Dr. Jessie Hayden
Elementary
Year Founded: 1961
Colors: Red
Mascot: Cougard (until 1979) Hawks
History of Dr. Jessie Hayden School
In the 1940s, Midway City experienced a population growth in the years following the Second World War. As a result, the Westminster School District constructed three schools in area. One of these institutions was Hayden Elementary School, established in 1961 and named in honor of distinguished Orange County educator, Dr. Jessie Hayden. Dr. Hayden was especially recognized for her commitment to teaching English to immigrants, enabling them to attain United States citizenship.
The land where Hayden would be built was purchased in 1960 and construction was completed a year later. Unfortunately, Dr. Hayden had passed away shortly before the school opened. In her absence, her husband and sister attended the dedication in her stead, with one of her cherished doll cases being donated to the school in in her memory. ”
In the 1970s, the United States experienced economic recession and a decrease in the population following the baby boom era. These factors would contribute to the closing of several school sites. At the end of the decade, Hayden closed its doors alongside Finley in 1979, with Richard “Dick” Weaver serving as the last principal. During the period of thirteen years, the school would be leased to the Bethany Bible Fellowship.
The 1990s saw the population increase again with Vietnamese immigrants settling in Midway City. However, for the Westminster School district, operating two schools in Midway City within a mile of each other was not economically feasible. The Board of Trustees was left with a choice: either renovate and reopen Hayden which was a newer campus or utilize the older Midway City School and upgrade it which would be more expensive. Ultimately, the School Board voted in favor of reopening Hayden.
In September 1993, the revitalized Hayden campus welcomed students once again under the leadership of Principal Duane Collier, formerly of Fryberger School. Staff members and resources from Midway City School were transferred to the updated Hayden Elementary, marking a new chapter in the school’s enduring history.
Photos
Jessie Hayden School, c. 1962. (WSD Photo)
Jessie Hayden’s doll case was donated by her husband, pictured here with her sister Anabelle. (WSD Photo)
Hayden’s Rededication ceremony, with its newly enrolled students alongside Principal Duane Collier, October 28, 1993. (WSD Photo)
FUN FACT
- The original mascot of Hayden Elementary School was the Cougars. Following its reopening, the school mascot became the Hawks.
