Wheeling Park students are leaving high school well prepared for secondary education, and that fact has not gone unnoticed by West Virginia University President Gordon Gee.  

More than 40 graduates of Wheeling Park High School were members of the 2022 graduating class of West Virginia University. Four of the diplomas handed out to those Patriot graduates were listed with the distinction of “Cum Laude,” nine as “Magna Cum Laude,” and 10 were with the highest distinction of “Summa Cum Laude”  

Gee said Wheeling Park is one of the strongest high schools in West Virginia academically. He said Ohio County Schools and Wheeling Park have developed many creative programs that have resulted in an outstanding academic atmosphere.  

“During my tour of the newly renovated sections of the school, it was clear that every space has been designed with innovation in mind and a deep sense of pride in providing the best learning environment possible,” Gee said. “The students have a lot of options, great teachers and a great principal. Most importantly, they have a strong academic curriculum with a sterling reputation.”  

Gee visited Wheeling Park High School in March where he congratulated the Patriot Speech and Debate Team on its 42nd consecutive state championship. During his visit he was also pleased to see the new robotics area, and he congratulated the robotics team on its first state championship.  

“The students are serious, but they also have a lot of fun,” Gee said. “This is an important balance that serves them well as they enter college because they are very well prepared when they arrive on our campus.”  

Ohio County Schools Innovation Coordinator JoJo Shay said the school system continues to improve its facilities and programs to provide the finest learning opportunities possible. She said OCS and Wheeling Park administrators and teachers are committed to preparing students for life after high school.  

“The programs Wheeling Park offers afford students the opportunity to explore their interests,” Shay said. “It is all geared toward clearing the path for each student to find their passion and hone their skills toward achieving their dreams. Whether the path leads to college studies or to technical training, we strive to prepare students for the next step in their life’s journey.  It is exciting to know that those who our students encounter as they leave us for the next leg of their lives can see the positive impact made by Ohio County Schools.”