Dover schools demolish buildings to make room for growth

Two buildings owned by Dover City Schools on North Wooster Avenue in the vicinity of Dover Middle School are being demolished as part of a “footprint for growth” for the future of Dover Schools.

The buildings include the former East of Chicago store at 2105 N. Wooster Ave. The district purchased the East of Chicago building for $440,000 Jan. 22. According to the Tuscarawas County Auditor’s website, the store was originally built in 1960.

The other is the former Pro Print store at 2101 N. Wooster Ave. The district paid $440,000 for the property Aug. 21, 2025. According to the auditor’s website, this structure includes a residence built in 1910 and a store addition constructed in 1972.

The work is being done by Eslich Wrecking Co. of Louisville at a cost of $130,000. That amount covers demolition, clearing of the land and return to green space for four properties the district has purchased near the middle school over the course of the last year, said Superintendent Karie McCrate.

“Completing all four in one project provided cost savings and improved project efficiency,” she said.

McCrate added, “These purchases represent a significant step forward for our district. Over the past year, we have been very intentional about securing land adjacent to our existing campus. This isn't just about acquiring land. It is about creating a ‘footprint for growth’ for the future of Dover Schools.

“Our need for PK-8 facility improvements is real. Currently, we have fourth and fifth graders attending school in a building that is 110 years old. While that facility has served Dover well for over a century, our students deserve a modern, safe and efficient learning environment. By clearing these properties now, we position the district so that when we move forward with a master facilities plan, we actually have the space required to meet our needs.”

The acquisition of these properties fits into the broader vision for Dover Schools, the superintendent said.

“We have engaged with the community throughout the school year regarding our long-term master facility plan. That conversation will continue into the summer and even next fall to discuss next steps, and we encourage the public to remain involved. This is a vital one-time investment in efforts to be responsible today so that we are ready for tomorrow,” McCrate said.