Parkersburg High School

Parkersburg High School offers the most well-rounded education in the state of West Virginia. In addition to the top-notch academics and teachers, PHS boasts many state champion men's and women's sports teams and award-winning music, theater, and art departments. Plus, there are dozens of clubs and organizations encouraging volunteerism and personal growth for teenagers. I think the best thing is that students are encouraged to be involved in many different activities. Football players are regularly seen in the choir and theater students participate in the robotics club, much to the happiness of the faculty and parents. It is a one of a kind school with over 100 years of history and pride within a close-knit community. This means that many students (like myself at one time), can create memories in the same space as their parents and grandparents did decades before. It is so cool to know that I learned French and chemistry in the same classrooms as my mother, father, grandparents, aunts, and uncles. It is a treasured family bond that I have rarely encountered with anyone else I have met in the places I have lived since high school graduation. What a great place to spend the 4 remarkable years before adulthood!

the teachers and curriculum are great, but the administration is horrific! don't miss a day of school, even if you're sick because it's a hazard to get excused!
--Submitted by a student

I've been to this school for a year now (I'm a sophmore this upcoming school year) and I say this school could do way better. Especially in the academic system. This school only seems to fund the athletic field and emphasize that it's better, while the academinc is struggling to teach its students the right way. The theatre classes lack funds to go on field trips, the art classes don't get enough supplies. Also, many students skip classes or seem to not care about their school career. The school should reinforce their academics, and get students to want to learn. And maybe even stop bullying (there is a lot of disrespect amongst students.) So in the end...Fund the academic field!
--Submitted by a student

It is my first year at Parkersburg High School and I really like this school. Not only sports, but education is a big part of PHS. Parents don't really know what goes on in the classroom. I have had a great year here and I have learned alot. Every student is safe no matter what. Yes, the dress code is not like it was last year. The dress code is not that bad!! This coming from a student come on. If you don't what your kids to wear it don't buy it for them. Every school has it's faults. By the end of my 3yrs i will be ready for college. Also I'm glad we have a Freshman class now. I'm glad to have them.
--Submitted by a student

I am a sophmore currently at PHS and I have to say that I definatley feel that I will not be prepared for college. My honors english class is a joke and the school's focus is on sports when they should really be focusing on academics. The standerdized tests may be good, but you don't know what is really going on in the classrooms.
--Submitted by a student

Parkersburg High School prepared my child well for her future. She was able to leave school and start on a great career. I would recommend this school to anyone.
--Submitted by a parent

Parkersburg High School may be called 'the School of Champions' for its nationally recognized athletic programs, however it fails to provide a challenging and rigorous education. The students are motivated to give their all on the field but are not adequately prepared for the academic intensity of college. If your son or daughter is interested in playing fantastic sports, then PHS is their dream school. But if' their looking for a high school that will get them a 5 on an AP exam and an SAT score over 1200, then PHS is nothe place for them.
--Submitted by a parent

I dont feel there is a dress code, or perhaps just not inforced. Teachers dress code is not much better than students.
--Submitted by a parent

PHS really is great for preparing students for any college. The only down fall is that the athletics are extremely competitive, and sometimes you won't make the team unless you have connections
--Submitted by a student

The range of extracurricular activities at PHS is quite extensive, with new clubs constantly being formed. The sport program is also well supported. However, I feel that teacher reviews and curriculum could be greatly improved at the school. I feel that my child, who is advanced for her age, does not receive the kind of stimulating and challenging coursework that she requires to live up to her potential. Perhaps more effective evaluations could be given on the staff, but overall, I do not think the fact improvement is needed can be ignored.
--Submitted by a parent