The Children’s Agenda is deeply concerned that school closures are disproportionately harming our most vulnerable children. We believe schools need to reopen safely as soon as possible, but are concerned the politicization of the issue, and the lack of sufficient resources and clear guidelines for schools, is putting reopening—and children’s wellbeing—in jeopardy.
As the data in this report will demonstrate, the digital divide similarly has disproportionate impact on Rochester’s Hispanic/Latino communities. This report was originally written to inform immediate responses to mitigate the impact of the pandemic. It has been updated to reflect work that has been done to further close the divide. Information has also been added to inform long-term systemic changes to bridge the digital divide in substantial and sustainable ways.
Children will be gravely impacted by their parents’ financial struggles and the simultaneous cuts to school budgets and social programs. Children who attend the Rochester City School District (RCSD) are especially vulnerable given the district’s already deep financial problems and the generational effects of poverty and racism.
FCC data indicate that all blocks in Rochester have necessary digital infrastructure for both residential broadband and wireless communication. According to the US Census, the majority of city residents (88%) have some type of computer, smartphone or
wireless device and 80% have some type of internet subscription. However, 17% of residents rely solely on a cellular data plan. Smartphones have limited functionality for educational purposes. Therefore, 37% of residents have limited online functionality.
There are geographic disparities in internet access with some neighborhoods having
20% – 40% of residents with internet access and others having 80+%. Most Rochester
neighborhoods are in the 60% – 80% range. The pandemic has had significant impacts on
education that are exacerbated by disparities in access to online learning.
Children will be gravely impacted by their parents’ financial struggles and the simultaneous cuts to school budgets and social programs. Children who attend the Rochester City School District (RCSD) are especially vulnerable given the district’s already deep financial problems and the generational effects of poverty and racism.
ROC the Future began as a StriveTogether community (one of 70 nationwide), using collective impact to address very complex issues impeding positive outcomes for children.
Young Children Need Nurturing Not Removal:
Suspensions in K-3 Fact Sheet
The Children’s Agenda applauds the city of Rochester’s draft 2034 Comprehensive Plan for many of its goals to promote equity and prosperity going forward. Though many goals and strategies in the plan would benefit children and families, children are not mentioned in the vision statement nor is there a section dedicated to their unique needs.
In keeping with The Children’s Agenda’s mission, this report seeks to promote evidence-based solutions for improving children’s academic and social-emotional wellbeing, especially for those most impacted by poverty, discrimination, health disparities, and trauma.
ROC the Future began as a StriveTogether community (one of 70 nationwide), using collective impact to address very complex issues impeding positive outcomes for children.
The Children’s Agenda advocates for effective policies and drives evidenced-based solutions for the health, education and success of children. We are especially committed to children who are vulnerable because of poverty, racism, health disparities and trauma.
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