Mary Cariola Center - Rochester

Holy Childhood's school program in Rochester serves up to 120 students ages 5 to 22 with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Students come from more than 40 districts in Monroe County and the surrounding region. Classrooms are 8:1:3. Instruction covers literacy, math, science, daily living, work-based learning, music, art, adaptive physical education, and transition. Related services are provided through the Helen H. Heller Clinic. Students ages 16 to 21 can join work-based learning with job coaches, and ages 18 to 21 can attend Community Classrooms at the Genesee Valley Regional Market. Referrals come from district Committees on Special Education. School hours are 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Rochester City School District is dedicated to providing a comprehensive educational experience for all students, including those with special needs. The district's core mission is to foster an inclusive environment that supports the diverse learning requirements of its students, ensuring that every child has access to quality education and resources tailored to their individual needs. The district offers a wide range of programs and services designed to support students with various disabilities. Key offerings include special education services, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills groups. The district employs evidence-based methodologies such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and the Orton-Gillingham approach to address specific learning challenges. Additionally, the district provides access to mental health services, individualized education plans (IEPs), and transition services to prepare students for post-secondary opportunities. What sets Rochester City School District apart is its commitment to creating a nurturing and supportive learning environment. The district maintains low student-teacher ratios to ensure personalized attention and effective instruction. With a focus on community integration, the district also offers vocational training programs and summer learning opportunities that promote skill development and social engagement. The use of specialized technology further enhances the learning experience, making it a unique choice for families seeking educational options for their children with special needs.

Rochester School for the Deaf is a private, tuition-free school at 1545 St. Paul Street. It has served Deaf and hard-of-hearing students since 1876. Kindergarten through 12th grade uses American Sign Language throughout the school day, with bilingual fluency as a goal. Students receive instruction aimed at academic progress, leadership, and self-advocacy. Families can learn ASL through the Signs for All program. The campus includes athletics and a full K-12 program. Admissions, tours, and intake are handled by the school's pupil personnel office.