Elementary School

Kindergarten through Fifth Grades

Two students look at the globe with a guest speaker
In kindergarten through 12th grades, standards-based instruction at RSD includes:
  • English Language Arts (ELA)
  • American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf Studies
  • Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
  • Social Studies
  • Physical Education and Health
  • Art and Music
RSD Elementary School is where students in kindergarten through 5th grade receive instruction in American Sign Language (ASL) and English.
Elementary School houses kindergarten students through the 5th grade. All students learn American Sign Language and are accustomed to using it throughout the day to ensure accessibility for all. The Elementary School strives to obtain and review data to best address the learning needs of the youngest students. Academic instruction is aligned with the New York State Standards, with a new focus on the Next Generation Standards. Math instruction consists of a balance of both traditional math computation and the application of critical thinking skills. Students engage in hands-on learning activities while exploring the science curriculum through kits supplied by BOCES. The elementary students enjoy daily Morning Meetings to establish a sense of community, take turns sharing announcements with peers, and 
review behavior expectations with reminders of our collective responsibility to make RSD a “PAWS-itive” place for all. Elementary students are welcome to participate in the After-School Activities (ASA) program where they can continue developing social skills with peers while engaging in enrichment activities such as art, drama, and sports.
For assistance in applying to RSD, to arrange for a campus tour, or for general intake referral information, call 585-336-5854; 585-286-2806 (VP) or e-mail: [email protected].


About RSD

Rochester School for the Deaf is an inclusive, bilingual school where deaf and hard-of-hearing children and their families thrive in an extraordinarily rich Regents-level educational environment.

Since 1876, RSD — one of America’s premier private and tuition-free schools, has been successfully building futures for our students and their families.
 

Hallmarks of an RSD education include:

  • Kindergarten celebrates 100 days in schoolNew York State Regents-level educational programs;
  • Direct communication through American Sign Language and English;
  • Highly skilled teaching and support staff professionals;
  • Inclusive, barrier-free approach to teaching and learning activities; and
  • Support to students and their families through a wide array of accessible services.
RSD strives to go above and beyond all expectations to provide deaf and hard-of-hearing children and their families with a level of quality educational programs, support services, and resources to effectively ensure a satisfying and successful kindergarten through 12th-grade school experience.