BOE Speaker Session & Public Budget Hearing | April 21, 2026

The Rochester City School District held a Board of Education Speaker Session and Public Budget Hearing on April 21, 2026. The meeting featured extensive public commentary focused primarily on concerns about proposed budget cuts affecting key educational programs and services. Significant attention was given to the potential elimination of the pre-K 3 bilingual program at School 22, with multiple speakers emphasizing its importance for early childhood development and community stability. There was also strong opposition to proposed reductions in mental health services, including cuts to social workers, school counselors, the Rock Restorative Team, and the Home and Hospital Instruction program, which serves medically fragile and special education students. Speakers highlighted the critical role these services play in supporting student well-being, academic success, and safety, urging the board to reconsider cuts and invest in prevention and support programs. Additionally, concerns were raised about the quality and funding of school meal programs. Superintendent Ross acknowledged the preliminary nature of the budget and noted some reinstatements of social workers and counselors, emphasizing ongoing efforts to identify efficiencies and the need for community advocacy for increased state and federal funding. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session to discuss personnel and legal matters.