Rochester board hears $38 million budget gap, plans participatory budgeting and staffing review

The Rochester Board of Education on Thursday reviewed a projected $38 million shortfall in the Rochester City School District’s general fund for the coming fiscal year and discussed steps the district will take over the next five months to produce a balanced budget.

“The budget is more than a financial document. It’s a reflection of our values, strategic priorities, and our community’s aspirations,” Deputy/Interim Superintendent Demario Strickland told the board, urging collaboration while emphasizing the board’s legal responsibility to submit a balanced budget.

The gap is based on the district’s current estimates: roughly $918,000,000 in general fund revenue against about $955,000,000 in projected expenses. Acting Chief Financial presenter Derek Blair summarized the figures to the board: “That leaves us with a $38,000,000 budget gap.”

Why it matters: the district is under state monitorship and must submit a balanced budget to its state monitor; Strickland said the district must file its budget package by March 1, per requirements that apply to school districts under monitorship. Board members repeatedly pressed for a process that preserves classroom positions where possible and seeks savings through central-office efficiencies, contract reviews, position-management actions and better use of three years of historical data.

Planned process and public engagement

Strickland and staff…