West Liberty-Salem Middle School is proud to recognize our February Students of the Month for their hard work, positive attitudes, and leadership in and out of the classroom! 🌟
👏 8th Grade: Elin Leichty & Jude Roberts
👏7th Grade: Bella Dickinson & Miles Wright
👏6th Grade: Kinsley Brentlinger & Hayes Robison
🐾Congratulations to all of our outstanding students! Keep shining bright! ✨
Thanks to Malia Hughes, Key Realty, and Maries Candies for sponsoring our Students of the Month! Your support means so much!
#WLSPride #TigerPride #StudentOfTheMonth #MiddleSchoolStrong
💃 Rosemary Sokolow recently placed 2nd in the Hip Hop Team category at the Moxie Arts Challenge, competing with The Academy. Performing against talented individuals from across the region, Rosemary delivered a standout routine to earn a top finish. Way to represent with energy, teamwork, and confidence!
🏋️♀️ Meanwhile, her sister Dahlia Sokolow absolutely dominated at The Arnold Classic / National American Open Series in the 69kg weight class (ages 14–15). Dahlia swept gold in all three categories with:
• 60kg Snatch
• 74kg Clean & Jerk
• 134kg Total
Even more impressive, Dahlia broke three state records, records she previously held herself, in the snatch, clean & jerk, and total!
From the dance floor to the lifting platform, these two young women continue to push themselves, chase excellence, and represent themselves well on big stages!
Congratulations, Rosemary and Dahlia, we are so proud of you both! 🐾🧡
🤼♂️🐾 District Weekend Recap - Tiger Wrestling 🐾🤼♀️
What a weekend for West Liberty-Salem Wrestling!
Our boys competed at the District Championships at Troy Hobart Arena, one of the toughest districts in the state, with the top four in each weight class advancing to the State Championships.
🏆 The Tigers finished tied for 4th place out of 63 teams, an incredible accomplishment!
All seven of our district qualifiers won on day one and advanced to Saturday competition. Wyatt Shoemaker, Silas Krabill, and Robert Park battled hard and represented WL-S well!
And the big news…
🔥 FOUR TIGERS ARE HEADED TO STATE! 🔥
This marks the most state qualifiers we’ve had in many years!
🥇 Lucas Merriman (126) - District Champion (4-0, 2 pins, 1 tech fall)
🥈 Kyler Langhardt (138) - District Runner-Up (3-1, 2 pins)
🥉 Sam Bradford (215) - 3rd Place (5-1, 3 pins, wrestled all the way back after a first-round loss!)
🏅 Madden Kilgore (132) - 4th Place (3-2, 2 pins, 1 major decision)
Congratulations to Lucas, Kyler, Sam, and Madden as they head to the State Championships at the Schottenstein Center in Columbus this weekend! We are proud of your determination. 💪🐯
🤼♀️ Girls Wrestling Update 🤼♀️
Our Lady Tigers competed in the Southwest District on Sunday!
⭐ Chloe Griffith went 4-2 with 2 pins, earning 5th place and is a STATE ALTERNATE. She will attend the State Championships with the opportunity to compete if her name is called.
⭐ Jenna Cline went 1-2 with a tech fall.
⭐ Shelby Vincent, originally an alternate, stepped in to compete and went 1-2 at districts.
We are so proud of these young women for their toughness and competitive spirit!
Let’s wish all of our Tigers the best as they compete on the biggest stage! 🐾🧡
#TigerPride
West Liberty-Salem, in partnership with Community Health & Wellness Partners, will be hosting a School-Based Immunization Clinic on:
📅 May 19, 2026
⏰ 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM
📍 WL-S School-Based Health Center
This clinic provides families with a convenient opportunity to keep students up to date on required and recommended immunizations without leaving school.
To schedule an appointment or learn more, please call 937-599-1411 (Option 3) or visit CHWPcares.org. You may also scan the QR code on the graphic for additional details.
Caring for the whole child - physically, emotionally, and socially - so our students stay healthy and ready to learn. 💙
Please share to help spread the word!
West Liberty-Salem is proud to announce that the nomination window for the Athletic Hall of Fame is now open. This distinguished honor recognizes former Tiger athletes, teams, coaches, and contributors whose achievements, leadership, and dedication have made a lasting impact on our athletic programs and school community.
We invite members of our community to help us celebrate the legacy of Tiger excellence by submitting nominations for the next Hall of Fame class.
📅 Nomination Deadline: May 1
🎉 2026 Hall of Fame Banquet: Saturday, October 3, 2026
📍 Location: Tiger Strong Fieldhouse
Please note that several updates have been made to the Hall of Fame by-laws based on recommendations from Hall of Fame members and committee representatives. Key eligibility requirements include:
✔️ Athletes and Teams: Eligible 10 years after graduation
✔️ Coaches: Must be retired from coaching duties for at least one full year
To review the full eligibility criteria and submit a nomination, please visit:
Athletic Hall of Fame | West Liberty-Salem Athletics
The West Liberty-Salem Athletic Hall of Fame celebrates the tradition, excellence, and pride that define Tiger athletics. We look forward to honoring another outstanding class this fall in our new Tiger Strong Fieldhouse.
❤️🧡 Kids Heart Challenge - Full Hearts at WL-S! 🧡❤️
Our elementary students have officially wrapped up the Kids Heart Challenge with the American Heart Association, and WOW, did they show up in a BIG way!
The Kids Heart Challenge teaches students the importance of heart health, staying active, and helping others while raising funds to support lifesaving research and families impacted by heart disease. It’s about learning to take care of our own hearts while being heroes for others. 💪❤️
And our Tigers did just that!
Together, our students raised an incredible $ $29, 662!! 🎉
We are especially proud to recognize these heart heroes who each raised more than $300 each and are pictured together:
Front Row:
Flint McNutt, Ella Wilkins, Thaddeus Cole, Drayce Gearheart, Deagan Wallace, Lakelynn Roberts
Back Row:
Lyla Powell, Lyda Stengel, Leah Huffman, Lincoln Sidders, Winnie Cotrell, Griffin Kimball, Nova Burton
It took the generosity, leadership, and heart of all of our students to make this BIG of a different and make our school community so proud. 🧡
Thank you to our families, staff (especially Mrs. Hollar!!), and supporters who helped make this challenge such a success. Because of you, we are helping save lives, one healthy heart at a time.
#TigerPride #KidsHeartChallenge 🐾❤️
The wait is over! Tickets are now officially on sale for West Liberty-Salem’s production of Cinderella!
Our talented students have been working tirelessly to bring this magical story to life, and you won’t want to miss the stunning costumes, enchanting music, and unforgettable performances.
🎟 Get your tickets now and reserve your seat for an evening of magic, laughter, and happily-ever-after!
Tickets can be purchased at:
https://www.payschoolsevents.com/events/details/44066.
We encourage you to buy early. This is sure to be a show the whole community will be talking about!
Bring your family, invite your friends, and come support our incredible cast and crew as they take the stage for this timeless classic.
✨ See you at the ball! ✨
Do you know a teacher who makes a lasting impact on students each and every day? Now is your chance to help recognize their dedication and excellence!
Students, families, staff, alumni, and community members are all encouraged to participate in nominating this year’s Teacher of the Year.
You can nominate by:
📱 Scanning the QR code on the attached graphic
🔗 Or clicking the link below
Let’s make sure the incredible educators in our community receive the recognition they deserve. Please share this post to help spread the word!
📅 Nomination Deadline: April 10
🔗 Nominate Here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/26LoganTotY
Take a moment to celebrate a teacher who makes a difference! 🧡🐾
This is Kraig Hissong, Superintendent, with a reminder that tomorrow, Friday, March 6th, School will start at the normal time, 7:40 for MS and HS and 7:45 for the elementary. The two-hour delay has been removed from the schedule. Again, School will start at the normal time for tomorrow, Friday, March 6th.
Thank you,
Kraig Hissong
The West Liberty-Salem Lady Tigers saw their outstanding season come to an end in the Regional Semi-Final, falling to Fayetteville-Perry 45-33.
Scoring for the Tigers:
🐾 Ellery Wygal - 9
🐾 Ava Astorino - 7
🐾 Emily King - 6
🐾 Arianna Weaver – 6
🐾 Addi Wallen - 3
🐾 Ava Poppe - 2
While the final score wasn’t what the Tigers hoped for, this season will be remembered for so much more than one game. The Lady Tigers demonstrated a true team-first mindset, played with incredible determination, and were guided by excellent coaching and strong senior leadership throughout the year.
From big wins to championship moments, this group represented Tiger Pride with heart, grit, and class every time they stepped on the floor.
Thank you to our players, coaches, seniors, and fans for a memorable season. The future of Lady Tigers basketball remains bright. 🧡🐾
Photo Credit: John Coffman
Our elementary students had a very special guest yesterday as part of our Winter Olympics-themed Literacy Week! Former West Liberty-Salem teacher Jeff Cross visited to share the incredible story of when he carried the Olympic Torch for the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.
Jeff was nominated for this once-in-a-lifetime honor by his wife, Amy, and the two were selected to represent their community during the Olympic Torch Relay.
Students listened as Jeff shared what it was like to carry the torch and be part of such a historic event. The highlight of the visit? Every student had the chance to see and even touch the actual Olympic torch he carried!
To keep the Olympic spirit going, students then made their own torches and paraded around the gym just like Jeff did, bringing the excitement of the Olympics to life.
A big thank you to Jeff Cross for returning to WL-S to share his story and inspire our students during Literacy Week! 🧡🐾
The Lady Tigers got a visit from Natalie, Jess Anders’ four-legged good luck charm, and the team is ready to go! 🐾
Please note (and share) a few important updates for tonight’s game:
📍 Location: Springfield High School
⏰ Game Time: 7:30 PM
🎟 Tickets: $12 Adults | $5 Students
🚗 Parking: $5 per vehicle
🚪 Doors Open: 1 hour prior to the first game
🚫 Reminder: Signs and noisemakers are not permitted
Let’s pack the stands, travel safe, and bring the energy as our Lady Tigers take on Fayetteville-Perry!
🧡🐾 Go Tigers!
The West Liberty-Salem Tigers (21-3) delivered a dominant performance last night, defeating Greeneview 77-49 in the Southwest Division V District Semifinal!
The Tigers came out strong and never looked back, using balanced scoring and relentless energy to secure the win and punch their ticket to the District Championship game.
Leading the charge were:
🐾 Brevin Louden – 19 points
🐾 Beckett Sullivan – 19 points
🐾 Troy Christison – 11 points
🐾 Sutton Wilcoxon – 9 points
🐾 Carson Poppe – 6 points
🐾 Brandel Sullivan – 4 points
🐾 Sam Strapp – 4 points
🐾 Josiah Johnson – 3 points
🐾 Elijah Christison – 2 points
The Tigers will now compete for the Southwest Division V District Championship:
📍 Middletown High School
📅 Saturday, March 7
⏰ 10:00 AM
🏀 vs. Summit Country Day
Let’s pack the stands and bring the energy as our Tigers chase a District Title! 🧡🐾
#TigerPride #TournamentTime
Today was Jersey Day for Literacy Week and our students showed up in their team spirit best! Even Melvin got in on the action, and we think he might have been the real MVP. 🐶🏆
The fun continues tomorrow with Whacky Winter Wednesday ❄️🧣🧤
Break out your craziest cold-weather gear with mismatched gloves, hats, wild scarves, fuzzy boots, ski goggles… the wackier the better!
We can’t wait to see all the creative (and cozy!) looks tomorrow.
#TigerPride #LiteracyWeek #WhackyWinterWednesday
We’ve got a few winter contests left, and our Tigers need us louder than ever!
🐾 Tonight: Varsity Boys Basketball travels to Bethel to take on Greeneview in tournament action.
🐾 Tomorrow: Our Lady Tigers head to Springfield for the Semi-Regional Finals!
🐾 This Weekend: Our wrestlers battle it out at Districts.
There’s nothing better than seeing a sea of orange in the stands! Let’s pack the gyms, bring the energy, and make sure our athletes feel the full force of their fans behind them.
Travel safe. Cheer loud. Wear orange. 🧡🔥
#TigerPride #TournamentTime #TravelLoud
🎓📚 Today’s the Day - WL-S Course Offering Fair! 📚🎓
Calling all current 9th, 10th, and 11th grade students… your future starts NOW! 🐾✨
Today at West Liberty-Salem High School, students had the opportunity to explore our Course Offering Fair, designed to help them make informed, confident decisions as they prepare to schedule for next year.
With new electives, expanded core options, and opportunities to take college courses, there is truly something for everyone. The best part? Students heard directly from our amazing teachers about what each class has to offer! 🙌
From hands-on electives to college-ready coursework, we are proud to provide pathways that help every student reach their full potential. 🧡
Big thank you to our staff for investing in our students’ futures and helping them dream big!
#TigerPride #FutureFocused #WLSChoices
Hello Families, this is Kraig Hissong, Superintendent. As you know, we have had many weather delays and closures this school year. In order to increase hours of instruction we have decided to cancel the two-hour delays for professional development on March 6th, this Friday, and on Friday, April 10th. On those two days school will start at the regular time (7:40 for MS and HS and 7:45 for the Elementary). We apologize for any Inconvenience this might cause and appreciate your cooperation during the rough winter months we have had this year. We may take further action to increase hours of instruction this school year and we will notify you of any further changes. At this time we do not plan to change any dates related to spring break.
Thank you,
Kraig Hissong
Do you have a child ages 3–5 (not yet in Kindergarten)? Join us for a fun and friendly preschool screening at the ESC West Liberty location!
🗓 Screening Dates:
• March 27, 2026 | 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
• April 5, 2026 | 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
📍 Location:
7208 US-68
West Liberty, OH 43357
Screenings are a wonderful way to support your child’s early development and ensure they are ready for success in preschool and beyond.
📞 To schedule your child’s screening, please call (937) 653-5214
📧 Or email shelby.masters@mccesc.org
We look forward to welcoming our youngest learners! 🧡🐯
Last evening, the West Liberty-Salem Swim Team was recognized at the Team Champ Swim Banquet held at Urbana High School, alongside all county programs. It was a fitting celebration to cap off one of the most historic seasons in school history.
This year marked the largest swim team WL-S has ever had, with eight athletes beginning the season and seven recognized at the banquet. (Ayla Miller was unable to finish the season due to injury.)
Seniors Kamden Hissong and Lydia Schmidt both earned High Point Awards for the Tigers, a testament to their leadership and performance in the pool. Lydia also set a new school record in the 50 Freestyle, adding to an already outstanding senior season.
On the boys' side, Kamden Hissong continued to rewrite the record books. He now holds 10 school records, including individual marks in the 50 Free, 200 Individual Medley, 200 Free, 100 Butterfly, 100 Free, 500 Free, and 100 Backstroke.
In an exciting milestone for the program, WL-S set relay records for the first time in school history. Kamden, along with first-year swimmers Carter Pratt, Isaiah Thoman, and James Brehm, hold school records in the 200 Medley Relay, 200 Free Relay, and 400 Free Relay. Freshman Carter Pratt also established a new individual school record in the 100 Breaststroke.
Kamden shared at the banquet, “I am very excited to see how the swim team does in the future and my biggest hope is that more students will participate. Swim is a tough, but great sport that few students know about or have experienced. We probably have a school full of great swimmers if they would decide to go out for the sport. I really hope it will continue to grow.”
The banquet wrapped up a truly remarkable season, one defined by growth, perseverance, and history-making performances. The future of WL-S Swim is bright, and the bar has officially been raised.
Congratulations to our Tigers on an unforgettable year! 🧡🏊♂️ #TigerPride
