He moved to Shidler, Oklahoma, on August 15, 1931, to serve as Principal of Shidler schools, where he remained Principal and Counselor until he retired July 1, 1965, for a total of 36 years.  Mr. Ward considered teaching an opportunity and a privilege and was a thought-provoking teacher of Oklahoma History, Problems and Democracy, and World History. He once wrote that his life had been good and bountiful because as a teacher he was able to touch the lives of many young men and women. He regarded his work as teacher and principal more than a job, saying that, "Perhaps I have been able to touch just one during each day in such a way as to cause him to be less prejudiced and more appreciative of himself and others. Maybe my influence has caused some to appreciate more fully our country and the need for loyalty to its purpose and ideas, or maybe by reaching out through the service of love, there has come about a desire on the part of many for a better life".

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In 1959, Mr. Ward became one of the first educators in the public schools of Oklahoma to hold a Standard Counselor's Certificate. Shidler is proud to have graduated many physicians, teachers, lawyers, and other professionals throughout the years. Many former students remember Mr. Ward's wise counsel and influence in their lives. After his retirement, he was respected and honored each year at Alumni festivities, and these occasions became very dear to his heart.

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Through his many years of dedicated work with students of the Shidler community, Mr. Ward was in a position to instill many of his excellent "philosophies of life" to literally thousands of students. He believed in public education and felt that people need to work together and sacrifice for the privilege of receiving an education. He believed this would enhance their lives and that of their children in years to come. Mr. Ward was an outstanding citizen of Oklahoma and Osage County and remains an inspiration to all who made his acquaintance. 

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The District 11 Alumni Association established the W.G. Ward Scholarship on October 5, 1985.   The scholarship was founded in honor of Mr. Ward and his many years of dedicated service to the Shidler school system and Shidler area community.  This scholarship is solely supported by donations from alumni and the community.

Mr. Ward was a devoted educator who touched and shaped many young lives through his teachings, with his integrity and high standards. Mr. Ward had a genuine concern for each student in his charge.  Education was more than a career to Mr. Ward it was his life.

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The Association created this scholarship to honor Mr. Ward by providing outstanding students financial assistance in pursuing a higher education.

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The Association Officers and Executive Board Members will review scholarship applications.  The applications will be evaluated on grade point average, ACT scores, rank in class, school and community activities, and narrative.