Principal's Message

Dear Costello Families,

It is my pleasure to serve as the principal of Costello Elementary School. Step inside any of our classrooms and you will see student engagement and feel the passion for learning. Teachers and staff prioritize building strong relationships with students; the first step to helping them grow.

The Cardinal Traits of perseverance, integrity, respect, and responsibility are applied in all of our kindergarten through fifth grade classes. Used as learning tools, the Cardinal Traits help students to be good citizens while at school, home or in the community. Check out our video on Integrity below. Thanks to our commitment to character education Costello received the State School of Character designation in 2022.

Costello is one of twelve elementary schools in the Troy School District. We are the second smallest elementary in Troy, we anticipate about 400 students will attend in the fall. Our Superintendent, Dr. Richard Machesky, has worked closely with the Teaching and Learning Department and the administrative teams to set a clear vision for all of our schools. Our OneTroy mission is to ensure learning for all students through focusing direction, deepening learning, and collaboration. Beyond academic learning we want our students give back to our community by serving others. Students have participated in Pennies for Patients, Suitcases for Kids, building care packages for our military troops, book and food drives, just to name a few. Sharing stories of those in need helps to develop empathy and drive purpose. We have an amazing PTO! Beyond fundraising to supplement our programs, our PTO organizes fun social events like restaurant nights, skating parties, the Costello Fair, International Night and so much more! Our PTO wants all of our families to feel connected and part of our community.

A little background about me, I have been an educator since 1994. I started my teaching career in Missouri where I served as an elementary teacher, literacy coach, principal, and assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction. I am devoted to learning and enjoy reading about new instructional practices to support students in all aspects of their education. I completed my doctorate degree 2015. Our family relocated to Michigan in 2012. My husband is also in education. We have three adult children and cherish our time when we can all be together. Spending time Up North is our favorite way to relax and enjoy each other’s’ company.

Think big, start small, is one of my favorite quotes. The key word is START! Until we jump in, we won’t know where to go next. Looking forward to diving in and partnering with you and your family to make this an amazing year!

Sincerely,

Tammy DiPonio, Ed.D.

Principal, Costello Elementary
@TammyDiPonio
@Costello_Tweets