The Rochester City School District is committed to shifting the educational landscape in many ways, including the adoption of a more inclusive approach to student learning. Our holistic approach to Community Schools is currently reflected in13 schools, aiming to improve student achievement through strong partnerships among students, families, community partners and residents, building and district administrators, teachers, and other school staff.

Growth of the Community School model is outlined in Priority 4A of the 2024-2029 Strategic Plan for the Rochester City School District. Priority 4A states that 'By 2028, 100% of RCSD schools will implement the Community School model with fidelity.'

Community Schools are defined as "a place and a set of partnerships" that focus resources on students and families, resulting in students who are ready and able to learn in school. A community school acts as a hub, offering a coordinated approach to connect and cultivate assets in the community and to link families to services, so that educators can focus on teaching and students can focus on learning. 

What makes community schools unique is the combination of six key practices that together create the conditions necessary for students to thrive.

The six key practices are: 

• Power Student and Family Engagement
• Collaborative Leadership and Shared Power and Voice
• Expanded and enriched Learning Opportunities
• Rigrous, Community-Connected Classroom Instruction
• A Culture of Belonging, Safety, and Care
• Integrated Systems of Support

Each community school is a reflection of local needs, assets, and priorities. No two look exactly alike. What they do share, however, is a commitment to partnership and to rethinking - and at times rebuilding - relationships based on a strong foundation of trust and respect.