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The present C. W. Shipley Elementary (CWS) opened its doors in 1972 on the perimeter of the scenic Civil War battlefield near Harpers Ferry, WV, in historic Jefferson County.  Sitting atop the site of the Civil War battle of School House Ridge, the school is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers.  This grade K–5 school was established to service the small rural communities of Harpers Ferry, Bolivar, Millville, Bakerton, and the surrounding countryside.  Our school embraces a rich tradition in strong academics, character values, and family/school relations.  Our school population of approximately 400 is ethnically, culturally, and economically diverse. 

Each student at CWS is recognized as an individual and we work to accommodate the needs of all students.  Children come first in the eyes of our staff members as we strive to instill a love of learning into each and every student – our future.  Our Faculty awards scholarships to graduating seniors who are alumni of CWS.  These are in honor of the late Elizabeth Seibert, a beloved art teacher.  Students are inspired through integrated studies that include a memory garden, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Math Field Day, and recycling (just to name a few!).  These activities enhance students’ roles in and around the school community, creating an awareness of service towards our community and its citizens.

As visitors approach our school, our Bradford pear trees that line the circular drive welcome them.  CWS students involved in our school beautification project planted these trees.  Our memory garden is dedicated to students and faculty members and is located in our front circle.  Our outdoor amphitheater enables us to enjoy many outdoor assemblies.  Approximately 15 acres serve as a beautiful play area with rolling hills and flat playing areas.  Some enjoy swings, climbing gyms, horizontal ladders, and slides, while others can play basketball, four squares, or hopscotch on our large blacktopped area.  Children can also engage in football, funnel ball, or kickball.  A walking & running trail and a softball/kickball backstop also provide active options.

As visitors enter our building, a mural of Harpers Ferry, along with a portrait of Mr. Charles W. Shipley welcome them.   Students’ artwork and wall graphics adorn the halls to motivate students to excel.  Bulletin boards are attractively decorated, displaying the children’s creations! Our school colors are blue and white and our mascot is Ranger Raccoon!

Over 800 years of teaching experience thrive at CWS.  Our staff of over fifty employees exemplifies true dedication and service.  Faculty members are continuing their education through graduate courses, staff development, and educational trainings. Staff members are continuously modeling appropriate behavior and encouraging students to excel, as we believe that all students can learn.  We are very proud of our staff, which includes several former CWS students!

The “spirit” of CWS continues to widen.  Many former students return, as parents, desiring the same caring family-like atmosphere and quality education they received at CWS for their own children.  Three generations of the Reed family serve on our staff - two teachers, and our school secretary.  We have celebrated our own Jefferson County Principal of the Year 2006, three JCS Teachers’ of the Year 1988, 2003, 2019 and our school secretary was chosen as Jefferson County School Service Personnel of the year in 1995.    We truly are a unique family!

In 2003-2004 CWS received the West Virginia School of Excellence Award.  In 2005-2006, 2008-2009, 2009-2010, 2010-2011, 2011-2012, 2012-2013, 2013-14, and 2014-15 CWS was recognized as a West Virginia Exemplary School.  Additionally, CWS was selected as a WV High Progress School, WV High Performing School, and National Blue Ribbon School in 2014.

CWS’s caring community perspective extends beyond the 3:40 dismissal bell.  Teachers serve as 4-H and church leaders, county fair volunteers, and coaches.  Our building is used as a site for 4-H activities, Boy and Girl Scout meetings, extended day care, community meetings, and various athletic practices.  Our school definitely provides a link to our community.

CWS has been blessed with the legacy given to us by our predecessors, the teachers who opened our doors in 1972.  The teaching traditions have been passed on to all who have served at CWS.  Teachers, students, parents, and our community pull together to provide an outstanding and equal education for each student.  Encouragement, compassion and knowledge are provided at CWS.  Striving to fulfill their potential, SHIPLEY STUDENTS SUCCEED!