Rome Industrial Development Corporation

Quality of Life

The new Rome Free Academy opened September 2002, a $45.4 million-dollar, 320,000 square foot, state-of-the-art high school on 78 acres at the Griffiss Business and Technology Park.

Rome Free Academy features:
     · Indoor facilities includes: classrooms, offices, main and auxiliary gyms, computer labs, swimming pool, library/media center, TV and radio studios.
      · Outdoor facilities include: practice baseball and soccer fields, running track and tennis courts.
      · Projected enrollment in grades 9-12 is 1,828.

Rome City School District

Formed in the 1860s, Rome Free Academy was one of the first public high schools in Upstate New York.
· The school district performs well-above state averages in virtually all testing areas.
· Ten percent more students graduate from Rome Free Academy with a Regents diploma than the state average.
· The number of students participating in 3rd and 4th year Foreign Language studies is the envy of the area.
· The high school Regents exam passing rate is very high, as is the number of students taking the seven advanced placement tests.
· Over 85% enter college or trade school
· Graduation rate of 96.6%
· Total district enrollment approximately 6200.

The Elementary Program provides core instruction in language arts, mathematics, reading, science, and social studies. All fifth grade classes are involved in a computer writing program. All elementary students are gaining use of computers for learning support. The district also offers an elementary guidance program, summer school, and services to gifted and talented students in grades 3-9.

Secondary Students are served in accordance with New York State Regents Plans, with sequence and elective courses/ Students may also enroll in Advanced Placement Credit Courses through Programs with local colleges and universities. Occupational Education, vocational, and technical programs are also available.

Special Education Programs serve approximately 1200 students in both mainstreamed and self-contained classes, with excellent reviews from the State Education Department.

Other "Quality of Life" factors:

For more information, contact:
   Rome Industrial Development Corporation
   153 Brooks Road
   Rome, NY 13441
   315-338-0393    Fax 315-338-5694
   mkaucher@mvedge.org
   pzawko@mvedge.org