English Language Learner Handbook

Empowering Learners to be Leaders - bilingual, Biliterate, Bicultural

Welcome to the rochester city school district

This website provides an overview of district policies, procedures, and guidance regarding different English Language Learners (ELLs)/Multilingual Learners (MLs) program options for student placement as well as educational and social emotional resources. According to the Rochester City School District (RCSD) demographic report, there are 65 different languages spoken in the District. RCSD promotes bilingualism and biculturalism as strengths that, when honored and cultivated, lead to increased student achievement. Cultivation of these strengths at school includes academic instruction that reflects the cultural backgrounds of all students.

RCSD Board policy compels instruction for ELLs/MLs which supports the acquisition of content and language skills. Students’ previous learning and cultural experiences are relevant as foundational knowledge that teachers can build upon. RCSD supports instruction that is culturally responsive and sustaining thus contributing to increasing graduation rates among ELLs/MLs.

In addition to culturally relevant instructional practices, RCSD is committed to supporting students in the attainment of the New York State’s Seal of Biliteracy incentive. The Seal of Biliteracy acknowledges students' bilingualism in the form of graduation credits once they satisfy the requirements of the Seal. Students can use their advanced language skills as an asset when setting future goals. Please visit our district NYSSB resource page to access more information and resources at RCSD NYSSB.

Mission & vision

Mission

Foster students' individual talents and abilities in a nurturing environment of equity.

Vision

Ensure all students equitable access to a high quality education and graduate each student as a productive member of society.

Core Beliefs

  • Students are our first priority and will drive each decision.

  • Each student has recognizable and untapped potential that we strive to discover and fulfill.

  • We embrace diversity and commit to the eradication of racism and all forms of discrimination and oppression.

  • We provide students, families and staff with equitable access to resources for learning.

  • We respect and honor the dignity of all individuals.

  • Educating the whole child requires high-quality learning that is safe, loving and rigorous.

  • Our work is centered in respect, trust, integrity and accountability.

  • Education is a partnership of families, school, and the community.

  • We make each fiscal and resource allocation decision equitably, transparently and in the best interest of our students.

District priorities

Provide high-quality learning experiences

  • Implement student-centered learning to improve academic success for all and to close the achievement gap of our students with disabilities, economically disadvantaged students, and Black, Latino and English language learners.

  • Establish a uniform, clear and transparent procedure for curriculum development and implementation.

  • Use data purposefully and collaboratively to drive decisions and to improve student outcomes.

Ensuring an inclusive, caring and safe learning environment

  • Use restorative practices to promote inclusiveness, relationship-building and problem-solving.

  • Deliver trauma-informed practices through a culturally responsive lens to provide a safe, positive learning environment.

  • Establish training norms for cultural responsiveness, antiracism, diversity and inclusion.

build strong community

  • Create non-traditional, innovative opportunities for family engagement.

  • Partner with businesses, higher education and other community organizations.

Foster dynamic leadership

  • Manage school and district resources effectively.

  • Develop leaders at the school and district levels to achieve each school's targeted outcomes.

  • Highlight and communicate the great accomplishments in our schools and district.

  • Build high-performing teams to drive implementation of our strategic priorities.