Rochester Beacon Academy (RBA), District #4238-07, proudly celebrated the successful completion of its eighth year of operation in 2023. Since opening its doors, RBA has been dedicated to serving students in grades six through twelve within the same building, providing a unique and supportive educational environment. This commitment to continuity has been a cornerstone of the RBA experience.

In its opening year, RBA made the strategic decision to begin with grades six through ten, recognizing that few students would transition schools in their final two years of high school. This careful planning allowed RBA to establish a strong foundation for growth. Year two saw the addition of eleventh grade as the tenth graders advanced, expanding the school’s offerings to include grades six through eleven. By the third year, twelfth grade had been added, and on June 1, 2018, RBA marked a milestone with the graduation of its first class of nine students. This momentous occasion was a testament to the hard work and dedication of both the students and staff.

At the end of the 2018-2019 school year, RBA graduated its second class. As the school continued to thrive, the administration gave serious consideration to expanding its programs. A Transition Program was proposed, but the decision was made to wait an additional year to ensure its successful implementation.

The 2019-2020 school year brought unforeseen challenges with the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic. RBA quickly adapted, with students engaging in full-time distance learning for the entire fourth quarter. Despite the difficulties, the school community came together to hold a memorable graduation ceremony in the parking lot. The board made the careful decision to pause plans for the Transition Program during this time of uncertainty.

As the 2020-2021 school year drew to a close, the board approved the launch of a new Transition Program called SOAR. This program aimed to provide a supportive bridge for students entering post-secondary life. However, due to low enrollment, its start was unfortunately delayed. By the end of the 2021-2022 school year, RBA faced another challenge: the building that had been its home was sold. In a remarkable display of resilience, staff packed the entire school into four semi-trailers for storage during the final week, while the board swiftly secured a new location.

The transition to the new building was accompanied by a period of turmoil between the administration and the board, resulting in the resignation of the Executive Director. Yet, in the face of change, the board acted decisively, finalizing the new building just two weeks before the start of the school year. RBA quickly settled into its new home, and a search for a new Executive Director was undertaken. By the end of September, a new ED was in place, providing stability during a time of transition. However, the challenges continued as the Special Education Director resigned just a week later.

Undeterred, RBA persevered and successfully launched its SOAR Transition Program. This achievement was a testament to the dedication of the staff and their unwavering commitment to the students. The 2022-2023 school year was focused on adapting to the new environment and establishing routines, laying the groundwork for a 2023-24 school year filled with growth, opportunity, and a renewed sense of purpose. As RBA looks to the future, it remains dedicated to its mission of providing a supportive and inclusive educational community.