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Russell Elementary highlights 'house' system and wins Blue Ribbon; staff describe inclusive EL preschool pilot
Summary
Russell Elementary principal and teachers presented the school's Blue Ribbon recognition, described a decade‑old 'house' system (45–66 students each) that builds belonging, and explained an inclusive 4‑year‑old EL co‑teach preschool and a K–5 Expeditionary Learning curriculum pilot expanded this year.
School staff from Russell Elementary presented to the board about their Blue Ribbon recognition and school programs.
Principal Peter Halloran said Russell is a Title I school that serves about 362 students in a compact neighborhood. He and teachers described a decade‑old 'house' system designed to build relationships and belonging by grouping K–5 students territorially and holding regular house meetings; staff said houses typically range from about 45 to 66 students and aim to ensure every child has an adult champion.
Second‑grade teachers described an Expeditionary Learning (EL) pilot that emphasizes student collaboration, arts integration and project work; staff reported expanded district interest and said K–5 classrooms piloted the curriculum this year after a successful second‑grade trial. Teachers also described a fully inclusive preschool model with two teachers and paraeducator support that they said produces leaders among incoming kindergarten students.
A student ambassador described service projects and peer support roles for ambassadors, and staff answered board questions about house staffing (minimum of four certified adults at house meetings) and how the school addresses differences in students’ language exposure.
Presenters closed by offering to return with follow‑up and to engage the board and families in ongoing conversations about the school’s social‑emotional learning goals.
