Happening Now - Jefferson County

A foundational part of the learning process is enjoying the journey and having a desire to be in class every week. Jefferson County Schools places this belief at the forefront of what they do, ensuring students see learning as something they want to do rather than have to do.

The Next Generation of Educators

Five students from Washington High School and five more from Jefferson High School are aspiring educators seeking to impact future generations like their teachers have them. These 10 students were selected to be part of the Education Alliance AmeriCorps Grow Your Own Extended Pilot. They are gaining hands-on classroom experience by shadowing teachers across the district while earning a living allowance, including $2,300-$4,500 in education awards, and valuable training and resources for their current field work and future studies. These students desire to return to the county to carry on the legacy of quality teaching.

Wild and Wonderful Exploration

Students from Washington High School’s Hospitality and Tourism program recently hit the road for a hands-on learning trip to Fairmont and Morgantown. From touring the culinary and baking labs at Pierpont Community and Technical College and visiting a 1950's-themed diner to viewing the majesty of West Virginia mountains, students learned first-hand why West Virginia is called "Almost Heaven." They also gained insight as to why tourism and hospitality and culinary can be rewarding career fields after graduation. 

Being Present Matters

The learning process is halted when a student misses school. Rewarding consistent attendance reinforces the importance of being present in all aspects of public education, from classroom learning to networking and creating relationships with peers and community partners. Fourth-grade students from C.W. Shipley Elementary School are leading the way with this belief in mind. They recently celebrated earning the highest attendance rate in the building for the month of September with a fun event featuring games and special guests from the Jefferson High School Leadership Academy. Jefferson County encourages all families and students to “Strive for Less Than 5” absences each semester. 

A Lesson in Fire Safety

C.W. Shipley Elementary students recently welcomed local first responders for hands-on lessons about fire safety to their school. Several students explored fire trucks and gear while learning how firefighters stay safe and protect others. We join Jefferson County Schools in thanking the Friendship Fire Company of Harpers Ferry for making these important safety lessons exciting and memorable. We love seeing students learn while having fun.

Shadows and Science

During an engaging science lesson, students recently explored how the sun and light create shadows, then headed outside to observe their own shadows and how they move. The lesson became even more creative when they traced giant dinosaur shadows on the playground. This is a great example of experiencing science in action while making it something unforgettable.

Leading By Example

Danica W., Elizabeth M., Julia L., and Kendall V., students in Jefferson High School's Leadership Academy, recently traveled to Fairmont for the Chick-fil-A Leadership Summit. In partnership with the West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission, the event brought together student athletes from across the state to build leadership skills and take part in meaningful discussions.