Rome City School District Prioritizes Student Safety with New Policy Updates
Board of Education Unveils Comprehensive Changes for a Safer School Year
The Rome City School District is taking decisive action to ensure student safety and transparency as preparations for the upcoming school year are underway. At a public hearing held on July 21, 2025, district leaders introduced sweeping updates to safety, attendance, and code of conduct policies. These initiatives are designed not only to comply with New York’s Schools Against Violence in Education (SAVE) legislation but also to build lasting community trust.
The Push for Safer Schools
In a climate where school safety is under constant scrutiny, the district’s decision to update its protocols comes as a welcome move. During the hearing, Assistant Superintendent Georgia Gonzalez presented a detailed safety plan. This plan now includes comprehensive contact lists for district personnel, the designation of incident commanders at strategic locations, and clearly defined procedures for emergencies such as early dismissals, shelter-in-place scenarios, and even emergency feeding arrangements. These measures ensure that every aspect of a potential crisis is addressed swiftly and methodically.
Superintendent Nerlande Anselme stressed the importance of these measures at the meeting, stating,
“Safety remains our top priority as we prepare for the upcoming school year.”
This commitment is underscored by the district’s recognition that proactive planning leads to both a secure environment and enhanced educational outcomes.
Strengthening Policy and Transparency
Alongside safety, the board took significant steps to update the code of conduct and attendance policies. Amanda Jones, Director of Counseling Services, explained that these revisions include adjustments to the cellular phone policy and an overall effort to make disciplinary measures more transparent. The updated guidelines seek to create consistency across the district, ensuring that every student and staff member is aware of expectations and consequences.
A key aspect of the plan is public participation. District officials have invited community members to review the revised policies on the district website. The board has allocated a 30-day period for feedback, with a follow-up public hearing scheduled for August 18, 2025. Board President Sue Carvelli highlighted that although no questions were raised during the initial hearing, the district remains fully committed to incorporating community sentiment into its final decisions.
Strategic Planning for Future Success
The updated policies are a central part of a broader strategic plan aimed at bolstering leadership sustainability and staff well-being. During a recent professional learning retreat, district administrators discussed innovative approaches to classroom management, crisis readiness, and long-term facility planning. In addition to policy updates, discussions included approving retirements, amending job titles, and expediting emergency repairs for school facilities damaged in last year’s tornado.
This holistic approach not only fosters a secure environment for students but also supports the educators and administrators who form the backbone of the district. Enhanced policies, when paired with strong leadership and clear communication channels, can improve the overall educational experience in significant ways.
Looking Ahead: A Call to Community Action
As the district continues to update its policies, parents, students, and local residents are encouraged to engage in the process. Your voice is essential in helping to shape a safe and supportive school atmosphere. The Rome City School District’s leadership invites everyone to participate in this collaborative effort to create a better future for every student.
The board is poised to vote on these updates at the next regular board meeting on August 4, 2025. In the meantime, community members should review the proposed changes online and provide their input before the follow-up public hearing. The actions taken today lay the foundation for a more resilient and well-prepared school community tomorrow.
The proactive measures set forth by the Rome City School District underscore an unwavering commitment to student safety and transparent governance. As parents and community members work with administrators to refine these changes, the district stands as a model for districts across New York. Engage now by visiting the Rome City School District website and sharing your thoughts on these critical updates.
