(File Photo) Alicia McIntire talks with staff at Washington Elementary School during her return to serving as the school’s lead administrator in 2019.

The Marietta Tree Commission joined the family of the late educator Alicia McIntire to plant a memorial oak tree in Watson Park, honoring a longtime Marietta City Schools teacher and principal remembered for her commitment to students and families.

The tree was planted below the Washington Street Bridge by McIntire’s nephew, David Sarver, alongside Tree Commission member Grady Smith. Family members assisting included her husband, Guy; sons Matt and Chris; parents Tom and Janine Eddy; and daughter Alisyn Herb.

McIntire, a former principal at Washington Elementary School, passed May 31, 2025. She spent more than two decades serving Marietta City Schools, first as a classroom teacher and later as a school administrator.

Heather Warner, founder and executive director of GoPacks, said McIntire’s impact extended well beyond the school building. Warner said McIntire partnered closely with the nonprofit while serving as a principal, helping connect students and families with food assistance and other community resources.

In later years, Warner said, McIntire continued that work as a committee member, board member and AmeriCorps participant.

(Photo Provided) From left, David Sarver and Grady Smith plant an oak tree to honor Alicia McIntire in Watson Park in Marietta.

“She loved people and was always willing to go above and beyond to make sure students had what they needed,” Warner said. “Whether it was food or helping a family find the right resources, Alicia made sure no one fell through the cracks.”

GoPacks, a Marietta-based nonprofit that combats food insecurity among students, announced plans this year to establish a scholarship in McIntire’s honor. Warner said the scholarship, expected to open for applications this spring, will support students pursuing accredited higher education programs, including two-year, four-year and trade school options.

Warner said the scholarship is being designed to reduce financial barriers and may be renewable, allowing recipients to reapply as they continue their education.

“Alicia believed access should never depend on someone’s background or income,” Warner said. “This is one way to carry that belief forward.”

McIntire was a Marietta native who attended local schools before graduating from Marietta High School in 1996. She later earned her degree from Ohio University and began teaching in 1999. Over the years, she taught at North Hills Elementary, Marietta Middle School and Putnam Elementary, where her children attended during her tenure, before moving into school leadership.