7-0)
• Tabled administrative tenure appointment Resolution 2021-22:541b until 5/3/22 (7-0)
• Approved permanent and provisional civil service appointments (7-0)
• Authorized additional pay for professional work and assessments at Schools No. 7, 8, 12, and 28 (7-0)

Budget Deliberation Session

The Rochester Board of Education meets as a special session for the first of two budget deliberation sessions on the proposed 2022-23 budget. The agenda includes opening remarks, a superintendent finance update, and discussion of budget chapters such as revenue, positions, administration, debt service, and the capital improvement plan. The board may also enter executive session to discuss personnel or legal matters.

• Superintendent finance update presentation on the 2022-23 budget
• Discussion of budget chapters: Budget-at-a-glance, Revenue Summary, Position Summary, Administration Management, Debt Service, and Capital Improvement Plan
• Round 1 and Round 2 budget question logs with responses from administration
• Possible executive session to discuss appointment of specific individual or matters with General Counsel

The Board of Education conducted a deliberation session to review the proposed 2022-23 budget. Commissioners posed questions regarding school food services, staffing, and debt service; no votes were taken on budget approvals during this session.

• Adjourned meeting at 9:58pm (7-0)

2022-23 Public Budget Hearing

The Rochester City School District Board of Education held a public hearing to receive feedback on the proposed 2022-23 budget. The meeting included executive session and a vote to authorize legal defense for a board member.

• Public Budget Hearing for 2022-23 school year
• Executive session regarding personnel matters
• Authorization for legal defense of Board member Beatriz LeBron
• Next Budget Deliberation Session scheduled for April 26
• Key budget dates and deadlines listed for the 2022-23 fiscal year

The Board held a public hearing for the 2022-23 budget where 13 speakers provided comments on funding and transparency. No votes were taken on the budget itself. The Board approved a resolution to provide legal defense and indemnification for Beatriz LeBron.

• Authorized legal defense and indemnification for Beatriz LeBron (5-2)
• Approved motion to enter executive session (7-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session (7-0)

Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole

The Equity in Student Achievement Committee will act on personnel appointments, including provisional and permanent hires with salaries, and vote on the 2022-2023 school calendar. The board may also enter executive session and consider amendments to a suspension appeal resolution.

• Approve 2022-2023 school calendar (Resolution 2021-22: 522)
• Provisional appointment of Byron Noble as Assistant Director of Transportation at $81,307/yr
• Permanent appointment of 26 employees including paraprofessionals at $15.00/hr and a Senior Personnel Analyst at $72,000/yr
• Appointment of Jamie Bickom as Community Schools Site Coordinator at $88,443/yr (grant-funded)
• Reconsideration and amendment of Suspension Appeal Resolution 2021-22: 527

The Committee approved the 2022-23 school calendar and updated the budget review process key dates. The Board also authorized several personnel actions, including civil service appointments and a probationary period extension. Additionally, the committee voted to amend and adopt decisions regarding long-term suspension appeals.

• Approved 2022-2023 School Calendar (6-1)
• Approved updated 2022-23 Budget Review Process key dates (7-0)
• Approved extension of probationary period (Resolution 2021-22: 529) (7-0)
• Approved non-tenure bearing grant funded position appointment (Resolution 2021-22: 530) (7-0)
• Approved provisional appointment to competitive civil service titles (Resolution 2021-22: 531) (7-0)
• Approved permanent appointment to classified civil service titles (Resolution 2021-22: 532) (7-0)
• Approved amendment and formal adoption of long-term suspension appeals (Resolution 2021-22: 533) (7-0)
• Accepted minutes from March 8, 2022 ESA COW (7-0)

Policy Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District Policy Committee of the Whole met on March 29, 2022. The committee voted to suspend the terms of Video Conferencing Policy 2350 so more than one commissioner can participate via Zoom. It also accepted the minutes from the February 1, 2022 Policy COW meeting and forwarded several policy items out of the committee for further action.

• Motion to suspend Video Conferencing Policy 2350 to allow >1 commissioner via Zoom – passed
• Motion to accept minutes from the February 1, 2022 Policy COW meeting – passed
• Motion to forward Evaluation of the Superintendent Policy (Policy 0320) out of the committee – passed
• Motion to forward Student Attendance and Withdrawal (Policy 5100) out of the committee – passed
• Motion to forward Cocurricular and Extracurricular Programs (Policy 5200) rescind out of the committee – passed

The Policy Committee of the Whole approved forwarding several policies to the Board, including those regarding school closures, student attendance, and superintendent evaluation. The committee also voted to rescind policies on cocurricular programs, student discipline, and student rights and responsibilities.

• Approved forwarding Evaluation of the Superintendent Policy 0320 (5-1)
• Approved forwarding Student Attendance and Withdrawal Policy 5100 (7-0)
• Approved forwarding McKinney-Vento Act Policy 5110 (7-0)
• Approved forwarding Admission of Non-Resident Students Policy 5152 (7-0)
• Approved rescinding Cocurricular and Extracurricular Programs Policy 5200 (7-0)
• Approved forwarding Student Organizations Policy 5210 (7-0)
• Approved forwarding School Uniforms Policy 5230 (7-0)
• Approved rescinding Student Discipline Policy 5310 and Student Rights and Responsibilities Policy 5311 (7-0)

Special Meeting to Convene for Consideration of Resolutions

The Rochester Board of Education held a special meeting to consider resolutions. They approved the February 2022 unaudited financial report, amended a prior resolution to restore administration profiles in the 2022-23 budget book, and formally adopted decisions on four long-term suspension appeals (upholding three and reducing one penalty). They also granted Acting General Counsel Adrian Neil authority to select and retain outside counsel. The board entered executive session to discuss personnel matters and then adjourned.

• Accepted the February 2022 Financial Report (unaudited)
• Amended Resolution 2021-22:428 to restore administration profiles and budgets in the draft 2022-23 budget book
• Adopted decisions on four long-term suspension appeals (Hearing Files 205, 235, 267 upheld; 301 penalty reduced, student may return May 9, 2022)
• Authorized Acting General Counsel Adrian Neil to select and retain outside counsel
• Entered executive session to discuss employment of a particular individual and receive legal advice

The Board of Education amended the 2022-23 budget book format to re-insert administration profiles and budgets. Other actions included accepting a financial report and granting authority to retain outside counsel.

• Approved March 24, 2022 Charter School Hearing minutes (6-1)
• Accepted February 2022 unaudited Financial Report (7-0)
• Amended Resolution 2021-22: 428 to restore previous format for administration profiles and budgets in the 2022-23 Budget Book (7-0)
• Adopted decisions on long-term suspension appeals (7-0)
• Granted authority to select and retain outside counsel (7-0)

Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education is reviewing the 2022-23 budget via a State Monitor's presentation and considering several unaudited financial reports. The board is also processing a series of meeting minutes from late 2021 and early 2022.

• Acceptance of a $9,000 donation from Dick's Sporting Goods Foundation for physical fitness equipment at Henry Hudson School #28
• State Monitor's presentation on the 2022-23 Budget
• Approval of the August 2021 and February 2022 unaudited financial reports
• Review of reports from the Bilingual Education Council and Parent Leadership Advisory Council
• Final payment to Concord Electric Corp. for Joseph C. Wilson Foundation Academy

The Board of Education approved a series of personnel actions, including tenure grants, civil service appointments, and resignations. The Board also accepted a donation from Dick's Sporting Goods Foundation and approved a final payment to Concord Electric Corp. A presentation on the proposed 2022-23 budget was provided by the State Monitor.

• Approved consent agenda including Dick's Sporting Goods donation and Concord Electric Corp. final payment (7-0)
• Authorized CSE/CPSE recommendations for Special Education Programs & Services 2021-22 (7-0)
• Approved unpaid leaves of absence, retirements, and resignations (7-0)
• Approved amendments Resolution 2021-22: 485 (6-0)
• Approved provisional civil service appointments (7-0)
• Approved appointments to non-tenure bearing grant funded positions (6-0)
• Approved professional educator tenure area appointments (7-0)
• Approved permanent civil service appointments and employee recalls (7-0)

Charter School Public Hearings - Green Tech Rochester Elementary Charter School; and Rochester Sports Academy Charter School of Business and Health Science

The Rochester City School District Board of Education is conducting public hearings for two proposed charter schools: Green Tech Rochester Elementary Charter School and Rochester Sports Academy Charter School of Business and Health Science. The purpose of the hearings is to gather community input for the New York State Education Department.

• Green Tech Rochester Elementary Charter School public hearing
• Rochester Sports Academy Charter School of Business and Health Science public hearing
• Public comment period for both charter applications
• Hearing held via Zoom Video Conferencing
• Procedural hearing required by Education Law subdivision 2857(1)

The Board conducted public hearings to gather community input for the New York State Education Department regarding two charter school applications. No formal votes or decisions were made during the hearings.

Special Meeting to convene as a Finance Committee of the Whole for the presentation of the District & East EPO Superintendents' 2022-23 Budget

The Board of Education convened as a Finance Committee of the Whole to hear budget presentations. The meeting included presentations from both the District Superintendent and the East EPO Superintendent regarding the 2022-23 budget.

• East EPO Superintendent's 2022-23 Budget Presentation
• District Superintendent's 2022-23 Budget Presentation

The Finance Committee of the Whole received budget presentations for the District and East EPO for the 2022-23 cycle. No votes were taken on the budgets, which are slated for approval on June 21, 2022. The board also convened a brief executive session to discuss personnel or legal matters.

• Approved motion to convene in Executive Session (7-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session (7-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (7-0)

Emergency Special Meeting to consider changes to the 2022-23 Budget Book

The Rochester City School District Board of Education held an emergency special meeting to consider changes to the 2022-23 Budget Book. The board voted unanimously to change the format of the draft budget book by re-inserting section 5 back into the document. The meeting also included a closed executive session and adjourned at 9:06 a.m.

• Resolution No. 2021-22:478 to change the format of the draft 2022-23 Budget Book by adding section 5 back in
• Motion by Ricardo Adams, second by Camille Simmons, carried 7-0
• Agenda included discussion and consideration of changes to the 2022-23 Budget Book
• Meeting recessed into executive session for personnel or legal matters
• Next budget event scheduled for March 22, 2022 at 5:30 p.m.

The Board of Education met to address the removal of spending details from the draft budget. The Board voted to change the format of the document to add Section 5 back into the 2022-23 Budget Book.

• Approved Resolution No. 2021-22: 478 to re-insert section 5 into the draft 2022-23 Budget Book (7-0)

Special Meeting to convene as a Finance Committee of the Whole to consider an Update on the 2022-23 Budget process

The Rochester Board of Education met as a Finance Committee of the Whole to consider updates on the 2022-23 budget process. The board voted to accept an updated budget calendar as amended. Members also reviewed the proposed general fund budget brief and long-range financial plan. Two budget presentations by the east EPO and district superintendents were postponed to March 22.

• Motion carried to accept the Updated 2022-23 Budget Calendar as Amended
• Reviewed Proposed General Fund Budget Brief and Long Range Plan
• East EPO Superintendent's 2022-23 Budget Presentation postponed to 3/22
• District Superintendent's 2022-23 Budget Presentation postponed to 3/22
• Discussion of Update on the 2022-23 Budget Calendar and Budget Process

Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole

The Rochester Board of Education, acting as the Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole, held a special meeting with no public speakers. After approving minutes from the previous meeting, the board passed a series of personnel resolutions including appointments to special education committees, tenure-area teaching positions, part-time roles, grant-funded positions, and civil service titles with specified salaries.

• Appointed Paul Holmes and Shannon Mullins to the Committee on Special Education (CSE/CPSE)
• Extended probationary period for teaching assistant Idabel Bravo-Gonzalez at School No. 12 through March 11, 2023
• Appointed seven educators to professional tenure areas, including Kaitlyn Keihl (English, School of the Arts, $47,854/yr) and Natalya Arapov-Makarenko (ESOL, School No. 52, $54,184/yr)
• Appointed Brenda Brunette to a part-time special education position (0.6 FTE, $29,907/yr) in Specialized Services Zone 3
• Grant-funded appointments: Kimberly Brown (Community School Site Coordinator, Wilson Foundation Academy, $72,000/yr) and Sean VanHatten (Project Implementation Specialist, $81,900/yr)

The Committee of the Whole approved multiple resolutions regarding staff appointments, tenure, and resignations. The board also reviewed a school spotlight presentation and a report on strategic community partnerships.

• Approved appointment to CSE/CPSE (5-0)
• Approved extension of probationary periods (5-0)
• Approved appointments to professional educator tenure area (6-0)
• Approved part-time appointments within teacher tenure area (6-0)
• Approved appointments to non-tenure grant funded positions (6-0)
• Approved provisional appointments to Competitive Civil Service titles (5-1)
• Approved permanent appointments to classified Civil Service titles (6-0)
• Approved staff retirements, resignations, and terminations (6-0)

2022-23 Public Budget Webinar

The Rochester Board of Education will hold a virtual public budget webinar on March 2, 2022 at 5:30 p.m. via Zoom. The Department of Finance and the BOE Finance Committee will present an overview of funding allocation for the 2022‑23 school year and demonstrate the “Balancing Act” budgeting simulation tool. Attendees may submit questions by email or during the live chat, and responses will be posted later.

• Virtual webinar on 2022‑23 budget (March 2, 2022, 5:30 p.m., Zoom)
• Overview by Department of Finance and BOE Finance Committee
• Demonstration of “Balancing Act” budgeting simulation tool
• Q&A via email ([email protected]) and live chat
• Presentation file attached: Budget Webinar Presentation 3.2.2022 FINAL.pdf (2,685 KB)

Audit Committee of the Whole

The Rochester Board of Education Audit Committee of the Whole reviewed student suspension appeals and audit reports. The body also discussed district masking survey results and vendor performance.

• Adopted decisions on three long-term suspension appeals (Files 190, 196, and 197)
• Accepted the 'Substitute Management Follow Up Audit' report
• Discussion of RCSD Masking Survey results
• Discussion of vendor performance and renewal
• Update from the Auditor General

The committee approved the Substitute Management Follow Up Audit report and adopted decisions regarding long-term suspension appeals. Superintendent Myers-Smalls provided an update on masking and survey results. The board also entered an executive session to discuss personnel or legal matters.

• Approved March 1, 2022 Audit COW Agenda (6-0)
• Approved December 7, 2021 Audit COW Minutes (6-0)
• Adopted decisions on long-term suspension appeals Resolution No. 2021-22: 466 (6-0)
• Accepted Substitute Management Follow Up Audit report (6-0)
• Approved recess into Executive Session at 6:30pm (6-0)
• Approved return to Open Session at 7:59pm (5-0)

[CANCELLED] Policy Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District's Policy Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled for March 1, 2022, was cancelled. The agenda included a review of proposed school closure policies and executive session topics.

• Cancellation of Policy Committee of the Whole meeting
• Discussion of Policy 7600 regarding closure of school buildings
• Review of NYSSBA policy recommendations
• Acceptance of February 1, 2022 Policy COW minutes
• Executive session on personnel and legal matters

Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education approved the January 2022 unaudited financial report and accepted three gift resolutions totaling $17,500 for school libraries and science materials. The meeting also included the acceptance of prior meeting minutes and reports from various advisory councils.

• Accepts $10,000 from Community Foundation for Edison Career & Technology High School
• Approves January 2022 Unaudited Financial Report
• Accepts $4,000 from Corning Foundation for Edison Career & Technology High School
• Accepts $2,500 from Charities Aid Foundation for Henry Hudson School #28
• Accepts $1,500 from Monroe HS Class of 1956 for library materials

The Board of Education approved the January 2022 Unaudited Financial Report and a consent agenda including multiple gift acceptances and special education recommendations. The Board also authorized numerous personnel actions, including tenure grants, appointments, and additional pay for various district programs.

• Approved January 2022 Unaudited Financial Report (6-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including gift acceptances and CSE/CPSE recommendations (6-0)
• Granted tenure to listed individuals (6-0)
• Appointed individuals to professional educator tenure area (6-0)
• Appointed individuals to administrative tenure area (5-1)
• Authorized OACES Adult Career and Technical (CTE) Courses (6-0)
• Approved additional pay for East EPO Extra Scholar Support (6-0)
• Approved additional pay for Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Training (6-0)

[TRAINING MEETING]

The Rochester City School District Board of Education convened for a training meeting to appoint staff to special education and administrative positions and to review audit committee discussion items.

• Appointments to CSE/CPSE committee
• Appointment of Gross to Assistant Principal ($80,000/yr.)
• Appointment of Johnson to Assistant Principal ($100,690/yr.)
• Appointment of Nunez to Principal ($105,000/yr.)
• Presentation of District Audit Results - June 30, 2021

Finance and Resource Allocation Committee of the Whole

The committee heard a presentation on the 2022-23 preliminary budget forecast and its alignment to the strategic/fiscal plan. They also reviewed and discussed financial reports, including the December 2021 unaudited report, and forwarded them to the February 17 business meeting. Several actions were taken, including amending a suspension appeal resolution and accepting the updated 2022 legislative agenda.

• Presentation and discussion of 2022-23 preliminary budget forecast
• Review and forwarding of December 2021 unaudited financial report to business meeting
• Motion to accept updated 2022 Legislative Agenda (carried unanimously)
• Motion to amend Suspension Appeal Resolution 2021-22: 423 (carried 6-1)
• Presentation on Oracle Cloud ERP project status

The committee approved the updated 2022 Legislative Agenda and forwarded January 2022 financial reports for a future business meeting. Members also voted to reconsider and amend Suspension Appeal Resolution 2021-22: 423. The session included presentations on the 2022-23 preliminary budget forecast and hiring practices.

• Approved updated 2022 Legislative Agenda (7-0)
• Approved motion to reconsider Suspension Appeal Resolution 2021-22: 423 (6-1)
• Approved motion to amend Suspension Appeal Resolution 2021-22: 423 (6-1)
• Approved forwarding January 2022 financial reports to 2/17 Business Meeting (6-0)
• Accepted minutes from December 21, 2021 Finance COW (6-0)
• Approved suspension of Video Conferencing Policy 2350 (6-0)

Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole

The Equity in Student Achievement Committee accepted the minutes from its December 2021 and January 2022 meetings. It approved appointments to the professional educator tenure area for several teachers and counselors with salaries ranging from $47,854 to $60,400 per year. The board also made provisional competitive civil service appointments and permanent classified civil service appointments with hourly or annual salaries. Finally, it accepted a series of resignations for retirement and other reasons effective between January and June 2022.

• Appointment to professional educator tenure area: Parker ($47,854/yr), Foster ($58,925/yr), Gibson ($52,925/yr), Johnson ($50,864/yr), Petty ($60,400/yr), Platt ($49,846/yr), DePass ($52,925/yr), Hughes ($57,468/yr), Pavlik ($55,756/yr), Anderson (Teaching Assistant $18.00/hr), Steines (Teaching Assistant $18.00/hr).
• Provisional competitive civil service appointments: Hiram Ortega – Assistant Transportation Director $75,000/yr; Maria Estevez – Guard $18.36/hr; Michael Ilievski – Network Administrator $40.64/hr.
• Permanent classified civil service appointments: Jewel Brewer – Bus Driver $20.53/hr; Ervin Vega – Custodial Assistant $16.84/hr; Chaz Hendrick – Custodial Assistant $16.84/hr; multiple paraprofessionals at $15.00‑$16.56/hr; Stephanie Crane – Secretary I $60,519/yr.
• Resignations for retirement: Kecia Binko (Blind/Visually Handicapped), Cristina Messore (Elementary), William Soleim (Elementary), Samuel Simpson (Mathematics), Sheila Murphy (Special Education) with effective dates in 2022.
• Other resignations accepted: Jefferson Dedrick (Director of Human Capital), Melanie Orth (Elementary), Jonathan Giordano (Mathematics), Nigel Croston (Music), Alexis Hughes (School Sentry I), Charles Zlotkus (PT Internal Investigator) with various effective dates.

The Committee approved several personnel actions, including tenure and civil service appointments, as well as resignations. Members also discussed school closures, grade configurations, and curriculum adoption schedules.

• Approved professional educator tenure appointments (6-0)
• Approved provisional competitive civil service appointments (6-0)
• Approved permanent classified civil service appointments (6-0)
• Approved resignations for retirement purposes (6-0)
• Approved general resignations (6-0)
• Approved long-term suspension appeals (5-0)
• Accepted minutes from December 14, 2021 meeting (5-0)
• Accepted minutes from January 11, 2022 meeting (5-0)

[CANCELLED]Board Work Session: Academic and Financial Plans

The Rochester City School District Board of Education Work Session scheduled for February 8, 2022, was cancelled. The agenda included discussion items regarding the Board Review of the Academic Plan and the Fiscal Plan.

• Cancelled: Board Work Session: Academic and Financial Plans
• Discussion: Board Review of the Academic Plan
• Discussion: Board Review of the Fiscal Plan
• Action: Motion to enter Executive Session
• Action: Motion to adjourn the meeting

Board Work Session: 2022-23 Budget Book Proposal, Zone Reconfiguration Plans and the Managed Choice Policy

The Rochester Board of Education held a work session on February 3, 2022 to discuss the 2022‑23 Budget Book Proposal, Managed Choice policy, and zone reconfiguration plans. The board accepted minutes from the January 13 and January 20 work sessions, considered the budget book proposal, and debated the Managed Choice‑zone reconfiguration update. After an executive‑session motion, the board voted to approve the recommendations on page 10 of the reconfiguration proposal.

• Accept agenda and minutes from Jan 13 and Jan 20 work sessions
• Discussion of the 2022‑23 Budget Book Proposal (attachments: Crosswalk, Draft Example)
• Discussion on Managed Choice and zone reconfiguration (attachment: Zone Reconfiguration Recommendation Update – Dr. Genelle Morris)
• Motion to enter and exit executive session regarding employment matters
• Approve the recommendations on page 10 of the zone reconfiguration proposal (motion carried)

Community and Intergovernmental Relations Committee of the Whole

The Community and Intergovernmental Relations Committee of the Whole met on February 1, 2022, and approved the legislative agenda for the March 5, 2022 Legislative Breakfast. The meeting also included approval of previous meeting minutes, updates on legislative breakfast events, and discussions of legislative announcements. The board entered executive session to discuss personnel appointments and legal matters.

• Approved the 2022 Abbreviated RCSD Legislative Agenda for the March 5, 2022 Legislative Breakfast
• Accepted minutes from the November 2, 2021 CIGR COW meeting
• Discussed updates on the Monroe County School Board Association (MCSBA) Legislative Breakfast (Feb 5) and Big 5 Legislative Conference (Mar 1-2)
• Board entered executive session for personnel appointments and counsel discussions

The Community and Intergovernmental Relations Committee approved the amended Legislative Agenda for the March 5, 2022 Legislative Breakfast. The committee also accepted the minutes from the November 2, 2021 meeting.

• Approved Legislative Agenda as amended for March 5, 2022 Legislative Breakfast (6-0)
• Accepted minutes from November 2, 2021 CIGR COW Meeting (6-0)
• Accepted meeting agenda (6-0)

Policy Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District Policy Committee of the Whole approved minutes from December and January and voted to forward proposed policies on public board hearings and facilities to the full board for further consideration. The meeting concluded at 6:14 p.m.

• Acceptance of December 7, 2021 Policy COW minutes
• Acceptance of January 4, 2022 Policy COW minutes
• Forward Public Board Hearings (Policy 2390) out of committee
• Forward Facilities Policies 7000-7500 out of committee
• Adjournment at 6:14 p.m.

The Policy Committee of the Whole approved forwarding policies regarding public board hearings and facilities (7000-7500) out of the committee. Members agreed to rename Policy 7050 to Capital Planning for Shared Building Use. Policy 7600 was held for further discussion on equity.

• Approved minutes from December 7, 2021 meeting (6-0)
• Approved minutes from January 4, 2022 meeting (6-0)
• Forwarded Public Board Hearings Policy 2390 and 2390-E1 out of committee (6-0)
• Forwarded Facilities Policies 7000-7500 out of committee (6-0)
• Renamed Policy 7050 to Capital Planning for Shared Building Use
• Tabled Policy 7600 for further discussion on equity

Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education is reviewing financial reports and approving final payments for various school construction projects. The meeting also includes reports from student, parent, and bilingual education advisory councils.

• Final payment of $46,347.40 to Crosby-Brownlie, Inc. for mechanical work at School of the Arts
• Final payment of $2,436.45 to Nairy Mechanical LLC for plumbing work at Henry Lomb School No. 20
• Final payment of $4,935.00 to E Plumbing and Piping at Abelard Reynolds School No. 42
• Final payment of $869.60 to Lozier Environmental Consulting, Inc. for air monitoring at Abelard Reynolds School No. 42
• Acceptance of the December 2021 Financial Report and 2021-22 Second Quarter Quarterly Change Order Report

The Board of Education accepted the December 2021 unaudited financial report and the 2021-22 second quarter change order report. Members approved a consent agenda including final payments for school facility projects and special education recommendations. The Board also authorized several personnel appointments, tenure grants, and additional pay for specific training and grants.

• Accepted December 2021 Financial Report and 2021-22 Second Quarter Quarterly Change Order Report (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including final payments to Crosby-Brownlie, Inc., Nairy Mechanical LLC, E Plumbing and Piping, and Lozier Environmental Consulting, Inc. (6-0)
• Authorized CSE/CPSE Recommendations for Special Education Programs & Services 2021-22 (6-0)
• Approved provisional and permanent Civil Service appointments (6-0)
• Approved appointments to professional educator and administrative tenure areas (6-0)
• Granted tenure to listed individuals (6-0)
• Authorized additional pay for Non-Violent Crisis Intervention training and trainers (6-0)
• Approved additional pay for Title 1 Parent Family Engagement Grant at School No. 9 and Coordinators of Supplemental Funds (6-0)

Board Work Session: Board Governance Matters

The Rochester Board of Education held a work session to discuss governance matters including communications protocol, board meeting structure, and remote vs. in-person meetings. The board also voted to enter into an agreement with Ferrara Fiorenza P.C. for special education legal services at a rate not to exceed $230 per hour, totaling up to $7,000. The meeting included a possible executive session on employment matters.

• Approval of agreement with Ferrara Fiorenza P.C. for legal services, $230/hour up to $7,000 total
• Discussion of board governance topics: communications protocol, board question log, meeting structure, remote vs. in-person meetings, and upcoming work sessions
• Possible executive session to discuss employment of a particular individual
• Motion to adjourn carried unanimously (5-0, with one member not present)

The Board approved a legal agreement with Ferrara Fiorenza P.C. and decided that Committee of the Whole and Business meetings will remain in person. Members also discussed updating communications protocols and the Board Question Log to improve response times from administration.

• Approved agreement with Ferrara Fiorenza P.C. (Resolution 2021-22: 377) (5-0)
• Decided Committee of the Whole and Business meetings will remain in person
• Decided Board Work Sessions will be held virtually on an as-needed basis
• Entered Executive Session at 7:20 p.m. (5-0)
• Exited Executive Session at 7:23 p.m. (5-0)

[NOTE: MEETING IS CANCELLED-discussions will be revisited in the 2/3 Board Work Session] Board Work Session: Grade Configurations

The Rochester City School District Board of Education Work Session scheduled for January 18, 2022, was cancelled. Discussions regarding grade configurations will be revisited in the February 3 Board Work Session.

• Meeting cancelled
• Grade configuration discussions postponed to 2/3 Board Work Session
• Potential executive session on employment matters
• Next meeting: January 20, 2022 Board Work Session

Board Work Session: School Closure and Reconfiguration Plans

The Rochester Board of Education held a work session to discuss school closure and reconfiguration plans. The board also voted on a long-term suspension appeal.

• Discussion on the School Closure and Reconfiguration Plan facilitated by Deputy Morris
• Adoption of Resolution No. 2021-22: 376 to uphold the Superintendent's decision on a long-term suspension appeal (Hearing File 9)

The Board held a work session to discuss the School Closure and Reconfiguration Plan, resulting in several requests for additional data and follow-up from the Superintendent. The Board formally adopted decisions regarding long-term suspension appeals.

• Approved Suspension Appeal Resolution No. 2021-22: 376 (7-0)

Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole

The Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole met to approve various personnel appointments. The body decided on tenure-track placements for educators, grant-funded positions, and provisional and permanent civil service appointments.

• Appointment of 12 educators to tenure areas, including salaries such as $62,784/yr for Ida Marra and Gina Menzer-Kunz
• Appointment of Carly Rae Jelsma as Community School Site Coordinator at School No. 12 for $76,810/yr
• Provisional appointment of Emma Miller as Senior Research Analyst in the Department of School Efficiencies for $93,000/yr
• Permanent appointment of various classified staff, including bus drivers and paraprofessionals
• Executive session held from 5:38 p.m. to 6:31 p.m. regarding individual appointments and General Counsel matters

The Committee of the Whole approved several personnel actions, including tenure and civil service appointments, and accepted resignations. Members also reviewed academic updates, special education reports, and the transition of schools returning to in-person learning.

• Approved appointments to professional educator tenure area (7-0)
• Approved appointments to non-tenure bearing grant funded positions (7-0)
• Approved amended provisional appointments to Competitive Civil Service titles (7-0)
• Approved permanent appointments to classified Civil Service titles (7-0)
• Accepted resignations for retirement purposes (7-0)
• Accepted general resignations (7-0)
• Adopted decisions on long-term suspension appeals (7-0)

Policy Committee of the Whole

The Policy Committee of the Whole discussed various district goals, objectives, and administrative policies. Several motions were passed to forward these updated policies out of the committee for further action.

• Forwarded Educational Philosophy (Policy 0000)
• Rescinded School District Goals and Objectives (Policy 0200)
• Forwarded Board of Education Goals and Metrics (Policy 2000 and 2000-E1)
• Forwarded Superintendent Goals and Objectives and Priorities (Policy 3000)
• Amended and forwarded Consultants to the Board (Policy 2280)

The committee approved forwarding several policies regarding educational philosophy, board and superintendent goals, and administration absence to the full board. It also approved an amendment to the Consultants to the Board policy. Members discussed the 2022 Legislative Breakfast date and theme.

• Forwarded Educational Philosophy (Policy 0000) out of committee (7-0)
• Rescinded School District Goals and Objectives (Policy 0200) out of committee (7-0)
• Forwarded Board of Education Goals and Metrics (Policy 2000 and 2000-E1) out of committee (7-0)
• Forwarded Superintendent Goals and Objectives and Priorities (Policy 3000) out of committee (7-0)
• Amended Consultants to the Board (Policy 2280) by striking the last sentence regarding the Superintendent (7-0)
• Forwarded Consultants to the Board (Policy 2280) out of committee (7-0)
• Forwarded Administration in Policy Absence (Policy 2440) out of committee (7-0)

Governance Committee of the Whole

The Rochester City School District Governance Committee of the Whole met to discuss the District Pivot Plan and COVID-19 response, pending school closure/reconfiguration plans, and updates on board onboarding and racial bias training. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.

• Presentation on District Pivot Plan and Covid-19 response
• Discussion on Board-Administration Work Sessions for school closure/reconfiguration plans
• Update on BOE Racial Bias Training
• Discussion on Board Liaison Assignments and Committee Structure
• Discussion on State Monitor Plan and ARP Funds

The committee received updates on the District Pivot Plan and bus driver shortages. Members discussed a proposal for work sessions in January to review school closure and reconfiguration plans before a February decision.

• Adjourned meeting at 7:52pm (7-0)

January 3, 2022 Organizational Meeting

The Rochester City School District Board of Education held an organizational meeting to appoint officers and committee chairs for the year 2022. The board also approved several administrative resolutions, including the designation of purchasing agents, auditors, and the clerk of the board.

• Appointed Willa Powell as Policy Development and Review Committee Chair
• Appointed Ricardo Adams as Community and Intergovernmental Relations Committee Chair
• Appointed Amy Maloy as Board Governance and Development Committee Chair
• Appointed Beatriz LeBron as Finance and Resource Allocation Committee Chair
• Appointed James Patterson as Audit Committee Chair

The Board of Education held its 2022 organizational meeting to swear in new commissioners and elect leadership. The board appointed its President, Vice President, and various committee chairs. Several administrative resolutions regarding district officers and financial authorizations were approved.

• Elected Cynthia Elliott as Board President (5-2)
• Elected Beatriz LeBron as Board Vice President (5-2)
• Appointed Willa Powell as Policy Development and Review Committee Chair (6-1)
• Appointed Ricardo Adams as Community and Intergovernmental Relations Committee Chair (7-0)
• Appointed Amy Maloy as Board Governance and Development Committee Chair (7-0)
• Appointed Beatriz LeBron as Finance and Resource Allocation Committee Chair (7-0)
• Appointed James Patterson as Audit Committee Chair (7-0)
• Approved resolutions for Purchasing Agent, Claims Auditor, and Official Newspaper (7-0)