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Canandaigua City School District

One Community, Transforming Lives

Academics

Academics

Academic success for every child we serve & The development of good character in all students

These are the two main goals at the Canandaigua City School District. The first goal is achieved by challenging students with high academic standards and expectations for achievement through innovative programming and instruction. The second is pursued through a school, home and community partnership based on five core virtues: respect, responsibility, caring, honesty, and healthful lifestyles.

The curriculum is systematically reviewed to ensure it meets the developing needs of our pupils. The character education principles are stranded into the curriculum at each grade level. NYS Common Core curriculum modules are currently being integrated where appropriate to the needs of our students. The educational program includes extensive technology use, with internet access for all classrooms and a wide range of technology course offerings.

Additional features of the educational program include Pre-K classrooms, full-day kindergarten classes, multi-age classrooms, hands-on in-district science, innovative programming such as the Responsive Classroom, and a range of other academic and support services. There is a wide array of in-district special education services, extensive opportunities in both the visual and performing arts, three foreign languages, enrichment programming K-8 and a full range of advanced placement courses, and numerous college-level courses in partnership with Rochester Institute of Technology and Finger Lakes Community College. The Academy also offers open enrollment in the prestigious International Baccalaureate Programme.

Quality professional development for teaching staff is a high priority. The District employs a full-time Staff Developer to facilitate continuous teaching improvement.

2026-2027 COURSE CATALOG

One Community, Transforming Lives

Canandaigua Primary School - Grades UPK, K, 1, 2

Canandaigua Primary School serves our youngest learners and provides a nurturing environment that emphasizes both academic growth and character development. Students engage in a well-rounded curriculum with opportunities in art, music, library, and physical education, helping them explore their interests and build essential skills.

Canandaigua Elementary School - Grades 3, 4, 5

Canandaigua Elementary School welcomes students in grades 3–5, offering a dynamic learning environment that nurtures both intellectual and personal development. Alongside academics, the school emphasizes building strong character, encouraging traits like integrity, empathy, and responsibility as students prepare for the next stage of their education.

Canandaigua Middle School - Grades 6, 7, 8

Canandaigua Middle School provides a supportive, engaging environment that fosters both academic growth and personal development. The school offers a well-rounded curriculum with extracurricular activities that encourage exploration and creativity. Its goal is to help students build the skills and confidence they need to succeed in high school and beyond.

Canandaigua Academy - Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Canandaigua Academy offers a comprehensive education that combines rigorous academics with opportunities in the arts, athletics, and robotics. The school features an International Baccalaureate (IB) Program, extensive Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and Project Lead the Way programs in STEM. Students can also pursue vocational and career-focused learning through BOCES, preparing them for both college and the workforce.

Canandaigua Academic & Career Center - Alternative Program

The Canandaigua Academic and Career Center (CACC) is an alternative education program within the Canandaigua City School District designed to support students who benefit from a smaller, more personalized learning environment while still working toward a high school diploma.

  • A person in a red life vest paddles a homemade cardboard boat with a camouflage pattern.
  • A young girl wears a patriotic paper crown with red and white stars, looking down at a paper.
  • Baseball players in white uniforms with red trim and red caps run on a field.
  • Students and adults march in a parade, holding a red banner that reads "CANANDAIGUA MIDDLE SCHOOL".
  • Two smiling women stand in front of a printer and filing cabinets, wearing matching t-shirts with a mascot.
  • Two students collaborate on a science experiment, labeling a petri dish.