“Houses” are continuing as part of the campus culture at R.B. Godley Elementary School for a second year with the program starting on August 16, 2024.

The house system launched last school year as students and staff joined together to form teams across grade levels.

The concept originated with renowned educator Ron Clark, who uses the program at his academy in Atlanta. Through the system, students develop relationships while emphasizing monthly character topics and community service projects.

The ten houses, which will meet monthly, all have unique names, colors and character traits:  Coraggio (courage), Giusto (fairness), Gratiam (gratitude), Heshima (respect), Honestidade (trustworthiness), Igunya (responsibility), Ionracas (integrity), Orgulho (school pride), Quadriga (teamwork) and Uthando (caring).

Community service projects planned for the year, according to Principal Jodie Dickson and Counselor Schalynne Howard.  These  include activities similar to last year, including a canned food drive, letters to veterans, children’s hospital patients and nursing home residents, cards and treats for first responders, spring cleaning at the city park, a children’s clothing and toiletry drive, and tree planting.