The Rochester Board of Education's Public Speaker Forum on September 16, 2025, highlighted pressing concerns from community members regarding school safety and budget allocations.

Maria Gonzalez, a concerned parent, addressed the board about ongoing violence at Freddie Thomas High School, where fights have escalated, prompting police involvement. She urged the board to take immediate action to ensure student safety, emphasizing the urgency of the situation as it poses a risk to students. Gonzalez also raised issues regarding inadequate support for her goddaughter, who has been facing challenges at another school, calling for more effective communication and assistance from the district.

Laurie Thomas, another speaker, presented a critical analysis of the district's budget, revealing that the 2025-2026 state aid for the Rochester City School District amounts to over $843 million, an increase of nearly 9% from the previous year. However, she pointed out that after accounting for payroll and other expenses, only $8,000 to $11,000 per student remains for educational purposes. Thomas questioned the effectiveness of current spending, noting that despite significant financial resources, a large percentage of students are failing academically. She criticized the board for seeking additional funding without demonstrating a commitment to improving educational outcomes.

The forum concluded with no further speakers, transitioning into a board work session. The discussions underscored the community's demand for accountability and effective use of resources to enhance student safety and educational quality in the Rochester City School District. As the board moves forward, the implications of these concerns will likely shape future decisions and policies aimed at addressing the needs of students and families in the district.