Camille Simmons Elected as New Rochester School Board President, Succeeding Cynthia Elliott

Camille Simmons

The Rochester Board of Education has elected Camille Simmons as its new president, replacing Cynthia Elliott, who has held the position since 2022. The decision was made during the board's annual organizational meeting Thursday, with a close 4-3 vote in favor of Simmons.

Simmons, a Rochester native and Wilson Magnet High School alumna, was first elected to the board in 2021. She currently serves as the executive director of Leadership Rochester, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preparing individuals for leadership roles in the community. Simmons holds degrees from Monroe Community College, Keuka College, and Roberts Wesleyan College, with a professional background in social work and youth advocacy.

The vote saw Simmons, along with commissioners Amy Maloy, James Patterson, and Jacqueline Griffin, supporting her election as board president. Elliott, along with commissioners Beatriz LeBron and Isaiah Santiago, voted to retain Elliott in the leadership role.

In the same meeting, Amy Maloy was elected as vice president, succeeding Beatriz LeBron, also by a 4-3 vote.

Elliott, who has served on the board since 2005, expressed uncertainty about the reasons behind her replacement but confirmed she will continue to serve until her term ends later this year.

The leadership change comes at a pivotal time for the Rochester City School District, which faces a projected $38 million budget shortfall and the ongoing search for a permanent superintendent. Simmons has emphasized the importance of collaborative leadership, community partnerships, and student-centered policies to address these challenges.

“As board president, I am committed to addressing historical inequities in our education system and ensuring every student has access to high-quality education,” Simmons said.

The district continues to grapple with improving student outcomes and managing limited resources. Community members and stakeholders are watching closely to see how Simmons' leadership will shape the board's priorities and impact the district's direction.

The board's next meeting is scheduled for later this month, where further discussions on district goals and policies are expected.