FAQs

What does RASA offer my child that other schools do not?

  • International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB-PYP) education

  • Challenging academics with inquiry-based learning

  • Preschool–Grade 6 (we will be adding 7th and 8th grade)

  • Small class size

  • Extended school day and school year

  • Proximity to downtown

  • After-school care and clubs

  • Term break care and summer camp

  • Nonprofit school

  • Secular education

What is the academic program at RASA?

RASA is the only school in Rochester offering the respected International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB-PYP).  An IB-PYP education is globally minded, academically and personally challenging, and emphasizes development of the whole child as an inquirer. Six transdisciplinary themes are explored in a manner that deeply integrates traditional subject areas such as math, language arts, science, and social studies. Daily foreign language classes are also a key aspect of a RASA education.

At RASA, our class sizes are limited (generally 15 students or fewer) allowing for individualized attention.

What is the homework philosophy of RASA?

Homework is kept to a minimum in the lower grades, as there is ample time within the school day to learn. Homework should be meaningful and make connections amongst disciplines (math, language arts, science, social studies) consistent with the IB philosophy of learning. Reading and language arts are emphasized. Teachers take the opportunity to individualize homework for students as they see a need.

How does RASA use technology in the classroom?

Upper-grade classrooms have dedicated 1:1 iPads for each student. Students may use the iPads for online research, educational apps, and coordination of assignments at the discretion of the classroom teacher. The school also maintains a fleet of iPads that are shared amongst the younger grades. State-of-the-art interactive  "smart boards" are in each elementary classroom. RASA is committed to modeling and teaching online safety.

How physically active are RASA students?

At RASA we value the importance of regular exercise, hence physical activity is factored into the daily schedule. All students participate in active playtime for at least 45 minutes daily. Students are able to participate in athletics in the multipurpose room if the weather is inclement.

Does RASA have foreign language instruction?

Students receive daily foreign language instruction. Language lessons are also aligned with Units of Inquiry ongoing in the classrooms. Our students currently learn both Spanish and French daily.

Does RASA have a particular religious ethos?

No, RASA is a secular school. We are not affiliated with the Congregational Church (UCC) from whom we lease classroom space. There is, however, a deliberate focus on character development. RASA aims to develop principled, open-minded, and caring young people to help create a better and more peaceful world. These ideals are at the core of the IB Learner Profile.

How does the RASA calendar differ from that of the public schools?

At RASA the academic school year is 186 full days, which is longer than the public or most private schools in Rochester. School begins the last full week of August and ends in mid-June. The RASA calendar has five terms. Each term is separated by a one-week school break with the exception of the second term break in December, which is longer.

What are the school day hours at RASA?

Classes are in session from 8:00 AM–3:25 PM. School doors open at 7:15 AM for student drop-off. The curriculum at RASA is broader than that of many schools in Rochester. Our school hours are longer to accommodate this.

Does RASA provide before- and after-school care for students?

School doors open at 7:15 AM for student drop-off. Early drop-off beginning at 6:45 AM is available by special arrangement for an extra fee. After-school care is available from 3:25–6:00 PM. From 3:30–4:30 PM, a variety of after-school clubs are offered (e.g., STEM, Chess, LEGO Club, Newspaper, Theater). All after-school care/clubs are subject to additional fees. During the week-long term breaks in October, February, and April, RASA provides child care for an additional fee. There is no term break care available in December.

What if we want to apply but can’t afford the full tuition?

RASA values a diverse student body. We strive to provide tuition support to qualifying families and have a track record of following through on this commitment. A limited number of scholarships are awarded each year at the discretion of the RASA Board of Directors. Applicants must submit a financial aid application via TADS. For more information, see our Tuition Assistance page or make an inquiry with our principal.

What is RASA’s inclement weather policy?

As a private school that does not utilize student bussing, RASA is able to safely stay open in most weather situations. When inclement weather occurs, families are notified of the school's operational status via email as well as "Status/Cancellations" postings on local media websites.

School Day Inclement Weather Policy:

On days when Rochester Public Schools cancels school due to cold temperatures, RASA's school day will run as normal from 8:00 AM–3:25 PM.

On days when Rochester Public Schools cancels school due to snow conditions, RASA will remain open with limited staff for child-care purposes. The day will be a non-academic day and student activities will depend on attendance. A fee of $15 per child (up to $30 per family) will be charged.

After-School Inclement Weather Policy:

The ability to be open for after-school care and other after-school clubs is made on a case-by-case basis based upon forecasted weather conditions.

Does RASA provide transportation for my child?

Transportation to school is provided by each child's family. Transportation for field trips is arranged by the school.

Do RASA students wear uniforms?

Yes. All students, including preschoolers, are required to wear a RASA uniform consisting of a white or navy school-logo shirt and navy blue pants/skirt. Lands’ End is our uniform provider. More information can be found on the School Information and Policies page.

Does RASA provide a school lunch program?

Yes. Milk is available for purchase with lunch each day. Preschool and Junior Kindergarten students must bring lunch from home. For students in grades K–6, there is an option for purchasing lunch. Each term, a menu of lunch options from local restaurants is provided. Families may select from as many or as few days as they choose. *Please note that RASA has a Policy on Food Allergies.

What opportunities are there to volunteer at the school?

One of the advantages of our small size and close-knit school community is the ability for parents and family members to be actively involved in the school. This may include volunteering to help teachers in the classroom, assisting at school events, or chaperoning field trips. Often family members are invited as guest speakers to classrooms to share their occupational or educational expertise. Our PTO is also active in organizing school events and fundraisers. Our school’s Board of Directors primarily consists of parent volunteers.

Interested in hearing more? Learn more about our admissions process or contact us to schedule a tour!