Learn more about the RCSD school selection process today. Support with school selection is also available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Office of Student Registration.
A GUIDE TO ROCHESTER’S CITY SCHOOLS BRIGHT FUTURES BEGIN HERE
ACTIVATING DREAMS & UNLOCKING POTENTIAL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Elementary Schools by Zone........................................3 Middle Schools by Zone................................................4 Andrew Langston Middle School...............................5 Dr. Freddie Thomas Middle School............................5 East Lower School...........................................................6 Loretta Johnson Middle School...................................6 School of the Arts (MS)..................................................7 Thurgood Marshall Middle School.............................7 World of Inquiry School No. 58 (MS).........................8 East High School..............................................................9 Edison Career & Technology High School..............10 James Monroe High School.......................................11 Joseph C. Wilson Magnet High School..................12 Padilla High School.......................................................13 Rochester Early College International HS.............14 School of the Arts (HS)................................................15 School Without Walls..................................................16 World of Inquiry School No. 58 (HS).......................17
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS BY ZONE
Elementary school is an important milestone in a child’s educational journey. It marks the beginning of a lifelong love of learning, filled with curiosity and growth. Children will make friends, develop social skills, and learn the basics they need to succeed in later school years. The Rochester City School District is home to a diverse collection of elementary schools, each offering unique learning experiences, supportive environments, and programs designed to help every child grow and thrive. Each elementary school is organized by zone for easy browsing, as students attend schools within the zone where they live. Citywide schools are open to all families regardless of their residential zone. Click on any school logo to visit that school’s profile page and learn more about its academics, activities, culture, and community.
SOUTH
NORTHEAST
Henry Hudson School #28
NORTHWEST
CITYWIDE
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MIDDLE SCHOOLS BY ZONE
Middle school is a time when students begin the transition to high school, with the opportunity to explore their individual talents and interests. RCSD middle schools are designed to prepare students for high school, both academically and emotionally. A focus on character development and leadership skills while fostering a sense of community will allow students to develop the skills and knowledge that prepare them for success in college and careers. The curriculum is designed to spark curiosity and cultivate critical thinking skills, with courses that cover a wide range of subjects, including Career and Technical Education (CTE), humanities, arts, and more. Beyond academics, students can choose from a variety of extracurricular activities that range from athletics and arts to community service projects. Field trips, guest speakers, and partnerships with local organizations provide unique opportunities for hands-on learning and exploration.
SOUTH
CITYWIDE
Loretta Johnson MS 200 Genessee Street, 14611
East Lower School 1801 E. Main Street, 14609
School of the Arts 45 Prince Street, 14607
World of Inquiry School 200 University Ave, 14605
NORTHEAST
NORTHWEST
Dr. Freddie Thomas MS 625 Scio Street, 14605
Thurgood Marshall MS 4115 Lake Avenue, 14612
Andrew Langston MS 940 Fernwood Park, 14609
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NE ZONE
ANDREW LANGSTON MIDDLE SCHOOL
Andrew Langston Middle School (ALMS) honors the pioneering spirit of its namesake, Andrew Langston, who was the Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Monroe County Broadcasting Company and WDKX-FM, and offers students a well-rounded educational experience. Address: 940 Fernwood Park, 14609 Phone: 585-324-5223 Website: www.rcsdk12.org/alms Email: almsinfo@rcsdk12.org Grades: 7-8
Inside the classroom, Expeditionary Learning drives an appreciation for education, engages students in their own pathways to learning, and fosters a sense of belonging. All students participate in Crew, which builds relationships and promotes teamwork. Outside the classroom, students can participate in various activities, including podcasting via WDKX, mock trials, field trips, and college visits. ALMS students can also develop their athletic abilities through modified sports programs. Their mascot is the tiger, standing for Togetherness, Integrity, Growth, Excellence, Respect, and Strength. These Tiger traits are celebrated monthly in an assembly, where students are recognized for their accomplishments.
NE ZONE
DR. FREDDIE THOMAS MIDDLE SCHOOL At Dr. Freddie Thomas Middle School (DFTMS), the Wolfpack community lives by a shared mission/ vision: to empower students to be leaders and advocates for positive change. This commitment comes to life by cultivating supportive relationships, honoring each student’s unique identity and strengths, and promoting a sense of curiosity and joy in learning. Address: 625 Scio Street, 14605 Phone: 585-262-8850 Website: www.rcsdk12.org/dftms Email: dftmsinfo@rcsdk12.org Grades: 7-8
DFTMS offers an accelerated program that allows some 8th-grade students to earn at least three and up to five high school credits in Algebra, Geometry, Biology, U.S. History, and Spanish, setting them on a strong path to future success. The school proudly supports and celebrates a diverse student body, with more than 15 languages spoken across its community.
Students can explore their interests through a thriving modified sports program, including girls’ flag football, coed track and field, and more. There is also a growing music program that encourages creativity and expression, and numerous clubs, including, but not limited to, Cheer, Chess, and Reading. At DFTMS, every student is valued, challenged, and supported as they build the skills and confidence to lead and use their voice productively both in school and beyond.
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CITYWIDE
EAST LOWER MIDDLE SCHOOL East Lower School is committed to offering a rigorous learning environment by creating additional time for teaching and learning daily. Scholars receive extra instruction in English Language Arts and math daily and more opportunities to get extra help when needed. East Lower also offers a variety of academic pathways to ensure student success. Address: 1801 East Main St, 14609 Phone: 585-288-3130 Website: www.rcsdk12.org/east Email: eastlowerinfo@rcsdk12.org Grades: 6-8
Students in the Lower School have their own place within the East High building, creating a small school atmosphere, with 180 students for 7th and 8th grades, and small classes for 6th grade.
East is taking charge of its future by being tenacious, thinking purposefully, and advocating for self and others.
Restorative practices are used to promote lifelong peaceful problem-solving. Every day, a 30-minute “Family Group” connects one adult to 10 scholars to foster relationship building and provide a personal support network for each scholar.
SOUTH ZONE
LORETTA JOHNSON MIDDLE SCHOOL Loretta Johnson Middle School (LJMS) is named in honor of Loretta Johnson, a trailblazing educator and administrator in the RCSD. At LJMS, her pioneering spirit and dedication to education are celebrated by empowering students with the same passion for learning and leadership she exemplified throughout her career. Address: 200 Genesee Street, 14611 Phone: 585-463-4100 Website: www.rcsdk12.org/ljms Email: ljmsinfo@rcsdk12.org Grades: 7-8
The staff at LJMS prepare students to succeed in high school and have the tools to tackle world issues long after graduation. At LJMS, students can follow their interests in athletics, arts, and clubs, while forming lifelong bonds with friends as they grow together. As the academic skill set grows, the character strengthens. Families have a strong and committed partner in Loretta Johnson Middle School staff, who will support students’ academic, emotional, and social needs. LJMS wants the best for every student, encouraging them along the way, and making the path purposeful, exciting, clear, and even fun!
6
CITYWIDE
SCHOOL OF THE ARTS MIDDLE SCHOOL At School of the Arts, creativity and curiosity come together to form the foundation of a student’s educational journey. For students entering grades 7 and 8, SOTA offers an inspiring environment where young artists begin to explore their talents while developing strong academic and social skills. Address: 45 Prince Street, 14607 Phone: 585-242-7682 Website: www.rcsdk12.org/sota Email: sotainfo@rcsdk12.org Grades: 7-12
Students experience a well-rounded curriculum that balances rigorous academics with meaningful arts instruction in one of six disciplines—Creative Writing, Dance, Drama, Music (Instrumental or Vocal), Theatre Technology, and Visual Arts. Early exposure to the arts encourages confidence, teamwork, and self-expression, helping students discover who they are as learners and artists. The middle school years at SOTA are a time of exploration and growth. Families can trust that their students are supported by educators who nurture their academic, emotional, and artistic development. SOTA helps students lay a strong foundation for success in high school and beyond, building the skills, discipline, and creativity that will serve them for a lifetime. Admission to SOTA is based on a formal audition process. Students will be scheduled for an audition once they complete the SOTA application. The application deadline is December 19, 2025, and auditions will take place in January. Visit www.sotarochester.org for more information, including the application.
NW ZONE
THURGOOD MARSHALL MIDDLE SCHOOL Thurgood Marshall Middle School (TMMS) prides itself on advocating for its students and giving them the tools they need to advocate for themselves. The school models its sense of commitment, activism, and service from its namesake, the legendary Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall. Address: 4115 Lake Avenue, 14612 Phone: 585-663-7070 Website: www.rcsdk12.org/tmms Email: tmmsinfo@rcsdk12.org Grades: 7-8
The school mascot is the Jaguar, symbolizing confidence, courage, and strength, helping to create a school environment where all students thrive with those qualities. While building positive relationships with students, staff, families, and the community, the school’s main goal is to promote academic promise where Justice, Access, and Growth are the minimum standards for all students. TMMS’s mission is to promote academic scholarship and critical consciousness that empowers scholars to create a world that helps them achieve success in a school community that develops leaders committed to building a more equitable and inclusive society. Justice, Access, and Growth for every student, every day!
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CITYWIDE
WORLD OF INQUIRY MIDDLE SCHOOL At World of Inquiry School, students learn by doing. As Rochester’s only K–12 Expeditionary Learning school, middle school students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning and discover their potential as thinkers, teammates, and leaders. Address: 200 University Ave, 14605 Phone: 585-325-6170 Website: www.rcsdk12.org/58 Email: woisinfo@rcsdk12.org Grades: K-12
In middle school, students participate in learning expeditions: hands-on, interdisciplinary projects that connect classroom lessons to real-world experiences. These expeditions build academic strength, character, and a sense of adventure, helping students understand how their learning can make a difference in their community and the world. The middle school experience at World of Inquiry is all about growth. Students are challenged academically while supported emotionally and socially by a close-knit community where everyone is part of the “crew.” Families are true partners in learning, helping students develop the confidence, curiosity, and compassion they will carry into high school and beyond. At World of Inquiry School, students aren’t passengers; they are crew.
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EAST HIGH SCHOOL
GREAT THINGS ARE HAPPENING HERE: CULTURE IS CONTAGIOUS Strong Instructional Support | Family Group | Career Pathways | Athletics | Academics Welcome to East High School! East is proud to be fully reintegrated with the Rochester City School District, reaffirming its deep roots in the community it serves. Welcoming learners in grades 9–12, the campus combines the energy of a vibrant urban school with a supportive and inclusive environment where every scholar matters. East offers rigorous academics, career and technical pathways in fields such as health science, information technology, culinary arts, music, art, and teaching and learning, work-based learning opportunities, and advanced coursework designed to empower each scholar to confidently take charge of their future. East believes that when everyone works together — staff, students, families, and community — everyone succeeds. Join East, where culture is contagious: all in…all the time.
East High School’s mission is to empower scholars to take charge of their futures, to be tenacious, to think purposefully, and to advocate for themselves and others. East provides a rigorous educational environment by means of a longer school day, block scheduling, foreign language studies, acceleration opportunities, and advanced coursework. East also has a one-way dual language program and an array of musical and art opportunities. Driver Education is available for seniors and some juniors. East’s curriculum has been developed by East teachers and staff in conjunction with the University of Rochester to maximize scholar potential. Restorative practices provide scholars with lifelong skills in peaceful problem-solving and conflict resolution. Unique to East is a dedicated 30-minute period for Family Group, in which two adults are paired with a small group of scholars to foster caring relationships, a natural support system, and unity. East’s Community School model provides connections to an array of community agencies housed at East. The University of Rochester Medical and Dental Clinic, located on campus, offers free services, as well as a community closet and food pantry for scholars and their families. Additionally, local barbers provide free haircuts for scholars once a week. Address: 1801 East Main Street, 14609 Phone: 585-288-3130
WE ARE MORE THAN ACADEMICS
Website: www.rcsdk12.org/east Email: eastupperinfo@rcsdk12.org Grades: 9–12
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EDISON CAREER & TECHNOLOGY HIGH SCHOOL
Edison Career and Technology High School provides more than a high school education. It has a rich history of Career and Technical Education (CTE), or Critical and Timely Education, as the school likes to call it. At Edison, students have the opportunity to invent their future and the foundation needed to make it happen. A newly renovated campus offers state-of-the-art CTE learning spaces, a new library, and Maker Space. Edison is more than academics. In addition to AP course offerings and foreign language study, students can participate in technical training and work-based learning. CTE Pathways connect high school classes with technical learning, mentoring, job shadowing, and paid co-ops to help students get ahead. Students can earn industry credentials and college credits, in addition to participating in clubs, sports, and other extracurricular activities. Put it all together, and students get a one-of-a-kind educational experience!
INVENT YOUR FUTURE
At Edison, students follow one of four distinct career pathways, where they will get hands-on training and on-the-job experience that tie into class instruction, making classes more relevant and exciting. Each pathway is designed to prepare students to move into in-demand career fields or college after graduation. • Automotive, Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Leader in Career and College Preparation | Job Shadowing and Internships | Strong Business Partners
• Construction, Architecture, and Design • Digital Media, Arts, and Communication • P-Tech Rochester: Pathways to Technology
FIND YOUR FUTURE
Address: 655 Colfax Street, 14606 Phone: 585-324-9700 Website: www.rcsdk12.org/edison Email: edisoninfo@rcsdk12.org Grades: NYSAA Grades 7-8; 9–12
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JAMES MONROE HIGH SCHOOL
JEWEL OF THE CITY
Biliteracy Focus | Community School | Student Leaders
Monroe is a Community School with partnerships that bring education, social-emotional services, youth development, and community engagement under one roof. This provides effective support opportunities for students while minimizing instructional time loss. Furthermore, individualized academic support is provided, leading to improved academic achievement, stronger families, and healthier communities overall.
James Monroe High School is the Jewel of the City, and students shine bright! Monroe provides excellent learning opportunities in a clean and safe learning environment. The renovated campus offers state-of-the-art facilities where staff, students, and families work together to create a community that fosters respect and care for one another. Monroe offers strong academic programs, championship athletic teams, and unique cultural experiences, highlighted by the transitional Bilingual Program. Some unique opportunities include the SMART Program, brand-new Cosmetology Program, and a Driver Education Program. The Monroe SMART (Sports Majors, Athletics, and Regents Track) program is a unique pathway designed to help students achieve a NYS Regents Diploma while meeting NCAA guidelines and preparing for sports-related opportunities beyond the playing field. This one-of-a-kind academic program offers several unique elective classes, such as Advanced Weight Lifting, Mechatronics, and Responding to Emergencies, which ends with students receiving First Aid and CPR certification and college credit.
OUR COMMUNITY TODAY, THE WORLD TOMORROW
Address: 164 Alexander Street, 14607 Phone: 585-232-1530 Website: www.rcsdk12.org/monroe Email: monroeupperinfo@rcsdk12.org Grades: 9–12
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JOSEPH C. WILSON MAGNET HIGH SCHOOL COMMENCEMENT ACADEMY
Students who want to be challenged academically should consider Joseph C. Wilson Magnet High School. The International Baccalaureate (IB) program encourages critical analysis, research skills, and service as part of the learning process, with curriculum and assessments that are consistent among 4,000 IB schools worldwide. The only IB program in the RCSD, Wilson prepares graduates to excel in the global economy as inquisitive, knowledgeable, and caring young people. Students who complete the IB program and earn the diploma are encouraged to apply to the University of Rochester, as accepted applicants are awarded a four-year, full-tuition scholarship. Wilson balances a rigorous academic program and a variety of career pathways with extensive art, music, athletic, and extracurricular offerings. Students who are hard-working, motivated, disciplined, and determined to become successful, contributing members of society will find a home at Wilson. Address: 501 Genesee Street, 14611 Phone: 585-328-3440 Website: www.rcsdk12.org/wilson Email: wilsoninfo@rcsdk12.org Grades: 9–12
PREPARING STUDENTS FOR 21 ST CENTURY SUCCESS International Baccalaureate | Career and Technical Education | Advanced Placement In addition to IB and AP, Wilson offers Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses in design technologies and human services along with academic support for students embracing the learning challenges of rigorous academic offerings. Higher-level foreign language courses are offered, along with bilingual classes and extensive support in specialized education services, including students within the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) program.
ANALYSIS, RESEARCH, SERVICE, GROWTH
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PADILLA HIGH SCHOOL AT THE FRANKLIN CAMPUS
GROUNDED IN HISTORY AND COMMUNITY Student Engagement | Public Safety Career Pathways | JROTC Padilla High School at the Franklin Campus is the home of the Career Pathways to Public Safety (CPPS) program. Through a partnership between the RCSD and the City of Rochester, the CPPS program allows students to explore careers in Law Enforcement, Firefighting Technology, Emergency Communications, and Emergency Medical Services. The JROTC (Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps) program teaches character education, student achievement, wellness, leadership, and diversity. They have been selected to present the Nation’s colors at more than 20 sporting events, including performances at Major League Baseball (MLB), National Hockey League (NHL), National Football League (NFL), National Basketball Association (NBA), and NASCAR games/races.
Padilla High School at the Franklin Campus is named in honor of the Padilla family, one of the earliest migrants from Puerto Rico to reach Rochester who became pillars of the community. They embody the spirit of resilience and commitment that Padilla strives to instill in students. In addition to preserving history, Padilla is committed to preparing students for the opportunities ahead with a focus on academic excellence and emotional well-being in a supportive environment where students can thrive. With a focus on innovative teaching, diverse extracurricular activities, and community engagement, the school prepares students for success in college, careers, and beyond. At Padilla, every student is empowered to achieve their goals while building strong connections with peers, teachers, and the broader community.
WISDOM ILLUMINATES OUR PATH
Address: 950 Norton Street, 14621 Phone: 585-467-3131 Website: www.rcsdk12.org/padilla Email: padillainfo@rcsdk12.org Grades: 9–12
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ROCHESTER EARLY COLLEGE INTERNATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
Scholars who want to go to college while in high school – look no further! RECIHS is the only high school in the RCSD that offers the Early College model. RECIHS provides an opportunity to earn a Regents diploma and 24-60 college credits in four years, free of cost. Scholars tackle accelerated and rigorous coursework in a semester based schedule and receive personal attention in a small school environment. Diversity in all facets is celebrated and respected. In addition to academics, the school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including athletics, Student Government, Modern Band, and JROTC. Scholars with a strong work ethic who are highly motivated to get a head start on a two- or four-year college degree should consider Rochester Early College International High School. RECIHS is an application school. Complete the online application here by February 13, 2026. Address: 85 Adams St, 14608 Phone: 585-454-3525
GRADUATING GLOBALLY COMPETENT, COLLEGE-READY SCHOLARS Innovative | Rigorous Academics | Small School Environment Every scholar is expected to take a full course load during all four years, either at the high school or MCC campus. Dual-credit courses with college credits, which begin in 9 th grade, are offered in the areas of Leadership Development, Essentials of Life Sciences, Precalculus, Art, Health, Microsoft Office, Personal Money Management, English 101 and 105, Spanish 101, Chinese, and Introduction to Business. Scholars in grades 11 and 12 will take classes on the MCC campus free of charge. The school provides a strong support system to help scholars be successful.
COLLEGE BEGINS TODAY
Website: www.rcsdk12.org/echs Email: recihsinfo@rcsdk12.org Grades: 9–12
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SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
ACADEMICS COMPLEMENTED BY AN ARTS-BASED CURRICULUM Strong Academics | Artistic Talents | Neighborhood of the Arts SOTA offers traditional academics complemented by an arts-based curriculum, with an educational philosophy that melds together the electricity of the creative arts and the energy of academic learning. Academic and arts programs are enhanced through the school’s association with community partners, including the Hochstein School, Eastman School of Music, Memorial Art Gallery, and Rochester Museum and Science Center. In addition to AP classes in academics and the arts, students at SOTA also have the opportunity to participate in athletics, clubs, and performance events throughout the school year.
Students who desire high academic achievement and want to develop their artistic talents should apply to the School of the Arts (SOTA). Students at SOTA carry a full academic course load in addition to a rigorous Fine Arts sequence in one of six subject areas – Creative Writing, Dance, Drama, Music (Instrumental and Vocal), Theatre Technology, and Visual Arts. Each semester, students are required to participate in performances, showcases, recitals, and exhibitions within their major field of study. Due to the extensive Performing Arts calendar, SOTA students commit to instruction that extends well beyond the school day. Admission to the School of the Arts is based on a formal audition process. Students will be scheduled for an audition once they complete the SOTA application. The deadline to apply is December 19, 2025 . Auditions will take place in the last week of January. Please visit www.sotarochester.org for additional information, including the application.
MAKE YOUR CANVAS COME ALIVE
Address: 45 Prince Street, 14607 Phone: 585-242-7682 Website: www.rcsdk12.org/sota Email: sotainfo@rcsdk12.org Grades: 7–12
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School Without Walls
SCHOOL WITHOUT WALLS
School Without Walls is one of the oldest nontraditional high schools in the nation and is part of the New York Performance Standards Consortium. It is a close knit and supportive learning community where strong relationships and high expectations shape daily life. Students engage in inquiry based learning grounded in New York State standards and complete performance based assessments in most subjects. As part of state requirements, students also meet the English Language Arts Regents component for graduation. The school emphasizes critical thinking, responsible citizenship, and interdisciplinary learning that helps students connect their studies to real issues and meaningful experiences. Students take on leadership roles in schoolwide committees and decision making, allowing them to contribute to important conversations and school initiatives. Opportunities include independent study, community-based learning, dual credit college courses, AP coursework, and community service. School Without Walls does not participate in the NCAA clearinghouse. Students anticipating a Division I or Division II athletic scholarship should take this into consideration before applying.
A COMMUNITY BUILT ON CURIOSITY, INDEPENDENCE, AND PURPOSE Inquiry Based Learning | Community Service | Real World Learning | Civic Engagement SWW students take part in meaningful community service each year that helps them grow not only as learners but as caring, thoughtful young people. Early dismissal on Wednesdays gives students dedicated time to connect with community partners, discover their interests, and experience learning throughout the city. Students graduate with 25.5 credits and complete 300 hours of community service along with a senior capstone project that reflects who they are becoming and what they value. LEARNING THAT KNOWS NO BOUNDS Every student is paired with an advisor who meets with them regularly, gets to know them well, and offers steady support and guidance. Students receive an RTS bus pass, which allows them to travel through the community, participate in service and internship opportunities, and develop the confidence and independence that are at the heart of the School Without Walls experience.
Address: 480 Broadway, 14607 Phone: 585-546-6732 Website: www.rcsdk12.org/sww Email: swwinfo@rcsdk12.org Grades: 9–12
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WORLD OF INQUIRY SCHOOL
WE ARE CREW, NOT PASSENGERS World of Inquiry School No. 58, the only K–12 school in the RCSD, fosters culturally responsive learning experiences grounded in Expeditionary Learning (EL) practices. EL promotes student agency by teaching youth to take responsibility for their own learning and become active citizens who advocate for equity in their school, community, and society. Students are part of a learning community where all members are valued. Students also participate in Outward-Bound excursions that challenge their mental and physical well-being. Expeditionary Learning | Intellectual Investigations | Active Citizens
World of Inquiry students engage in a rigorous and well-rounded curriculum that integrates math, ELA, science, social studies, arts, music, and fitness within a learning expedition. They also participate in two grade-level learning expeditions, which are long-term intellectual investigations that connect learning to real-world experiences through interdisciplinary projects. Learning expeditions promote active learning, high-quality work, adventure, and service to others. All expeditions are aligned with NYS and local standards. Educators strive to ensure instructional practices are culturally relevant by connecting students’ cultural references to academic skills and concepts through expeditions and case studies. Through these learning experiences, students build on the knowledge and cultural assets they already possess. They engage in critical reflection of their own lives and society, resulting in becoming engaged and ethical citizens who contribute to a better world. All stakeholders, including parents, are a vital part of the school community and crew.
INSPIRING GROWTH AND EQUITY
Address: 200 University Ave, 14605 Phone: 585-325-6170 Website: www.rcsdk12.org/58 Email: woisinfo@rcsdk12.org Grades: K–12
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ACTIVATING DREAMS & UNLOCKING POTENTIAL
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