Russ wears many hats.  He’s a father of three and grandfather of four.  He used to coach softball and ice hockey.  He is the STEAM teacher at Turner Elementary in the Wilkinsburg School District.  He arrived at this position in a very unconventional way.

He trained as a bricklayer and plasterer and has worked in the construction field for nearly 40 years.  During that time, he attended college and obtained an Associates degree in Electronic Engineering Technology and a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education.  He was a mid-level math teacher at the Wilkinsburg middle/high school for 13 years.  This year, he was named the STEAM teacher at Turner Elementary in the Wilkinsburg School District.  His experience in construction helped him use those hands-on skills with the STEAM program.  His coaching experience and good natured personality makes him a very likeable and relatable educator.  He loves to travel, explore new places and experiences and brings that passion to the classroom.  His favorite saying is “never quit.”