RCSD Cares

Committed to Supporting Families
The Rochester City School District and Superintendent Barbara Deane-Williams welcome students from all backgrounds seeking a quality education, including new students from Puerto Rico and other areas impacted by recent disasters. We invite new students and families affected to find the resources below on how to register for school, obtain housing or shelter, receive medical or mental health assistance, legal services and more.

The RCSD is working to streamline resources from our many community partners, along with District and City of Rochester departments, to help families from hurricane-affected areas. The Office of Parent Engagement will provide timely support and guidance to families with school-age children.

In these efforts, Ibero American Action League is the lead agency in responding to new families from Puerto Rico moving to Rochester due to hardship suffered by the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. Families can be directed to 817 East Main Street or 777 Clifford Avenue, where Ibero staff will help them complete a service application form and then guide them through the process. Ibero has established a Hurricane Maria Fund that will provide financial assistance to families to cover certain expenses, such as security deposits, support in paying RG&E winter bills, prescriptions, and food.

Current Needs and Donations
Donations for families in Puerto Rico are being accepted on an on-going basis by Ibero American Action League. Requested items include: cases of water, batteries, flashlights, portable lanterns, diapers, baby wipes, and feminine hygiene products. All items must be unopened and unused. No food can be accepted.

Drop off locations

New York State Police Office
1155 Scottsville Rd.
Rochester, NY 14624
(585) 279-8891

Senator Rich Funke Office
230 Packetts Landing
Fairport, NY 14450
(585) 223-1800

Placement and Academic Support
Families with school-age children who do not come directly to the RCSD to register their children will immediately be directed to the Office of Student Equity and Placement to ensure timely and accurate language assessment and school-based assignments. Contact the Office of Student Equity and Placement >

More Help Is On The Way

In the near future a multi-agency resource center, which will be established at 938 Clifford Avenue, will provide families with the ease and comfort of being able to visit one location for all their needs.

This effort is a collaborative one that enlists the support and resources of more than a dozen agencies and organizations in Monroe County with vast experience in vital areas such as:

• Housing
• Health
• Clothing
• Education
• Employment
• Transportation

There are efforts underway to secure a storage facility for donations of clothing, non-perishable food items, and other necessary items for local families who move to Rochester. Look for updates on our website at www.rcsdk12.org.

Need additional assistance?

Email atyourservice@rcsdk12.org
Phone 585-324-SERV (7378)