ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Rochester’s newest superintendent, Dr. Eric Rosser, marked his 100th day as head of city schools amid ongoing district-wide turmoil. During a public address, Rosser did not say much about the months-long Oracle payroll issues.
“The transition has been challenging. The payroll issues have had a real significant impact on our district employees,” Rosser said.
The state teachers union is preparing a lawsuit against the district as hundreds of employees continue to not get paid what they are owed. News10NBC’s Marsha Augustin attended the presentation to break down Rosser’s vision for the district.
The district said it could not comment on pending lawsuits, so Rosser was not available for further comment. His speech focused on student success and outlined a vision of progress for the district.
“We will keep building on the momentum of being very focused on correcting this issue until payroll is reliable for everyone,” said Rosser.
100 days ago, Rosser stepped into his role as superintendent of the Rochester City School District. He began his report by addressing the Oracle issue.
Commissioner Cynthia Elliott, who was the board president during the initial talks about implementing Oracle, said, “I am supportive of the president of the RTA filing the lawsuit so we can really have someone to get in there if we can to oversee what exactly is going on with the system.”
Commissioner Jacqueline D. Griffin applauded Rosser for the progress he has made in helping fix some of the payroll issues. She commented on the lawsuit, saying, “They’re in a situation where they weren’t getting paid we understand that process that’s normal process in a situation that has been overwhelming with what Oracle has cost the district.”
On the educational front, Rosser is focusing on improving English language arts and math, attendance, and preparing students for college, real-world jobs, and military readiness.
“We are building a district where operations are strong resources are aligned where every decision is made with students squarely at the center,” Rosser said.
Griffin believes Rosser is moving the district in the right direction, and students agree. They have been pushing for student advocacy.
“Our opinions actually matter and they are being taken into account,” said Taquao Kingcade.
Elijah Espada said, “To know that his guy has come here and do what he actually is saying actually gives me a lot of hope.”
Peter Mugisha added, “To see him listening to us – it’s very powerful and encouraging.”
Commissioner Elliott said she would grade Rosser’s first 100 days on the job as tricky because there’s still a lot to be seen. She’s seen a lot of superintendents come and go in her 20 years with the district and says she can’t put her full confidence in him yet.
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