Education #
Education has always been a valued part of life in Oran and the surrounding communities. From 1961 until 1999, Oran was home to the Wapsie Valley School District’s junior high school. Today, the community is served by the Wapsie Valley Community School District, which is dedicated to their mission of “Guaranteed Learning for Every Student.”
Wapsie Valley Community School District #
District Overview #
Wapsie Valley Community School District serves several communities in the area, including Oran, Fairbank, Readlyn, and surrounding rural areas.
District Office:
- Address: 2535 Viking Ave, Fairbank, IA 50629
- Phone: (319) 638-6711
- Website: wapsievalleyschools.com
Schools #
Wapsie Valley Elementary School #
- Grades: PreK-6
- Programs: Regular education, special education, Title I, talented and gifted
- Activities: Music, art, physical education, technology
Wapsie Valley Jr/Sr High School #
- Grades: 7-12
- Address: 2535 Viking Ave, Fairbank, IA 50629
- Phone: (319) 638-6711
- Programs: College preparatory, vocational, special education, advanced placement
- Activities: Athletics, fine arts, clubs, FFA, student government
School Calendar and Information #
Preschool and Early Childhood #
Early Childhood Programs #
- Wapsie Valley Preschool Program
- Head Start programs in nearby communities
- Private preschool and daycare options
Higher Education #
Nearby Colleges and Universities #
University of Northern Iowa #
- Location: Cedar Falls, IA (approximately 30 miles)
- Website: uni.edu
- Programs: Comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs
Hawkeye Community College #
- Location: Waterloo, IA (approximately 30 miles)
- Website: hawkeyecollege.edu
- Programs: Two-year degrees, technical programs, continuing education
Upper Iowa University #
- Location: Fayette, IA (approximately 20 miles)
- Website: uiu.edu
- Programs: Undergraduate and graduate degrees, online options
Educational Resources #
Public Libraries #
Fairbank Public Library #
- Address: 212 Main St, Fairbank, IA 50629
- Phone: (319) 635-2487
- Services: Books, periodicals, internet access, children’s programs
Oelwein Public Library #
- Address: 201 E Charles St, Oelwein, IA 50662
- Phone: (319) 283-1515
- Website: oelwein.lib.ia.us
- Services: Comprehensive library services, programs for all ages
Online Learning Resources #
- Iowa AEA Online Resources - Available through local schools
- Iowa PBS Education - Educational programming and resources
Adult Education #
Continuing Education Opportunities #
- Hawkeye Community College continuing education classes
- Online learning options
- Community-based workshops and classes
GED and High School Completion #
- Programs available through Hawkeye Community College
- Northeast Iowa Community College adult education programs
Home Schooling Resources #
Support for Home School Families #
- Iowa Home School Assistance Program
- Local homeschooling groups and co-ops
- Library resources
Special Education Services #
Area Education Agency Support #
- Central Rivers Area Education Agency
- Services: Special education support, professional development, media services
Educational Events and Activities #
- Science fairs
- Music and arts performances
- Athletic events
- Community education classes
School Board and Administration #
The Wapsie Valley Community School District is governed by an elected school board that meets regularly. Meeting dates, agendas, and minutes are available on the district website.
Historical Education in Oran #
From 1961 until 1999, the Wapsie Valley School District’s junior high school was located in Oran, playing an important role in the community’s identity. Though the school building has been repurposed, education remains a central value for local families.