Board debates new monthly speaker forum and adviser roles for parents and students

The Rochester Board of Education discussed changing how the public participates in meetings, proposing a monthly speaker forum tied to work-session agenda items and renaming committee participants as “parent advisers” and “student advisers.” Commissioners agreed to develop the details before formally changing bylaws.

Board clerk Charisma Travis presented options July 8 after commissioners requested a single monthly forum for public input. Travis said the recommended forum would consolidate public comment into a standing monthly meeting focused on items on the work-session or audit agendas so community testimony aligns with actionable topics. Two start-date options were presented: begin in September 2025 (adding a third weekly meeting) or wait until February 2026 and replace an existing retreat meeting.

Several commissioners favored a forum that requires speakers to address work-session agenda items and recommended starting in September to respond quickly to community concerns. Commissioner Santiago said he supported the forum and would prioritize speakers with agenda items but also allow broader topics; Commissioner LeBron said speakers should be required to address agenda items to avoid diluting board time. Vice President Malloy and other trustees supported starting earlier given federal funding uncertainty affecting families. Time allotments for speaker sessions generated debate: some favored the existing 60-minute maximum, while others argued for 90–120 minutes for substantial topics.

Travis also asked whether the board would carry forward and rename the former committee parent and student roles. Commissioners agreed in principle to adopt “parent advisers” and “student advisers” as titles and directed staff to return with proposals for number, selection process and role definition. Commissioners asked that staff circulate a follow-up email so members can submit preferences on adviser counts and selection criteria.

Any change to public-comment rules will require a bylaw amendment, which the clerk noted needs at least five votes under the board’s rules. The board did not take a formal vote on the bylaw changes July 8 and will consider a formal resolution and communications plan before implementation. Travis said business meetings in July and August will remain the opportunity for public comment until any new process is adopted.