• Category 1

    Selected in 2024

  • Grades: pre k - 5
    School Setting: rural
    Town Population: 247
    Student Enrollment: 36
    Student Demographics:

    Black/African American: 3.7%
    White/Caucasian: 59.2%
    Hispanic: 14.8%
    Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 3.7%
    Asian: 3.7%
    Native American: 0%
    Other: 14.9%

    Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:8
    % Reduced Lunch: 100%
    % ELL Learners: 0%
    Founded: 1929
  • PRINCIPAL:
    Christine Vasquez
  • CONTACT:
    6 Diamond Street
    Blue Diamond, NV 89004
    702-799-6840
    vasqucm@nv.ccsd.net
Blue Diamond Elementary School
Blue Diamond, NV
"Community involvement is key to the success of Blue Diamond Elementary, fostering a collaborative environment where students, parents, and staff work together to enhance the learning experience."
1. Tell us about your school’s success.
Our school’s success results from thoughtful strategies, community support, and valuable resources. Our focus on differentiation and personalized instruction addresses each student's needs, creating an inclusive environment where all can thrive. We prioritize rigorous Tier 1 instruction with support when needed, ensuring access to quality education.
We use evidence-based programs like HMH Into Reading, Envision Math, and Core 95 Phonics to develop essential skills. Community partnerships, like the Edna Rose Crane Foundation and Dillon Family Trust, support enrichment opportunities and teacher resources.
These efforts—differentiation, quality programs, and community support—drive our success, and we remain committed to helping every student reach their potential.

2. Talk about the greatest contributing factor(s) that promoted positive change in your school.
The greatest contributing factor to positive change at our school has been a strong focus on climate and culture, both for students and staff. Setting high expectations for students has been central, creating an environment where students are motivated to engage actively in their learning and growth. We’ve fostered a culture of positive reinforcement, celebrating both academic and behavioral successes, which has led to a more positive and supportive atmosphere. The implementation of PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) has further promoted a respectful and inclusive environment, with clear expectations and consistent reinforcement. Additionally, creating a collaborative learning environment, where students work together and support each other, has strengthened relationships and enhanced student engagement. This holistic approach has cultivated a thriving, student-centered school culture that values growth, respect, and achievement.
3. How has ESEA funding supported the school's success?
ESEA funding has played a key role in our school’s success. Title III funds supported a 3-month book study for all teachers, focusing on equity in grading and fostering inclusive practices. Title IIA funding provided extensive professional development for both teachers and support staff, with a focus on language acquisition and development, ensuring all students receive the support they need. Title IV funds directly benefited students by providing access to social workers and innovative tech programs like GoGuardian Beacon Alert System, ESD SafeVoice, and Attendance Enforcement Officers. These resources, along with our Family Support Center, have strengthened our ability to address students’ academic, emotional, and social needs, creating a more supportive and effective learning environment.
4. What professional development activities were used to improve teaching and learning?
To improve teaching and learning, our staff engaged in several impactful professional development activities. Colin Seale led a training on critical thinking skills, guiding us to challenge students to engage deeply with content and develop analytical skills. We also participated in HMH Into Reading training, learning strategies to effectively implement the program, focusing on high cognitive tasks that promote comprehension. Training on scaffolding and differentiation helped us better support diverse learners by tailoring instruction to individual needs. Additionally, we focused on setting clear learning intentions and success criteria, ensuring students understand learning goals and how to achieve them. These activities have strengthened our instructional practices and improved student outcomes.
5. Talk about the cultural shift leading up to your school's success.
At Blue Diamond, there's been a noticeable cultural shift in recent years, largely driven by an increased focus on Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) and the integration of technology into the classroom. SEL programs emphasize emotional intelligence, resilience, and empathy, fostering a more supportive and understanding environment. Students are encouraged to communicate openly about their feelings, and there’s a stronger sense of community. Technology, especially in the form of digital learning tools, has also transformed the educational experience, making learning more interactive and personalized. Online platforms facilitate collaboration, while apps and digital resources cater to diverse learning styles, helping students to stay engaged and motivated. Together, these shifts are not just enhancing academic success but also nurturing well-rounded, emotionally intelligent individuals.
6. How has community involvement strengthened your success?
Community involvement is a key to the success of Blue Diamond Elementary, fostering a collaborative environment where students, parents, and staff work together to enhance the learning experience. The school benefits from strong partnerships with families, local businesses, and the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). The PTO organizes school events, fundraises, and provides resources for students and teachers.
The PTO also promotes communication between parents and teachers, ensuring alignment on student needs and school activities. Meetings and events keep parents informed, building trust and strengthening the bond between educators and families, ultimately benefiting student success. Blue Diamond Elementary also collaborates with local businesses and community members, securing donations, and sponsorships, which further link the school to the broader community and create shared responsibility for student achievement.
Stats
  • Category 1

    Selected in 2024

  • Grades: pre k - 5
    School Setting: rural
    Town Population: 247
    Student Enrollment: 36
    Student Demographics:

    Black/African American: 3.7%
    White/Caucasian: 59.2%
    Hispanic: 14.8%
    Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 3.7%
    Asian: 3.7%
    Native American: 0%
    Other: 14.9%

    Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:8
    % Reduced Lunch: 100%
    % ELL Learners: 0%
    Founded: 1929
  • PRINCIPAL:
    Christine Vasquez
  • CONTACT:
    6 Diamond Street
    Blue Diamond, NV 89004
    702-799-6840
    vasqucm@nv.ccsd.net