Rochester superintendent says DEI director post removed to reduce federal funding risk; community speakers press for continued supports

Superintendent Andrew Russo announced at the April 21 Rochester Community Schools Board of Education meeting that he has eliminated the district—s Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion position as part of a risk-reduction effort tied to shifting federal enforcement guidance.

Russo told the board that the change followed a U.S. Department of Education request, dated April 3, 2025, asking Michigan to certify compliance with civil-rights requirements. "Because of the shifting positions by the U.S. Department of Education, we were advised that there was a substantially increased risk of funding loss," Russo said. He said the district made the change to protect roughly $10,000,000 in annual funding that supports all students and staff.

Community members, current and former staff, and the Rochester Education Association president urged the district not to eliminate the functions and supports they associate with DEI work. Cheryl Heinegger, a parent and long-time district volunteer, said the position had been elevated after past…