Nestled in the heart of Folsom California Russell Ranch Elementary School stands as a beacon of academic excellence and community spirit. Since its establishment this dynamic learning institution has consistently ranked among the top-performing schools in the Folsom Cordova Unified School District.
With state-of-the-art facilities and a dedicated team of educators Russell Ranch Elementary creates an environment where young minds flourish. The school’s innovative approach to education combines traditional teaching methods with modern technology preparing students for success in an ever-evolving world. From its vibrant STEAM program to its award-winning performing arts department Russell Ranch Elementary proves that learning can be both fun and transformative.
About Russell Ranch Elementary School
Russell Ranch Elementary School stands as a cornerstone of educational excellence in Folsom, California, providing comprehensive education for students from kindergarten through fifth grade.
Location and Campus Overview
Located at 375 Dry Creek Road in Folsom, Russell Ranch Elementary occupies a modern 15-acre campus in a residential neighborhood. The school features 35 well-equipped classrooms, a state-of-the-art library media center, two computer labs with 75 workstations. The campus includes specialized learning spaces for music, art, science labs plus indoor/outdoor learning areas. Athletic facilities encompass a gymnasium, basketball courts, soccer fields, baseball diamonds and age-appropriate playground equipment. The school’s design promotes both safety and accessibility with designated drop-off zones, secured entry points and ADA-compliant facilities.
School History and Mission
Russell Ranch Elementary opened its doors in 2005 to serve Folsom’s growing population. The school’s mission centers on developing well-rounded students through academic excellence, character development and community engagement. The founding principal established core values of respect, responsibility and safety that continue guiding the school culture today. Russell Ranch maintains partnerships with local organizations to enhance student learning experiences through field trips, guest speakers and hands-on activities. The school earned California Distinguished School recognition in 2014 and 2020 for outstanding educational programs and student achievement rates consistently above state averages.
Academic Programs and Curriculum
Russell Ranch Elementary School implements a comprehensive curriculum aligned with California State Standards. The academic program emphasizes foundational skills development while incorporating innovative teaching methods to engage students effectively.
Core Subject Areas
The English Language Arts program integrates reading comprehension strategies focused on phonics fluency vocabulary development. Mathematics instruction incorporates hands-on learning experiences practical problem-solving activities daily math fact practice. Science education follows Next Generation Science Standards featuring inquiry-based experiments interactive technology simulations field investigations. Social Studies lessons explore historical events cultural diversity civic responsibility through project-based activities primary source analysis group discussions.
| Core Subjects | Key Components |
|---|---|
| English Language Arts | Reading Comprehension, Writing, Grammar |
| Mathematics | Number Sense, Problem Solving, Operations |
| Science | Physical, Life, Earth Sciences |
| Social Studies | History, Geography, Civics |
Enrichment Activities
- Spanish language instruction starting in third grade
- Digital literacy skills development through technology integration
- Visual arts programs featuring student exhibitions galleries
- Performing arts opportunities including drama productions dance performances
- Science fairs featuring student research projects experiments
Student Life at Russell Ranch
Student life at Russell Ranch Elementary School centers on fostering academic growth, personal development, and community engagement. The school creates an environment where students thrive through structured learning and diverse activities.
School Culture and Values
Russell Ranch Elementary maintains a positive learning environment built on three core principles: respect, responsibility, and safety. Students participate in monthly character education assemblies focusing on traits like integrity, perseverance, and kindness. The school’s “Ranger Way” program recognizes students who demonstrate exemplary behavior through positive reinforcement cards and special privileges. Teachers integrate social-emotional learning into daily classroom activities, helping students develop strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence.
Extracurricular Activities
Russell Ranch offers diverse after-school programs that enrich student experiences beyond core academics. The robotics club engages 4th and 5th graders in hands-on engineering projects. Students participate in chess club meetings twice weekly to develop strategic thinking skills. The school’s running club promotes physical fitness through structured training sessions. Performance groups include a choir that performs at community events and a drama club that stages two productions annually. Academic competitions such as Math Olympiad and Spelling Bee challenge students to excel in specific subject areas. The Student Council provides leadership opportunities through organizing school events and community service projects.
Parent and Community Involvement
Russell Ranch Elementary School fosters strong partnerships between families, educators and the community through active engagement programs. The school’s collaborative approach creates a supportive environment that enhances student success.
Parent Teacher Association
The Russell Ranch PTA coordinates numerous activities that enrich the school experience. Members organize cultural fairs, book fairs and family nights throughout the academic year. The PTA funds essential classroom materials, technology upgrades, playground equipment, art supplies and library resources. Regular monthly meetings allow parents to connect with teachers, discuss school initiatives and plan upcoming events. The organization maintains dedicated communication channels including a newsletter, social media updates and an online parent portal to keep families informed about volunteer needs, fundraising campaigns and student achievements.
Volunteer Opportunities
Parents support Russell Ranch Elementary through multiple volunteer programs. Classroom helpers assist with reading groups, math centers and art projects during instructional hours. Library volunteers manage book circulation, story time sessions and reading incentive programs. The Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) program brings fathers into classrooms as positive male role models. Room parents coordinate class activities, parties and field trips. The school’s Garden Club relies on volunteers to maintain the educational garden spaces where students learn about nutrition and environmental science. A formal volunteer orientation program ensures all participants understand school policies and safety protocols.
School Leadership and Staff
Russell Ranch Elementary’s leadership team combines educational expertise with management excellence to guide the school’s academic success. The staff includes experienced educators dedicated to creating an enriching learning environment for all students.
Administration Team
Principal Debbie Bowers heads Russell Ranch Elementary’s administrative team, bringing 15+ years of educational leadership experience. The administrative structure includes a Vice Principal focusing on student support services, curriculum development, and behavioral guidance. A dedicated office staff manages daily operations, enrollment procedures, and parent communication. The administrative team coordinates with district leadership to implement educational policies while maintaining Russell Ranch’s high academic standards.
Teaching Faculty
The teaching faculty at Russell Ranch Elementary comprises 35 credentialed educators serving kindergarten through fifth grade. Each grade level features 5-6 teachers who collaborate in professional learning communities to enhance instruction. Specialized instructors teach music, physical education, art, and special education programs. Teachers participate in ongoing professional development, focusing on technology integration, differentiated instruction, and STEAM education. The faculty maintains an average class size of 24 students, enabling personalized attention for each learner.
Academic Performance and Recognition
Russell Ranch Elementary School demonstrates exceptional academic achievement through standardized test scores consistently above state averages. The school’s commitment to educational excellence reflects in both student performance metrics and external recognition.
Test Scores and Achievement
Russell Ranch Elementary students exceed state proficiency standards in core subjects. The California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) results show 85% of students meeting or exceeding standards in English Language Arts compared to the state average of 49%. Mathematics proficiency rates reach 82% against the state average of 34%. Grade-level assessments indicate strong performance across all student groups with particularly high achievements in:
- Reading comprehension scores averaging in the 90th percentile
- Mathematics problem-solving rates at 88% proficiency
- Science assessment results showing 78% advanced understanding
- Writing performance metrics indicating 80% mastery levels
Awards and Distinctions
Russell Ranch Elementary’s academic excellence earned multiple prestigious recognitions. The California Distinguished School Award in 2014 and 2020 acknowledged the school’s outstanding educational programs and student achievement. Notable accolades include:
- National Blue Ribbon School nomination in 2019
- California Gold Ribbon School designation for STEAM implementation
- Title I Academic Achievement Award for closing achievement gaps
- California Business for Education Excellence Honor Roll status
- Educational Results Partnership Star School recognition for high performance
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) six-year accreditation
The school maintains API scores above 900 and ranks among the top 10% of elementary schools in California based on academic performance indicators.
Student Support Services
Russell Ranch Elementary provides comprehensive support services to ensure every student achieves academic success while maintaining emotional well-being. The school implements a multi-tiered support system that addresses diverse learning needs through specialized programs intervention strategies.
Learning Resources
The Learning Center at Russell Ranch Elementary offers targeted academic intervention services for students requiring additional support in reading math or language development. Students access specialized software programs digital learning tools individualized tutoring sessions in small groups of 3-5 students. The center employs 3 full-time learning specialists who coordinate with classroom teachers to create personalized learning plans tracked through quarterly progress assessments. A resource library contains over 1,000 supplemental materials including leveled readers manipulatives adaptive technology tools. The center remains open 45 minutes before after school hours providing extended learning opportunities flexible scheduling options for families.
Counseling Programs
The school counseling department delivers evidence-based support through individual group counseling sessions reaching 250+ students annually. Two full-time counselors conduct weekly classroom guidance lessons focusing on social skills conflict resolution emotional regulation. The “Lunch Bunch” social groups meet twice weekly helping students build friendships practice communication skills in smaller settings of 6-8 peers. Counselors collaborate with teachers to implement the Second Step curriculum addressing bullying prevention character development positive decision-making. Crisis intervention services remain available throughout the school day with counselors maintaining an open-door policy for immediate student support.
Conclusion
Russell Ranch Elementary School stands as a beacon of educational excellence in Folsom California. Through its innovative STEAM programs exceptional faculty and strong community partnerships the school creates an environment where students truly flourish. The combination of modern facilities comprehensive support services and a commitment to academic excellence has earned Russell Ranch its place among California’s top-performing elementary schools.
Parents seeking a well-rounded education for their children will find that Russell Ranch Elementary delivers outstanding academic results while nurturing character development and fostering a love for learning. The school’s continued success and numerous accolades reflect its dedication to preparing students for future challenges in an ever-evolving world.
