I am the founder of a new alternative middle school program called Rochester Matters. The premise behind new academy is that children are most engaged and apt to learn when they are able to connect the topics and issues they are studying in school to their own life experiences. We offer an interdisciplinary, humanities-based curriculum that integrates the four core subjects through the study of local history and current issues affecting the Rochester community. In addition, our curriculum will stress character development and civic responsibility, as well as literacy. Ourgoal is to provide a hands-on, experiential educational program that allows ample opportunities for students to develop and participate in a school-based community, while also exploring and engaging with the broader Rochester community. Rochester’s Matter’s school-community partnerships will go two ways. First, Rochester Matters will recruit community volunteers to serve as tutors, mentors, and classroom assistants. These people primarily will be involved with students within the school. But the program also will provide opportunities for students to leave the school to experience and participate in the broader community. Students and their teachers will do field studies throughout the Rochester community. Overtime, we also plan to develop a community service program that will allow our students to make a positive difference in the community. Unfortunately, Rochester Matters has not been granted any funding from the district to pay for our programs. Any money you donate will be used for classroom supplies, field studies, T-shirts, and guest speakers. Thank you for your support