West Liberty-Salem Local School District - Home of the Tigers

🦇 Batty for Learning in First Grade! 🧡

Mrs. Stayrook’s first graders have been busy learning all about bats this week! Students created bat flip books full of fun facts, labeled the parts of a bat, and illustrated their habitats.

One of their favorite discoveries was learning how bats use echolocation—listening carefully to find their food. To help them understand this concept, students used their sense of smell to find their own “bat families!” Each student had a scented cotton ball and had to locate others with the same scent.

The classroom was full of laughter, curiosity, and teamwork as our little “bats” learned in a hands-on way! 🦇

#WLSTigers #TigerPride #FirstGradeFun #HandsOnLearning #BattyForLearning

We’re proud to recognize our Lady Tigers Soccer athletes for their outstanding accomplishments in the Ohio Heritage Conference this season!

🥇 1st Team All-OHC
• Jenna Cline
• Ellery Wygal

🥈 2nd Team All-OHC
• Arianna Weaver
• Kaylee Blair

🏅 Honorable Mention All-OHC
• Ashlyn Yeater

🏆 Sportsmanship Award Winner
• Tori Douthwaite

These athletes have shown incredible skill, leadership, and teamwork all season long, representing West Liberty-Salem with pride both on and off the field. Congratulations, Tigers! 🐾

#WLSTigers #TigerPride #AllOHC #LadyTigersSoccer #ExcellenceOnAndOffTheField

⚽️ Tiger Boys Soccer – All-OHC Honors 🧡🖤

Congratulations to our West Liberty-Salem Boys Soccer athletes recognized by the Ohio Heritage Conference for their outstanding seasons!

🥇 1st Team All-OHC
• Wyatt Longaberger
• Elijah Christison

🥈 2nd Team All-OHC
• Tucker Searles
• Jake Lauck

🏅 Honorable Mention All-OHC
• Lance Campbell
• Caleb Ling

These Tigers displayed incredible skill, leadership, and dedication throughout the season — representing West Liberty-Salem with pride both on and off the field. Congratulations, boys! 🐾⚽️

#WLSTigers #TigerPride #AllOHC #BoysSoccer #TigersOnTheRise

🧥🧤 Thank You, Macochee Joint Ambulance District! 🧡

We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Mac O Chee Joint Ambulance District for their generous donation of winter coats, hats, and gloves for our students in need.

Your kindness helps ensure that every Tiger stays warm this winter — and truly reflects the spirit of community that makes West Liberty-Salem such a special place.

We are so grateful for your continued support of our students and families! 🐾🖤

#WLSTigers #TigerPride #CommunityStrong #MacocheeAmbulance #ThankYou

📜 Help Us Perfect Our Tiger History! 🧡🖤

West Liberty-Salem is in the process of updating our Top Ten Graduates wall display, which will honor the academic excellence of every graduating class from 1962–2025.

To ensure these plaques are accurate before being produced, we’re inviting the community to help us review the names and spellings for each year’s Top Ten graduates.

This week, we’re sharing the lists for Classes of 1962–1975. Over the next few weeks, we’ll continue posting additional groups of years until all classes are represented.

If you notice a correction or have documentation that could help verify a name, please contact Allison Wygal in Central Office at awygal@wlstigers.org or call 937-465-1140. Written documentation (such as a yearbook scan or transcript copy) is always appreciated to help confirm updates.

Your input will help us preserve Tiger history with the accuracy and pride it deserves. Thank you for helping us celebrate decades of academic achievement at West Liberty-Salem!

Class of 1962
Valedictorian Sue Wilson
Salutatorian Sandra Smith
3 Sheryl Brown
4 Christine Headings
5 Sharon Oelker
6 Charles King
7 Tamara Goldsberry
8 Gretchen Hartzler
9 Jeffry Yoder
10 Mary Hartzler

Class of 1963
Valedictorian James Bechtel
Salutatorian Danny Farley
3 Thomas Lehman
4 Sherwin Davidson
5 Nancy Dalrymple
6 Dave Core
7 Helen Dodge
8 Dennis Troyer
9 James Turner
10 Michael Coleman

Class of 1964
Valedictorian Linda Dubbs
Salutatorian Douglas Yoder
3 Connie Halterman
4 Brenda Wilson
5 Virginia Holdren
6 Melvin Leib
7 Carol Detwiler
8 Paul Humble
9 Gregg Jones
10 Sharon McGowen

Class of 1965
Valedictorian Ruth Holdren
Salutatorian Sara Lapp
3 Joyce Metz
4 Carol Lehman
5 Gayle King
6 Barbara Mitchell
7 Rita McGowen
8 Shelia Coleman
9 John Linville
10 Joyce Lehman

Class of 1966
Valedictorian Marilyn Headings
Salutatorian Joseph Cookston
3 Jane Curl
4 Phyllis Lehman
5 Peggy Webb
6 Ramona Yoder
7 Duane King
8 Ellen Foust
9 Nancy King
10 Joyce Good

Class of 1967
Valedictorian Cathryn Headings
Valedictorian Kathy Matthews
Salutatorian Harlan King
4 Susan Linville
5 Mary Sibley
6 Bonnie McCullough
7 Emily Overholt
8 Patricia King
9 Brenda Musser
10 Tyla Curtis

Class of 1968
Valedictorian Ronald Heath
Salutatorian Keith Zerkle
3 Shirley Tullis
4 Jane King
5 Russell Miller
6 Susan Yoder
7 Timonthy Yoder
8 David Turner
9 Gayle Arnold
10 George Ropp

Class of 1969
Valedictorian Daniel Byler
Salutatorian Twila Hostetler
3 Susan Headings
4 Wesley Miller
5 Beth Lehman
6 Peggy Piatt
7 Rex Heath
8 Ruth Benge
9 Douglas Arnold
10 Marlin King

Class of 1970
Valedictorian Mark Bailey
Valedictorian Steven Hooley
Salutatorian Jon Musser
4 Patricia Powell
5 Teri Curtis
6 Ronald Headings
7 Rose Byler
8 Thomas Smith
9 Mary Linville
10 Susan Snyder

Class of 1971
Valedictorian Michael McCullough
Salutatorian Stephen Figley
3 Caron Grimes
4 Jane Yoder
5 Lily Sibley
6 Sharon Lehman
7 Colleen Oelker
8 Janet Headings
9 Barbara Bates
10 Jennifer Wilson

Class of 1972
Valedictorian Debbie Byler
Valedictorian Peggy Yoder
Salutatorian Stephanie Hostetler
4 Keith Hooley
5 Grace Headings
6 Sandra McCullough
7 Becky King
8 James Linville
9 Karen Steinberger
10 Susan Michael

Class of 1973
Valedictorian Lynn Oliver
Salutatorian Suzan Yoder
3 Charles Turner
4 Elaine Oelker
5 Joyce Hooley
6 Diana Spencer
7 Lyn Sommers
8 Jean Bates
9 Kathy Kauffman
10 Marjorie Carter

Class of 1974
Valedictorian Dwight Stewart
Salutatorian Fred Fraley
3 Charles Yoder
4 William Headings
5 Terry Steinberger
6 Terri Johnson
7 Julie Heath
8 Joan Zerkle
9 Donald Esch
10 John Armentrout

Class of 1975
Valedictorian Nancy Michael
Valedictorian Ron Hooley
Valedictorian Chris Hostetler
Salutatorian Karen Pusey
5 Leslie Sour
6 Rebecca Young
7 Tammy Hostetler
8 Jany Sabins
9 Sharon Headings
10 Debbie Roberts
10 Doug Oelker

💪 Team Tressel Fitness Challenge! 🧡

Our very own Mrs. Hollar, Elementary PE teacher, recently teamed up with educators from across Ohio to learn more about the Team Tressel Fitness Challenge — a fun statewide program that helps students build healthy habits through movement, teamwork, and goal-setting!

The challenge encourages kids to stay active, try new exercises, and learn how movement keeps both their bodies and brains strong. Mrs. Hollar is excited to bring what she learned back to West Liberty-Salem Elementary and get our Tigers moving! 🐾

#WLSTigers #TigerPride #TeamTressel #HealthyTigers #ActiveKids

Our Student Council, led by Emery Longaberger, recently hosted a High School Club Fair during lunch and homeroom — giving students the opportunity to explore all of the amazing clubs and activities available at West Liberty-Salem High School!

The event was set up in a fun, college-fair-style format, with tables representing everything from service and leadership groups to the arts, academics, and athletics. Students had the chance to meet club representatives, ask questions, and discover ways to get more involved in school life.

From Student Council to FFA, Art Club to Drama, and everything in between, WL-S offers something for everyone — and this event was a great reminder of how many opportunities our Tigers have to lead, learn, and connect.

A big shoutout to Emery Longaberger and our Student Council members for their organization, enthusiasm, and commitment to making this event such a success! 👏🐾

#WLSTigers #TigerPride #StudentLeadership #ClubFair #InvolvedTigers

🎭✨ ¡Bravo, Spanish I!

Our Tigers put their Spanish skills to the test by writing, memorizing, and performing original skits — completely in Spanish! From creativity to confidence, they nailed all four skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. 🌟

Swipe through to see their amazing performances and the fun happening in Señorita McDole's classroom! 🧡🖤

#WLSTigers #TigerPride #SpanishClass #LanguageLearning #WLSSpanish #TigersLearn

🏃‍♂️ Tiger Cross Country – All-OHC Honors 🧡🖤

The West Liberty-Salem Boys Cross Country Team continues to set the bar high in the Ohio Heritage Conference! We’re proud to recognize these outstanding athletes for their accomplishments this season.

🥇 OHC Runner of the Year
• Senior Caleb Larson

🏆 Special congratulations to Senior Caleb Larson for winning back-to-back individual OHC titles!
Caleb’s blazing 15:41.0 finish set a new OHC course record, surpassing alumni Dylan Lauck’s 2020 record of 15:42.4!

💪 1st Team All-OHC
• Caleb Larson
• Asher Cole (So.)
• Dylan King (Sr.)
• Brayan Gullett (So.)
• Garrett Wallen (Sr.)

🔥 2nd Team All-OHC
• Zeke Longshore (So.)
• Owen Hardwick (So.)

🏅 Honorable Mention All-OHC
• Eric Hoover (Fr.)
• Gauge Lee (So.)

Congratulations to these Tigers for their dedication, leadership, and exceptional performances all season long! Your hard work continues to uphold the proud tradition of excellence in WL-S Cross Country. 🐾

#TigerPride #WLSTigers #AllOHC #CrossCountryDominance #BackToBackChampion

🏃‍♀️ Tiger Cross Country – All-OHC Honors 🧡🖤

We’re proud to recognize our outstanding Lady Tiger Cross Country runners for their achievements in the Ohio Heritage Conference this season!

🥇 1st Team All-OHC
• Malia Miller
• Addi Wallen

🥈 2nd Team All-OHC
• Gwen McCullough
• Isla Leichty
• Elia Matthews

🏅 Honorable Mention All-OHC
• Mariska Smith
• Charlee Albers

These athletes have shown incredible dedication, teamwork, and Tiger Pride throughout the season. Congratulations to all on representing West Liberty-Salem with excellence both on and off the course! 🐾

#TigerPride #WLSTigers #AllOHC #CrossCountryStrong

🎓 October Seniors of the Month 🎓

Congratulations to Emma Smith and Dylan King, our West Liberty-Salem High School October Seniors of the Month! 🧡🖤

Each month, West Liberty-Salem High School recognizes two seniors who demonstrate leadership, character, academic excellence, and a commitment to making a positive impact on our school and community.

Emma and Dylan are outstanding examples of what it means to be a Tiger — hardworking, kind, and involved in so many ways both in and out of the classroom. Their dedication and spirit help make WL-S a place we’re proud to call home.

Please join us in celebrating these two incredible students and congratulating them on this well-deserved honor! 👏 To read more visit:

https://westlibertysalemoh.sites.thrillshare.com/documents/student-life/seniors-of-the-month/2025-26/october/858447

#WLSTigers #TigerPride #SeniorOfTheMonth #WLSClassof2025

🎶 West Liberty-Salem Jazz Band Debut Performance! 🎶

Tomorrow night, the newly formed WLS Jazz Band will take the stage for their first official performance at 7:30 PM in the West Liberty Opera House! 🎷🎺🥁

This talented group has been working hard to master new sounds and styles—from classic big band favorites of the 1930s and 40s to modern jazz tunes you’ll recognize. You’ll hear a wide variety of upbeat, toe-tapping pieces that showcase just how much these students have learned in a short time.

Come out and support these amazing Tigers as they bring great music and energy to our community! 🧡🖤

#WLSTigers #TigerPride #WLSJazzBand #LiveMusic #WestLibertyOperaHouse

🧡🖤 Board of Education Recognition Week 🖤🧡

This week, we proudly recognize and thank our West Liberty-Salem Board of Education for their dedication, leadership, and commitment to our students, staff, and community.

Our Board members give countless hours to ensure the success of every Tiger — guiding decisions that impact academics, facilities, extracurriculars, and the overall student experience. Their vision and service help make WL-S a place where excellence and opportunity thrive.

👏 Please join us in expressing our appreciation to our Board of Education for their ongoing efforts to keep our district moving forward with #TigerPride!

West Liberty-Salem School Board Members:
Ryan Cole, Tim Lamb-Vice President, Amy Pratt, Doug Williams, Pat Adams-President

If you'd like to learn more about our Board of Education, visit https://www.wlstigers.org/page/board-of-education

#WLSTigers #TigerPride #BOERecognitionWeek #ThankYouBOE

⛳️ Congratulations to our All-OHC Boys Golf Honorees! 🧡🖤

We’re proud to recognize our West Liberty-Salem Tiger golfers who were honored by the Ohio Heritage Conference for their strong seasons on the course!

🏆 Sutton Wilcoxon – 2nd Team All-OHC
✨ Braydon Thompson – Honorable Mention All-OHC
✨ Troy Christison – Honorable Mention All-OHC

These athletes represented the Tigers with skill, composure, and sportsmanship throughout the season. Congratulations, golfers, on an outstanding year! 🐾

#TigerPride #WLSTigers #OHCGolf #AllOHC #TigersGolf

🔬 Last week, Mrs. Harman's biology students transformed a simple candy into a colorful hands-on experiment as they explored the fascinating process of diffusion!

Using Skittles as their model system, students investigated how temperature and sugar concentration affect the movement of dye molecules through water. Through careful prediction, observation, and analysis, they witnessed how molecules naturally move from areas of higher concentration to lower concentration — a fundamental concept in biology.

This vibrant investigation not only brought textbook concepts to life but also encouraged critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and collaboration in the classroom. Way to go, future scientists! 🍬🧠

#TigerPride #ScienceInAction #HandsOnLearning

The West Liberty-Salem Mock Trial Team Visits the Ohio Supreme Court ⚖️🏛️

Last week, our Mock Trial Team took an unforgettable trip to the State of Ohio Supreme Court in Columbus! Students explored the historic building, learned about the judicial system, and discussed real-world issues facing Ohio’s government.

Faculty advisor Sean Stormes shared, “This visit was an incredible opportunity for our students to connect what they’ve learned in the classroom to the real workings of Ohio’s legal system.”

The team is now hard at work preparing for their upcoming case, The State of Buckeye vs. Morgan Remy, which they’ll present at the District Competition on January 30, 2026.

Read the full story here: https://www.wlstigers.org/article/2482948

#TigerPride #MockTrial #OhioSupremeCourt #FutureLeaders

Science in Action! ⚡🔬

Our 7th grade Advanced Science students are putting their creativity and problem-solving skills to the test! Some are competing to see who can build the strongest electromagnet, while others are designing and constructing the loudest siren using Snap Circuits.

Hands-on experiments like these bring science concepts to life and challenge students to think critically, test hypotheses, and learn through discovery — all while having fun in the process!

#TigerPride #STEMLearning #HandsOnScience #InnovationInAction

🎉 It’s Gold Card Friday (or Monday), Tigers! 🎉

We’re celebrating our students who go above and beyond—showing kindness, respect, responsibility, and that true Tiger Pride every single day! 🧡🐾

Congratulations to last week’s Gold Card winners for setting the example and making our school a better place to learn and grow. Your hard work, positive attitude, and great choices don’t go unnoticed! 🙌

In Elementary.

Tahlia Buck
Kyla Fischer
Lincoln Coder
Charlie Stanford
Landry Woodruff
Mason Wright
Gwen Williams
Tori Moffit-Greene
Charlotte Terry
Adalee Rutherford
Malachi Fiorini
Kole McIntosh
Khloe Miller
Griffin Kimball
Lance Studebaker
Piper Smith
Thomas Williams
Joel Booze
Lakelynn Roberts
Catie Dagger
Bexley Middleton
Layla Ulmer
Ian Shoemaker
Imajene Meister
Millie Humphrey

In Middle School:

6th Grade – Saige Thompson given by Mrs. Unger
7th Grade – Katie Moxley given by Mrs. Mazza
8th Grade – Jude Roberts given by Mrs. Phelps

In High School:

9th Mia Dooley – given by Mrs. Harman
10th Gavin Bell – given by Mr. Sidders
11th Xzavior Nicholl – given by Mrs. Nieman
12th Kaylee Powell – given by Mrs. Havens

#GoldCardFriday #TigerPride #WLSTigers #CharacterCounts

📅 Tiger Week at a Glance! 🧡🐾

It’s a big week for the Tigers — tournament season has arrived for our Volleyball, Soccer, and Cross Country teams! 🏐⚽🏃‍♀️ Come out and support our student-athletes as they compete in postseason play and represent WL-S with pride!

And don’t forget — Tiger Football is still rolling through the regular season, gearing up for another big Friday night under the lights! 🏈🔥

Check out where you can catch all the action this week and help us pack the stands with orange and black!