Christine Ross

The Highlands School District made an incredible change within its borders last year by hiring four new principals for its elementary schools. Christine Ross of Heights Elementary is just one of the new principals excited for the opportunity to impact the lives of the students she serves.

Christine's interest in education was kindled by a teacher and guidance counselor at school. Her job in a day care through school and college just reinforced her desire to work with children, especially those at an elementary age. She went to Edinboro University and received at Bachelors of Special Education. She eventually went to get her Masters in Reading and finally an Elementary Principal Certificate. The education that she received along with teaching experience within the Penn Hills and Mt. Lebonon School Districts certainly qualified her for the position at the Heights Elementary.

All the elementary principal's goals relate to Safety, Instruction, and Relationship. One area that the Heights Elementary School concentrated on was improving recess time. Last year they took a look at how to make changes to the playground to make it safer and more interesting for the students. They added a tic-tac-toe as well as a hop scotch area. In addition, the school purchased Nerf balls, hula-hoops, and other interesting outdoor toys. In giving the children items to keep them occupied, they were able to cut down on the bullying incidents.

A new and popular program implemented at the school is the "Random Acts of Kindness" where students who are "caught at being good" are rewarded for their behavior. Peers, teachers, staff and visitors to the building can nominate students for their actions. Twice a month, five students will be drawn from the nominees to have lunch with the principal as well as receive a Special Persons button to wear for the day. This is part of the battle against bullying that the school district has been fighting.

Christine tries to stay very involved with students and their parents. She set up a Principal Advisory Committee with volunteer fourth and fifth grade students, which meets once every 9-week period for lunch. This gives them time to talk with her about concerns at the school. For example, one topic being discussed is how they can improve recess "other than making it an hour long." She gets ideas from the students how she can solve the issues that arise.

Another way that Christine tries to build relationships is with a "Principal's Coffee", which takes place each nine weeks. She invites parents to come in and meet with her over different school issues or topics such as bullying or homework tips.

Her efforts so far have certainly proven fruitful. They were able to raise the PSSA test scores dramatically over the past year. Scores went up 70 points in reading and 150 points in math. She plans to continue to increase the achievement in the K-5 grades as well as create a common vision among staff, faculty, in conjunction with the Highlands School Mission Statement, and build effective partnerships with the family, schools, and community.