About Our School

J. Nelson Kelly Elementary School, located in the southeast corner of Grand Forks, N.D., is one of the largest elementary schools in Grand Forks with a student population of over 450. Since opening its doors in 1966, Kelly Elementary has served the Grand Forks community and was named after J. Nelson Kelly, a superintendent who served from 1894-1919.

At J. Nelson Kelly Elementary, we are dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child feels safe, supported, respected, and valued. Building relationships is at the heart of everything we do. Our mission is to ENGAGE, EDUCATE & EMPOWER EVERY LEARNER, EVERY DAY. Our students are encouraged to explore their individual interests and passions on their journey to academic success.

Kelly Elementary participates in Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports (PBIS). The purpose of the program is to:
- Provide a common approach to discipline,
- Establish school-wide expectations,
- Teach expectations for students,
- Encourage appropriate behavior,
- Discourage inappropriate behavior, and
- Collect and utilize data.

Kelly Elementary's three expected positive behaviors are:
- Be Respectful,
- Be Responsible, and
- Be Safe.

We believe that teaching is a shared responsibility between home and school, and we encourage families to serve as partners in their child’s education. We invite you to explore our website to learn more about our school community. Together, let's make this school year a wonderful and memorable one! Welcome to the Kelly Cougar family!

If you have any questions about our school, please contact our school office at 701-746-2265.

Mrs. Kelli Tannahill, Principal
Mrs. LuAnn Schmidt, Associate Principal