08/26/2026
Jennifer Hagerty- Realtor writes a weekly column in the The Dominion Post as the 2026 MBOR President.
In Morgantown, school spirit is more than Friday night lights or school colors, it is part of the identity of the community itself. From packed stadiums and marching bands to academic competitions, arts programs, and community traditions, local schools help create the pride and connection that make this area such a special place to live.
As a real estate agent, I often see firsthand how strongly schools influence not only home buying decisions, but also the overall character of a neighborhood. Families relocating to Morgantown
frequently ask about schools early in the conversation, but what they are really searching for goes beyond academics alone. They want to know what kind of community they are joining.
In Morgantown, school pride is visible throughout the year. Whether it is Morgantown High School, University High School, Clay-Battelle, Trinity, or one of our many elementary and middle schools, residents rally behind their students and programs. Athletic events, theater productions, band performances, academic achievements, and community fundraisers all bring people together and create lasting connections among neighbors.
That strong sense of school spirit contributes to community identity in meaningful ways. Schools become gathering places where families build friendships, businesses sponsor events, alumni stay engaged, and generations remain connected to the area. In many neighborhoods, school traditions help create a shared sense of pride that extends well beyond graduation day.
From a real estate perspective, communities with active schools and strong parental involvement often experience consistent buyer interest. Buyers are drawn to areas where schools appear supported, students are engaged, and community participation is visible. Even for buyers without school-aged children, strong schools and community pride contribute to neighborhood stability and long-term desirability.
Morgantown is especially unique because education is deeply woven into the culture of the area. With the presence of West Virginia University alongside highly active public and private schools, there is a strong appreciation for learning, student opportunity, and community involvement. School events often become community-wide events, bringing together residents from all walks of life.
School spirit also has an economic impact. Sporting events, performances, and school activities support local businesses and create energy throughout the community. Neighborhoods
surrounding schools often benefit from increased visibility and community engagement, helping reinforce their appeal to prospective buyers.
One of the most rewarding parts of real estate is helping people find not just a house, but a place where they feel connected. In Morgantown, school spirit helps create that connection. It strengthens neighborhoods, builds traditions, and gives residents something to rally around together.
At its core, community identity is shaped by the people and institutions that bring residents together. In Morgantown, our schools do exactly that. The pride people have for their students, teachers, teams, and programs helps create a strong sense of belonging. That is something buyers notice when they choose to call this community home.
Stephanie K. Lemley, Broker
