5 minute read
Elementary Principals Building Champions & Raising the Bar
by Ann Marie Kennon
Meet Rancho Sienna’s new principal Aaron Russo, and Principal Joy Hudgens from Bar W Elementary School, two seasoned and dynamic educators committed to creating a positive and enriching learning experience for every child under their care.
Having spent six years working for the ISD, Mr. Russo's roots run deep in the Liberty Hill community. He attended the local schools from kindergarten to graduation and treasures the lasting friendships he made with teachers and peers. After studying in Chicago and Dallas, Mr. Russo and his wife returned to Liberty Hill, knowing their son would thrive in a community that embraces and supports one another. He says, “I love living among people who truly care about and want good things for each other. I am never on an island here and am grateful to be a part of something bigger than myself.”
Ms. Hudgens has been an educator for more than 20 years and felt drawn to Liberty Hill. “I wanted to be part of a district with a strong sense of community, loves schools, rallies around teachers, and celebrates student success. I was also looking for a district that aligned with my personal values—prioritizing academics, but also character and community. I definitely found both in Liberty Hill ISD.”
LEADERSHIP
As principals, both embody distinct leadership styles. Ms. Hudgens aims to be a relational and servant leader, building strong and trusting connections with staff, students, and families. Leading by example, she encourages a spirit of service within the school community, fostering a collaborative and enjoyable work environment.
Mr. Russo, on the other hand, adopts a hands-on approach to leadership, recognizing and nurturing the talents of his colleagues. He emphasizes the power of connections and believes in professional development through mutual learning and influence among teachers.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Both principals have laid out comprehensive and thoughtful plans to foster strong community engagement. Mr. Russo visited neighborhoods in an informal way, including a Popsicles with Principals meet-andgreet and Pickleball with the Principal. “I wanted to start making connections with students and parents because everything we do is a partnership. We will also have many opportunities for parents to volunteer to make sure they know the invitation to engage is always open.”
Ms. Hudgens says, “Parents play a huge role in their child's education. It is my desire to foster a true partnership with parents to help set their children up for success. I plan to host quarterly Coffee with the Principal meetings to hear parent perspectives and ideas. Additionally, Bar W parents will have the opportunity to participate in PTO, WatchDOGS, Education Connection, and Site-based committees.”
PROMOTING SAFE AND POSITIVE ENVIRONMENTS
All teachers and staff want parents to know their kids can come to school without worry. Mr. Russo says, “LHISD has many people working hard to ensure things are in place to keep kids safe, so they don’t have to think about safety. Psychologically, we want them to feel comfortable, take risks and speak up. No one will be shamed for speaking up, being different, or having an opposing viewpoint. Our teachers are eager to allow students to have a space to fail and learn from it.”
As a new principal, Ms. Hudgens' priority this year is to lay a strong academic foundation and create a positive campus culture. “Bar W will be a joyful and innovative campus where students are supported, challenged, and encouraged to think critically, solve real-world problems, and communicate their ideas effectively.”
She says creating a positive school culture takes intentionality and involves the entire school community. “I have hired an exceptional staff. Not only are they passionate educators committed to the academic success of each child, they are also relational, joyful and collaborative. We are dedicated to creating a community where knowledge is pursued with excellence and where character is exemplified through service.”
Mr. Russo says, “I’m eager to know how our needs and high-yield strategies will evolve when the kids get here. For instance, this year we are implementing "Huddle Time" weekly, during which teachers meet with 10 students from various grade levels in a smallgroup setting. Students stay in their small group for the duration of their elementary career, which will help them foster strong bonds and character development.”
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
Ms. Hudgens is looking forward to seeing the students arrive at Bar W. “We cannot wait to open our doors and welcome all our new students and families!”
Mr. Russo is excited to connect with the school community. “It takes all of us,” he says. “Our collective goal is to meet the needs of our kids so I‘m looking forward to opening lines of communication, building trust, and really showing— through consistency—how we do things here.”
