For the last 50 years, Woodsdale Elementary School has been a staple serving the population of the Woodsdale neighborhood in the heart of Wheeling.
Thousands and thousands of students spent their Pre-k through 5th grade as Woodsdale Tigers, and Woodsdale is excited to welcome back a community that once called the school “home.”
Linda Moore-Robbins is in her 30th year of employment at Woodsdale, and remembers its opening from a first-hand perspective: “My mom was the first secretary at Woodsdale! Our family helped move the office in the summer before it opened. I have met so many outstanding teachers and staff over the 50 years. Hopefully we have many of the staff and students come back to visit (referencing the upcoming celebration).”
“When students leave, they often say, ‘I want to go back to Woodsdale,’ explains school counselor Allyson Kangisser, who has been at the school for 16 years. “We just aim to create really positive childhood experiences. The academics are rigorous, yes, but our students are also getting a loving, kind experience.”
Woodsdale is scheduled to open its doors for retirees, families, and the general interested public on Tuesday, October 21st from 4-6. “This school has seen major visual and structural changes, and we’d love to have people come back in person to see those,” adds Kangisser.
Ashlea Minch is in her 10th year as principal at Woodsdale Elementary and is looking forward to the opportunity to reconnect with several eras of Tigers. “Woodsdale’s population is diverse. It’s that diversity that makes us a wonderful school and leads educational pathways. We are excited to welcome back families that have invested so much of their time in our school.”
With tours, visuals of student work, and light refreshments sponsored by Woodsdale’s PTO, Woodsdale Elementary encourages any community member or retired staff member to join in the 50th celebration. Interested parties can contact 304-243-0378 for additional information.
