J.C. Rugel Elementary School opened in 1965 and is named after Joseph Columbus Rugel, a teacher, bookkeeper, legislator, and hardware merchant from Mesquite, Texas. The school has approximately 350 students and 50 staff members. We are proud to have educated students for many generations. Some of our students have parents and grandparents who attended Rugel. We have staff members at Rugel who have taught for more than 30 years, all at Rugel Elementary!!

Growth is a common thread throughout Rugel as the staff and students strive to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. 

We are Rhinos United for Growth, Engagement, and Leadership!