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 (2022) i

Additional data

Key dates & Deadlines

Families are encouraged to complete an application to participate in the School Choice Lottery on or before the deadline.

How to apply

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.