Our district is eliminating behavioral interventionists at the elementary level, a decision that puts our youngest learners at risk. These dedicated professionals work directly with students and families to create individualized plans that support mental health, emotional regulation, and lifelong wellness. They are a safe, trusted presence, and ultimately the heart of our schools. There is now no longer a position designed to support Tier 2 students, and students who should not need a special education label or IEP may now receive one, causing even greater financial disparages in the district.  

Behavioral interventionists are crucial in providing early intervention strategies that help prevent more significant issues later, which potentially risk lives and the greater community. Without these professionals, elementary teachers, who are already overburdened, will be tasked with managing complex behavioral challenges. This shift not only affects the mental health of the students but also the academic environment, making it challenging for all students to learn effectively.

Rochester Community Schools needs to recognize the critical role behavioral interventionists play in fostering a supportive environment for our children and reallocate mismanaged funds to support this critical need. Their current plan in development involves ONE consultant covering FOUR buildings with zero student interaction. This plan will not suffice, and we need to keep striving to encourage reestablishment of the current model. 

Join us in urging the Rochester Community Schools Board and Superintendent Nicholas Russo to reinstate these essential positions. These professionals are not just indispensable to our children’s education; they are essential to their well-being and future success. 

District-Wide Impact in 2024: 

K-5 Behavioral Interventionist Team:

- 2,502 individual student sessions

- 2,244 group sessions

- 678 classroom lessons

- 238 peer mediations

- 665 crisis calls

- Over 2,150 students served across 13 schools

Please sign this petition and share to help create a supportive and secure environment for our children. Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive. 

To contact the board directly to express your thoughts and concerns, you may do so here: https://www.rochester.k12.mi.us/about-us/board-of-education/contact-the-board

There is no need to donate to change.org via this petition. Funds will go directly to change.org and not this cause.