“Houses” are now part of the culture at R.B. Godley Elementary School with the program launched during a school assembly on August 18, 2023.

The house concept originated with renowned educator Ron Clark, who uses the program at his academy in Atlanta. Through the system, students develop relationships and comradery across grade levels, and the teams also emphasize 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 Angie Molinari.  These  include: 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; tree planting.

The program includes all students at the PK-5 campus.  Pre-kindergarten students will begin in October.