Student Support Services

We recognize the social and emotional well-being of our students and staff is critically important especially during these challenging times. The Rochester City School District (RCSD) has resources and referrals available to address the mental health, behavioral, and emotional needs of students and staff as our district prepares to reopen our schools for in-person instruction. Schools are essential to child and adolescent growth and well-being and provide our students with academic instruction, social and emotional skills, safety, reliable nutrition, mental health supports, and opportunities for physical activity. In addition to schools supporting the educational development of students, schools play a vital role in addressing racial and social inequity.

Psychological and emotional recovery often focuses on identifying students and staff who need crisis counseling. Additionally, they may be exhibiting signs they are struggling with adjustments after major trauma. Mental health needs after a disaster should be addressed as part of the recovery plan. During a crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic, it is common for everyone to experience increased levels of distress and anxiety, particularly because of being in isolation. The RCSD is fortunate to have staff members who are trained in trauma and grief response, Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports (PBIS), and Restorative Practices.

The Division of Student Support Services has prepared a Social-Emotional Reopening Guidance with strategies and resources to support students, staff, and families as we move forward together to embrace the new guidelines of school operations during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. This resource is a guide to mental health support and social and emotional learning strategies. It is designed to help students, families, staff, and our school community in the following areas:

The guidance supports the following areas:

Welcoming Students & Staff Back: Equity, Inclusion and Social-Emotional Support

Actions to consider prior to school opening

Actions to consider once the school year begins

Social-Emotional/Mental Health Support Staff

Topics for Teachers and staff to Consider / Be Mindful of when Planning Activities

All Staff Support Center (ASSC)

The Rochester City School District does not discriminate on the basis of an individual's actual or perceived race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, age, marital status, partnership status, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, sexual orientation, gender (sex), military status, veteran status, domestic violence victim status or political affiliation, and additionally does not discriminate against students on the basis of weight, gender identity, gender expression, and religious practices or any other basis prohibited by New York State and/or federal non-discrimination laws in employment or its programs and activities. The District provides equal access to community and youth organizations.