Urban-Suburban 26 Winter Newsletter
January 7th, 2026
Happy New Year! Urban-Suburban is thrilled to enter its 61st year of illuminating pathways with you and more than 980 students. This year, we are proud to celebrate the graduation of 61 seniors across our 14 participating districts! Senior year is a pivotal moment for students and families. Together with our students, parents, and district partners, we are committed to supporting every student as they reach this academic milestone.
One valuable resource during this exciting time is the Urban-Suburban Scholarship. Did you know the Urban-Suburban Scholarship was established in 1985 to honor the achievements of both former and future graduates? Initial funding from the Reidman Corporation of Rochester covered the first two years, and since then, scholarships have been sustained by parent-led fundraisers and generous donations.
Each year, Urban-Suburban families support the scholarship by donating $50 or whatever they can afford. Parents organize fundraisers, and the program also receives charitable contributions from friends and supporters. Our goal this year is to raise $35,000. Thank you to all the families and friends who have already paid it forward, helping us raise approximately $9,000. Your generosity has a profound impact on lives and the world, in ways we may never fully realize.
Families and friends, the scholarship cannot make a difference for these hardworking students without your support! You can help by completing the Urban-Suburban Family Pledge. We are deeply grateful for your ongoing support, generosity, and commitment to our students and the Urban-Suburban community. Together, we make a lasting difference.
Sincerely,
Felicia A. Smith
Program Director
We are seeking one or two parents of students in grades 9–11 from each district to serve on the Urban-Suburban Scholarship Selection Committee.
Committee members will meet on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 15 Linden Park, Rochester. During the session, members will review scholarship applications and help determine award allocations.
Breakfast and lunch will be provided. If you’re interested in participating, please email Urban-Suburban.
- February 13 U-S Program application closes
- February 23 U-S Scholarship opens
- March 1 Continuation forms mailed to families
- March 5 Family Resource Fair at Council Rock Primary
- March 9 Brighton U-S Family Social
- March 25 Parent Group Meeting on Transportation
- April 2 Parent Advisory Council’s Family Fun Day
- May 2 Scholarship Committee Meeting
- June 4 Recognition Night
Urban-Suburban alum Dr. Kiki Singletary-Williams has built a life shaped by curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to pivot. Her journey spans multiple careers and a commitment to continued learning.
In this alumni spotlight, she shares the advice she gives current and future Urban-Suburban students, along with the experiences that helped guide her path.
Over Thanksgiving break, students and families toured the University of Rochester’s Geology and Biology department collections, exploring gems, fossils, meteorites, animals, and rocks from around the world.
The team also received a meaningful gift from the Strasenburgh Planetarium: a memorial 10” Dobsonian telescope, presented in honor of a beloved board member during the Rochester Academy of Science’s annual holiday gathering.
This winter, two student teams competed in the FIRST LEGO League robotics competition at East High School and continue to refine their skills through robotics and teamwork.
Zoe Avery
Spencerport U-S student Zoe Avery sat down with News10NBC to talk about the cell phone ban in schools. Students and staff shared that the shift has been a positive one. Click the picture to watch the extended interview.
Maurice Clark
Senior Maurice Clark is a Scholar Athlete at Irondequoit High School, demonstrating strong academics alongside athletics. After graduation, Maurice plans to take the next step toward a skilled trades career at General Motors.
Isaiah Collins
Isaiah Collins is a senior at Fairport High School and a Scholar Athlete. He received a shot put distinction and serves as a Student Ambassador.
After graduation, Isaiah plans to attend college and pursue a career in nursing.
Leiraliz Marcano
Leiraliz Marcano is already on her way to becoming a pediatrician. The Pittsford Mendon senior is completing the Emergency Services program at Eastern Monroe Career Center and pursuing her EMT certification.
After graduation, Leiraliz intends to attend Nazareth University for nursing.
Josiah Martin
Josiah Martin, a senior at Pittsford Mendon High School, plans to attend Finger Lakes Community College after graduation. He has received a baseball scholarship to continue playing the sport at the collegiate level.
Aniyah Matthews
Senior Aniyah Matthews is the founder of the Black Student Union at Pittsford Sutherland High School and a proud participant in ROC2Change. At the HBCU College Expo in October, Aniyah was accepted on the spot to Central State University, one of the 25 HBCUs that traveled to Rochester for the event.
This fall, Aniyah will attend the University at Albany and plans to pursue a career as a veterinarian.
James Tolleson
Scholar athlete James Tolleson was recognized with the Ranger Pride Award at Spencerport’s January Board of Education meeting.
A standout senior, James was also invited to perform with the 2025 Conference All-State Symphonic Band. The trombone player took part in the band’s performances in early December. James plans to become a music teacher.
Applications open February 9, 2026, for the City of Rochester’s Summer of Opportunity Program (SOOP) and Monroe County’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP).
These programs offer youth ages 14–20 six weeks of paid work experience with employers across the region. Click the image to learn more.