PARKERSBURG — The Mid-Ohio Valley has a rich history, with Parkersburg on the West Virginia side of the Ohio River being chartered by the Virginia General Assembly in 1820, and Marietta on the Ohio side being the first permanent settlement established in the Northwest Territory in 1788.
Over the years, both areas have experienced population fluctuations and shifts in industries. Parkersburg initially thrived on the oil and gas industry, while Marietta saw growth in brick manufacturing and boat building. As industries evolved, so did the educational systems, which remained a constant necessity for the community.
Formal education in Marietta dates back to the late 1700s, with the first public high school classes held in 1850. Parkersburg operated under the Parkersburg Independent School System, one of the oldest in the state, from 1864 to 1874, and eventually established a county-wide system in 1933.
During and after World War II, the region experienced a manufacturing boom, with companies like Challenger Electric, Vitrolite, Vitro-Agate, Viscose, and DuPont playing significant roles. Fairplains Elementary was constructed in 1945 to serve families working at nearby companies such as AB Chance, Viscose, and Ames.
Russ Garrison, a member of the Marietta City Schools Board of Education, noted that DuPont was once a major employer in the area. In the 1970s, the DuPont plant in Washington Works was one of the largest in terms of employee numbers. This led to larger graduating classes, with over 400 students per class, allowing Marietta to compete with larger Columbus schools in athletics.
However, as time passed, many of these companies either split into smaller entities or shut down entirely. Christie Willis, Wood County Schools Superintendent, mentioned that the three major manufacturers near Fairplains Elementary have all closed, leading to job losses and economic decline.
The impact of these closures is still felt today. According to Garrison, the percentage of economically disadvantaged students has risen from an estimated 20-25% in the 1970s to 52% today. Child poverty rates in Wood County have also increased from around 17% in the mid-to-late 70s to approximately 56.95% currently.
Garrison explained that Marietta City Schools face challenges due to economic disparities. While the district appears wealthy based on average income and property values, the median income is low, creating a significant gap between average and median income levels.
Willis noted that the region’s population is aging, with many younger residents leaving in search of employment opportunities elsewhere. Despite producing strong graduates, limited local job markets make it difficult for young professionals to stay.
Both districts are adapting to these changes. Marietta City Schools have focused on implementing a more structured curriculum, emphasizing the science of reading and hands-on problem-based learning in mathematics. Mental health support has also become a priority to ensure students are ready to learn.
Wood County Schools are updating their facilities to include pre-K programs, aiming to retain students throughout their educational journey. Willis expressed hope that new schools and potential expansions could accommodate future population growth if businesses return to the area.
Garrison emphasized the importance of establishing high-quality instructional practices before considering new facility construction. He believes that understanding educational needs will help determine the optimal learning environments for students.
As both districts move forward, their shared goal remains to provide the best possible education and prepare students for future challenges and opportunities.