Dr. Charles T. Lunsford School 19

School mission

It is our mission to create a high quality, culturally relevant and supportive learning environment where we are inspired to become Lunsford Strong. The School 19 community will demonstrate our core values of kindness, leadership, and dedication. At School 19, scholars, families, school staff, and community members will work collaboratively to meet this goal. We will develop the knowledge, skills, and practices needed to have a positive impact on the world.

Unique Features

• Strings for Success

Strings for Success is a free, inclusive, and innovative instrumental strings program under the direction of Dr. Patty Yarmel and Ms. Hannah Garfield.  Strings for Success is a partnership between The Center for Youth and the Dr. Charles T. Lunsford School 19 in the Rochester City School District and is open to all students in grades 3-6.

This program is offered during the school day so that all interested students can participate.  Strings for Success began in 2008 with the vision that all children should have the opportunity to benefit from the life-changing power of learning a musical instrument.  Strings for Success started with 16 students, 2 volunteer violin teachers, and donated instruments. Over a decade later, the program has grown rapidly and now serves over 100 School 19 students annually.

Strings for Success students participate in ensembles, performances, field trips, and learning opportunities with visiting artists from Rochester and beyond. Strings for Success students have performed with professional, college and community orchestras, at festivals and in various museums and concert halls. Students have performed at historical sites such as the Capital (for a Congressional Briefing on the Arts), the 911 Memorial, and the JFK Presidential Museum and Library.

• Sports: Basketball Program

We are thrilled to announce the launch of a new basketball program for boys and girls in grades 4–6! This program is designed to help students develop their skills, build teamwork, and enjoy the fun and excitement of the game in a positive and supportive environment.

• Pre-K 3 and 4 (Early Intervention Available)
• Strong Instructional Model – Collaborative Co-Teaching Model – Dr. Charles T. Lunsford School 19 and SUNY Geneseo are working together in a partnership. Through this partnership, students will benefit from engaging in the CCTM (Collaborative Co-Teaching Model), receiving small group instruction daily in core subjects. Literacy and community building remain a focus.
• Robust focus on Anti-racist Curriculum and Instruction
• Focus on Restorative Practices – Mindfulness Center, Support Center and Family Crew
• Weekly Morning Meetings and monthly STRONG events – supporting school community (We are Lunsford STRONG!) and building expectations
• Parents are connected to the school community through the School-Based Planning Team, the PTSA, volunteer opportunities, monthly parent events, and much more.
• Student Council, violin/orchestra, and much more.

Student enrollment

Staff info.

Student engagement

Additional data

Key dates & Deadlines

Apply by the School Selection Deadline for your best chance to attend the school you want next school year.

Pre-Kindergarten: Online enrollment is available for students entering Pre-Kindergarten in the Rochester City School District. If you are a city resident and your child turns 3 or 4 on or before December 1, you are eligible for free Pre-K. Before applying, please visit our Pre-K website for more information about program locations. Be sure you have the proper documents needed for registration information before registering online.  City residents have until April 2026 to participate in the School Selection process.

Kindergarten: Online enrollment is available for students entering Kindergarten in the Rochester City School District. If you are a city resident and your child turns 5 on or before December 1, you can enroll them in Kindergarten. In order to enroll your child, necessary documentation and proof of residency are required. Please make sure you have the documents necessary for student enrollment. Students currently enrolled in a PreK program through RCSD or receiving special education support need to register for Kindergarten. Families have a choice of school within their zone. Your school zone is determined by your home address in the City of Rochester.  City residents have until February 13, 2026 to participate in the School Selection process.

How to apply

Dr. Charles T. Lunsford School No. 19 is in the South Zone.

The Office of Student Equity & Placement staff will assist families with every step of the registration process. Staff can also provide families with information about the schools available to their children to help them make an informed choice. Please view the list of acceptable documents and proof of residency requirements necessary to register a child in the Rochester City School District, www.rcsdk12.org.

Learn about your school options

School Profiles, Digital Magazine, and Open House Events
School profiles are a great place to start learning about the many unique school offerings in the Rochester City School District. Each profile offers a detailed overview of each school or program to help you decide what offering is right for your child. For students entering middle or high school next year, there is a digital magazine to explore your options. Have your child talk to your school’s counselor for information about open houses this winter and spring. To learn more about school selections or to view the magazine, please visit www.rcsdk12.org/schoolselection.

School Zones
The Rochester City School District is separated into three school zones based on different areas of the City of Rochester: Northeast, Northwest, and South. When applying, families have the option of choosing a citywide school or a school within their zone. You can begin an online application and enter your home address to find out what zone you live in and what schools are available for your child to attend. Online applications can be started and saved, allowing families to return and explore options within their zone.

Visit the Office of Student Registration
Student Placement Specialists are available to work with families to discuss school options and assist with online registration. For support, please call (585) 262-8241 or visit the Office of Student Registration, 131 West Broad Street, Floor 1. The Office of Student Registration is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 3:30 pm.