Western Wayne Middle School held a Turkey Trot for students on the morning of November 24 as a part of their PBIS initiative which involves successfully creating a proactive positive school environment in which students are demonstrating their Wildcat PRIDE daily.
PBIS is an ongoing effort of the Western Wayne School District to guide students in behaving and interacting with others in such a way as to promote an effective learning community.
The Western Wayne High School Cross Country Team hosted the students who completed the course. Middle School students signed up to attend the Turkey Trot. Some of the students who participated gave donations of canned goods for local food pantries.
The Middle School students who participated in the Turkey Trot did many fun activities such as participating in raffles for prizes, completing a one-mile run, and dancing with the Turkey. High School Cross Country student George Lee donned the Turkey costume for the occasion and entertained the students.
The Middle School students who participated were directed, guided, and cheered on by members of the High School Cross Country Team that included: Sydney Hutchinson, Jamie Bryan, Haley Estus, Julie Bryan, Maddie Kammer, Lucas Putman, Kris Maloney, Tarena Strasburger, and Kailey Tickner.
All the students who attended had a great time at the event. Eighth grader Raegan Palmer came in second place for the girls in her grade at the race.
“I really liked getting to see the older students and hang out with them briefly after the race,” Raegan, who plays basketball for Western Wayne, said.
Fellow 8th grader Timmy Roberts also had a great time at the event. He came in first place for the boys for the second year in a row and won a turkey.
“We plan to donate the turkey,” Timmy, who plays for the Western Wayne Soccer Team said.
Also, for the second year in a row 8th grader Hayden Romanskas came in second place for the 8th grade boys.
“It was fun to get to go outside for a while,” Hayden, who has been racing BMX bikes since he was about five years old said. “I think my experience with BMX helps to give me endurance for something like this. I thought the race was really close this year.”
In addition, on Nov. 24, Middle School students were treated to a special lunch time reward for PBIS. Beloved School Resource Officer Marty Robbins acted as D.J. for lunch periods that day. The students always look forward to occasions such as this one. Robbins also initiated a special board for students to write and display what they felt grateful for during the holiday season.
The students all had a lot of fun on Nov. 24 and look forward to other PBIS activities such as these where they can demonstrate their Wildcat Pride as the school year continues.
Winners of the Turkey Trot held at Western Wayne on November 24 are as follows.
Sixth graders: Eric McGrath, 1st place; Damian Glackin, 2nd place; Giana Tomasetti, 2nd place; and Makenzie Chearney, 1st place.
Seventh graders: Robert Carrelle, 1st place; Mia Gifford, 2nd place; Peter Race, 2nd place; and Audrey Agnello, 2nd place.
Excited seniors on Western Wayne’s Homecoming Court got the opportunity to walk out under the Friday night lights to crown a King and Queen in this time-honored tradition on Friday, Nov.6, at a game against Wallenpaupack High School. All the seniors who participated felt thrilled to have this chance in a year of such uncertainty. Members of the court included: Matthew Henneforth, Colin Mead, Sydney Hutchinson, Madison McGlone, Zane Janiszewski, Matt Leslie, Julien Walck, Jada Siino, Leno Piccolino, and Cassidy Asinski. “It was a lot of fun,” Western Wayne Homecoming Court member Jada Siino said. “I was thankful that everyone voted for me to be on the court.” Jada has been highly involved during her time at Western Wayne and felt grateful to have this opportunity to make her senior year special. She had participated in the following activities during her time at Western Wayne: volleyball for three years; National Honor Society for three years; yearbook for two years; Student Council for two years; CATS Club for one year. Of all her activities Jada has enjoyed her time on the volleyball team the most. “This is the activity that I have been a part of the longest in high school,” Jada explained. “I have made a lot of great relationships on the team.” Jada plans to attend a four-year university for early childhood education. “I think I have learned about how not to procrastinate from my time in high school,” Jada explained. “I have learned about the importance of planning.” Jada will be able to put this skill to good use in the future in her career path to be a teacher of young children. Jada explained that she first realized she wanted to pursue this avenue through her volunteer work with Pocono Community Church. Jada’s classmate and fellow homecoming court member Cassidy Asinski agrees with Jada that the time management she learned in Western Wayne will stick with her long after graduation. “I think I learned so much about time management from doing as many clubs and honors and advanced placement classes as possible,” Cassidy, who plans to attend a four-year university, explained. Cassidy has participated in the following activities during her time at Western Wayne: soccer for four years; track and field for three years; basketball for two years; FBLA for four years; Spanish Club for two years; Girls Lead Club for two years; FCCLA for one year; and tennis for one year. “It was a surprise to be nominated for the court,” Cassidy said. “Some of my favorite high school memories involve Friday Night Lights and playing sports with my friends, so this experience was very meaningful to me.” The remaining members of the Homecoming Court are also extremely involved at school. Matthew Henneforth participated in the following activities during his time at Western Wayne: volleyball for four years; basketball for four years; NHS for three years; FBLA for two years; and Junior Leadership of Northern Poconos. Matthew says he has had many great memories at Western Wayne and plans to attend a four-year university. Another court member Sydney Hutchinson participated in the following activities during her time at Western Wayne: cross country for two years (team captain); indoor track for four years; outdoor track for four years; NHS for two years; FBLA for three years; and yearbook for two years. She plans to attend a four-year university for tech education and to continue her running career which she is passionate about. Next, member Madison McGlone took part in the following activities during her time at Western Wayne: varsity track and field, varsity tennis, FBLA, Student Council, prom committee; Science Olympiad; Envirothon; Student Ambassador Program; and she organized her own club called “The Green Group.” Madison plans to attend a four-year university for entrepreneurship/ marketing. Another member of the court is Zane Janiszewski. Zane has been involved in the following activities during his time at Western Wayne: NHS for three years; FBLA for three years; FCL for three years; football for four years; baseball for four years; basketball for three years; and wrestling for one year. He plans to attend a four-year university majoring in education and minoring in business. “My favorite memory was beating Valley View this year [in football], becoming the schools all-time leading tackler, and being the first team to win the Division Championship,” Zane said. Fellow court member Matt Leslie is also highly involved in sports at Western Wayne. Matt has participated in the following activities during his four years of high school: wrestling for four years; soccer for three years; FBLA for three years; and he served as the 2019-2020 Junior Class President. Matt aspires to attend a university where he can continue his wrestling career. “I will always remember my years spent with the wrestling teams and my friends at Western Wayne,” Matt said. “They are memories that I will have forever.” Another member of the homecoming court that will have many long-lasting memories from sports is Julien Walck. Julian has taken part in the following activities during his time at Western Wayne: football for four years (senior captain of football team); and baseball for four years. He plans to attend Wilkes University to further his football career and major in early childhood and special education. He especially will cherish all the fun memories he made on Western Wayne’s football team. The final two members of the homecoming court had the distinct honor of winning the titles of Homecoming King and Queen through the votes of their classmates. Senior Lena Piccolino felt completely surprised to be chosen for Homecoming Queen. “I definitely did not expect it,” Lena said. “Some of my favorite memories at Western Wayne, other than being on Homecoming Court, are my final soccer season this year. I thought everyone did a great job. I am also excited to be accepted to Wingate University in North Carolina to study pre-pharmacy. I recently received a scholarship. I always wanted to do work behind the scenes in the medical field, and I think that studying pharmacy will be a great fit for me.” Lena has been involved in the following activities during her time at Western Wayne: soccer for four years; track and field for four years; indoor track and field for three years; NHS for three years; SADD for two years; and FBLA for two years. “I think I learned the most about time management through my experiences at Western Wayne,” Lena explained. Lena will always cherish all her memories at Western Wayne both inside and outside of the classroom. She said that her favorite part of Homecoming did not have anything to do with her winning the title of Queen. “I was definitely the happiest to hear that Colin Mead won Homecoming King,” Lena explained. “He was my partner that I walked on the field with. I thought that he deserved to win. He really is always so nice to absolutely everyone at school.” Colin was excited and surprised to win Homecoming King. “It was crazy, and I didn’t expect it,” Colin said. “I was excited that I got so many votes. I like to make it appoint to be friendly to as many people as I can at school.” Colin has greatly enjoyed all his shop classes at Western Wayne. He would like to pursue either being a mason or welder after graduation. Colin has worked on both skills at Western Wayne and with his dad. He also likes to spend time fixing cars. “The best part about Homecoming was walking out on the field and hearing all of my buddies cheering for me,” Colin said. The entire Western Wayne Homecoming Court is thankful to have had the opportunity to experience this milestone event and look forward to the rest of their senior year.
Please see the updated requirements from the Pennsylvania Department of Health that all students, staff, and visitors must follow:
Latest Guidance on masks – In Pennsylvania, masks must be worn whenever anyone leaves home. Masks are mandatory in all public spaces. Have questions about mask wearing? View the Universal Face Coverings Order FAQ.
Travelers – By Order issued November 17, 2020, the Wolf administration is requiring that travelers entering Pennsylvania from other countries and states, as well as Pennsylvanians who are returning home from other countries or states, have a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours prior to entering the Commonwealth or quarantine for 14 days upon entry into Pennsylvania.
According to the PA Department of Health:
MASKS:
Masks are required to be worn indoors and outdoors when away from home
When outdoors, a mask must be worn if you are not able to stay at least 6-feet away from someone not in your household the entire time you are outdoors
When indoors, masks will now be required even if you are physically distant from members not in your household. This means you will need to wear a mask inside if with people other than members of your household.
The order applies to every indoor facility, including homes, retail establishments, schools, gyms, doctors’ offices, public transportation and anywhere food is prepared, packaged or served.
COLLEGES/UNIVERSITIES
The departments of Health and Education have issued recommendations for colleges and universities to implement a testing plan for when students return to campus following the holidays. This includes routine testing and reporting protocols and posting data online about positive cases and positivity rates.
Colleges and universities should have adequate capacity for isolation and quarantine and should be prepared to enforce violations of policies such as mask wearing and physical distancing.
Every college and university should test all students at the beginning of each term, when returning to campus after a break, and have regular screening/testing throughout the semester.
HOSPITALS
Sec. of Health Dr. Rachel Levine has issued an advisory to acute care hospitals outlining expectations to care for Pennsylvanians who need care during the pandemic. Hospitals should also be working to move up elective procedures necessary to protect a person’s health and prepare to suspend them if our health care system becomes strained.
OUT-OF-STATE TESTING
The Secretary of Health issued an order requiring anyone who visits from another state to have a negative COVID-19 test within 72 prior to entering the commonwealth.
If someone cannot get a test or chooses not to, they must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvanians visiting other states are required to have a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours prior to their return to the commonwealth or to quarantine for 14 days upon return to Pennsylvania.
This does NOT apply to people who commute to and from another state for work or medical treatment.
Mrs. Marianne Morgan, English teacher at the Western Wayne High School for many years with a 38-year career in education recently retired. She fondly remembers many great times during her lengthy career at Western Wayne.
Morgan attended college at East Stroudsburg University. For most of her career she taught high school English. However, Morgan’s first position was as a kindergarten and 8th grade teacher. She worked at Western Wayne for 33 years having taught sophomore, juniors, and seniors. She even taught the district’s current assistant superintendent Cynthia LaRosa.
Along with greatly influencing Western Wayne students in the classroom, Morgan also worked with a variety of clubs and extra-curricular activities in her career. This includes her work with the Communications/ Drama Club along with positions where she served as NHS adviser, class adviser, newspaper adviser, literary magazine adviser, and Girls Lead Club adviser.
Morgan has many memorable moments and memories from her career.
She recalls a hard drive, that held a nearly complete layout for a 24- page newspaper, being taken out of the journalism class computer in 2004 when she missed time for the funeral of her mother. This was, of course, devasting to Morgan but she recalls her students stepping up and showing great Western Wayne pride and dedication during this difficult time.
“My editor Kendra Sledzinski then organized the staff to retype and layout every page by following the one hard copy she had of the edition,” Morgan explained. “These students were amazing! Later that spring, Kendra was named Editor of the Year, and the paper won first place at the annual Wilkes University Journalism Conference besting dozens of newspapers across the region.”
Years after her graduation Kendra still remembers the impact Morgan had on her as a high school student.
“It says a lot about a teacher when you can recall their influence on you nearly 20 years later!” Kendra said. “I still have the customized Planet Wildcat blanket she had made for me as a graduation gift, too.”
Kendra discussed her experiences with Morgan at Western Wayne. “Mrs. Morgan was a teacher who made me believe in myself. Curiosity, an interest in politics, and a love of writing led me to pursue journalism where I first worked closely with Mrs. Morgan as the editor of Planet Wildcat. We faced some challenges then, including having to rebuild an entire newspaper quickly,” Kendra explained.
“Not everyone can successfully lead young students through challenge or adversity, but Mrs. Morgan did. She was selfless enough to ensure our hard work was recognized and that we got the support we needed to keep Planet Wildcat going. This helped build an eager work ethic and confidence. There is no doubt working with her on Planet Wildcat helped prepare me to study and successfully find employment within journalism later,” Kendra continued. “ And though I don’t work in journalism these days, I still use the curiosity, candor, and communication skills she taught me so long ago in connecting with people around the world with my work in the specialty coffee industry.”
Morgan is extremely proud of all of the work she did with students like Kendra over the years in the newspaper at Western Wayne.
“One of the biggest accomplishments in my educational career was taking the school newspaper to a high level of achievement where we regularly won first place awards in total newspaper and also individual staff entries of virtually every high school journalism competition on international, national, and state levels,” Morgan said. “I had the opportunity to advise incredibly talented and ambitious students who have succeeded in varied arenas in life since graduation, many of whom keep in close contact with me.”
Mrs. Morgan has a long history with the newspaper at Western Wayne. She did not start the club but advised it for 22 years. Under her direction, the newspaper was moved from a paper of a few papers just typed in a page copied in the school copier to one laid out electronically with a publishing program and printed professionally.
“I found a mentor, a retired journalism teacher who had won the Dow Jones Journalism Adviser Award which is a pretty weighty distinction,” Morgan explained. “I would send our printed paper to him, and he would red-pen critique it and return that with pages of notes. He helped us to concentrate on one or two improvements at a time. This not only moved us to an award-winning publication, it also taught the kids excellent journalistic skills. When they went off to join staffs or study writing at their colleges, they often told me that they were tops in their abilities.”
Along with her accomplishments in the classroom and with the newspaper she loved, Morgan also started a club at Western Wayne from the ground up called Girls Lead. Morgan got the idea from her daughter who was studying Gender in Economics at Barnard College. Her daughter was studying gender inequalities prior to the Me, Too Movement. Morgan and her daughter felt like they had some solid ideas to empower young women at Western Wayne, so Morgan approached her principal to ask permission to start the club.
At first, the group experienced pushback from about 100 male students at the school. However, Morgan’s club president was well-prepared with an informative presentation, and then they followed up with inclusive educational activities for the student body and staff which quelled much of the pushback. It should be noted that both males and females were allowed to be members of Girls Lead.
Morgan recalls some highlights of the Girls Lead Club’s successes.
“The club conducted a highly successful fundraiser and yearly drive for women in shelters,” Morgan explained. “One year we bought packages of underwear which the shelter manager told me they would give to rape victims in the hospital.”
Along with leading clubs and programs at Western Wayne, Morgan was also highly involved for about twenty years in planning field trips for the students in her English classes.
Morgan and the late James Rebar who taught alongside her in the department for many years worked together on this endeavor that gave so many students a chance to experience Broadway shows in New York City that would not have otherwise had the opportunity to go.
“We each had our favorite plays. Jim’s was Titanic with incredible scenery including a sinking ship,” Moran explained. “My favorite was Once on this Island because of its life-affirming message and upbeat calypso music. The real joy for us was gifting the experience to our students. We reached many students who were not in clubs that sponsored trips like this and who did not travel to NYC with family. One student was in awe at seeing the ESPN Center in person which really made our day. The extensive planning work required was worthwhile because of the impact seeing Broadway live had on these students.”
A recent 2020 Western Wayne graduate who shares Morgan’s love for Broadway Sydney Peet recalls the special experiences she had with Morgan throughout her high school career.
“The best way I can describe Marianne Morgan is enigmatic. She is always presenting surprising new facets of herself. Students were consistently shocked each time she brought up a new story from her past – stories of Vice Presidents, campaign buttons, the FBI, and nationwide recognition. She was perhaps the best teacher I have had the privilege of learning from. She encouraged not just academic growth but also consistently pushed her students to be the best person they could be. I spent many hours in her classroom, reviewing drafts of the literary magazine, preparing care packages to be donated to local women’s shelters, and eating the most marvelous banana pudding. The banana pudding must have been crafted by angels themselves; it was seriously THAT good,” Peet said recalling the many thoughtful things Morgan would do for her students.
Of course, Morgan also has many of her own special memories from her time teaching in the classroom at Western Wayne.
“My favorite moments have been when teaching creative writing, particularly college application essays. Through teaching these and helping my own children apply to college, I grew passionate about the college application process, reading a dozen or so books about the steps to successful applications from choosing coursework to helping students develop strong community service linked to their interests to writing a creative essay as a means of introduction to the college admissions staff,” Morgan explained. “Ultimately, I even began a college counseling service and through this have helped numerous students from many different school districts match with a suitable colleges and graduate schools and also secure scholarships.”
Former student Caroline Davis fondly remembers learning about writing from Morgan.
“When learning initial grammatical rules, Mrs. Morgan told us we weren’t ‘allowed’ to use unique punctuation and language that we were reading in American novels because we had to master the basics first,” Davis explained her disappointment about this initial lesson. “I was a little upset at the time of her saying that (why couldn’t I put a semicolon wherever I wanted?), but I soon found out that learning those basic rules set me ahead of my peers in both college and beyond.”
Davis explained how Morgan’s lessons have impacted her throughout her evolving career path.
“Currently, I work remotely for a children’s clothing start-up,” Davis said. “I am in charge of their social media and approving email copy that goes out to our subscribers. My boss later told me she chose me over another applicant for this position because of my incredible attention to detail and ability to find grammatical mistakes that others missed. I owe this completely to Mrs. Morgan.”
Davis wishes Morgan the best in her retirement and wants her to know the significant impact her class had on her life.
“I hope in retirement, that Mrs. Morgan is able to do everything which makes her happy. I enjoy watching her incredible children succeed on Facebook,” Davis said. “She is truly a diamond in the rough that was high school. She pushed every student to be their best selves and gave each and every one of use the tools to succeed.”
2019 Western Wayne Alumni Sydney Peet remembers some advice that Morgan gave her class, and she is sure that Morgan is following it now in her retirement.
“Most importantly, I remember Mrs. Morgan telling my sophomore American Literature class about a student she had taught years prior. ‘He spent all his time working to save up for a new car and then once he bought it, he had no time to drive it,’ she told us. This story wasn’t just about some workaholic kid, but about the importance of enjoying life. Hard work may get you material desires, but it will never guarantee the true enjoyment that the tiniest, most-fleeting moments in life can bring. Her class was full of those moments. Lessons interrupted with honest laughter, life advice, memorable anecdotes, and clever witticisms, as well as never ending motivation and support, filled her small, blue classroom. The absolute integrity and excitement she brought to the teaching profession will be sorely missed.” The entire Western Wayne School District wishes Morgan the best in her retirement.
Our Wildcat Pride is on full display through the halls of EverGreen Elementary! The students had the opportunity to show their creativity decorating pumpkins for our PBIS Blowout! This year is not typical but we are rolling right along with fun but safe ways to learn, celebrate being together and reward positive behavior. We will continue to show our Wildcat PRIDE by being Prepared, Respectful, having Integrity, being Dedicated and acting in an Extraordinary manner.
In a typical school year, the Western Wayne Marching Band would don their costumes and travel to three different nursing homes to perform several songs and spread Halloween cheer. Steampunk flute players, superhero horn players, and banana-suit trumpet players would march through the hallways of Julia Ribaudo, Ellen Memorial, and Wayne Woodlands. But in the age of COVID-19, this annual trip is not a possibility.
Instead, the Wildcat Band found a new way to share their music and spooky spirits: Members of the band showed up after school to dress in their costumes and make a video recording some spectacular tunes in October prior to Halloween. Featured were songs from this year’s “Hot and Cold” field show, including the Ice Castles theme and “Hot Hot Hot”, as well as old favorites and Halloween classics like “Thriller” and “When I’m Sixty-Four”. Once the songs were recorded, the clips were compiled and shipped off to local nursing homes as well as to eager teachers, parents, and community members throughout the district.
While video viewers may not quite experience the magic of a live performance, this medium came with the potential for added flair. Prerecording outside meant players had space to march and show off fun visuals, from doing a dainty step-touch to letting loose and jamming out to their sound.
“It was fun to put together, and I think the video turned out good,” says sophomore Ash Mangieri, a flute player and former Color Guard member who is in their third year with the marching band. “I’m happy we were able to do this for the community.”
The video is accessible by the public and can be found on Youtube under the title “Western Wayne Wildcat Marching Band Halloween 2020.” The band is already anticipating the release of more recordings for future events and looks forward to further exploring alternate performance mediums like this. The conclusion? No matter the circumstances, the band will continue to find ways to do what it does best… perform.
EverGreen Elementary School recently elected class representatives for their 5th grade classrooms. These representatives, who were chosen by their peers, include: Carmine Leggio, Isabella Hartmann, Sophia Kristyniak, Jared Ingle, Lance Hauenstein, Ava Fiorella, Gage Roberts, Jacob Grodack, and Layla Kaub. Our student council members have started a new tradition of recording the daily morning announcements digitally. This new addition to our morning routine has become a beloved staple of our mornings here at EverGreen. EverGreen Elementary is thankful to have such wonderful Wildcats leading our pack!
From left to right, top row: Carmine Leggio, Gage Roberts, Jacob Grodack, and Lance Hauenstein. From left to right, bottom row: Sophia Kristyniak, Layla Kaub, and Ava Fiorella.
Missing from photo: Isabella Hartmann and Jared Ingle.
Any high school student interested in joining Drama Club this year for the first time can email Mrs. McLaughlin at jmclau@wwsd.io for more information.
We are looking for new members interested in acting, singing, and dancing. No previous experience is required.
ALL NEWS
Western Wayne High School Hosts Graduation for Class of 2026June 8, 2026
Wildcat Pride was bursting from the audience at Western Wayne’s Sharkey Rosetti football stadium on the evening of Friday, June 5, for the graduation of the class of 2026. This is a bright class of students who have excelled in academics, athletics, and club activities having gained a total of $3,047,128 on stage at senior night in college scholarships and grants, with an inclusive total for senior night of $3,133,553 earned by our students.
Student speakers at graduation focussed their speeches on the importance of kindness and doing right by others. Senior Audrey Agnello, president of the class of 2026, who will attend The University of Scranton in pursuit of a career as a labor and delivery nurse, gave the welcome address along with presenting the Class Mantel to Madelyn McClure, junior class president.
Agnello told her classmates, the audience, and the future senior class what she finds to be the most valuable lessons that they can take with them.
“While graduation is often seen as an ending, I believe that it is really a celebration of everything we have learned,” Agnello said.
Agnello chose to discuss the novel Wonder by R. J. Palacio to help get her point across about life lessons.
“Everyone is fighting battles of their own that are unknown to others,” Agnello said, reflecting on the plot of the book. “When given the choice of being right and being kind, choose kind.”
Agnello also quoted song lyrics by Noah Kahan, “You’re gonna go far.”
She reminded everyone that in going far one should remember to take with them kindness, compassion, and empathy.
“I hope you never underestimate the power of a single act of kindness,” Agnello said.
Following Agnello’s words, the class salutatorian and valedictorian were introduced and gave speeches.
Senior Grace Moser, Waymart, was named the salutatorian of the class of 2026 with a final overall GPA of 101.72 .
Moser is the daughter of Lydia Talarico and Kurt Moser.
Along with being an excellent academic student, Moser was involved in Western Wayne clubs and activities including: FBLA, National Honor Society, Student Council, Envirothon, Aevidum, Student Ambassador, and Inclusion Club.
In the future, she plans to attend Lebanon Valley College to obtain a master’s degree in speech-language pathology.
“My favorite high school memory is being involved in spirit games each year and enjoying that special time spent with all of my friends, ” she said. “While at Western Wayne, the experience that has most prepared me for my future plans is being a member of many clubs and activities in school and taking on leadership roles. Through these experiences, I have learned the true meaning of leadership and its impact on others.”
In her salutatorian speech, Moser focussed on thanking her family and classmates for making her who she is today.
She especially thanked her mom for being a constant source of strength and love calling her a “built-in best friend” who has taught her so much and helped her become who she is today.
In addition, along with thanking a number of her other classmates, Moser thanked the valedictorian Paul Borowski, her good friend, and supporter throughout her time in school from elementary grades through to her high school years.
She described Borowski as, “someone who pushed me to become better every day. Thank you for challenging me, encouraging me, and growing alongside me through it all.”
Moser also noted the kindness that she and so many other faculty have seen in the class of 2026.
“Our class has genuine friendships and so much love and a sense of support that people spend their whole lives searching for,” Moser said.
She closed her speech by focussing on a discussion of growth and change.
“Growth and change has been quietly happening alongside us all along,” she said. “The truth is every meaningful part of our lives have come from change. It allows us to become who we were meant to be.”
Fellow classmate Paul Borowski, Waymart, was named valedictorian of the class of 2026 with a GPA of 102.14.
Paul is the son of Paul and Andrea Borowski.
Paul also has done numerous activities at Western Wayne. He has participated in football, track and field, wrestling, National Honor Society, Envirothon, Robotics, Inclusion Club, Science Olympia, and FBLA
In the future, he plans to attend Penn State University for a four year degree in engineering.
“My favorite high school memory is when everyone would hang out at Lori’s after school events,” Borowski said. “My experience that has most prepared me for my future is balancing school with sports and outside activities. Taking many high level courses, while being a triple-sport athlete, has taught me valuable life lessons about time management.”
In his valedictorian speech, Borowski also took the time to thank some of his friends individually and to thank his parents and sister for shaping him into the person he is today.
He also thanked fellow classmate and life-long friend Grace Moser for pushing him to be a better version of himself.
He recognized his dad for teaching him hard life lessons and his mom for always believing in him through good and bad times.
He then focussed his speech on how he wanted the class to reflect on the person in their lives that believes in them the most.
“Everyone here has their own version of that person who believes in them,” Borowski said. “Success isn’t measured by our grades and achievements. It is measured by growth.”
Borowski believes that a lot of the growth made by individuals can be attributed to the belief their loved ones had in them that helped push them forward to find success.
As Borowski brought his speech to a close he said, “Most importantly never forget the people who believed in you before you believed in yourself.”
Following the speeches, all graduates received their diplomas and were presented as the Class of 2026 to the audience. They then sang the school’s alma mater one last time as a class on stage. The Western Wayne School District wishes all the graduates the best in their bright futures.
Picture One: Salutatorian Grace Moser gives her speech to the Western Wayne class of 2026.
Picture Two: The Western Wayne class of 2026 celebrate at the end of the graduation ceremony.
2026 GRADUATE LIST – FINAL
Audrey Gayle Agnello
Loucynthia Jean Allen
Luis Peter Appollonio
Mia Criselle Arcadipane
Vincent Joseph Baldini
Luckus Patrick Balmer
Lauren Renee Beamer
Paul John Borowski III
Jake R. Brown
Connor Edward Buchinski
Lylah Rae Bucksbee
Chad Zachary Burns
Aiden John Burry
Ayla Rose Butrim
Robert James Carrelle III
Connor Jeffrey Clark
Hayley Star Cordero
Anastasia Maria Correa
Alexzander Jayson DeCandis
Dominic Anthony DeSiato
Hannah Elisabeth DeStefano
Julian Leonard Dobrzyn
Sonora Rose Dockemeyer
Roxanne Michelle Dugan
Riley John Dunn
Kera Mae Edwards
Katherina Karma Elston
Ian Carmine Ensley
Ty Matthew Enslin
Laylah Rose Epstein
Brody Estock
Chance Fahnestock
Antonio Mwaura Fisichella
Nicholas Gathama Fisichella
Abigail Anna Fox
Mikayla Skye Fullone
John Galati
Justin Thomas Garcia
Thomas Robert Rickard Garrison
Veronike Zoe Gauvain
Mia Grace Gifford
Ethan J. Gillott
Xavier Travis Graham
Olivia Mae Gries
Charlianne Rose Hachikian
Cristina M. Haire
Kellyann Marie Hallberg
Kendra L. Harper
LO’shai Harris
Isabella Louise Hayden
Tyler Gregory Hedge
Summer Rose Heenan
Violet Abigail Heflin
Ema-Jade Grace Heller
Kiernan Herlihy
Christopher Thomas Hopkins
Gideon Isaac Jezorwski
Zachary Mitchell Jordan
Ciarra Carolyn Kidder
Joseph Kieva
Jayden Dennis Knittle
Briana Alena Konan
Maggie Grace Kotchessa
Raeleigh Ann Kromko
Scott Alan Kurent, Jr.
Braden Christopher Laity
Aedan Joseph Lampman
Jacob Owen Lawlor
Kayla Marie Leahy
Samantha Nichole Lee
Cassidy Marie Levens
McKayleigh Marie Lokuta
Beja Marie Marcel
Kayelin Rae Martin
Aiden Manuel Matthews
Lance A. McAndrew
Jordan R. McDonald, Jr.
Karina Elizabeth McLeod
Brendan C. Mistishin
Khloe S. Mistishin
Grace Marie Moser
Makayla Claire Moser
Matthew Moyer
Carly Lynn Muniz
Kiera Murphy
Trista Aileen Murphy
Katelyn Marie Nunez
Jake Joseph Obloshny
Owen Chase Obloshny
Francis Pane
Ethan T. Paugh
Logan Michael Pauler
Norman Zachary Phillips
Michael Pongracz
Liza Elaine Pontosky
Matthew Pontosky
Isaac Francis Quiros
Nathalie Ramos
Hazel Ratliff
Shauna Ann Rodger
Jasmine M. Rodriguez
Katherine Melissa Roedel
Landon W. Romanaskas
Ronnie Ronnow
Joseph Christopher Roses
Gianna Ryelin Rosetti
Ethan Rutkowski
Phoebe Elizabeth Schmitt
Katarina Elizabeth Shumski
Kameron Bishop Sic
Christiana Catherine Smith
Sydney Rae Sosa
Ismael Sosa II
Ryan Matthew Sparks
Ryan Richard Stokesberry
Ashan D. Stookey
Judah Strocchia
Calvin H. Supanek
Brenden Patrick Thomas
Carin Ambrose Thomas
Joseph S. Tickner
Annette Lucille Torres
Ashley Lynn Toscano
Daniel Michael Toscano
Madison Elyse Trapanese
Graysen Edward Valinski
Omar Vargas, Jr.
Giuliana Velazquez
Logan James Vinton
Madelyn Lois Vinton
Landon Visceglia
Ryan Jacob Walton
Hailey Marie Wasman
Alexis Anna Weist
Jacob Remington Wells
Jade Wetherington
Zachary J. Wilbur
Anthony Ernest Zoppi [...]
Middle School Holds Annual 8th Grade Moving-Up CeremonyJune 4, 2026At the annual 8th Grade Moving-Up Ceremony, held at the Sharkey Rosetti football stadium on Tuesday, June 2, Western Wayne Middle School Principal Casey Newcomer talked to students and families in attendance about the importance of hard work and determination in the face of obstacles and setbacks, a term he called “grit.”
“Education is about growth,” Newcomer, who is in his second year at the district, said. “We have a group of students here today that represent a woven tapestry of skills.”
He told the crowd about how students excel in a variety of ways, some in the classroom and some in activities outside of it.
“No matter what you are trying to excel at,” he explained. “The one characteristic that will continue to stand above all others is called grit. Grit is the determination to keep going when quitting is the easier option. Grit is the voice in your head telling you to keep going.”
Newcomer encouraged students to continue to listen to that voice as they head into their high school years.
“Be ready; dig in; hold tight,” he told the students. “You got this.”
Mrs. Joyce Covaleski, middle school chorus teacher, then had select 8th grade chorus singers perform the National Anthem and alma mater. Makayla Franckowiak and Maria Shemanski sang the National Anthem; and Patience Strocchia sang the alma mater. All three girls love to sing and are highly involved in the Middle School Chorus.
Makayla is looking forward to high school where she plans to continue participation in basketball and softball. She also plans to play volleyball in her freshman year. She aspires to be an aerospace technologist, because she has always had a fascination with studying space. She also enjoys working with technology in her free time and has created robots as a hobby.
Her fellow classmate Maria aspires possibly to be a teacher when she is older, and she is also interested in exploring the idea of pursuing the military as a part of the Marines. She will play basketball next year and possibly volleyball and softball.
Finally, Patience, who greatly excels in her ELA class with her strong writing skills, is excited to join the track team for her freshman year.
The featured event of the Moving-Up Ceremony was many of the 8th grade students receiving awards in various categories for excellence in all academic and unified arts classes. In addition, students received awards for Wildcat Pride, for students who go above and beyond in showing school spirit and being kind aned upstanding school community citizens; Grit, for students who showed outstanding qualities of hard work in the face of adversity and hardships; and for a variety of high academic achievements such as making the honor roll for 11 quarters in middle school from 6th through 8th grade.
In addition, a new award called The Inclusion Award was given this year by special education teacher Ms. Gillian Groom, who was assisted in presenting the award by her student Daisy Diehl. Groom explained how the award recognizes students who go above and beyond to create a welcoming, supportive, and respectful environment for peers with special needs. This award honors students who demonstrate kindness, patience, empathy, and leadership by including all classmates in activities, friendships, and everyday school experiences. Recipients of this award model acceptance and understanding, helping others feel valued, supported, and connected within the school community.
“The recipients of this award see and treat my students as friends,” Groom said.
Then Daisy used her communication device to announce award winners who included: Alexandra Churmblo, Eli Gragnano, Julia Kosciuk, and Machaela McGrady.
Another honor given out at the ceremony was an award and gift presentation by National Junior Honor Society advisor Nichole Musewicz, middle school science teacher. Last year, Principal Newcomer worked to establish a National Junior Honor Society Chapter at Western Wayne along with dedicated faculty and high-achieving students.
Therefore, since this Moving Up Ceremony marked the inaugural ceremony with NJHS students present, Newcomer and Musewicz wanted to recognize the three eighth grade NJHS officers who helped to establish the program among the students in the school community: Harper Bell, president; Kendall DiPierro, vice president; and Keira Hauenstein, secretary.
All three young women felt honored to be acknowledged at the ceremony and have strong goals and aspirations for their bright futures. First, Harper will continue to play softball, travel softball, and basketball in high school. She aspires to either pursue a degree path in occupational therapy or speech pathology. Next, Kendall is dedicated to playing basketball in high school. She aspires to be an emergency room nurse. Finally, Keira does competitive gymnastics along with soccer and track which she plans to continue in her high school career. She wishes to be a future elementary school teacher.
It is also a Western Wayne Middle School tradition for many years that two outstanding students, one male and one female, are recognized for their patriotism and leadership among other qualities. The local chapters of the American Legion and the Daughters of the American Revolution present these awards.
This year before the presentation of these prestigious awards, Newcomer took time to recognize and honor Middle School guidance counselor Mr. Joseph Totsky. This year marks Totsky’s 34th year of service.
Newcomer noted how Totsky has been a mentor to him for the past two years and noted Totsky’s strong qualities of honesty, sincerity, and hard work as being the pillars his career has been built upon.
“Countless students and staff are better because Joe was here,” Newcomer said. “You will forever be a part of the foundation of the Western Wayne community.”
After the special recognition of Totsky, Bill Gillette, Post 889 Waymart, presented the American Legion Award to 8th grader Benjamin Reifler.
Ben received this annual award for being an outstanding student in the 8th grade class who exhibits the qualities of honor, scholarship, Americanism, leadership, and courage.
Then the Daughters of the American Revolution Award was presented to 8th grader Sophia Shehadi.
Sophpia received the good citizenship medal from the Daughters of the American Revolution for being an outstanding student in the 8th grade class who exhibits the qualities of honor, honesty, service, courage, leadership, and patriotism.
Both Ben and Sophia felt extremely honored to receive their respective awards. They also both, at first, felt shocked to learn the American Legion and the Daughters of the American Revolution had chosen them for these high honors.
Ben, an honor roll student and member of NJHS, is a student very dedicated to academic excellence. He also has a passion for automotives and studying trains and their history. He aspires to run commercial trucks one day and is greatly looking forward to his auto shop classes in high school.
“I really enjoy working with my hands,” he said. “I want to use what I have learned about trains and other automotives in a real world setting in my future career.”
Fellow classmate Sophia, an honor roll student and member of NJHS, is also a very diligent student who loves working hard in all subject areas and aspires to be a labor and delivery nurse when she grows up.
“I look forward to trying my best in high school and what comes after,” Sophia said.
To close the ceremony, Newcomer reminded the parents not to miss a moment of their students’ upcoming high school experience.
“The next time they will be in these seats will be in four years,” he said. “Don’t blink, because you don’t want to miss a minute of what is to come for your students.”
Western Wayne faculty, administration, and staff wish the class of 2030 the best on their new journey to the high school.
Picture one, from left: Bill Gillette, who presented the American Legion Award, Post 889 Waymart; Benjamin Reifler, winner of the American Legion Award; Sophia Shehadi, winner of The Daughters of the American Revolution Award; and Casey Newcomer, middle school principal.
Picture two, from left: Bill Gillette and Benjamin Reifler.
Picture three, from left, NJHS officers: Harper Bell, president; Keira Hauenstein, secretary; and Kendall DiPierro, vice president.
Picture four, from left: Patience Strocchia, who sang the Alma Mauter; and Maria Shemanski, and Makayla Franckowiak, who both sang the National Anthem.
Picture five: the Western Wayne Class of 2030 stands before their family, friends, and community at the annual Moving Up Ceremony before they embark on their high school journey. [...]
HOBY Leadership Seminar Representatives – Maha Tanveer & Abigail WashineJune 2, 2026Maha Tanveer and Abigail Washine were Western Wayne High School’s HOBY representatives for the 2026-27 school year. They recently attended the HOBY Leadership Seminar at Millersville University.
PA HOBY Leadership provides a 4-day seminar for high school sophomores. Each school in PA is invited to select one student who demonstrates outstanding leadership skill and potential to serve as their school’s ambassador. During the seminar, students participate in panel discussions featuring speakers who are leaders in the fields of government, education, media, and social issues. They spend “a day in the life of a state representative” debating bills on the house floor at the PA Capitol. They spend a half day learning about small and large businesses in PA, then serve for the afternoon at various volunteer sites. Throughout this weekend are many cheers, a dance, a talent show, new friendships, many challenges, and a life-changing experience.
At HOBY, leadership development programs ensure that students gain awareness of themselves and others, practice and apply newly learned skills, and leave feeling empowered to make a positive impact on the world around them. With authenticity, connection, and growth at the core of the programming, student ambassadors learn what it means to be an aware and engaged community member. [...]
High School May Students of the MonthJune 1, 2026The following students were recognized by the Student Council as students of the month for May. Their teachers and administrators weighed in on the decisions. All of the students chosen hold a high standard of academic and personal excellence. They are true examples of the P.R.I.D.E. standards for PBIS at our school.
First, is our selected freshman Reyna Weaver. She is described as a creative thinker, hard worker, having a positive attitude, and is always engaged. Reyna is always willing to go the extra mile in class with her attentive, mature, and respectful attitude. In addition, it is noted she always has a smile and is kind and polite to all she meets.
Next, Archer Long is our chosen sophomore this month. He has excelled in golf this year along with having other accomplishments in art where he placed at the Western Wayne High School Art Show with many pieces and has been chosen to have his artwork on display at a local community exhibition to be announced later this spring. In addition, he has worked hard this year in his academic classes and has done quality work in English. It is noted by his teachers that he is resilient and always assists everyone with needed academic tasks in class.
In addition, Dylan Caracciola is this month’s featured junior. His teachers note him to be courteous, extremely helpful, polite, and respectful. In addition, he is a great student who puts quality work and effort into all he does. He also embodies the quality of humility and has a great sense of humor as well. He is a very well-rounded young man.
Finally, Daniel Toscano is our senior spotlight this month. He is noted to be a hard worker, funny, resilient, kind, and focused on his goals. In addition, it is noted by his teachers that he is extremely helpful and gets along with everyone. He is also very polite, respectful, and humble– truly a person who does what is needed with sincerity in all tasks.
Dan has dedicated himself to self-improvement through his work with school services this year. He is continuing to strive for more and working to provide himself with a good quality life for his very bright future.
The Western Wayne School District congratulates these May students of the month and wishes them the best in their future endeavors.
From left: Archer Long, Daniel Toscano, and Reyna Weaver. Absent from photo: Dylan Caracciola. [...]
Safe2Say Something is a youth violence prevention
program run by the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General.
The program teaches youth and adults how to recognize
warning signs and signals, especially within social media,
from individuals who may be a threat to themselves or others
and to “say something” BEFORE it is too late.
