School Without Walls Commencement Academy

School mission

School Without Walls is one of the oldest non-traditional high schools in the nation. It is a community of learners who hold each other to high standards of behavior, school culture, and academics. Students are expected to excel in rigorous academics, as well as complete performance-based assessments rather than participating in high stakes testing in all subjects leading to a Regents diploma. Our name is derived from the idea that learning doesn’t only take place within the classroom but in the community as well. We expect our students to do extensive community service each year and to learn to utilize community resources to enhance their learning. Seniors complete a yearlong senior project, hold public exhibitions of their work, and defend their work to a rating/review panel that includes community experts, teachers, and other students. School Without Walls does not participate in the NCAA clearinghouse. Students anticipating a Division I or Division II athletic scholarship should take this into consideration before selecting School Without Walls.

Student enrollment

Staff info.

Student engagement

Graduation data

Diploma types (2025) i

Additional data

Key dates & Deadlines

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

7th and 9th grades: Online enrollment is available for students to choose the school they want to attend for 7th and 9th grades. Students entering grades 7 and 9 who do not participate in the school selection process will be placed in a school closest to your home where space is available after the selection process is complete.  City residents have until February 13, 2026 to participate in the School Selection process.

How to apply

School Without Walls is a Secondary School.

School Without Walls (Grades 9-12)
Apply by February 13, 2026 | Application Information | swwinfo@rcsdk12.org

* Families applying to an application school must still participate in the school selection process and add the application school as one of their choices.

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.