July 7, 2009

Dear Briargrove Parents,

I am thrilled to announce that Deborah Russell has been named principal of our school.  A product of HISD schools since the age of 5, Debi brings years of teaching and administrative experience with her to Briargrove.  She spent 14 years teaching at the elementary level and has served in a variety of different capacities throughout the HISD West Region.

Debi became interested in elementary education while working in an emergency shelter.  Her interaction with children in the most distressing of situations solidified her desire to be an advocate for all children and to seek out the best way to serve them.  In the last year, she has served as an Aspiring Principal’s Institute Intern, attending two separate courses at Harvard University and gaining on-the-job experience as she worked closely under the principal of West Briar Middle School.

Debi is married to Jerry Russell and is the proud mother of Zachary,18, who graduated from Westside High School in May and will attend U of H in the fall and Cole, 23,  who will obtain her degree in elementary education from U of H this coming December.  In her spare time, Debi loves to read, cook and spend time with her family.

Debi is eager to meet both parents and faculty as soon as possible and looks forward to a spirited exchange of ideas and vision in the upcoming year.  We will schedule a parent focus group, probably in early August, in order for Debi to hear feedback on your vision for the school and expectations for your new principal.  Check back on the website and email for more details on the date, time and location of the meeting. 

Thank you so much to all of you for contributing to the process with your ideas and input.  Please join me in giving Debi Russell a giant Roadrunner welcome!

Sincerely,

Susan McConn

PTO President