PARKERSBURG, WV — Criss Elementary School has plenty to celebrate as students and staff mark an extraordinary academic achievement, ranking first in Wood County and fifth in the state of West Virginia on the General Summative Assessment (GSA).
The impressive accomplishment is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and commitment to academic excellence demonstrated by Criss Elementary students, teachers, and staff. The achievement also highlights the exceptional educational opportunities available to students in Wood County's public schools.
The celebration even included a special visit from U.S. Senator Jim Justice (and Babydog too), who came to congratulate the school community on its outstanding performance.
Principal Adam Shaffer praised the students and staff for their remarkable achievement, recognizing the dedication, teamwork, and perseverance that helped make Criss Elementary one of the highest-performing elementary schools in West Virginia.
Adding to the festivities, the families of Vernon Criss and Bob Fehrenbacher generously provided treats for the staff from the Sycamore Sweets Cafe and Bakery food truck. Wood County Schools extends its sincere appreciation to both families for their generosity and for helping make the celebration even more special.
A Legacy of Public School Excellence
This achievement is particularly meaningful as Criss Elementary prepares to close its doors at the end of the school year. Students will transition to either the new Lincoln Elementary School or the expanded Madison Elementary School as part of a voter-approved school bond initiative. Supported by a majority of Wood County voters, the bond is making possible the construction of new schools and improvements to existing facilities, reflecting the community's commitment to investing in the future of public education.
For generations, Criss Elementary has been more than just a school. It has been a place where children have learned, friendships have formed, and dedicated educators have helped shape the futures of countless students.
As a public school, Criss Elementary represents the very best of what public education can accomplish. Its success demonstrates that when talented educators, motivated students, supportive families, and a caring community work together, extraordinary things are possible.
While the school building's chapter in Wood County's educational history is drawing to a close, its legacy of academic excellence, community pride, and dedication to children will continue.
The school's outstanding GSA performance provides a fitting tribute to the generations of educators and families who have made Criss Elementary such a special place. It is also a powerful reminder that the strength of public education lies in the people who make it possible every day.
Congratulations to the students, staff, families, and entire Criss Elementary community! Your accomplishments are a source of pride for Wood County Schools and a wonderful way to celebrate a school that has served its community so well.
