The Rochester Board of Education held a public speaker forum and work session on September 16, 2025, focusing on key issues related to student and staff retention, as well as the overall stability within the district. The meeting aimed to address concerns regarding the psychological and physical safety of students and staff, alongside the impact of leadership transitions on school stability.

During the discussions, board members emphasized the importance of retention as a measure of stability but noted that it should not be the sole metric guiding decisions. A proposal was made to ensure that the superintendent would not allow conditions that undermine the psychological and physical safety of both students and staff. This proposal was met with agreement among members, highlighting a shared commitment to fostering a safe educational environment.

Further deliberations led to the conclusion that the superintendent should also avoid making decisions that could harm stability in leadership and teaching roles, as well as the turnover of paraprofessionals. This point was reiterated to ensure clarity and alignment among board members regarding the importance of maintaining a stable educational framework.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for clear guidelines that prioritize the well-being of students and staff while also addressing the challenges posed by leadership changes. The board plans to continue refining these guidelines in future sessions to enhance the overall effectiveness of the district's educational environment.