Monroe Lower School Closure Information

October 20, 2023

Dear Families of James Monroe Lower School,

Last evening the Board of Education approved the comprehensive school reconfiguration plan, which includes closing James Monroe Lower School at the end of this academic year. Starting in September 2024, our District will undergo a comprehensive reconfiguration that will align with the new grade structure (PK-6, 7-8, 9-12) approved by the Board of Education last year. More information on the comprehensive reconfiguration plan can be found here.

We want to make your transition to a new school as smooth, simple, and successful as possible. The District has many high-quality school programs that are ready to welcome your child, and we will do all we can to make this process work well for your family. In the coming weeks, we will begin working with students and families to talk about placement options in other school communities in your zone.

The following changes will be implemented for the 2024-2025 school year:

Current 7th-grade students will participate in a special lottery to select a new school in their zone.

Current 8th-grade students will participate in the traditional school choice process.

I am excited to begin implementation, as these changes are essential to creating better learning and extracurricular opportunities in modernized facilities with highly qualified staff and programming to meet the diverse interests of our students. We will share more information about the next steps in the coming weeks.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support, as we work together to ensure the best placement for your child in another District school.

Your partner in education,

Dr. Carmine Peluso
Superintendent of Schools

The Rochester City School District does not discriminate on the basis of an individual's actual or perceived race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, age, marital status, partnership status, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, sexual orientation, gender (sex), military status, veteran status, domestic violence victim status or political affiliation, and additionally does not discriminate against students on the basis of weight, gender identity, gender expression, and religious practices or any other basis prohibited by New York State and/or federal non-discrimination laws in employment or its programs and activities. The District provides equal access to community and youth organizations.