Rochester City School District hosts 4th annual Special Education Resource Fair to connect families with educational support and community services

Rochester, New York – Families from the Rochester City School District came together Saturday, September 12, for a day focused on support, information and community at the 4th Annual Special Education Resource Fair.

Held at Dr. Iris J. Banister School No. 33, the event was organized by the RCSD Department of Special Education and the Special Education Parent Advisory Council, also known as SEPAC. The gathering gave parents, caregivers and students an opportunity to meet with education professionals, explore available services and connect with organizations that support children with different learning needs.

For many families, finding the right special education resources can be a complicated process. The fair was designed to make that experience easier by bringing a wide range of information and assistance together in one place.

Representatives from the school district and local community organizations were available throughout the event to answer questions and offer guidance. Their resources covered the full educational journey, from PreK programs through post-secondary education.

Read also: U-Haul box truck crashes into two unoccupied State Police vehicles during late-night investigation on Route 17 in Woodbury

The event was open not only to families already receiving special education services but also to parents and caregivers who were beginning to explore additional support for their children. By offering information at different stages of a student’s education, organizers hoped to help families better understand their options and feel more confident when making decisions.

The fair also placed a strong emphasis on inclusion and celebrating the individual strengths of every student. Organizers sought to create an environment where families could learn about available programs while recognizing the diversity of abilities and experiences within the school district.

Although education and support services were at the center of the gathering, the day included plenty of activities designed to make the experience enjoyable for children and adults alike.

Families began the morning with a light breakfast before taking part in a variety of activities. Therapy dogs and animals from the ZooMobile gave attendees a chance to interact with animals, adding an informal and welcoming element to the event.

A live magician provided entertainment for visitors of all ages, while the arrival of an ice cream truck brought another highlight to the morning. The activities offered families time to relax, have fun and enjoy the event together outside of the usual school setting.

Read also: Governor Hochul announces energy rebate checks of up to $200 for 8.2 million New York households starting next week

The resource fair reflected the district’s broader effort to strengthen relationships between schools and families. By encouraging direct conversations with staff and community partners, RCSD aimed to help caregivers identify resources that can make a meaningful difference in their children’s education and development.

The gathering also underscored the importance of cooperation between educators, parents and community organizations. With families facing different needs and challenges, access to clear information and supportive partnerships can play an important role in helping students succeed.

The 4th Annual Special Education Resource Fair served as both an information-sharing event and a celebration of the RCSD community. Through its combination of practical guidance, personal connections and family activities, the event highlighted the district’s commitment to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to receive the support and resources needed to thrive.