Alissa Jeffries Memorial Award
Charles M.
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Our History
Russell Middle School named
after Charles M. Russell, is located in Colorado Springs at the
foot of Pikes Peak. We have 843 students in grades 6-8. Our excellent staff of
46 teachers
are well recognized for their excellence by Colorado Springs Public School District 11.
Russell Middle School opened as a junior high school in September of 1971. In that first
year the enrollment was 950 students. Our students came from five different junior high
schools in District 11. At the time Russell opened, the Vista Grande area in the
"Springs" was just beginning to grow and we were drawing students from both
Vista Grande and Village 7 communities.
Enrollment increased to 1,150 students our second year, which required a 9-period day with
split sessions. The third year we grew to 1,400 students and began a year-round school
program called Concept 6 (which was designed by our former principal, Dr. Ricketts). We
continued on year-round until the fall of 1982. We then went off year-round operation and
began a traditional schedule with a 6-period day.
During the 1980's, our student population remained between 650 and 800. With the continued
growth of housing in our attendance area, we have grown to 843 students.
In the 1993-94 school year Russell began its transition from a junior high school (grades
7,8,9) to a middle school (grades 6,7,8). Today we are a middle school in structure and
philosophy. Under the leadership, of our principal, Mrs. Jeanice Swift, we are continuing
to grow. Our sixth, seventh, and eighth grade core teachers are comprised of teams
to help strengthen academic efforts.
Russell has instituted a Wall of Fame honoring former students who serve as role models for our present scholars. Wall of Fame winners include a Fulbright Scholar, a doctor, a district attorney, a professional football player, a social worker, a Colorado Springs Fire Fighter of the Year, teachers, pilots, and musicians!
Russell has had six Crystal Apple Award winning teachers and an honorable mention. We have had three District 11 Educational Support Personnel Award winners and two honorable mentions.
The 1996 year was quite special for Russell Middle School because it was our 25th
anniversary! Many staff members have been at Russell over 10 years, adding stability and maturity to
our great school.