As principal of two elementary schools which have been fortunate to retain this program, I speak from experience; Ms. Russell's program, "This is Where I Live," is an outstanding program which provides school communities with an invaluable resource for community-building. Through numerous songs, which are all centered around self-esteem, respect and cooperation, students are motivated to embrace and internalize all of the qualities encompassing good character. I have witnessed positive changes in student responsibility, self-confidence and overall citizenship through the use of this program. The songs are catchy, fun, and easy for students to learn. We have adopted "This is Where I Live" as our official school song.
Karen E. Brown, Principal , Westminster Avenue Elementary, Venice, CA
The whole school sing-a-long that culminates the 3 weeks of instruction is a great way to bring our entire school community together. Since most school activities are grade level specific, it is wonderful to see cross grade level programs that unite the school community. Parents, students and staff have a great time. You can hear the community singing the words or humming the melodies for months. The songs are so powerful, that teachers have used them as part the grade level performances.
Donna Chazen -Chandler Elementary, Van Nuys, CA
The positive, character based songs have been enjoyed by ALL of us! The teachers were able to incorporate the music into their daily routines. The students loved the music. On a field trip they bursted into song!
B Cohen - Pincipal, Knollwood Elementary, Granada Hills, CA
This program was fantastic! All the children know and love the songs - I've heard them use the words, (character qualities) while talking with each other. When I use the characteristics now, they know what I mean!
K. Fitzwater, Carthay Center, Los Angeles
These songs have brought a sense of community and common goals to our school.
teacher, Carthay Center, Los Angeles
"This is Where I Live" is being hummed or sung by students and staff all the time! This is helping to build a sense of community. We're going to continue to use this as our school wide weekly affirmation in order to capitalize on and continue to grow a sense of family and communiy. GREAT material - powerful and empowering. Thank You.
D. Glass, Carthay Center, Los Angeles
I feel that the cooperation of all the teachers and students learning common songs, then presenting them at the assembly, demonstrated community and unity. I got goosebumps!
I have noticed that students remember the song and sing or hum them while working. I can also ask questions about the values in the songs and students have an easier time discussing them.
2nd grade teacher, Carthay Center
I thought it was great to have used many different musical genres and it was wonderful to see a live performance. It sounded so beautiful and moving seeing our students singing with emotion and sucher powerful words. Thank you!
Klass, 3rd grade teacher, Marianna Elementary
The kids were thrilled to see the actual singers and musicians they had been hearing on the CD.
R. Villagomez, Marianna Ave. Elementary
"This is Where I Live' was so inspiring and motivating. Students were enthusiastic and enjoyed the program. They are very eager to continue singing.
B. Castesslion, 4th grade teacher, Marianna Ave. Elementary
It's great for students to realize that they are part of a larger commuity; in this case, the school, as opposed to just their classroom.
Teacher, Chandler Elementary, Sherman Oaks
This program fits in well with 'Character Counts' and 'Camp Griffo' programs.
