The Rochester Academy for Independent Living (RAIL) graduated its class of 2026 last week!
RAIL prepares young adults with disabilities for their adult lives in our community and in career settings. The program's goal is to assist the development of independent living and social skills needed to become active, productive, and integrated members of the community.
We are so proud of our RAIL 2026 graduates!
12 days ago, Rochester Public Schools
A principal and graduate laugh as the grad receives her diploma.
A graduate in a wheelchair rolls along a line of school staff and shakes each of their hands. In the background are giant marquee letters that say, "RAIL."
Two graduates in sundresses smile for the camera.
Parents and friends sit in the stands and clap for graduates. The woman in focus grins ear-to-ear and holds up her phone to record the ceremony.
A graduate in a white shirt holds his diploma and shakes the hands of school board members.
A man takes a picture of a teacher and graduate in front of a lighted arch.
A graduate in a satin dress holds her diploma and shakes the hand of a staff member.
A tall graduate in an orange camp shirt reads an inspirational quote into a microphone while the principal stands off to the side.
The countdown is officially on! We're gearing up for one of our favorite days of the year: celebrating the incredible Class of 2026. From ceremony times to arrival details, we've got you covered. Everything you need to know is right here: https://rochesterschools.org/graduation
about 2 months ago, Rochester Public Schools
Class of 2026 information

Rochester Public Schools is the heart of a community focused on lifelong learning. Whether you are three years old or eighty-three, we believe in investing in our community's future by providing exceptional opportunities for everyone to grow.

➡️ We help our youngest learners flourish through 177 Preschool Enrichment classes, 105 Early Childhood Family Education classes, and 26 RPS Preschool classrooms.

➡️ Our youth students stay engaged and inspired through 767 Youth Enrichment and 21st Century programs designed to help them find their spark.

➡️ Learning doesn't stop at graduation. We host 655 Adult Enrichment classes, 241 Adults With Exceptional Abilities classes, and 116 unique offerings at Hawthorne Education.

Learn more about our Community Education program at https://www.rochesterce.org.

4 months ago, Rochester Public Schools
2087 classes offered through community education
Our value of ensuring excellence through evidence means we use data and proven practices to help our students grow. To date, 90% of RPS 8th graders have used Xello to discover careers connected to their personal interests. By using these tools, we are investing in our community’s future and preparing the next generation of thinkers and doers. Discover more about how our students use the Xello tool at www.rochesterschools.org/xello.

#PublicSchoolsWeek #PSW26
4 months ago, Rochester Public Schools
90% of 8th graders used Xello to discover career interests
At Rochester Public Schools, we want every student to be “Challenged to Strive and Supported to Thrive.” With more than 120 extracurricular options for our secondary students, we live out our Value of building belonging and connection. By offering a wide variety of activities, we ensure every student can find a place where they belong, helping them develop the social skills and confidence needed to pursue a fulfilling path. Learn more about our mission at www.rochesterschools.org/about.

#PublicSchoolsWeek #PSW26

4 months ago, Rochester Public Schools
120+ extra curricular options
To help our students flourish, we focus on our value of supporting the whole student. This includes their physical well-being, which is why our nutrition team serves over 16,000 meals every single day. Meeting these basic needs is essential to our mission: to equip every student with the resilience to pursue a fulfilling path. Learn more about our Student Nutrition Services Department at https://www.rochesterschools.org/student-nutrition.

#PublicSchoolsWeek #PSW26
4 months ago, Rochester Public Schools
5,313 breakfasts and 11,191 lunches served daily
We are proud of our vibrant school communities! Building belonging and connection is a key RPS Value. With 87 languages spoken by our students, we have much to celebrate. Embracing these perspectives creates an environment where every student feels at home and ready to learn. Learn more about our values at www.rochesterschools.org/about.

#PublicSchoolsWeek
4 months ago, Rochester Public Schools
87 languages spoken by 4188 students
Sometimes, knowing what steps to take can be hard when you are worried that your student's emotional or mental well-being might be impacted. RPS families have access to a confidential screener online at http://mentalhealthscreeningtools.com/. If the screener results indicate a reason for concern, or if you want to talk with a provider, schedule a free consultation with a mental health professional (https://ffcstaffconsults.as.me/).

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is also available for people experiencing emotional distress, mental health crises, or thoughts of suicide. You can call or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org to connect with trained counselors anytime, 24/7.
9 months ago, Rochester Public Schools
call or text 988

Rochester Public Schools uses the Standard Response Protocol in response to emergencies that may occur in our school buildings. Students and staff will train, practice, and drill the protocol throughout the year. Learn more about what "hold," "secure," "lockdown," "evacuate," and "shelter" mean: https://www.rochesterschools.org/standard-response-protocol

9 months ago, Rochester Public Schools
Standard response protocol list
"By challenge, I mean doing things that aren’t easy. Challenge means being pushed, stretched, and sometimes uncomfortable. By support, I mean having people around you who help you complete tasks and achieve goals. Support means feeling like you matter, that you're not alone, and that someone believes in you." Watch Superintendent Pekel's speech to the graduating classes of 2025 at last week's ceremonies: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDb5DvfTktg&t=1s
about 1 year ago, Rochester Public Schools
Superintendent Pekel speaking at the graduation ceremonies
The Rochester Academy for Independent Living (RAIL) graduated its class of 2025 last week! RAIL helps young adults with disabilities integrate into the community and career settings. The program's goal is to assist the development of independent living and social skills needed to bec
about 1 year ago, Rochester Public Schools
RAIL student poses with her teacher and diploma
A parent/caregiver embraces his graduate
RAIL student poses with his teacher and diploma
RAIL Parents/caregivers take a photo with their new graduate
RAIL student meets with RPS officials
RAIL graduate receives her diploma
RAIL student poses with his teacher and diploma
Supporters of the RAIL program applaud the new graduates
RAIL student poses with RPS School Board Chair and diploma
RAIL student poses with his teacher and diploma
It’s time for our 2025 Phoenix grads to soar! Congratulations to our hardworking 2025 graduates. Your perseverance has paid off, and your bright future awaits. Rochester Phoenix Academy is a supportive K–12 setting that nurtures personal, academic, and emotional growth for students with disabilities and complex needs through high expectations and compassionate, individualized care.
about 1 year ago, Rochester Public Schools
Student posing with Principal Scripture
Student talking at graduation.
Student posing with grandparent after graduation ceremony.
Student talking with parent at graduation
Student laughing with friend after graduation.
Student posing with grandparents.
Friendly reminder: No school on Monday, May 26 (Memorial Day)! RPS offices will also be closed. We'll resume regular hours on Tuesday, May 27.
about 1 year ago, Rochester Public Schools
RPS is closed for Memorial Day
We are thrilled to invite you to honor our incredible graduating seniors next week as they embark on their next exciting chapter. Mark your calendars for a week filled with joy, pride, and memorable moments as we celebrate their outstanding achievements and check out this article for all of the details: https://www.rochesterschools.org/article/2225943
about 1 year ago, Rochester Public Schools
Class of 2025 Graduation Information