Rochester City School District public meetings in 2025

Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education approved a consent agenda including a $91,000 contract with Lexia Learning Systems for reading instruction and a $100,000 agreement with the University of Rochester for Pre-K mental health services. The meeting also included the approval of meeting minutes and a report on the preliminary budget.

• Approval of December 2025 Unaudited Financial Report
• Contract with Lexia Learning Systems LLC ($91,000)
• Agreement with University of Rochester for Pre-K Mental Health ($100,000)
• Approval of minutes from December 9 and 11, 2025
• Executive session regarding litigation and personnel

The Board of Education approved the December 2025 unaudited financial report and a consent agenda containing various service agreements and additional pay resolutions. The Board also approved minutes from previous meetings regarding Northwest Middle School and recent work sessions.

• Approved December 9, 2025 Northwest Middle School closure hearing minutes
• Approved December 9, 2025 work session minutes
• Approved December 11, 2025 work session minutes
• Approved December 2025 unaudited financial report
• Approved Lexia Learning Systems LLC agreement via consent agenda
• Approved University of Rochester Pre-K Mental Health agreement via consent agenda
• Approved CSE/CPSE recommendations for special education services via consent agenda
• Approved multiple additional pay resolutions via consent agenda

December 18, 2025 Farewell Reception for Outgoing Commissioners

The Rochester Board of Education is meeting to conduct a farewell reception for outgoing commissioners at 5:00 p.m. on December 18, 2025. The meeting will be held in Conference Room 3A/B at 131 West Broad Street.

• Farewell Reception for Outgoing Commissioners
• Recognition of outgoing commissioners
• Adjournment of the meeting

Speaker Forum

The Rochester City School District Board of Education will hold a Speaker Forum on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in Conference Room 3A/B, 131 West Broad Street. The forum is intended solely for public comments on items listed in recent board agendas, as required by Policy 2300. Participants must register by noon on the day of the forum; unregistered speakers will not be permitted. No decisions will be made at this meeting.

• Public comment on items from the November 20 Business Meeting agenda
• Public comment on items from the December 9 Public Hearing agenda
• Public comment on items from the December 9 Work Session agenda
• Public comment on items from the December 11 Work Session agenda

December 16, 2025 Audit Committee Meeting of the Whole

The Audit Committee reviewed and discussed the 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and Student Activity Fund (SAF) report, along with presentations from external auditors on claims audit and financial audit results. The committee voted to forward the ACFR and SAF reports to the December 18, 2025 Business Meeting consent agenda for adoption. Additionally, the committee accepted follow-up reports from the Office of Auditor General on student equity/placement and professional service contracts, and recessed for an executive session with the external auditor.

• Nawrocki Smith Claims Audit Presentation
• Drescher & Malecki 2025 Financial Audit Results Presentation
• Motion to forward ACFR and SAF reports to December 18 Business Meeting (approved)
• Motion to accept Office of Auditor General student equity/placement and professional service contracts follow-up reports (approved)
• Executive session for confidential meeting with external auditor

The Audit Committee approved forwarding the district’s fiscal year 2025 financial statements to the December 18 Business Meeting for final adoption, which will officially close the books and make them public record. Members also accepted follow-up audit reports from the Office of Auditor General covering student equity and placement, as well as professional service contracts, confirming compliance with state reporting requirements. The committee reviewed external and internal auditor presentations but took no further action on those items.

• Forwarded FY2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and Student Activity Fund report to December 18 Business Meeting for adoption
• Accepted Office of Auditor General follow-up reports on student equity, placement, and professional service contracts
• Approved minutes from the June 3, 2025 Audit Committee meeting

December 11, 2025 Work Session

The Rochester Board of Education will discuss and vote on interim goals, guardrails, and an implementation timeline during a work session. The meeting may immediately enter executive session to discuss personnel matters and confidential legal advice.

• Discussion of student outcomes-focused governance manual
• Adoption of interim goals and guardrails
• Potential immediate executive session for personnel and legal matters
• Meeting adjourned at 7:34 p.m.

The Board of Education held a work session to discuss proposed interim goals and guardrails for the Superintendent. The administration will refine metrics, percentages, and terminology before formal adoption is slated for the December 18, 2025, business meeting.

• Proposed goal timeline modification from 2023-2028 to 2026-2030 discussed
• Guardrails slated for formal adoption at the December 18, 2025, Business Meeting

Closure of Northwest Middle School Public Hearing

The Rochester Board of Education is holding a public hearing regarding the closure of Northwest Middle School. The meeting includes a speakers list of individuals providing oral and written comments.

• Public hearing on the closure of Northwest Middle School

The Board of Education held a public hearing concerning the closure of Northwest Middle School. No speakers or written comments were recorded during the session.

• Conducted public hearing for Northwest Middle School closure

December 9, 2025 Work Session

The Rochester Board of Education held a work session, adopting 2026 legislative priorities and forwarding several policies (Wellness 5405, Budget Transfers 6150, Investments 6240, Fund Balance 6500, Purchasing 6700) to future meetings. A motion to forward the Videoconferencing of Board Meetings policy (2325) failed. The board also recognized the Mental Health Ad Hoc Committee and heard presentations on community schools and state assessment results.

• Adopted 2026 Legislative Priorities (motion carried 7-0)
• Forwarded Wellness Policy (5405) out of work session (carried 6-1)
• Motion to forward Videoconferencing of Board Meetings (2325) failed (3-4)
• Forwarded Budget Transfers, Investments, Fund Balance, and Purchasing policies (all carried unanimously)
• Entered executive session to discuss collective bargaining at 8:33 PM

The Board of Education advanced several policies, including Wellness Policy 5405, Budget Transfers 6150, and Investments 6240, to the next meeting. The Board adopted the 2026 Legislative Priorities and forwarded the Academic and Administrative resolutions to the Business Meeting Consent Agenda. A motion to advance Videoconferencing Policy 2325 failed.

• Forwarded Wellness Policy (5405) out of work session (7-1)
• Forwarded Budget Transfers (6150) out of work session (7-0)
• Forwarded Investments (6240) out of work session (7-0)
• Forwarded Fund Balance (6500) out of work session (7-0)
• Forwarded Purchasing (6700) out of work session (7-0)
• Forwarded Videoconferencing Policy (2325) to third reading (3-4)
• Adopted 2026 Legislative Priorities (7-0)
• Forwarded Academic Resolutions to Business Meeting Consent Agenda (6-1)

Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education held a business meeting on November 20, 2025, where they approved the November 2025 Unaudited Financial Report and a consent agenda item authorizing $14,800 in additional pay for staff at The Flower City School No. 54. The board also received a presentation from Superintendent Rosser on the 2026-27 budget priorities and entered executive session to discuss collective negotiations, personnel, and litigation. Advisory council reports and minutes from prior work sessions were accepted.

• Approved the November 2025 Unaudited Financial Report
• Authorized $14,800 in additional pay for Embedding Visible Learning at The Flower City School No. 54 through June 2026
• Received 2026-27 Superintendent Budget Priorities presentation
• Entered executive session for collective negotiations, personnel matters, and litigation
• Approved minutes from October and November work sessions

The Board of Education approved the November 2025 Unaudited Financial Report and multiple personnel appointments. Several resolutions regarding additional pay and service agreements were passed via the consent agenda. Policy amendments were split into two separate resolutions for further consideration.

• Approved October 14, 2025 Work Session minutes (4-0)
• Approved October 16, 2025 Work Session minutes (4-0)
• Approved November 4, 2025 Work Session minutes (4-0)
• Approved November 2025 Unaudited Financial Report (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including additional pay and service agreements (5-0)
• Approved various personnel appointments, tenures, and retirements (5-0)
• Split Policy amendment resolution into 265a and 265b (5-0)

Speaker Forum

The Rochester Board of Education holds its monthly Speaker Forum to receive public comments on items from recent committee, work session, and business meeting agendas. The meeting is primarily procedural, with no new votes or decisions taken.

• Public comments limited to items on prior meeting agendas (October 30 business meeting, November 4 work session)
• Speakers must register by noon on the day of the forum; unregistered speakers not permitted
• Board may interrupt or terminate statements that exceed time, are abusive, or irrelevant
• Attached PDFs list registered speakers and their submitted comments

November 4, 2025 Work Session

The Board of Education held a work session, entering executive session to discuss litigation and legal matters. After returning to open session, the board approved two consent agenda resolutions amending additional pay for PreK professional learning ($9,890) and after-school tutoring planning at Helen Barrett Montgomery School #50 ($4,730).

• Amend Additional Pay - Professional Learning at PreK ($9,890 from Universal PreK Grant)
• Amend Additional Pay - After School Tutoring Program Grades 3-6 at Helen Barrett Montgomery School #50 ($4,730 from Title I 1003 Basic Grant)

The Board approved a pharmaceutical settlement recovery and various resolution renumbering. Several policies regarding videoconferencing, online learning, and graduation ceremonies were forwarded from the work session.

• Approved entry into Executive Session (4-0)
• Renumbered Resolution 2025-26: 205 to 2025-26: 205a (4-0)
• Renumbered Resolution 2025-26: 206 to 2025-26: 206a (4-0)
• Waived 48-hour submission rule for Resolution 2025-26: 254 (4-0)
• Approved Pharmaceutical Settlement Recovery and Claims Management Services (4-0)
• Forwarded Policy 2325 regarding videoconferencing (5-0)
• Forwarded Policy 4765 regarding online learning (5-0)
• Forwarded Policy 4772 regarding graduation ceremonies (5-0)

Speaker Forum

The Rochester City School District Board of Education convened a Speaker Forum on Oct 30 2025 to receive public comments on agenda items from recent committee, work session, and business meetings. Participants were required to register by noon on the day of the forum and to follow decorum rules outlined in the agenda. The meeting was adjourned at 6:21 p.m. after a motion passed.

• Call to Order with rules on respectful conduct and board authority to interrupt or remove speakers
• Eligibility criteria for speakers, requiring name, contact info, affiliation, and topic related to board agenda items
• Registration process: call (585) 262‑8525 or email [email protected] by noon on the forum day
• Attachments include September 25 business meeting agenda and October 14 & 16 work session agendas
• Adjournment motion passed at 6:21 p.m.

Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education held a business meeting on October 30, 2025, where it approved the October 2025 Unaudited Financial Report and quarterly change order reports. The board also approved two consent agenda items authorizing additional pay totaling $14,620 for PreK professional learning and after-school tutoring at Helen Barrett School #50. Prior to the regular session, the board convened in executive session to discuss personnel and legal matters.

• Approved October 2025 Unaudited Financial Report and quarterly change order reports
• Approved $9,890 in additional pay for Universal PreK professional learning (Resolution 2025-26:205)
• Approved $4,730 in additional pay for after-school tutoring grades 3-6 at Helen Barrett School #50 (Resolution 2025-26:206)
• Convened executive session at 6:51 PM for personnel and litigation discussions
• Appointed Anissa Henry-Wheeler as acting clerk for the meeting

The Board of Education approved the October 2025 unaudited financial report and several consent agenda items. These items included multiple authorizations for additional pay related to tutoring, professional learning, and school programs.

• Appointed Anissa Henry-Wheeler as acting clerk (6-0)
• Approved September 9, 2025, amended work session minutes (6-0)
• Approved September 25, 2025, Rochester Academy Charter School Public Hearing minutes (6-0)
• Approved September 25, 2025, Rochester Prep Charter School Public Hearing minutes (6-0)
• Approved September 25, 2025, Business Meeting minutes (6-0)
• Entered Executive Session at 6:51 PM (6-0)
• Exited Executive Session at 7:36 PM (6-0)
• Approved October 2025 Unaudited Financial Report and Quarterly Change Order Reports (6-0)

October 16, 2025 Work Session

The Rochester Board of Education held a work session to discuss district goals and governance guardrails. The board convened in executive session to discuss personnel matters and legal advice before returning to open session. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.

• Executive session to discuss personnel matters and legal advice
• Discussion of draft governance guardrails and goals
• Review of student achievement results and governance manual
• Adjournment at 8:32 p.m.

The Rochester Board of Education held a work session focused on developing interim student performance guardrails and district goals with external coaches. Members discussed curriculum selection, classroom implementation tools, student placement practices, and family survey methods. The board voted to advance the draft guardrails to the October 30 business meeting for further discussion, with final approval slated for November 20.

• Convened executive session at 6:03 pm (motion carried, 6-0)
• Returned to open session at 6:10 pm (motion carried, 6-0)
• Advanced interim guardrails and goals to October 30 business meeting for further discussion
• Adjourned work session at 8:32 pm (5 yes; Beatriz LeBron, Camille Simmons absent)

October 14, 2025 Work Session

The Rochester City School District Board held a work session to discuss several proposed policies, including Internet use, school volunteers, homework, student promotion and retention, voter registration, and videoconferencing of board meetings. Each policy was voted on and the motion to forward it out of the work session carried. The Board also approved the 2026‑27 budget calendar, amended the 2025‑26 board meeting calendar, and removed "Commissioner Corner" from the Board Newsletter SOP. Academic and administrative support resolutions were forwarded to the business meeting consent agenda.

• Motion to forward Internet Policy (4526) out of the work session
• Motion to forward School Volunteers Policy (4532) out of the work session
• Motion to forward Homework Policy (4730) out of the work session
• Motion to forward Videoconferencing of Board Meetings (2325) out of the work session
• Amend Board Newsletter SOP to remove "Commissioner Corner"

The Board of Education voted to forward several policy updates and the 2026-2027 budget calendar to the next business meeting. Additionally, the Board approved removing the 'Commissioner Corner' from the district newsletter.

• Forwarded Internet Policy 4526 (6-0)
• Forwarded School Volunteers policy 4532 (6-0)
• Forwarded Homework policy 4730 (6-0)
• Forwarded Promotion and Retention of Students policy 4750 (6-0)
• Forwarded Voter Registration for Students policy 5605 (6-0)
• Forwarded Videoconferencing of Board Meetings policy 2325 (6-0)
• Removed 'Commissioner Corner' from the Board Newsletter (4-2)
• Forwarded Academic Resolutions to Business Meeting Consent Agenda (6-0)

Rochester Academy Charter School Public Hearing

The Rochester Board of Education is holding a public hearing to gather community input regarding an application for the Rochester Academy Charter School. This input will be provided to the New York State Education Department, which is currently reviewing the application.

• Proposed renewal for Rochester Academy Charter School
• Proposed grade configuration: K – Grade 12
• Projected enrollment of 900 students for years 2026 through 2031

The public hearing for Rochester Academy Charter School was convened and adjourned within one minute. No registered speakers or written comments were submitted for the record.

Rochester Prep Charter School Public Hearing

The Rochester Board of Education is holding a public hearing to gather community input regarding an application for Rochester Prep Charter Schools to renew its charter. This input will be provided to the New York State Education Department, which is currently reviewing the application.

• Charter renewal application for Rochester Prep Charter School 1 (14 Mark St, 630 Brooks Ave, 899 Jay St) for 1,704 K-12 students
• Charter renewal application for Rochester Prep Charter School 2 (305 Andrews St, 432 Chili Ave) for 794 K-8 students
• Charter renewal application for Rochester Prep Charter School 3 (85 St. Jacob St) for 810 K-8 students

The Rochester Board of Education held a public hearing regarding the Rochester Prep Charter School. No registered speakers or written comments were submitted during the session.

• Held public hearing for Rochester Prep Charter School

Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education approved minutes from previous meetings and authorized additional pay for staff in the Office of Adult & Career Education Services. The meeting included reports from the Superintendent and Board committees.

• Approval of minutes from June 26, July 8, and August 12, 2025
• Approval of September 2025 Unaudited Financial Report
• Authorization of $11,760.00 in additional pay for OACES staff
• Approval of consent agenda items
• Executive session held regarding personnel and litigation

The Board of Education approved several consent agenda items regarding additional pay for various programs and schools. They also approved the September 2025 unaudited financial report and several sets of meeting minutes.

• Approved June 26, 2025 Business Meeting minutes
• Approved July 8, 2025 Work Session minutes
• Approved August 12, 2025 Work Session minutes
• Approved September 2, 2025 Special Meeting minutes
• Approved September 9, 2025 Work Session minutes
• Approved September 16, 2025 Speaker Forum minutes
• Approved September 16, 2025 Work Session minutes
• Approved September 2025 Unaudited Financial Report

Speaker Forum

This is the inaugural monthly Speaker Forum for the Rochester Board of Education, held on the third Tuesday. It is solely for public comments on items from recent committee, work session, business, and other public Board meeting agendas. No decisions or votes are scheduled; the forum is procedural.

• Public comments are limited to topics listed on agendas from the August 28 Business Meeting, September 2 Special Meeting, and September 9 Work Session.
• Speakers must register by noon on the day of the forum by phone or email, providing full name, contact info, affiliation, and topic.
• Unregistered speakers will not be permitted to address the Board; public comments are no longer accepted at other Board meetings.
• The Board may interrupt, warn, or terminate a speaker's statement if it exceeds time, is personally directed, abrasive, obscene, or irrelevant.

The meeting consisted of a Speaker Forum where two individuals addressed the board regarding budget and finance report topics. No substantive decisions or votes were recorded during this session.

September 16, 2025 Work Session

The Rochester Board of Education held a work session to discuss student-focused governance goals and superintendent evaluation criteria. The meeting included a closed executive session and concluded with an adjournment.

• Discussion of student outcomes-focused governance manual
• Review of superintendent evaluation criteria
• Executive session to discuss personnel and confidential matters
• Adjournment of the work session

The Board held a work session to discuss community listening reports and organizational goals. Discussions focused on establishing measurable interim guardrails and potential adjustments to the goals timeline. No substantive votes or formal decisions were taken during this session.

• Discussed goal setting and guardrails with CGCS facilitators
• Proposed future updates to the goals timeline and data percentages

September 9, 2025 Work Session & Consideration of Resolutions

The Rochester City School District Board held a work session to consider several policy motions and resolutions. Members voted to forward four policy proposals—Multicultural Global Education, Teaching of Controversial Issues, Field Trips and Excursions, and Library Materials Selection—out of the work session. The Board also approved a resolution directing the superintendent to procure an independent audit of the district's Oracle on‑premises system and its cloud‑based ERP implementation. Additional items included amendments to the Board newsletter SOP and the meeting calendar.

• Motion to forward Policy 4350 (Multicultural Global Education) – motion carried
• Motion to forward Policy 4360 (Teaching of Controversial Issues) – motion carried
• Motion to forward Policy 4400 (Field Trips and Excursions) – motion carried
• Motion to forward Policy 4513 (Library Materials Selection) – motion carried
• Resolution authorizing independent audit of the Oracle ERP system

September 2, 2025 Special Meeting to Convene for Consideration of Resolutions

The Rochester Board of Education held a special meeting to consider resolutions, including one addressing unauthorized communications sent by certain commissioners to the New York State Office of the State Comptroller. The board voted to transmit a clarifying letter and reaffirm protocols for external communications. The meeting also included a waiver of the 48-hour submission rule for materials.

• Resolution 2025-26:148 – Board Authorization and External Communications, responding to unauthorized letters sent to NY State Comptroller on August 28, 2025
• Motion to waive the 48-hour submission rule (Policy 2300) for board materials
• Executive session to discuss litigation and legal advice (5:06-5:58 pm)
• Vote on resolution: 4 in favor (Amy Maloy, James Patterson, Camille Simmons, Jacqueline Griffin), 1 not present (Isaiah Santiago)

The Board of Education convened a special meeting to consider specific resolutions. Members approved a waiver for the 48-hour written material submission requirement and passed Resolution No. 2025-26: 148 regarding Board Authorization and External Communications.

• Approved convening in Executive Session (4-2)
• Approved return from Executive Session (4-0)
• Approved waiver of the 48-hour submission rule (4-0)
• Approved Board Authorization and External Communications Resolution No. 2025-26: 148 (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education approved several sets of meeting minutes and financial reports. The board authorized a contract for professional learning services and additional pay for a staff member at the School of the Arts.

• Agreement with Corwin Press, Inc. for professional learning services not to exceed $156,000.00
• Additional pay of $9,890.00 for professional learning at School of the Arts (Lucy-Lender)
• Approval of August 2025 Financial Report and 2023-2024 Quarterly Change Order Report
• Approval of minutes from the August 12, 2025 Districtwide School Safety Public Hearing
• Approval of minutes from the July 8, 2025 Students and Personal Electronic Devices Policy Public Hearing

The Board approved the 2025-26 District-Wide School Safety Plan and several consent agenda items. Additional actions included authorizing a lease agreement with the University of Rochester, Memorial Art Gallery and appointing the new District-Wide Safety Team.

• Approved August 12, 2025 Districtwide School Safety Public Hearing Minutes (6-0)
• Approved August 12, 2025 Vertus Charter Middle School Public Hearing Minutes (6-0)
• Approved July 31, 2025 Business Meeting Minutes (6-0)
• Approved July 8, 2025 Contract for Excellence Public Hearing Minutes (6-0)
• Approved July 8, 2025 Students and Personal Electronic Devices Policy Public Hearing Minutes (6-0)
• Approved monthly financial reports (6-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items including Corwin Press, Inc. and Siena College agreements (6-0)
• Authorized lease agreement with University of Rochester, Memorial Art Gallery (6-0)

Vertus Charter Middle School Public Hearing

The Rochester Board of Education is holding a required public hearing to gather community input on an application for Vertus Charter Middle School. The proposed charter school would open September 8, 2027, serving grades 7–8 with a maximum enrollment of 190 students. The New York State Education Department has not yet made a determination on the application.

• Public hearing for Vertus Charter Middle School application per Education Law §2857(1)
• Proposed opening: September 8, 2027, grades 7–8, max 190 students
• Community input will be provided to the New York State Education Department

The Board of Education conducted a public hearing regarding Vertus Charter Middle School. One community member spoke, but no comments were received. No substantive decisions were made during the meeting.

Districtwide School Safety Plan Public Hearing

The Rochester City School District is holding a public hearing on the 2025-26 Districtwide School Safety Plan. The meeting is a procedural hearing where the board expects public decorum and allows for public comment.

• Public hearing on Districtwide School Safety Plan
• Public comment period for the safety plan
• Meeting held at 131 West Broad Street
• Plan available in multiple languages on website

The Board of Education conducted a public hearing regarding the Districtwide School Safety Plan. No speakers addressed the board, and one comment was received. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

August 12, 2025 Work Session

The Rochester City School District Board of Education held a work session to discuss and vote on several policy items, including the rescission of a civic education policy and the approval of a new board meeting calendar.

• Rescission of Policy 4311.2 (Civic Education)
• Approval of 2025-26 Board Meeting Calendar
• Forwarding of Pre-Referral Intervention Strategies (Policy 4205)
• Forwarding of Response to Intervention (RTI) Process (Policy 4206)
• Forwarding of Vendor Relations (Policy 6750)

The Board rescinded Policy 4311.2 regarding civic education and approved a new 2023-28 Policy Review Calendar. Several policies (4205, 4206, 5000, 5153, and 6750) were forwarded out of the work session for further action. The Board also approved the 2025-26 meeting calendar and a new Board Newsletter SOP.

• Rescinded Policy 4311.2 (5-2)
• Approved 2023-28 Board Policy Review Calendar (5-0)
• Approved exhibit 2300-E3 for Parent & Student Advisors SOP and Rubric (5-0)
• Approved amended 2025-26 Board Meeting Calendar (6-0)
• Approved Board Newsletter and Standard Operating Procedure (7-0)
• Forwarded Policies 4205, 4206, 5000, and 5153 out of work session (5-1 each)
• Removed disparity study deliverable from Policy 6750 and forwarded policy (5-1)
• Tabled motion to forward Policy 2325 regarding videoconferencing

Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education approved an agreement with the City of Rochester Police Department for $100,000 to provide security at school events and authorized a $612,700 contract with EL Education for instructional coaching and professional development at middle schools.

• Authorize Intermunicipal Agreement – City of Rochester, Police Department ($100,000)
• Authorize EL Education Agreement for instructional support ($612,700)
• Accept Unaudited July 2025 Financial Report
• Board enters executive session to discuss collective negotiations and litigation
• Approval of minutes from previous meeting

The Board of Education authorized an intermunicipal agreement with the City of Rochester Police Department and approved several academic curriculum adoptions and grant agreements. The Board also accepted the unaudited July 2025 financial report and approved various additional pay authorizations for professional learning across multiple schools.

• Approved Intermunicipal Agreement with City of Rochester Police Department (4-2)
• Approved EL Education Agreement (6-0)
• Approved Mikva Challenge Grant Foundation Inc. agreement (6-0)
• Approved Memorandum of Agreement with University of Rochester Step to College (6-0)
• Approved chemistry and physics curriculum adoptions (6-0)
• Authorized CSE/CPSE Recommendations for Special Education Programs & Services 2025-26 (6-0)
• Accepted Unaudited July 2025 Financial Report (5-0)
• Approved multiple additional pay authorizations for professional learning at various schools (6-0)

Students and Personal Electronic Devices Policy Public Hearing

The Board of Education is holding a public hearing regarding proposed Policy 5695. This policy addresses the use of cellphones and other internet-enabled devices during the school day to align with new New York State requirements. The Board is scheduled to vote on the adoption of this policy on July 31, 2025.

• Public hearing for Policy 5695: Students and Personal Electronic Devices
• Proposed restriction of cellphones, smartwatches, and tablets during class, lunch, and study halls

The Board of Education conducted a public hearing regarding Policy 5695, Students and Personal Electronic Devices. No formal decisions were made during the meeting. Three written comments were received from a parent, a community member, and a staff member.

Contract for Excellence Public Hearing

The Rochester City School District Board of Education is holding a public hearing on the 2025-26 Contract for Excellence. The hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in Conference Room 3A/B at 131 West Broad Street, with an option to attend virtually via Teams.

• Public hearing on 2025-26 Contract for Excellence
• 30-day comment period runs July 8 through August 7, 2025
• Sign up to speak by noon on July 8 via email or phone
• Written comments accepted anytime during the comment period
• No speakers or written comments were submitted for this hearing

The Board of Education conducted a public hearing regarding the Contract for Excellence. No speakers were present and no comments were submitted. No substantive decisions were made.

July 8, 2025 Work Session

The Rochester Board of Education held a work session on July 8, 2025, to discuss and vote on several policy items and a tentative modified extension agreement with the Rochester Teachers Association (RTA). The board voted down the RTA contract extension (Resolution No. 2025-26: 1) and a motion to rescind Policy 4311.2 on civic education. It approved rescinding Policy 4314.2 on school-to-career transition and postponed an amendment to Policy 2300 (Board By-Laws) to the July 31 business meeting.

• Tentative Modified Extension Agreement with RTA for July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026 – motion failed (3 yes, 2 no)
• Rescission of Policy 4311.2 (Civic Education) – motion failed (2 yes, 5 no)
• Rescission of Policy 4314.2 (School-to-Career or Post-Secondary Education Transition Initiative) – motion carried (5 yes, 2 no)
• Second Reading of policy on Students and Personal Electronic Devices (5695) – discussed, no vote taken
• Superintendent Rosser's 100-Day Plan – presented to board

The Board approved the rescission of Policy 4314.2 and granted authority to retain outside counsel. A tentative modified extension agreement with the Rochester Teachers Association was denied. The Board also agreed to establish a monthly 'Speaker Forum' starting September 2025.

• Waived requirement for policy Second Reading at next Business Meeting (7-0)
• Rescission of Policy 4311.2 denied (2-5)
• Rescission of Policy 4314.2 approved (5-2)
• Approved bringing policy 4095 to August Work Session (6-1)
• Postponed Resolution No. 2024-25: 902 to July 31 Business Meeting (7-0)
• Tentative modified extension with Rochester Teachers Association denied (3-4)
• Granted authority to select and retain outside counsel (6-1)
• Amended outside counsel authority period to begin July 9, 2025 (7-0)

State Monitor Public Hearing

The Rochester Board of Education holds a state monitor public hearing to present and take public comment on the 2025-26 Academic and Financial Plans. The hearing includes a presentation and opportunity for speakers. The plans are attached as draft documents.

• Presentation and public hearing on the 2025-26 Academic and Financial Plans
• Draft RCSD Academic and Fiscal Plan 2025-26 (6.5.25) attached
• 2025-26 Academic and Financial Plan Hearing Presentation attached
• Speakers list for comments on the plans

State Monitor Alicea presented an overview of the 2025-26 academic and financial plans. No public comments were recorded during the hearing. No substantive decisions were made.

June 26, 2025 Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education met to approve the 2025-2027 District Special Education Plan and June 2025 financial reports. The board also authorized a medical staffing contract and participation in a library software consortium.

• Accepted the 2025-2027 District Special Education Plan
• Accepted unaudited June 2025 Financial Reports
• Authorized $48,000 agreement with WorkFit Medical Staffing, PLLC for healthcare staff
• Authorized participation in the 'DREAM CONSORTIUM' for school library software and database access
• Appointed Charisma Travis as acting clerk

The Board of Education approved the 2025-2027 District Special Education Plan and the unaudited June 2025 financial reports. The Board also authorized multiple agreements for medical staffing and cooperative bidding, along with various additional pay authorizations for special education and academic staff.

• Accepted 2025-2027 District Special Education Plan (5-0)
• Accepted Unaudited June 2025 Financial Reports (6-0)
• Authorized participation in 'DREAM CONSORTIUM' cooperative bidding (6-0)
• Authorized agreement with WorkFit Medical Staffing, PLLC (6-0)
• Authorized agreement with Multiple Agencies and Charters (6-0)
• Authorized CSE/CPSE recommendations for Special Education Programs & Services 2024-25 (6-0)
• Authorized appointment to CSE/CPSE Chairperson/Local Education Agency Representative (6-0)
• Authorized additional pay for various SPED, Reading, Math, and Bilingual Education staff (6-0)

June 10, 2025 Special Meeting to Convene for Consideration of Resolutions

The Rochester Board of Education met to consider several resolutions, including a contract for professional learning services and various personnel appointments. The board approved a multi-year agreement to provide instructional materials and training for grades 9–12 students.

• Agreement with McGraw Hill Education LLC for $280,000 for the 2025-2026 period
• Provisional appointments for five staff members, including a Supervisor of Safety and Security at $90,000/yr
• Permanent appointments for eight classified Civil Service titles
• Conversion of two provisional appointments to permanent status
• Appointment of personnel to the professional educator area

The Board of Education approved an agreement with McGraw Hill LLC and a partnership with St. John Fisher University. Members authorized additional pay for various summer learning programs and processed a series of personnel actions including appointments, tenures, and resignations.

• Authorized agreement with McGraw Hill Education LLC
• Authorized agreement with St. John Fisher University
• Approved additional pay for various summer programs including Roc Star Readers and Roc Explorers
• Approved provisional and permanent Civil Service appointments
• Granted tenure to listed personnel
• Accepted resignations and retirements
• Approved personnel terminations
• Authorized paid leaves of absence

June 10, 2025 Equity in Student Achievement

The Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole heard presentations on science curriculum, continuous improvement and receivership, and the 2025-26 academic and financial plan from the State Monitor. The board approved minutes from prior meetings and discussed the 2025-2027 District Special Education Plan. The meeting also included a speakers list and a board meeting poll survey.

• Science curriculum presentation by Executive Director of Science Dr. Sean Coffey
• Continuous improvement and receivership presentation by Executive Director Daniel Hurley
• 2025-26 academic and financial plan presentation by State Monitor Jaime Alicea
• 2025-2027 District Special Education Plan report
• Approval of minutes from March 11, 2025 and May 13, 2025 ESA committee meetings

The Board approved the minutes from the March 11 and May 13, 2025, Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole meetings. Members received presentations on science curriculum, receivership, and the draft 2025-26 academic and financial plan.

• Approved March 11, 2025 ESA COW minutes (5-0)
• Approved May 13, 2025 ESA COW minutes (5-0)

June 3, 2025 Audit Committee Meeting of the Whole

The Rochester Board of Education Audit Committee met to review financial oversight plans and reports. The committee decided on the annual audit strategy and accepted reports from the Auditor General.

• Approval of the 2025 Annual Financial Audit Plan presented by Drescher & Malecki
• Acceptance of the Temporary Employment Service Report and 2025-26 Audit Plan from the Office of Auditor General
• Approval of the Wilson Student Activity Fund Audit
• Approval of minutes from the December 3, 2024 meeting

The committee approved the external audit plan for the year ending June 30, 2025. Members also accepted the Wilson Student Activity Fund Audit and the Temporary Employment Service Report. The meeting included a brief executive session.

• Approved Minutes from December 3, 2024 Audit COW (7-0)
• Accepted Wilson Student Activity Fund Audit (7-0)
• Approved 2025 Annual Financial Audit Plan (7-0)
• Accepted Temporary Employment Service Report and 2025-26 Audit Plan (6-0)
• Entered executive session at 7:34 pm (7-0)
• Exited executive session at 8:19 pm (7-0)

May 22, 2025 Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education is deciding on academic program adoptions and reviewing financial reports. The board is approving a new mathematics curriculum for the 2025-2026 school year and continuing the JROTC program partnership.

• Approved $347,424 for i-Ready Classroom Mathematics 2024 for grades K-5
• Authorized Memorandum of Agreement to continue the U.S. Army JROTC Program
• Accepted the Unaudited May 2025 Financial Report
• Appointed Anissa Henry-Wheeler as acting clerk for the meeting

The Board of Education authorized the adoption of a K-5 mathematics program and a JROTC program memorandum of agreement. Members also approved the May 2025 unaudited financial report and multiple resolutions for additional staff pay across various departments and schools.

• Approved K-5 Mathematics Program Adoption Resolution (7-0)
• Approved Memorandum of Agreement for JROTC Program (7-0)
• Accepted Unaudited May 2025 Financial Report (6-0)
• Approved final payment to Steve General Contractor, Inc. for School No. 39 (7-0)
• Authorized CSE/CPSE Recommendations for Special Education Programs & Services 2024-25 (7-0)
• Approved additional pay for ELA/Integrated Literacy, Science, and Arts departments (7-0)
• Approved additional pay for tutoring and workshops at various schools (7-0)
• Appointed Anissa Henry-Wheeler as acting clerk (4-0)

May 13, 2025 Special Meeting to Convene for Consideration of Resolutions

The Rochester Board of Education met to consider several resolutions regarding district staffing. The board approved professional educator appointments, permanent civil service titles, and provisional-to-permanent transitions, while also accepting multiple resignations and retirements.

• Professional educator appointments including Lynnetta Hollomon ($59,190/yr) and Amatul Ahmad ($69,226/yr)
• Permanent civil service appointments for various paraprofessionals at $17.77/hr
• Permanent appointment of four Custodian Engineers
• Termination of two staff members: Joselito Feliciano and Tracy Thomas
• Amendment of Resolution No. 2024-25: 661 regarding the Mental Health Ad Hoc Committee

The Board of Education approved several resolutions regarding staff appointments, terminations, resignations, and retirements. The board also approved an amendment to a previous resolution.

• Bundled Resolutions 2024-25: 664-669 (6-0)
• Approved professional educator appointments (Resolution 2024-25: 664) (6-0)
• Approved permanent classified Civil Service appointments (Resolution 2024-25: 665) (6-0)
• Approved provisional to permanent appointments (Resolution 2024-25: 666) (6-0)
• Approved staff terminations (Resolution 2024-25: 667) (6-0)
• Accepted staff resignations (Resolution 2024-25: 668) (6-0)
• Accepted staff retirements (Resolution 2024-25: 669) (6-0)
• Approved Amendment of Resolution No. 2024-25: 661 (4-2)

May 13, 2025 Equity in Student Achievement

The Rochester Board of Education will meet to discuss curriculum updates and third marking period data for grades 7-12. The committee will also consider accepting the minutes from a previous meeting that were postponed.

• Review and Acceptance of the March 11, 2025 ESA COW Minutes (postponed)
• Curriculum Update: High School ELA & K-5 Math by Dr. Vicma Ramos
• Teaching & Learning Update: 7-12 3rd Marking Period Data
• Attendance Report highlighting school strategies
• Receivership Reports for Schools 16, 28, 33, Edison, and Monroe

The Board received presentations on K-5 math and 9-12 ELA curricular adoptions and 7-12 3rd marking period data. No votes were taken on the curricula; commissioners requested additional comparison materials, rubrics, and professional development plans before a future vote.

• Postponed review and acceptance of March 11, 2025 minutes
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Special Meeting: Budget Adoption

The board adopted the 2025-26 budget totaling $1,117,571,955. It also approved an amendment shifting funds within the general fund, increasing compensation and decreasing benefits. Additionally, the board approved a $24.4 million capital improvement program for facilities. The meeting included procedural actions such as appointing an acting clerk.

• Adopted 2025-26 budget of $1,117,571,955
• Amended General Fund: compensation increased to $345,633,696, benefits decreased to $193,490,977
• Approved capital improvement program worth $24,425,000 ($14.9M new debt, $9.5M cash)
• Appointed Anissa Henry-Wheeler as acting clerk
• No public speakers

The Board approved the proposed budget estimate for the 2025-26 fiscal year following an amendment to compensation and benefits appropriations. The Board also approved the 2025-26 Capital Improvement Program and authorized its funding sources.

• Appointed Anissa Henry-Wheeler as acting clerk (4-0)
• Amended General Fund Compensation to $345,633,696 and Benefits to $193,490,977 (5-0)
• Adopted proposed budget estimate for 2025-26 fiscal year (4-0)
• Approved 2025-26 Capital Improvement Program and funding authorization (5-0)

May 1, 2025 Special Meeting for Consideration of the Remainder of the Business Meeting Agenda

The Rochester Board of Education held a special meeting to consider remaining business from a prior meeting. They approved the 2023-28 standard operating procedure and policy review calendar, and accepted revised language for Policy 6741 on Contracting for Professional Services. The board also conducted first readings of over 20 proposed policy updates and two proposed rescissions, and entered executive session to discuss employment and legal matters.

• Approved the 2023-28 Policy Review Process and Calendar
• Accepted revised Policy 6741 on Contracting for Professional Services
• First readings of 22 policies including Student Harassment and Bullying Prevention (0115), Code of Conduct (1400), Grading Systems (4710), and Wellness Policy (5405)
• First readings for rescission of Civic Education (4311.2) and School-to-Career or Post-Secondary Education Transition Initiative (4314.2) policies
• Entered executive session at 6:28 PM to discuss employment and litigation matters

The Board approved the 2023-28 Standard Operating Procedure and Policy Review Calendar. Members also accepted revised policy language for Policy 6741 regarding contracting for professional services. The Board entered and exited an executive session to discuss personnel and legal matters.

• Approved 2023-28 Standard Operating Procedure and Policy Review Calendar (5-0)
• Accepted revised policy language for Policy 6741, Contracting for Professional Services (6-0)
• Approved entry into Executive Session (4-0)
• Approved return to open session (5-0)

Third Budget Deliberation Session

The Board of Education is discussing the proposed 2025-26 budget, specifically focusing on sections 6 and 7 of the budget book. This session includes a review of the budget question log and responses from district administration. A budget adoption vote is scheduled for May 6, 2025.

• Discussion of budget book sections 6 and 7
• Review of Round 1-3 Budget Question Log and responses
• Announcement of Budget Adoption Vote on May 6, 2025

The Board conducted a deliberation session to discuss the 2025-26 budget, focusing on grants, vacancies, and foundation aid. No formal votes were taken on budget allocations or cuts during this session. A budget adoption vote is scheduled for May 6, 2025.

• Adjourned meeting at 8:24 PM (4-0)

April 29, 2025 Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education will consider and vote on two academic service agreements: a $3,000 contract with Monroe County for golfing facilities for the Spring golf league, and a $34,500 agreement with Four Point0 Standard LLC for live-online healthcare industry courses targeting up to 500 students. The board also voted to suspend its usual speaker time limit, reducing it to two minutes per speaker to accommodate 36 registered speakers. Financial reports for April 2025 and quarterly reports were accepted.

• Authorize $34,500 agreement with Four Point0 Standard LLC (d/b/a Kool Nerd Connect) for healthcare courses (April 29 through June 30, 2025)
• Authorize $3,000 agreement with Monroe County Parks Department for use of golf facilities for 75 students (April 5 through June 15, 2025)
• Motion to suspend Policy 2300 and reduce speaker time to two minutes due to 36 registered speakers (carried 3-2)
• Acceptance of April 2025 financial reports and quarterly reports for 2021-22, 2022-23, and 2023-24
• Board convened into executive session at 8:32 pm to discuss appointment, student matters, and litigation

The Board approved several school renovation contracts and additional pay for professional learning across multiple schools. It also authorized the April 2025 financial reports and special education recommendations. Three proposed international field trips to Canada were denied.

• Approved renovation contracts for John Williams School No. 5, Dr. Charles T. Lunsford School No. 19, and Frank Fowler Dow School No. 52
• Denied international field trips to Camp Pathfinder Island, Canada for Padilla High School, Wilson Magnet High School, and World of Inquiry School No. 58
• Approved additional pay for professional learning and development at multiple schools (Resolutions 614-622)
• Approved April 2025 unaudited financial reports
• Approved CSE/CPSE Recommendations for Special Education Programs & Services 2024-25
• Approved final payments to Steve General Contractor, Inc. and DG Messmer Corporation
• Authorized agreement with Monroe County for golfing facilities
• Reduced speaker time limits to two minutes to accommodate 36 registered speakers (3-2)

Second Budget Deliberation Session

The Rochester City School District Board of Education held a second budget deliberation session to discuss the 2025-26 budget and answer questions from the administration. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.

• Second budget deliberation session for 2025-26
• Board and administration discuss budget via question log
• Next budget event: April 29, 3rd Budget Deliberation Session
• Board meeting poll
• Motion to adjourn

April 8, 2025 Special Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education held a special meeting to consider a bundle of resolutions (2024-25: 601-611, excluding 604). The board approved the bundle, which includes multiple personnel actions such as hiring contract substitute teachers, part-time and full-time educators, administrative appointments, civil service hires, and accepting a retirement. All motions carried with majority support.

• Hired Amarah Anderson, Joshua Rodriguez, and Lydia Turner as contract substitute teachers at $21/hr through June 2025
• Appointed Elizabeth Cox as part-time Medical Lab Tech at East Upper at $35,998/yr
• Appointed six educators including Michael Cappon ($65,901/yr) and Heather Randell ($77,466/yr) to probationary positions
• Appointed Catherine Tesoriero as Assistant Principal at Freddie Thomas Middle School at $91,225/yr
• Accepted retirement of Hopeton Lewis, Bus Driver, effective May 7, 2025

The Board approved 11 resolutions regarding district staffing, including new hires, civil service appointments, and personnel departures. The meeting also included an executive session to discuss employment status and legal matters.

• Approved contract substitute emergency conditional hires (Res 601)
• Approved part-time professional educator appointments (Res 602)
• Approved professional educator appointments (Res 603)
• Approved administrative area appointments (Res 604)
• Approved provisional competitive civil service appointments (Res 605)
• Approved provisional to permanent appointments (Res 606)
• Approved permanent classified civil service appointments (Res 607)
• Accepted retirements (Res 608)

First Budget Deliberation Session

The Rochester City School District Board of Education held its first budget deliberation session for the 2025-26 school year, reviewing a presentation and answering questions from the administration.

• Review of 2025-26 budget presentation
• Board questions and responses on budget sections
• Discussion on Superintendent's budget process
• Next deliberation session scheduled for April 15, 2025
• Meeting adjourned at 8:07 p.m.

April 1, 2025 Policy Committee of the Whole

The Policy Committee of the Whole reviewed several proposed updates to district policies. These discussions included the Code of Conduct, wellness policies, and various instructional guidelines.

• Code of Conduct (1400) presentation and motion to forward
• Student Harassment and Bullying Prevention and Intervention Policy (0115)
• Grading Systems (4710) and Grading Systems Scales (4710-E1)
• Extreme Heat Condition Days (8113) policy discussion
• Wellness Policy (5405) presentation and motion to forward

The Policy Committee of the Whole approved forwarding numerous updated policies regarding student conduct, wellness, school operations, and financial management to the full board. The committee also recommended the rescission of policies 4311.2 and 4314.2. A discussion on the Mental Health Ad Hoc Committee was postponed to April 24, 2025.

• Forwarded Code of Conduct Policy 1400 out of committee
• Forwarded Policies 0115, 1210, 1900, 4314.3, and 4710 out of committee
• Forwarded Policies 8113 and 9520.6 out of committee
• Forwarded Wellness Policy 5405 out of committee
• Forwarded Policies 4010, 4311.1, 4320, 4320.5, 4321.12, 4326, and 4327 out of committee
• Forwarded Policies 4000, 4095, and 4100 out of committee
• Forwarded Policies 4311.2 and 4314.2 out of committee with recommendations to rescind
• Forwarded Financial Management Policies 6700, 6725, 6741, and 6745 out of committee

2025-26 Public Budget Hearing

The Board of Education is conducting a public hearing to collect feedback from parents, students, staff, and community members regarding the proposed budget for the 2025-26 school year. The board may also convene in executive session to discuss individual appointments or matters with General Counsel.

• Public feedback on the 2025-26 proposed budget
• Executive session for potential individual appointments or General Counsel matters
• Announcement of 1st Budget Deliberation Session on April 8

The board conducted a public budget hearing where three parents and two community members provided comments. No substantive decisions or votes were recorded during the meeting.

March 27, 2025 Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education convened an executive session to discuss pending litigation and then returned to the regular agenda. Members accepted the unaudited March 2025 financial reports and authorized an amendment to the EL Education Inc. agreement for an additional $17,000, bringing the total to $682,200. The board also approved a Memorandum of Agreement with Rochester Institute of Technology and heard a presentation on school bus stop arms.

• Executive Session at 7:05 pm to discuss matters with General Counsel and litigation
• Motion to accept the unaudited March 2025 financial reports (passed)
• Authorization of EL Education Inc. agreement amendment for up to $17,000, total $682,200
• Authorization of Memorandum of Agreement with Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)
• School Bus Stop Arm presentation and recommendation

The Board of Education accepted the unaudited March 2025 financial reports. Members also approved an agreement amendment with EL Education Inc, a memorandum of agreement with Rochester Institute of Technology, and various additional pay authorizations for after-school, Saturday, and professional development programs.

• Accepted Unaudited March 2025 Financial Reports (5-1)
• Authorized Agreement Amendment with EL Education Inc (7-0)
• Authorized Memorandum of Agreement with Rochester Institute of Technology (7-0)
• Authorized CSE/CPSE Recommendations for Special Education Programs & Services 2024-25 (7-0)
• Authorized additional pay for after-school test prep at School No. 42 (7-0)
• Authorized additional pay for SCEP Professional Learning II at School No. 54 (7-0)
• Authorized additional pay for programs at Andrew Langston Middle School (7-0)
• Authorized additional pay for Saturday School at Northwest Middle School (7-0)

March 18, 2025 Work Session with Council for the Great City Schools (CGCS)

The Rochester Board of Education held a work session with the Council for Great City Schools. The board voted to amend the 2025-26 budget calendar and discussed mindset practices and committee diet. The meeting concluded with an executive session and adjournment at 8:48 p.m.

• Amended 2025-26 Budget Calendar
• Work session with Council for Great City Schools
• Discussion on Mindset Practice
• Discussion on Committee Diet
• Executive session on employment matters

The Board approved amendments to the 2025-26 Budget Calendar to accommodate changes in the timing of the budget book release. The session also included discussions on Mindset Practice and Committee Diet.

• Approved amendments to the 2025-26 Budget Calendar (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:48pm (6-0)

Code of Conduct Public Hearing

The Rochester City School District Board of Education will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, to discuss proposed changes to the Code of Conduct Policy (Policy 1400). The meeting will take place at the Central Office, 131 West Broad Street, Conference Room 3A/B, starting at 5:30 p.m. The agenda includes a review of the proposed policy documents and a list of registered speakers.

• Public hearing on proposed Code of Conduct Policy (Policy 1400)
• Review of tracked changes and clean copy of the proposed policy
• Review of Appendix C – Due Process
• List of registered speakers and written comments
• Motion to adjourn

March 11, 2025 Special Meeting to Convene for Consideration of Resolutions

The Rochester Board of Education approved a contract with Amplify Education, Inc. to provide professional learning for K-2 teachers, along with several personnel appointments for substitutes, administrators, and civil service staff.

• Agreement – Amplify Education, Inc. (Resolution 2025-03-11: 553) – $80,000
• Contract Substitute (Emergency Conditional Hire) – Alondra Matos Lopez
• Non-Tenure Bearing Grant Funded Administrative Position – Katie DeFazio
• Appointment to Professional Educator Area – Julia Merzig, Kayra Alomar
• Provisional appointment to Competitive Civil Service titles – Jennifer Montgomery, Maisha Sewell, Ahmad Saiq, Justin Doheny, Chivayannoa Hagins, Reem Ali

The Board authorized an agreement with Amplify Education, Inc. and approved several personnel resolutions including appointments, retirements, resignations, and terminations. The meeting included an executive session to discuss confidential matters and legal advice.

• Authorized agreement with Amplify Education, Inc. (7-0)
• Approved contract substitute emergency conditional hires (7-0)
• Approved non-tenure bearing grant funded administrative appointments (7-0)
• Approved appointments to the professional educator area (7-0)
• Approved provisional competitive civil service appointments (7-0)
• Approved permanent classified civil service appointments (7-0)
• Accepted retirements (7-0)
• Accepted resignations and terminations (7-0)

March 11, 2025 Equity in Student Achievement

The Rochester City School District Board of Education approved the minutes from a previous meeting and held a committee session focused on student achievement data and financial updates. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.

• Approval of February 11, 2025 ESA COW minutes
• Presentation on Secondary Network Updates (7-12 Marking Period Data)
• Presentation on Teaching & Learning Updates: MOY i-Ready and IXL
• Presentation on State Monitor Financial Plan Second Quarter Update
• Executive session regarding personnel and legal matters

The Board approved the minutes from the February 11, 2025, Equity in Student Achievement Committee of the Whole meeting. Members received presentations on secondary network achievement data, i-Ready and IXL scores, and the second quarter financial plan update.

• Approved February 11, 2025 ESA COW minutes (7-0)

March 6, 2025 Special Meeting to Discuss Personnel Matters

The Rochester City School District Board of Education approved the appointment of Dr. Eric J. Rosser as Superintendent of Schools, effective July 1, 2025, with a salary not to exceed $280,000 per year. The meeting also included executive sessions regarding personnel matters and a vote to authorize legal defense and indemnification for a board member.

• Appointment of Dr. Eric J. Rosser as Superintendent (salary not to exceed $280,000)
• Authorization of legal defense and indemnification for Commissioner Isaiah Santiago
• Executive sessions to discuss personnel matters and concerns with the General Counsel
• Meeting held at Conference Room 3 A/B, 131 West Broad Street, Rochester, NY
• Meeting adjourned at 7:06 p.m.

The Board approved the appointment of the Superintendent and authorized legal defense and indemnification. The meeting included two separate executive sessions to discuss personnel and general counsel matters.

• Approved Superintendent Appointment (Resolution No. 2024-25: 551) (4-2)
• Authorized Legal Defense and Indemnification (Resolution No. 2024-25: 552) (4-2)

March 4, 2025 Special Meeting to Discuss Personnel Matters

The Rochester Board of Education held a special meeting to discuss personnel matters, entering executive session to discuss the appointment or employment status of specific individuals and matters concerning the General Counsel. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.

• Executive session to discuss personnel matters
• Return to open session
• Motion to adjourn

The Board convened in executive session to discuss the appointment or employment status of specific individuals and matters concerning the General Counsel. No substantive decisions were recorded in the open session.

• Approved motion to enter executive session (4-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session
• Approved motion to adjourn (4-0)

February 27, 2025 Business Meeting

The Rochester City School District Board of Education voted to close Northwest Junior High at Douglass and relocate Andrew Langston Middle School to Fernwood Park, but the motion failed. The board also approved additional pay for teachers at School No. 7 for an extended-day program.

• Vote to close Northwest Junior High and relocate Andrew Langston Middle School (Resolution 2024-25: 522)
• Authorize $5,848.00 for extended-day program planning at Virgil I. Grissom, School No. 7
• Accept the Unaudited February 2025 Financial Reports
• Executive session to discuss personnel and litigation
• Superintendent's report on the 2025-26 preliminary budget

The Board of Education voted against Resolution No. 2024-25: 522 to authorize school closure and relocation. The Board approved the February 2025 financial reports and several resolutions for additional staff pay and after-school program agreements.

• School Closure and Relocation (Resolution No. 2024-25: 522) denied (5-0)
• Approved Unaudited February 2025 Financial Reports (7-0)
• Authorized additional pay for Extended Day Program at School No. 7 (7-0)
• Authorized additional pay for Special Education professional work (7-0)
• Approved Spring 2025 sports coaches stipends (7-0)
• Approved additional pay for RCSD Arts Citywide Events 24-25 (7-0)
• Authorized CSE/CPSE recommendations for Special Education programs 2024-25 (7-0)
• Approved agreements with EnCompass: Resources for Learning for after-school and summer programs (7-0)

February 11, 2025 Special Meeting to Convene for Consideration of Resolutions

The Rochester Board of Education approved the appointment of new teachers, administrators, and classified staff, as well as the acceptance of retirements, during a special meeting on February 11, 2025.

• Appointed 3 contract substitute teachers at $57,904-$62,357/yr.
• Appointed 1 acting assistant principal at $108,300/yr.
• Appointed 5 permanent professional educators at $60,599-$71,997/yr.
• Appointed 7 provisional civil service staff at $19.12-$92,000/yr.
• Accepted retirements for 20 staff members including 2 principals.

The Board approved an amended 2025-26 budget calendar including a City Budget Vote on June 17, 2025. Members approved several personnel appointments, retirements, and resignations, and forwarded 12 policies out of the Policy Committee for further action.

• Approved amended 2025-26 Budget Calendar (6-0)
• Approved contract substitute emergency conditional hire (6-0)
• Approved acting administrative appointment (4-1)
• Approved professional educator appointment (5-0)
• Approved provisional and permanent Civil Service appointments (6-0)
• Accepted retirements and resignations (6-0)
• Approved terminations (5-1)
• Forwarded 12 policies out of the Policy Committee (6-0)

February 11, 2025 Equity in Student Achievement

The committee approved minutes from December and January meetings. Presentations include the Academic Plan Quarter 2 Update by Chief of Staff LaShara Evans and Elementary Network Updates on attendance, suspensions, and instructional priorities by School Chiefs. Reports cover attendance, new courses, and receivership status for five schools. The board entered executive session to discuss an appointment and legal matters.

• Academic Plan Quarter 2 Update presentation by Chief of Staff LaShara Evans
• Elementary Network Updates: attendance, suspensions, instructional priorities by School Chiefs Rhonda Morien and Brenda Torres-Santana
• Attendance Report
• New Course Report
• Receivership Reports for Sch. 16, 28, 33, Edison, and Monroe

The Board approved the minutes from the December 10, 2024 and January 14, 2025 ESA COW meetings. Members received updates on the academic plan and elementary network attendance and suspensions. The board also convened in executive session to discuss appointments and legal matters.

• Approved December 10, 2024 ESA COW minutes (5-0)
• Approved January 14, 2025 ESA COW minutes (5-0)
• Approved motion to enter executive session at 7:11 pm (7-0)
• Approved motion to exit executive session at 8:30 pm (5-0)

February 6, 2025 Special Meeting to Discuss Personnel Matters

The Board of Education met for a special session to discuss personnel matters. The meeting consisted of a call to order, an executive session closed to the public, and adjournment.

• Executive session to discuss employment of a particular individual per Section 105 of the Open Meetings Law

The Board convened a special meeting and entered an executive session to discuss personnel matters. No substantive decisions were recorded in the open session.

• Approved motion to enter executive session (5-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session (5-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn (5-0)

February 4, 2205 Policy Committee of the Whole

The Policy Committee of the Whole voted on several policy amendments at its February 4, 2025 meeting. The board approved forwarding Board By-Laws 2300, amended Budget Policy 6110 and Budget Transfers 6150 to remove references to sunsetted committees, amended Student Records and Privacy Policy 5500 per NY guidance, and amended Access to Education, Student Privacy, Law and Immigration Enforcement Policy 5600. All motions carried.

• Forwarded Board By-Laws 2300 out of committee to full board
• Amended Budget Policy (6110) and Budget Transfers (6150) to align with committee sunset
• Amended Student Records and Privacy Policy (5500) removing 'place of birth' as directory information per NY AG/NYSED memo
• Amended Policy 5600 on access to education and immigration enforcement
• Code of Conduct Committee membership list provided for discussion

The committee approved amendments to Policy 5500 and Policy 5600. Board By-Laws (Policy 2300) were forwarded out of the Policy Committee following discussions on leadership resignations and student representative votes.

• Approved minutes from December 3, 2024 meeting (6-0)
• Forwarded Policy 2300 (Board By-Laws) out of the Policy Committee (6-0)
• Approved amendments to Resolution No. 2024-25: 314 (6-0)
• Approved amendments to Policy 5500 (Resolution No. 2024-25: 503) (4-0)
• Approved amendments to Policy 5600 (Resolution No. 2024-25: 504) (5-0)

February 3, 2025 Special Meeting to discuss Personnel Matters

This is a special meeting of the Rochester Board of Education focused solely on personnel matters. The board convened in executive session (closed to the public) to discuss the employment of a particular individual, as permitted by state law, then returned to open session and adjourned. No public decisions or substantive votes were recorded.

• Board entered executive session at 5:23 PM to discuss employment of a particular individual (motion carried 4-0).
• Board returned to open session at 9:21 PM (motion carried 5-0, one absent).
• Meeting adjourned at 9:22 PM (motion carried 5-0, one absent).

The board convened a special meeting and entered an executive session to discuss personnel matters. No substantive decisions were recorded in the open session.

• Approved motion to enter executive session (4-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session (5-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn (5-0)

January 31, 2025 Special Meeting to Discuss Personnel Matters

The Rochester Board of Education convened a special meeting to discuss personnel matters, entering executive session to discuss the employment of a particular individual and receive legal advice. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.

• Entered executive session to discuss employment of a particular individual
• Received advice from General Counsel
• Returned to open session at 9:37 p.m.
• Motion to adjourn carried

The Board convened a special meeting and entered an executive session to discuss the employment of a particular individual and receive legal advice. No substantive decisions were recorded in the open session.

• Approved motion to enter executive session (4-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session (5-0)

January 25, 2025 Special Meeting to Discuss Personnel Matters

The Rochester Board of Education convened a special meeting to discuss personnel matters. The board entered executive session to discuss the employment of a particular individual and returned to open session at 7:00 p.m. The meeting adjourned at 7:02 p.m.

• Entered executive session to discuss employment of a particular individual
• Returned to open session at 7:00 p.m.
• Adjourned at 7:02 p.m.

The Board convened a special meeting and entered an executive session to discuss personnel matters. No substantive decisions or actions were recorded in the open session.

• Approved motion to enter executive session (4-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session (6-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn (6-0)

January 24, 2025 Special Meeting to discuss Personnel Matters

The Rochester Board of Education held a special meeting to discuss personnel matters. The board voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss the employment of a particular individual, as permitted by state open meetings law. After the closed session, the board returned to open session and adjourned without any public votes on personnel actions.

• Board convened executive session to discuss employment of a particular individual
• Unanimous vote (6-0) to enter closed session
• Meeting adjourned at 8:18 p.m. after returning to open session

The Board convened a special meeting and entered an executive session to discuss personnel matters and receive legal advice. No substantive decisions were recorded in the open session.

• Approved motion to enter executive session (6-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session (6-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn (6-0)

Genesee Community Charter School Public Hearing

The Rochester City School District Board of Education is conducting a public hearing to gather community input on a proposed merger between two Genesee Community Charter School boards. The hearing is required by state law to support an application for the new entity, Genesee Community Charter Schools, which would be authorized by the SUNY Board of Trustees starting in the 2025-2026 school year.

• Public hearing on Genesee Community Charter School merger application
• Hearing required by Education Law subdivision 2857(1) and 8 N.Y.C.R.R. § 119.4
• Proposed new entity: Genesee Community Charter Schools
• Surviving entity: Genesee Community Charter School - Flour City Campus
• New authorization: SUNY Board of Trustees (2025-2026 school year)

The Rochester Board of Education held a public hearing to receive comments on the Genesee Community Charter School merger. Two community members spoke in support of the merger. No formal votes or decisions were recorded during this session.

January 23, 2025 Business Meeting

The Rochester Board of Education approved special education programs and services for 2024-25 and authorized a $6,500 agreement with Cornell University for therapeutic crisis intervention training. The meeting also included acceptance of financial reports and reports from various advisory councils.

• Approval of special education programs and services (Resolution 2024-25: 462)
• Authorization of $6,500 agreement with Cornell University (Resolution 2024-25: 463)
• Acceptance of unaudited January 2025 financial reports
• Reports from Student Leadership Congress and Parent Leadership Advisory Council
• Reports from Bilingual Education Council and Special Education Parent Advisory Council

The Board of Education accepted the unaudited January 2025 financial reports and authorized CSE/CPSE recommendations for special education programs and services. Members also approved an agreement with Cornell University and multiple resolutions for additional staff pay for professional learning and afterschool programs.

• Accepted Unaudited January 2025 Financial Reports (7-0)
• Authorized CSE/CPSE Recommendations for Special Education Programs & Services 2024-25 (6-0)
• Authorized Agreement with Cornell University (6-0)
• Authorized Memorandum of Agreement with United Professional Barbers and Cosmetologists Association, Inc. at EAST (6-0)
• Approved multiple resolutions for additional staff pay for professional learning and afterschool programs (6-0)
• Approved budget transfer for General Fund Salary to match actual staff pay requirements (7-0)
• Convened and then exited Executive Session to discuss personnel and litigation (4-0)

January 14, 2025 Special Meeting to Convene for Consideration of Resolutions

The Board of Education met to consider several resolutions regarding district operations and staffing. The body approved a contract extension for benefit administration and authorized multiple professional and civil service appointments.

• Agreement extension with Lifetime Benefit Solutions, Inc. for $81,220.80
• Appointment of 12 professional educators, including positions at Loretta Johnson Middle School and Padilla High School
• Provisional appointment of 6 Competitive Civil Service employees
• Permanent appointment of 4 classified Civil Service employees

The Board approved an agreement extension with Lifetime Benefit Solutions, Inc. and an updated 2024-2025 school calendar. Members also voted to approve several personnel actions, including appointments, retirements, resignations, and terminations.

• Approved agreement extension with Lifetime Benefit Solutions, Inc. (6-0)
• Approved appointments to the 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)
• Accepted retirements (6-0)
• Accepted resignations (6-0)
• Approved terminations (6-0)
• Approved updated 2024-2025 School Calendar and associated Memorandums of Agreement (6-0)

January 14, 2025 Equity in Student Achievement

The Equity in Student Achievement Committee will hear a presentation on the 2025-26 Summer & Extended School Year Plan and receive a Teaching & Learning update on instructional strategies. The board may also go into executive session to discuss personnel and legal matters.

• Presentation on 2025-26 Summer & Extended School Year Plan by Director Alyshia Thomas and Director Melissa Pittman
• Teaching & Learning Report on Instructional Strategies
• Approval of minutes from May 16, 2023 ESA COW meeting
• Board may recess into executive session for personnel and legal discussions

The Board received a joint presentation from Director Alyshia Thomas and Director Melissa Pittman regarding the 2025-26 summer school program. Discussion focused on transportation, program evaluation, cost, and attendance. No formal votes were taken on the plan.

• Adjourned meeting at 6:52 pm (7-0)

Board Retreat on Student Outcomes Focused Governance

The Rochester Board of Education held a closed retreat on January 7, 2025. At 6:02 p.m., members voted to convene an executive session to discuss matters leading to the appointment or employment of a particular person and to receive legal advice from the General Counsel. The meeting also included discussion of listening‑session preparation and board guardrails, with related governance documents reviewed. No public participation was allowed.

• Motion to convene executive session to discuss appointment/employment (motion carried)
• Discussion of Listening Session Preparation and Practice (Student Outcomes Focused Governance Manual)
• Review of Board Guardrails documents (communication protocols, bylaws, code of conduct)

The board convened for a retreat session that included discussions on board guardrails and listening session preparation. The board voted to enter an executive session to discuss personnel appointments and receive legal counsel.

• Approved motion to enter Executive Session for personnel and legal counsel (5-0)

January 2, 2025 Organizational Meeting

The Rochester City School District Board of Education held its organizational meeting to elect officers and appoint administrative staff for the year 2025. The board appointed Camille Simmons as President and Isaiah Santiago as Vice President, and reappointed several district officials to their roles.

• Election of Camille Simmons as Board President
• Election of Isaiah Santiago as Board Vice President
• Reappointment of Director of Procurement & Supply as Purchasing Agent
• Reappointment of Nawrocki Smith LLP as Claims Auditor
• Reappointment of Rahimah Wynn as District Clerk

The Board of Education held its 2025 organizational meeting to elect officers and committee chairs. The board appointed its leadership and approved 17 administrative resolutions regarding district officers and financial designations.

• Appointed Camille Simmons as Board President (4-3)
• Appointed Amy Maloy as Board Vice President (4-3)
• Appointed Jacqueline D. Griffin as Policy Committee Chair (4-3)
• Appointed Isaiah Santiago as Equity in Student Achievement Committee Chair (6-1)
• Appointed James Patterson as Audit Committee Chair (5-2)
• Approved Resolution 2024-25: 438 to designate Purchasing Agent (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 2024-25: 443 to authorize Budget Transfers (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 2024-25: 446 to designate Official Newspaper (7-0)