Camille Simmons Elected Rochester School Board President, Replacing Cynthia Elliott
Camille Simmons was elected president of the Rochester Board of Education during the board’s annual organizational meeting Thursday, succeeding Cynthia Elliott, who had held the position since 2022. Simmons secured the role in a narrow 4-3 vote.
A Rochester native and Wilson Magnet High School graduate, Simmons joined the board in 2021. She currently serves as executive director of Leadership Rochester, a nonprofit focused on community leadership development. 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 supported by commissioners Amy Maloy, James Patterson, and Jacqueline Griffin, while Elliott received votes from commissioners Beatriz LeBron and Isaiah Santiago. Maloy was also elected vice president, replacing LeBron, in another 4-3 vote.
Elliott, who has served on the board since 2005, said she was unsure why she was replaced but confirmed she will continue to serve until her term concludes later this year.
The leadership change comes as the Rochester City School District faces a projected $38 million budget shortfall and continues its search for a permanent superintendent. Simmons has pledged to prioritize collaboration, community engagement, and equity-focused 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 is also working to improve student outcomes and navigate resource constraints. Community members and stakeholders are closely monitoring how Simmons’ leadership will influence the board’s direction.
The next board meeting is scheduled for later this month, where members are expected to discuss district goals and policies further.
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