Crystal River Primary

Why Choose Crystal River Primary School

Did you know that Crystal River Primary School students help restore local springs by growing Rock Star Eelgrass in their classrooms?

This native aquatic plant provides food and shelter for fish, manatees, and other wildlife while helping maintain the health of our waterways. Through our unique schoolwide eelgrass initiative, Bear Cubs in grades K-5 plant and care for eelgrass pods in classroom tanks, allowing them to observe and learn from this important resource firsthand. The experience culminates with a highly anticipated trip to Hunter Springs, where students transplant the very eelgrass nurtured in our classrooms, into the spring system. Combined with our annual Eco-Week celebration, this one-of-a-kind program empowers students to become environmental stewards while making a lasting impact on the community they call home.

What Our School Offers

At Crystal River Primary School, learning extends beyond the school day through a wide range of enrichment opportunities that help students explore their interests, build new skills, and discover their passions. In addition to our signature environmental stewardship work, students can participate in clubs and activities that fall into three key areas: Arts, Fitness, and Inquiry.

Arts

Art Club – Students explore creativity through drawing, painting, and hands-on art projects that develop artistic skills and self-expression.

Chorus – Students develop vocal skills, rhythm, and performance confidence while learning and performing a variety of musical selections as part of a collaborative group.

Orff (Upcoming) – A hands-on music approach where students learn rhythm, movement, and musical concepts through instruments, singing, and creative expression.

Recorder Ensemble (Upcoming) – Students build foundational music literacy and performance skills while learning to play the recorder in an ensemble setting.

Fitness

RUN FIT Club – Students build endurance, strength, and healthy habits through structured running activities, fitness challenges, and goal setting.

Pickleball Club (Upcoming) – Students learn the fundamentals of pickleball while developing coordination, teamwork, and lifelong fitness skills through active play.

Inquiry

Eco-Kids Gardening Club – Students engage in hands-on environmental learning by planting, maintaining, and studying gardens while deepening their connection to nature and sustainability.

Chess Club – Students develop critical thinking, strategy, problem-solving, and patience through the game of chess in a fun and competitive environment.

Robotics Club (Upcoming) – Students explore STEM concepts through hands-on building, coding, and problem-solving as they design and program robotic systems.

Professional portrait of Christina Touchton, Principal of Crystal River Primary School

Principal Christina Touchton

Welcome to Crystal River Primary School! We are proud to be the home of the Bear Cubs, where we are committed to academic excellence, student growth, and preparing learners for future success. Our mission is centered on developing scholars, leaders, and environmental stewards through high-quality instruction, meaningful learning experiences, and strong community partnerships.

Nestled in the heart of Florida's Nature Coast, our students are not only learning about the world…they are helping shape it. Through environmental stewardship initiatives, including our unique eelgrass restoration program, Bear Cubs engage in authentic, hands-on learning that connects the classroom to the community and demonstrates how even young learners can make a lasting impact.

At CRPS, learning extends beyond textbooks and classrooms. Students are encouraged to explore, discover, problem-solve, and lead through rigorous academics, service opportunities, and real-world experiences. We take pride in creating a culture of high expectations where every student is known, valued, and inspired to achieve their very best.

We invite you to discover what makes our Bear Cub family a special place to learn, grow, lead, and serve.

Christina Touchton
Principal
Crystal River Primary School

Connie Kane

Assistant Principal

Points of Pride

	Home to the only remaining National Elementary Honor Society (NEHS) chapter in Citrus County Schools, providing students with unique leadership and service opportunities.
	Recognized as the sole Eco-Friendly elementary school in Citrus County, highlighting a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.
	Earned a "B" school grade, rising from a "C" after six consecutive years, reflecting strong academic growth and schoolwide improvement.
	Supported by an active and engaged PTO that strengthens school culture and enhances student experiences through events and support initiatives.
	Maintains strong community partnerships with local organizations that enrich student learning through real-world, hands-on experiences.
	Awarded Designation of Excellence in the Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) Program for 2024–2025, recognizing high-quality early childhood instruction and readiness outcomes.

Our Story