Student and Family Handbook

Welcome to Grissom

The staff of Grissom Elementary, a Public Montessori School, extends a warm welcome to every student and family. You are what makes our school a unique, caring, and vibrant community. This handbook is designed to help students and families become familiar with our school and district procedures, as well as the expectations and opportunities that contribute to a successful school year.

Since opening its doors in 1969, Grissom Elementary has been a proud part of Tulsa Public Schools. We celebrate our rich history and the many accomplishments of our students, staff, and families. As we look to the future, we remain committed to providing an engaging Montessori learning environment where every student is encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally while reaching their fullest potential.

Grissom Elementary is a public Montessori school. We educate the mind, nurture the body, and follow the spirit of the whole child.  We do this so that every child is academically, socially, and emotionally prepared for their future.

Namesake

Virgil “Gus” Grissom

Grissom Elementary opened in 1969, named after American astronaut Virgil “Gus”  Grissom. Grissom was an Air Force pilot and Lieutenant Colonel who flew 100  missions during the Korean Conflict. He earned two bachelor’s degrees. Grissom  piloted the second Project Mercury mission, America’s second manned spacecraft.  He also piloted the Gemini 3, which made him the first American astronaut to fly  into space twice. Grissom then became the Command Pilot for Apollo 1, the first of  the manned Apollo missions. The command module caught fire during a pre-flight  test, and all three men on board, including Grissom, died. He was survived by his wife Betty and his sons Scott and Mark. Among his many honors, Grissom was awarded  the Master Astronaut badge, the Distinguished Flying Cross, and the Distinguished  Service Medal.  

Mascot

Stars

Colors

Old Glory Blue and Maize Yellow

Grissom Guidelines

I am a Grissom Star.
I am Safe.
I contribute with Teamwork.
I am mindful of my Attitude.
I am Respectful.
I am Responsible.
I am a Grissom Star.

Grissom School Song

Here’s to Grissom School,
With colors blue and gold.

Here’s to Grissom School,
With pride to behold.

Like an astronaut,
We soar so high.

We are proud our flag to fly.

We love Grissom,
Gold and Blue.

We love Grissom,
So will you.

Oh, we’ll follow,
Loyal and True.

The Gold and Blue.