History

In 1956, the school district purchased land from Anderson and Walter Russell with plans to break ground on a new elementary school. This land had been in the Russell family since the farm’s original purchase by Francis T. Russell (1821-1891). Francis Russell was a Union officer in the Civil War and also served Columbia as a state representative, railroad director, and University of Missouri curator.

The school was opened in 1958 and was named for its proximity to Russell Boulevard, which tees at Rollins Road directly in front of the building. Russell Boulevard Elementary has seen eleven principals since its birth. Its first principal was Dean Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald once said he remembered the summer before opening the building. He walked up and there were no doors, no windows, or finished floors. Luckily, it was ready for students when the time came. Former Missouri Governor Roger Wilson also served as an administrator. He was assistant principal at Russell from 1969 to 1977.

Over the years, Russell Boulevard has had several mascots, including the Russell Rockets, Russell Raiders, Russell Sprouts, and finally, the Russell Ravens. In 2008, the school celebrated its golden anniversary. More than 350 Russell students, staff, alumni, and family members returned to Russell to celebrate 50 years of learning and growth. We are happy to continue that tradition, supporting students on their journey to become confident learners and leaders. With new updates to the building that began in 2021, including a new addition, we can create a safe and inclusive community for even more students and their families for years to come.