The Wood County Board of Education got its first look Tuesday night at proposed names, mascots, and school colors for two new elementary schools currently under construction in Vienna and North Parkersburg.
Superintendent Christie Willis shared the recommendations, which were shaped through extensive community engagement involving Local School Improvement Council members, school staff, and residents from affected neighborhoods.
“This is an exciting time for Wood County,” Willis said. “These new schools represent a fresh chapter, and we want them to reflect our community’s values and traditions.”
New Vienna Elementary Honors Location and Legacy
The new Vienna Elementary will combine the current Vienna and Neale Elementary Schools. Staying true to the tradition of naming schools after their location, Willis proposed keeping the name Vienna Elementary.
The school’s colors—blue and gold—match those of West Virginia University at Parkersburg, whose generous land donation made the project possible. The shared palette is a nod of gratitude and a symbol of partnership.
As for the mascot, the school will adopt a version of WVUP’s Riverhawk, which will be named “Neale” to honor the legacy of the closing elementary school.
“Our goal is for the buildings and their identities to complement one another,” Willis said.
Lincoln Elementary Proposed for North Parkersburg
In North Parkersburg, the new elementary school will merge Criss and Emerson Elementary Schools. Staff and community members expressed a desire for a fresh start, leading Willis to propose the name Lincoln Elementary.
The name pays tribute to President Abraham Lincoln, who issued the proclamation that allowed West Virginia to become a state on June 20, 1863. Wood County also holds historical significance, being home to the state’s first governor.
“I really took time to reflect on this,” Willis said. “It’s a meaningful moment in our history, and this name honors that.”
The proposed school colors—blue and green—represent all four schools involved in the transition. Blue comes from VanDevender Middle School and the former Lincoln Elementary, while green symbolizes Criss and Emerson.
To further honor the legacy of the schools being closed or repurposed, the new mascot will be the Lion, named “Vandy”, combining the history of both Lincoln Elementary and VanDevender Middle.
Next Steps and Public Involvement
Willis clarified that no final decisions were being made at Tuesday’s meeting. The board will collect public feedback before presenting a formal recommendation at its June 24 meeting.
To help the community stay informed and connected to the process, tours of the old and new school sites are scheduled for June 28 from 1–4 p.m., including stops at the old Maplewood School, VanDevender Middle, and Fairplains Elementary.
Facilities Updates for Parkersburg South and Williamstown
Assistant Superintendent Kaleb Lawrence also briefed the board on ongoing field improvements at Parkersburg South and Williamstown High Schools. At Parkersburg South, upgrades include a new scoreboard and track-friendly designs, following input from coaches to ensure a balanced, cost-effective solution.
At Williamstown, the district is addressing a persistent parking bottleneck with plans for a gravel access road, providing a vital second exit in case of emergencies. That road is expected to be paved in future budget phases.
Despite some delays caused by recent rain, Lawrence said both projects remain on track.
The next Wood County Board of Education meeting is open to the public and scheduled for June 24 at 6 p.m. It will also be livestreamed online for those unable to attend in person.
