Doxey Elementary is proud to foster a school environment where every student feels a deep sense of connection and community.
By implementing the Ron Clark House System, Doxey has transformed its school culture into one rooted in inclusion, pride and positive relationships.
“The house system helps everybody feel like they are a part of the school.” Principal Dan Hansen explains. “Every kid has a connection—not just with their teacher, but with other staff and students across grade levels.”
At Doxey, students and staff are sorted into one of four houses—Altruismo, Amistad, Isibindi, or Rêveur—each representing unique values such as giving, friendship, courage and dreaming big. These houses serve as families within the school, helping students build friendships across grade levels, connect with trusted adults and develop a sense of ownership in their learning environment.
The system encourages positive behavior and collaboration through monthly house lunches, high-energy, pep rally-style assemblies and a trophy and point system celebrating kindness, academics and school spirit.
“We’ve seen kindergarteners become friends with sixth graders, all because they share a house shirt,” Hansen said. “The connections are real, and the culture is contagious.”
By building relationships and encouraging positive behavior, Doxey’s House System directly supports the district’s motto: Learning First. At Doxey Elementary, students don’t just go to school—they belong.