AUDIO: Rochester City Council Hearing - Proposed 2026-27 RCSD Budget

The Rochester, NY City Council held a hearing on April 28, 2026, to review the proposed 2026-27 Rochester City School District (RCSD) budget. The discussion focused heavily on the challenges of the budget, including significant cuts to programs such as the home hospital program, Rochester International Academy, refugee services, and social and emotional supports. Council members expressed concerns about the lack of transparency and narrative detail in the budget document, making it difficult to understand changes and allocations. The RCSD leadership explained that the budget is preliminary and incomplete due to pending state aid allocations and emphasized efforts to use an equity-based allocation model for staffing tied to student enrollment and needs. They also highlighted additional philanthropic and grant funding received to partially restore some cuts. The state monitor and district officials stressed fiscal discipline, particularly regarding the use of the district's $312 million fund balance, advocating for cautious use to avoid future financial crises. The council and district leadership discussed ongoing efforts to improve transparency, community partnerships, and strategies to support student success amid financial constraints. A vote on the budget was scheduled for May 5, 2026, pending final state budget decisions.