Adoption of the 2026-27 Budget and BOE Work Session | May 12, 2026

The Rochester City School District Board of Education held a special meeting on May 12, 2026, to adopt the 2026-27 budget totaling approximately $1.2 billion. The meeting involved extensive discussion and debate among commissioners regarding the budget's impact on student services, including concerns about reductions in mental health supports, special education, and English language learner services. Commissioners expressed worries about transparency, governance, and the alignment of the budget with academic goals and long-term financial sustainability. Despite opposition from several commissioners, the budget was ultimately adopted with amendments, including a provision for the superintendent to present updated financial and strategic plans to the board. Additionally, the board discussed the capital improvement program (CIP), which involves approximately $22 million in general fund expenditures for building maintenance and safety projects such as boiler upgrades and security enhancements. Commissioners requested more detailed presentations on CIP projects and expressed concerns about the timing and transparency of these expenditures. The meeting concluded with motions to move forward with the amended budget and related resolutions.