We gathered at Monte Alban Mexican Grill this past Tuesday to hear Julio Vazquez, Sr. tell a story of success in education. Vazquez is the co-founder, board chairman, and CEO of the Eugenio Maria de Hostos Charter School, a K-8 institution with two campuses in the 14621 neighborhood.
Vazquez, who served as the president and CEO of the Ibero-American Action League (1993-2006) and Commissioner of Rochester’s Department of Community Development (2007-2009), has been described by former Mayor Robert Duffy as a “tremendous asset to the City of Rochester.” His presentation focused on the innovative approach to education at EMHCS and its unique curriculum that promotes literacy in both English and Spanish for every student.
The program is working. Now in its 15th year, EMHCS has significantly outperformed nearby district-operated schools despite a smaller per-student budget. Vazquez spoke with optimism about the future: the school plans to triple in size in the coming years, adding grades 9-12 and making numerous capital improvements. More information on EMHCS is available on their website, emhcharter.org.
The Rochester Hispanic Business Association’s luncheon event series continues next month with Rochester Police Department Chief Michael Ciminelli as the featured speaker.
