In FOCUS - Tracy Staley

Tracy Ross Staley. She’s a Hometown Girl. Born, raised and still residing in Hancock County, WV alongside her husband Michael. She’s country raised and deeply rooted in respect, kindness, and hard work. The Hometown girl with grit, grace, and a heart of gold. Tracy is one of those genuinely good people you’re thankful to know. Some people even refer to her as a fairy godmother . . . but more about that later.

Tracy was raised on Ross Road in New Cumberland. One of the best things about this country girl – is the home that raised her. She’s the kind of country girl you can thank good parents for. Her Mom and Dad, Sheila and Tom Ross, raised Tracy and her sisters, Tonya and Tommie with wholesome values and Godly principles.  (In fact, I know people that used the phrase, “Behave like the Ross girls.”)  She was brought up with Godly values that guide the way she lives and loves others to this day. Tracy and her sisters grew up getting to enjoy all the good things that country living has to offer.  She fondly recalls summers spent with the “Keller Girls” making forts, swimming and having mini parades on Ross Road. Just for extra fun, add in some Tennis Tournaments on the Keller’s tennis courts.  All that time on the tennis courts – helped Tracy secure a Tennis Scholarship to West Liberty.

Mrs. Staley met her husband Michael at NCJH - New Cumberland Jr. High School. They became friends in high school and were both on the tennis team. Tracy shares that in English class in High school Michael would sing the Elvis Presley song “Let me be your Teddy Bear” to her.  Nine years after graduation, they started dating. They were married the weekend after their 10-year high school class reunion. This August 29 will be their 28th wedding anniversary.  Throughout all that time, and even til this day, they have both been strongly involved and supportive of the Hancock County School System.

Tracy earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Social work from West Liberty University. She worked in the private sector as well as spending several years working from home. But something was missing. She didn’t feel fulfilled. She wanted to make a difference. So, long story short, she went back to school and earned her Permanent License in Early Childhood Assistant Teacher (ECCAT PK-3). She began her teacher’s aid career with Weirton Elementary School, First Grade. In just two years, she has made quite an impact. So much so, that she was recently awarded Hancock County School’s Service Personnel of the year. Her co-workers say that Tracy is their very own fairy godmother! Often times, they mention a need, or a want, in passing. Poof! Tracy, almost magically, makes it happen. I’m not sure if she carries a sparkly wand with her, but her loving heart, calming nature and strong dedication has made a lasting impact on the students, staff, and the entire school community.

Tracy’s commitment to her co-workers and students goes far beyond a job title. Through her kindness, professionalism, and unwavering support, they’ve come together to help create an environment where students feel cared for and the school can thrive. Tracy reflects, “Working at Weirton Elementary School and being a teacher’s assistant is the greatest joy of my career.”  Like many of her fellow educators thrown into the current challenging atmosphere of the Hancock County School system, Tracy’s career path is uncertain. Even with that uncertainty surrounding her job, one thing is for sure – her unwavering commitment to find ways to give the students of Hancock County her very best, each and every day.  

Outside of school, Tracy enjoys spending time with her husband and her family. She loves gardening and traveling and is an active member of Point Pleasant United Methodist church, where she assists during worship services and helps organize fundraisers. Tracy also volunteers at the New Cumberland Food Closet and coordinated the annual children’s Halloween party for the Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA) at Mountaineer Racetrack and Casino.



Thank you Tracy for the dedication, compassion and service you bring to the communities you are a part of every day! Your strong work ethic, compassionate heart and willingness to step in wherever needed, do not go unnoticed. You are making a difference. You truly are like a real-life fairy Godmother – quietly doing so much for so many. Always showing up with kindness, encouragement, and sprinkling a little bit of magic where it’s needed most.