BENWOOD, W.Va.—Marilyn McWhorter has big plans for this school year as she takes over as principal at SS. James & John Catholic School in Benwood, one of the smallest Catholic schools in the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston. Hired earlier this summer, McWhorter hopes to draw upon her 25 years of teaching experience and another 6 years of administrative experience in Marshall and Wetzel Counties to benefit SS. James & John.
McWhorter is no stranger to the area. She was born in Glen Dale, grew up in Sherrard and raised her own family in Marshall County. McWhorter also received her bachelor’s degree in English Education from West Liberty University and a master’s in education administration and supervision from the Franciscan University of Steubenville. She is certified by the State of West Virginia as a Supervisor of Instruction and as a principal for all grades from preschool though adult education.
“Because I have high expectations for myself, our teachers and staff, as well as families and students, I envision a parochial school that challenges and engages all members of the school community,” McWhorter said. “By emphasizing Catholic values, traditions and beliefs, it is my task to ensure that a quality education is provided for all students in our school.”
McWhorter served as assistant principal at Wetzel County’s Magnolia High School and Principal at Sherrard Middle School and Cameron High School, both in Marshall County. She served previously as an English teacher at John Marshall High School for 20 years.
“Given the strong commitment to the stated mission of SS. James and John by Ms. McWhorter, I am excited about how her experience will mesh with the three pillars of the diocesan system, namely a strengthening of Catholic identity, operating as strong schools of academic excellence and integrity, and providing strong fiscal management,” said Vincent de Paul Schmidt, superintendent of Catholic schools for the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston. “I am confident that Ms. McWhorter will lead SS. James and John on this path."
The Mission of SS. James & John School is to educate its students academically, spiritually, morally, and physically. The school strives to develop fully the potential of each child and to recognize in each child the God-given gifts and talents, expecting students to use these gifts and talents for the betterment of humankind and for the advancement of our global society.