Mary McLeod Bethune School 45

School mission

Our dedicated and compassionate staff believe in student centered, standards based and social-emotional instruction fostered by relationships and real world connections. Our community embraces high standards and expectations for all. We promote lifelong learning, fostering academic achievement and social/emotional well-being in a safe environment. We are a Leader in Me school that creates well-rounded learners by developing the whole-person and preparing students to become life-ready leaders. Leader in Me unites students, staff, and families around a common goal to prepare students with college, career, and life-readiness skills that are necessary to thrive in today’s ever-changing, fast-paced environment. We pride ourselves in meeting the needs of all students. We have the Autism Spectrum Disorders Programs at every grade level. This specialized program serves students with autism.

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

Mary McLeod Bethune School No. 45 is a Northeast 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.