Learn more about our schools and the 2024-25 School of Choice process now >

The School Choice Process in 3 Steps

Step 1: Learn about your school options

School Profiles, Digital Magazine, and Recruitment Events
School profiles are a great place to start learning about the many unique school offerings in the Rochester City School District. Each profile offers a detailed overview of each school or program to help you decide what offering is right for your child. For students entering middle or high school next year, there is a digital magazine to explore your options. Have your child talk to your school's counselor for information about recruitment nights for secondary schools this winter and spring. To learn more about this year's school choice or to view the magazine, please visit www.rcsdk12.org/schoolchoice.

School Zones
Parents registering for elementary schools need to know which school zone they live in before they fully explore school options and complete the online enrollment process. There are citywide school offerings open to all families. You can find out what zone you live in when you apply online and can only apply to attend a school within your zone or a citywide offering.

Visit the Office of Student Equity and Placement
Student Placement Specialists are available to work with families to discuss school options and assist with online registration. For support, please call (585) 262-8241 or visit the Office of Student Equity and Placement, 131 West Broad Street, Floor 1. The Office of Student Equity and Placement is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am - 3:30 pm.

Step 2: Rank your school selections

Talk with your child and rank each school offering based on their interests and each school's unique features. Visiting a school by arranging an in-school visit could help you make the most informed choice.

Step 3: Apply

Apply by the Lottery Deadline for your best chance to attend the school you want next school year.
Students who do not participate in the School Choice Lottery will be placed in a school closest to your home where space is available after the selection process is complete.

Pre-Kindergarten: Online enrollment is available for students entering Pre-Kindergarten in the Rochester City School District. If you are a city resident and your child turns 3 or 4 on or before December 1, you are eligible for free Pre-K. Before applying, please visit our Pre-K website for more information about program locations. Be sure you have the proper documents needed for registration information before registering online. City residents have until April 19, 2024 for their best choice of location.

Kindergarten: Online enrollment is available for students entering Kindergarten in the Rochester City School District. If you are a city resident and your child turns 5 on or before December 1, you can enroll them in Kindergarten. In order to enroll your child, necessary documentation and proof of residency are required. Please make sure you have the documents necessary for student enrollment. City residents have until February 16, 2024 to participate in the School Choice Lottery.

7th and 9th grades: Online enrollment is available for students to choose the school they want to attend for 7th and 9th grades. City residents have until January 19, 2024 to participate in the School Choice Lottery.