On September 16, 2025, the Rochester Board of Education convened for a Public Speaker Forum and Board Work Session, focusing on the critical theme of student safety. The discussions centered around defining and enhancing safety measures within the school environment, reflecting community concerns and values.

The meeting began with an emphasis on the importance of safety, prompting participants to brainstorm adjectives that could further clarify this value. Terms such as "protection," "safe classroom environment," and "safe school culture" emerged as key descriptors. The dialogue highlighted the multifaceted nature of safety, encompassing not only physical safety but also psychological and social-emotional aspects. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that all students feel secure both inside and outside school premises.

Participants were guided through a structured process to develop "guardrails"—statements that outline the conditions under which the superintendent will operate to protect these scoped values. For instance, statements could specify that decisions must not harm student psychological safety or staff physical safety. This method encourages a collaborative effort to align the board's actions with community expectations regarding safety.

As the session progressed, attendees were instructed to draft their own guardrail statements, reflecting on the community feedback they had received. This exercise aimed to foster clarity and specificity in the board's safety policies, allowing for a tailored approach that resonates with the community's needs.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for all participants, including state monitors, to engage in the drafting process, ensuring a robust discussion that incorporates diverse perspectives. The board's commitment to refining safety measures underscores its dedication to creating a secure educational environment, a priority that resonates deeply with parents, students, and educators alike.

As the board moves forward, the next steps will involve reviewing the drafted guardrails and integrating community feedback into actionable policies. This collaborative approach not only strengthens the board's decision-making process but also reinforces its accountability to the community it serves.