Wolf's Crossing Elementary School

Wolf’s Crossing is a special place because of the students, staff, families, and community members who make up our school. Our students bring curiosity, energy, and unique strengths with them each day, and our staff is deeply committed to providing the very best for every child. We pair high expectations with the care and support students need to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. We also know that elementary school should be fun—a place filled with creativity, laughter, meaningful friendships, and experiences that make children excited to come to school. Through our schoolwide CharacterStrong program, we help students develop the character, relationships, and sense of belonging they need to thrive. All of this is reflected in our school-year theme: Together We Grow.

I stepped into my role as principal of Wolf’s Crossing in 2019. Before that, I served as an assistant principal at Aux Sable Middle School and Ira Jones Middle School and as a dean of students at John F. Kennedy Middle School in Plainfield Community Consolidated School District 202. I also have classroom experience as an art teacher. As both an educator of 26 years, and the mother of two children, now 22 and 16, I believe children thrive when they are given high levels of support, encouraged to pursue their interests, and given the confidence and space to become their best selves. 

We believe in a high level of collaboration and shared responsibility for every student’s success. That means taking the time to understand each child’s strengths and needs, sharing ideas and resources, coordinating academic and social-emotional supports, and celebrating progress along the way. Our staff is deeply invested in one another and in doing what is best for every student. We work hard, solve problems together, and make sure there is plenty of joy and fun woven into the learning.

Ultimately, I encourage our students to stay curious and see themselves as lifelong learners. I hope they confidently share their ideas, listen to and collaborate with others, and approach challenges with creativity and persistence. Most importantly, I hope they continue growing in empathy and resilience as they explore their interests and use their unique gifts to make a positive difference in our school and beyond.

 

Ms. Cortnye J. Russell