Rochester City School District appoints Akua D Kankam as new principal of East Upper School beginning July 2025

Rochester, New York – The Rochester City School District has officially appointed Ms. Akua D. Kankam as the next Principal of East Upper School, with her term set to begin on July 1, 2025. The announcement highlights a new chapter in leadership for the school, with Ms. Kankam bringing more than three decades of experience in education.

Currently serving as Assistant Principal at East Upper School, Kankam has long been a key figure in shaping the school’s academic direction and community relationships. In this role, she has led staffing initiatives, developed curriculum strategies, and helped implement data-driven instruction aimed at boosting student achievement.

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Her leadership also extends beyond academics. Ms. Kankam has worked closely with both families and local organizations to build stronger partnerships, emphasizing the importance of social-emotional learning and a supportive school climate. She has been deeply involved in efforts to improve school culture, enhance student support services, and create targeted academic interventions based on performance data.

Ms. Kankam’s influence reaches across the district as well. She has served on several key RCSD committees, including the Code of Conduct Committee, Instructional Council, and Transition Team, where her leadership has helped shape districtwide policies and practices.

Her educational background reflects her dedication to the field. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Science in School Counseling from the University of Rochester, along with a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from St. John Fisher University. She also holds a New York State Permanent Certification in School Administration and Supervision.

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“Ms. Kankam’s long-standing commitment to student success, her leadership within East Upper, and her broader work across the district make her an outstanding choice to lead the school into the future,” said an RCSD spokesperson.

As she steps into her new role, Ms. Kankam is expected to continue building on the foundation she has helped establish—driving academic excellence, fostering inclusive community ties, and supporting the success of every student at East Upper School.