Building belonging through the House System at Northridge Elementary

A school “House System” is not an uncommon sight for schools within the San Juan Unified School District. But at Northridge Elementary School, a recent push for more involvement in their House System has become a meaningful way to bring students, staff and even families together while building a strong sense of belonging. 

Originally established several years ago, the House System has evolved over time. This school year, Northridge staff have worked to strengthen the system through intentional activities such as house meetings, rallies, student leadership opportunities and lessons centered on character traits.

“The houses have gone through different phases,” said Principal Jana Conli. “For me over the past year, we really want it to remain a key part of the community for our kids and our families.”

How it works

Every Northridge student is placed into a house as soon as they enroll and remains in that house throughout their time at the school. Houses are made up of mixed grade levels and include multiple staff members, helping students form meaningful relationships beyond their own classrooms.

The houses include:

• Pativ, house of honor
• Astrologos, house of dreamers
• Dobrota, house of empathy
• Tiyaga, house of perseverance
• Valeroso, house of courage
• Mahalo, house of gratitude

“We really work at having the older students mentor the younger students so they feel like a part of our school,” Conli said. “That is my favorite part of it.”

Older students also serve as “big buddies” to TK and kindergarten students during monthly meetings and rallies, helping them navigate campus and feel supported.

“They take the little buddies under their wings,” Conli said. “They walk them to rallies, sit with them and make sure they feel included.”

Students can earn points for their house by being recognized for kindness, teamwork, attendance and following expectations. Each week, the house that earns the most points is recognized with a flag displayed on campus. At the end of the trimester, the winning house celebrates with a house party, where students and staff come together for games and activities.

Recognizing student leaders

This year, student leadership has become an even more visible part of the House System. Fourth through sixth-grade students are nominated by staff to serve as house leaders, sacrificing their recess to meet weekly and help plan events.

Rommelle, a fourth-grade house leader in Valeroso, said being part of the House System has helped him grow.

“Past me would be like, ‘There’s no way you’re a house leader,’” he said. “I’ve come so far where I could do that.”

Aubrey, a fourth-grade leader in Mahalo, said the system makes school feel special.

“If we didn’t have houses, Fridays would just be normal days,” she said. “But since we have houses, we have meetings and rallies. It’s really fun.”

Getting staff members involved

Staff members also play an active role in the House System, whether as house leaders or participants, modeling the values of teamwork, leadership and school pride.

“It’s created a community where everyone feels connected,” said teacher and Astrologos house leader Ashleigh Tataipu. “It’s brought something more than just the day-to-day.”

Tara Myrstol, a fourth-grade teacher and Valeroso house leader, said the mixed-grade structure has strengthened relationships across campus.

“We get to build relationships with kids across the school, not just our own class,” she said. “It’s exciting to see how it continues to grow.”

By continuing to invest time and care into the House System, Northridge Elementary is fostering a joyful, inclusive environment where every student and staff member feels known, valued and connected.