Following an extensive renovation of the former Wooster High School, Cornerstone Elementary School opened in the fall on 1996. Spacious classrooms complete with the latest technological enhancements became available for our students. In addition to the exceptional classroom spaces, Cornerstone has an extensive library, a Performing Arts Center, and a “high school-sized” gymnasium, which provide a variety of learning environments for our students. Our facility has become a popular location for community meetings and activities. We have developed partnerships with the YMCA, the Wooster Parks and Recreation Department, the Tri-County Pre-School, and the Adult Basic Literacy Program to provide opportunities for our families before, during, and after school hours.

Cornerstone Elementary meets the individual needs of our students through a multiage classroom design as well as a traditional grade configuration. Each class groups students from two grade levels together to form a learning community. Students can remain in the same learning community for two years. This approach allows the student and teacher time to develop a relationship that enhances academic growth. In addition to the multiage approach, the following items are commonplace at Cornerstone: teams of teachers working with students; students using technology to enhance learning; student learning focused around major themes; and, parents involved in the “work” of the school.

Cornerstone is known for its use of volunteers. In fact, the "Every Child Program" originated at Cornerstone. Parents, grandparents, community members, and college students all participate in our educational process. In addition to their classroom assistance, parents and community members are involved in our site-based decision-making process. The Parent/Teacher Organization, School Improvement Team (Circle), and the Site-Based Decision-Making Team (CAT) are just a few of the decision making bodies functioning at our school.

The Cornerstone Staff takes pride in matching what we teach to how children learn, thus allowing students a chance to reach their full academic potential. Through the efforts of our staff, Cornerstone has been fortunate to receive several grants and awards, including: The Ohio Venture Capital Grant (1996), The Ohio’s BEST Award (2001), The OSI/Discovery Grant (2001), and the Ohio Reads Grant (2002).