Why choose City Schools? Because the teachers bring out the best in their students.

My track coach inspired me to give my all in competition. He helped me believe in myself, and taught me that through hard work and commitment, I could do anything.

That motivation helped me achieve in college and in my job. It’s a lesson that stayed with me through life…even today.
So make the right choice. Choose Rochester City Schools. I did.

Why choose City Schools? Taking Honors classes really helped me prepare for college and the working world. From sports and yearbook, to math club and volunteer opportunities, I learned to work with others, and to give back to my community...just like I’m doing today.

So make the right choice. Choose Rochester City Schools. I did.

Daniel Smith
East High, Class of ‘91

Though I have received an undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania, a graduate degree from the University of Cambridge, and an MBA from Santa Clara University, undoubtedly the finest teachers I have ever had were at East High School. These incredible people taught me not just what was in the textbooks, but how to think creatively and express myself clearly.

In college, my former classmates and I often found that while many of our colleagues came from well-respected high schools and were well-versed in the same facts and figures that we had learned, they had not been exposed to the same breadth of perspective and thought. We found ourselves with a distinct advantage in having been given a more well-rounded foundation for personal growth and learning, able to perform in a wide variety of situations and interact with all kinds of people.
I cannot express how fortunate I feel to have been a student in the Rochester City School District, nor can I express the gratitude I have for the supremely gifted and dedicated teachers at East. Of all my schooling, East was by far the most valuable, providing not just learning, but a true education.

Today, thanks to that education, I am a principal with Enrich Consulting, Inc.

Why choose City Schools? Because of the world of options they offer.
I graduated from East High School, and I’m now a teacher there.
I chose to live in the city so that one day my children can have the same rich experience that I had.

From programs in law, business, and teaching…to firefighting, the arts, and skilled trades…Rochester schools offer something for every student.
I loved the city school experience as a student, and I love it today as a teacher and city resident.

So make the right choice. Choose Rochester City Schools. I did.

When I look back on my educational career at Wilson Magnet High School, I have a great amount of appreciation and gratitude for the hard work and dedication of the teachers and administrative staff. Teachers not only focused on the education of students, but also the human aspect of students. There is a sense of community and family inside the walls of Wilson. Wilson graduates enter the world as well-rounded individuals.

The staff continually encouraged students to “never stop learning.” We were fortunate to have not only Regents and Honors courses but also Advanced Placement courses available to us. I took advantage of the opportunities and feel that the extra push prepared me for the workload and the transition into college. I earned my bachelor’s degree in management from North Carolina Central University and am now working toward my MBA through an online program at the University of Phoenix.

My favorite teacher, Ms. Martina, dedicated personal time to help prepare me for job interviews. We went through mock interviews until I became comfortable with the whole process. Many of the tips and instruction that she gave me, I was able to use post-college to obtain employment with HSBC Bank. I have been with HSBC for 13 years, currently as Vice President, Business Lending. I was fortunate to be able to give back to Ms. Martina once I returned to Rochester through a mentoring program in her homeroom. Giving back to the community is another lesson that I take from Wilson.