Rochester, N.Y. - In the annual State of Our Schools address for the Rochester City School District on Wednesday night, Superintendent Bolgen Vargas said Rochester City Schools are on the right path, but not where they need to be.
Among the proposals from Vargas in his address was a longer school day for 10 schools in the district, starting next year.
Vargas said worse days are ahead, but quickly added that the changes he is implementing will build the foundation for a brighter future.
He first addressed the dire situation in which the district finds itself. Less than half of Rochester City School students graduate. The district also faces a projected budget gap of $50 million.
Vargas said by allocating funds more efficiently, including an expanded school day, the district will improve achievement.
"Common sense tells us that if our children need more, we are going to need more time," Vargas said.
In his proposal, Vargas said his budget will not cut advanced classes, art, music, or sports.
