By Alayna Delice
April 28, 2026

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Community members gathered at Rochester City Hall to protest proposed budget cuts to student support services within the Rochester City School District ahead of a City Council budget hearing.

Counselors and social workers support students beyond the classroom, speakers said. They described working with students dealing with serious health issues and said these roles help connect students and families to resources that allow them to stay in school and succeed.

Some speakers raised concerns about what the cuts could signal.

They said reducing these services sends a message that vulnerable students and their challenges are not a priority and does not reflect the values of the Rochester community.

Speakers also emphasized that all students deserve the opportunity to achieve an education, including access to counselors, community support and resources needed to navigate challenges inside and outside of school.

Jennifer J. Jones, an educator with 24 years of experience and a home hospital educator, spoke about her work with students facing serious health and personal challenges. She said the environment students are in has a direct impact on their outcomes.

“Change is going to come,” Jones said.

Geneo Walai, a community campaign organizer with Citizen Action of New York, spoke against further cuts.

“No more cuts. Our children deserve better than cuts,” Walai said.

Carmen Torres, a parent leadership manager with The Children’s Agenda, addressed the crowd.

“We will not support a budget that balances itself on the backs of scholars,” Torres said. “We are not alone in this and we can pass the budget together.”

Debra Bullard, a member of the community of very invested parents, also spoke.

“No more cuts. We need to support our children across the board,” Bullard said.

Robin Wilt, a former Brighton Town Board member and current congressional candidate, spoke about school funding and access to resources.

She said Rochester is eligible for Title I funding, which supports schools serving high numbers of low income students, and that many programs rely on that funding. She also called for equal funding across school districts.

Budget discussions are ongoing.

Original story here: https://www.minorityreporter.net/post/rcsd-budget-debate-centers-on-student-support-services