On Homecoming Day, September 30, 2022, we are planning a school-wide event to assemble students at the Sharkey Rossetti Stadium to form the letters “WWHS” on the field. We will use a drone to take a photograph of the student body in formation as a fundraiser for our high school PBIS team. PBIS is a nation-wide evidence-based program that is used in all Western Wayne buildings. PBIS stands for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports, and it is a team of students and teachers that function to support our student body by rewarding good behaviors to improve the climate of the school.
The cost of the photo will be $15.00 for an 8×10 image. All checks can be made out to WWHS PBIS. Cash will also be accepted. Please send your cash or check to the high school Guidance Office to complete your purchase. Checks can be mailed to: WWHS Guidance 1970A Easton Turnpike, Lake Ariel, PA 18436.
All money is due prior to your order being placed. Orders will be accepted and money collected until November 1, 2022. An email will be sent to the address you provide when the orders have arrived. Orders are expected to be fulfilled in November.
EverGreen’s first grade was buzzing with excitement when we had our beekeeper presentation from Dr. Jim Tickner. He not only showed photos from his own hives, but he also brought in a real hive for students to see, along with other beekeeping materials. He encouraged the students to follow paths that they are interested in and maybe even one day become a beekeeper!
On May 25th the Pre-Kindergarten classes at EverGreen Elementary had a bus safety presentation. Students learned about safety while boarding and exiting the bus along with proper behavior while being on the bus. Students picture are from Mrs. Hoch’s morning and afternoon classes and Miss Sposto’s morning class. The presentation was by WW School Police Officer Marty Robbins and bus driver Mark Peet. Thank you to Officer Robbins, Mr. Peet and Mr. Henwood from Henwood Bussing for allowing the use of one of his buses.
The Cat Pack Games were held on Tuesday, May 24 at Sharkey Rosetti Stadium. Students from EverGreen, RDW and Middle and High Schools were greeted by the Western Wayne Marching Band. Student volunteers from the Middle and High Schools assisted in the games. The day was a perfect highlight of some of the many talents of our students-running, jumping, throwing, and playing! Thank you to everyone who helped make it a great day!
WVIA presented PBS Kids in the Classroom on at EverGreen Elementary on May 11, 12 and 17 to students in grades kindergarten through second grade. This program offered allows an educator from WVIA to come into the classroom and present a lesson about a PBS kids show. The lessons this year were based on animal habitats. Students picture here at from Miss Getz’s kindergarten class.
EverGreen Elementary hosted this year’s Title I Awards Night for our students from Robert D. Wilson Elementary and EverGreen Elementary who completed the Title 1 program. Dinner was served while our amazing speaker, Betty Lawson read a book aloud. “Ms. Betty” is the librarian at the Honesdale Library in Honesdale and became famous for her bedtime stories she read, virtually, during Covid. She also gave our families tips and tricks to get our children to talk about their day in a meaningful way that builds connections in our brains. We also learned when a child is born, they have as many brain cells as stars in the Milky Way. We had a great turnout, and the night ran smoothly thanks to our energetic, caring, and motivated Title I teachers who organized the entire event. Thank you to Mrs. Malec, Mrs. Daniels, and Mrs. Vinton for a very special evening.
The week of March 14th is designated as AG Literacy Week in the state of Pennsylvania. The program focuses on connecting volunteers from the agricultural community to local classrooms to share the story of agriculture. Volunteer readers will have the opportunity to talk about farming and agriculture through the book they read as well as their own experiences with farming. Volunteers visited all kindergarten, first grade, and second grade classrooms at EverGreen Elementary on March 15th where they read My Family’s Soybean Farm to the students. Students pictured are from Ms. Hemmler’s first grade class.
Pictured from left to right: Ella Sepelyak, Lucas Musgrave, Mrs. Davis (School Nurse), Taylor Brown, and Juliana DeCandis.
In light of dental health month, Dr. Joyce Perih donated dental hygiene bags to the 3rd graders at EverGreen Elementary during the month of February. Dental examinations are important for oral hygiene
In conjunction with Read Across America and Dr. Seuss’s birthday on March 2, the EverGreen Elementary PTA held a book distribution to celebrate reading! Each student at EverGreen had the opportunity to choose from a plethora of books to enjoy. Thank you EverGreen Elementary PTA!
Robert “Marty” Robbins didn’t spend a lot of time playing sports as a kid. However, he was definitely a fan and really enjoyed listening to the announcers on TV and radio.
As a result, Marty began dabbling in a bit of PA work whenever the opportunity arose. Mostly though, he was just having a bit of fun amusing himself and those around him.
“I started fooling around calling the games from the stands when my children played,” Marty said. “Eventually, I began announcing Little League Baseball and then became the voice of Stingers Football.”
Marty’s efforts were well-received. His sense of humor, unique style and dedication to the job made him a fan favorite all over Wayne County.
Then, just a few years ago, Marty landed a job at Western Wayne as a member of the district’s very first School Police Force.
One day he was asked to act as emcee at a pep rally, a gig that led to an invitation to call boys varsity basketball games. Before long, Marty was behind the mike for girls basketball and football too.
“Besides working with the kids in the classrooms and hallways I get my most joy from announcing,” Marty said. “I try to make it fun for all the spectators.”
And while Marty is undoubtedly one of the most popular public address announcers in the Lackawanna League, he’s more than that … so much more.
Setting the Stage
Marty is the son of Alberta and the late Robert Robbins, Honesdale.
He attended Wayne Highlands schools, graduating from HHS in the spring of 1985. Marty was very active in extracurricular activities during his high school years, participating in everything from rifle club and cheerleading to chorus and theatre.
After graduation, Marty enlisted in the US Army where he became a light wheel vehicle mechanic, serving with the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
When Marty’s hitch was up, he returned to Honesdale and pondered his next move. He worked as an orderly at Wayne Memorial Hospital and seriously considered a career in nursing. However, he eventually decided to become a Pennsylvania State Trooper, entering the Academy in January 1990.
Six months later, Marty graduated and was assigned to the Bethlehem area where he served the citizens of at Dublin and Trevose.
In 1993, he was transferred to Dunmore. After that, there were stints in Susquehanna, Pike and Wayne counties.
Marty was promoted to corporal in 1999 and retired in 2013 after serving a total of 23 years. It’s at this point in the story that Marty arrives on the scene at Western Wayne.
“I joined the newly-formed school district police working with three fellow retired troopers: Paul Semler, Danny Martin, and Wayne Thomas,” he said.
“We all take the safety of our students, faculty and staff very seriously. Each of us brings a different aspect to the table, so to speak, connecting with different students.”
On a typical day, Marty and his fellow officers patrol the parking lot, bus drop and cafeteria. They’re also a constant presence in the hallways and all over the the grounds, working hard to ensure that students, faculty and staff all remain safe.
“The Western Wayne school district is truly a second family,” he said. “Everyone here is involved and invested in the students’ lives. I enjoy being proactive and helping kids in their career development and avoiding trouble.”
Marty and his colleagues are frequently invited into the classroom to speak on a wide range of topics.
Last week, Officer Robbins accepted just such an invitation. This one was extended by RD Wilson Elementary School Counselor Erica Germani, who asked him to come and talk to a large group of students.
Marty happily complied, drawing from his experience as a sports announcer to win over a gym filled with first and fourth graders.
“Officer Robbins had a meaningful discussion with students about his career journey,” Erica said. “He surprised many by saying he got into the profession because he wanted to help people.
“Overall, I feel like he transformed students’ perception of the law enforcement field. He even spoke one-on-one with a student who was upset.”
Marty has a genuine way with children. It’s nothing less than a gift. When he speaks, he’s able to gain their trust, make them relax, and also communicate truly important information.
These traits proved crucial in helping students deal with the disruption caused by COVID.
“Kids in general are very resilient,” he said. “Especially our younger students seem to have adapted well to all the challenging circumstances of the past two years.
“They’re happy just to be back to in-person learning. Judging from the excitement I see, I don’t believe that events of the past two years have slowed them down any.”
Rave Reviews
Matt Fitzsimmons has been a fixture at Western Wayne for 23 years now.
He grew up in Forest City, but has played many roles during his tenure at Western Wayne including teacher, coach and guidance counselor. It’s in his capacity as a counselor that he helped arrange Officer Robbins’ visit with the RD Wilson students.
“Marty is fully part of the Western Wayne community,” Matt said. “He identifies with the students and they know he truly cares about them. Plus, his announcing at sporting events is the best!”
Paul Gregorski concurs.
Western Wayne’s High School Principal has nothing but praise for Marty’s role in the district.
“Officer Marty Robbins is an integral member of our school community,” Paul said. “He is caring and compassionate individual who truly cares about students.
“He’s also the best PA announcer in the area. We appreciate Officer Robbins everyday, and we thank him for his ongoing service to the students and staff at Western Wayne.”
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. [...]
Students Present Research at the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science State MeetingMay 28, 2026The following Western Wayne High School and Middle School students presented scientific research at the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science Regional Competition on May 18. These students investigated a scientific question, carried out controlled scientific research, and presented their findings to a panel of professionals in STEM fields. Students engaged in the engineering design process to develop these projects. The Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) is a statewide organization of middle and high school students designed to stimulate and promote interest in science among its members through the development of research projects and investigations.
High School:
Audrey Agnello- 2nd award for her research in the field of Behavioral Science. Audrey studied Gender Differences in Deceptive Efficiency. Audrey was awarded a perseverance award for her success at the state competition.
Madelyn McClure -1st award for her research in the field of Zoology. Madelyn studied the Thermal Effects of Exercise on Equine Lower Limbs. Madelyn focused on how protective boots may increase tendon damage due to heat retention using a thermal camera and horses that are in training. Madelyn was awarded a perseverance award for her success at the state competition.
Christopher Pane- 2nd award for his research in the field of Biology. Christopher studied How cells are protected from Stress by Antioxidants. Chris’s work is related to cancer development in cells and how antioxidants prevent damage and protect cells.
Ava Karabuber- 2nd award for her research in the field of Botany. Ava studied the Effects of Salt on Plant Germination. Ava focused on how road salt runoff is impacting germination in plants.
Charlie Vinton- 2nd award for his research in Microbiology. Charlie studied the Bacterial Content of Manufactured Snow. Charlie’s work examined the bacterial load in snow that is manufactured at ski resorts compared to natural snow.
Middle School:
Timothy McClure- 1st award for his research in Physics. TJ conducted an Experimental Analysis of Projectile Velocity Consistency. TJ examined how ballistics rounds vary in velocity throughout a lot and between brands as fired through a chronograph. TJ was awarded a perfect score and the State Directors’ Award of Excellence for Junior High Physics as well as a monetary award.
Harper Bell- 2nd award for her research in Physics. Harper studied the effects of softball bat type on ball distance. Harper’s interest in softball drove her research to determine which bat is most effective.
Sophia Shehadi- 2nd award for her research in Microbiology. Sophia studied the Effects of Straw Type on Bacterial Content. Her work involved determining the bacteria that build up in straw materials during use.
Club advisors are high school science teachers Christine McClure and Maria Masankay.
Photo one, from left: Madelyn McClure and Audrey Agnello received perseverance awards for their success at the state competition.Photo two, from left: Christopher Pane, Madelyn McClure, Sophia Shehadi, Harper Bell, Audrey Agnello, Ava Karabuber, Charles Vinton, and Timothy McClurePhoto three: Timothy McClure received the State Directors’ Award of Excellence for Junior High Physics. [...]
Western Wayne Car Show and Lead Motorcycle Run on SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 May 19, 2026The Western Wayne Hot Rod Club and Drama Club will host their 2026 Annual Car Show on SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the high school parking lot, 1970A Easton Turnpike, Lake Ariel, PA, near the football stadium.
Food to be sold at the concession stand. Registration fee is $10. Spectators are free. The Hot Rod Club will give prizes for best car, truck, tractor, motorcycle, and best in show.
The Drama Club will also host a Lead Motorcycle Run the same day starting at BAER Sports Center, Honesdale, with the finish at the Western Wayne High School. Registration for Motorcycle Run from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The ride begins at 10:30 a.m. Cost is $20 per driver and $15 per passenger. Register day of event at BAER Sports Center. Receive a food voucher and basket raffle ticket for Western Wayne Car Show with Lead Motorcycle Run registration.
In addition, the Drama group will sell a variety of concessions at the car show. There will also be a raffle of baskets and gift certificates generously donated by businesses and families in the local community.
Drama Club President Dakota Douglas is excited to partner with the Hot Rod Club for the Car Show. She explained how the Drama Club students will be dressed in 50s attire for the event.
“We wanted our presence at the event to go along with the variety of cars from the past that surely will be there,” Dakota said. “We hope that the public comes out to enjoy the cars and to have some good food and purchase some chances to win baskets and gift certificates.”
Members of the Drama Parents Club are working to obtain a variety of items for the raffle at the Car Show from many very generous businesses and families in our Wildcat community. The students involved in the Hot Rod Club and Drama Club can use the funds raised from this event for their club activities.
The Hot Rod Club meets on a regular basis to work on a variety of automotive projects after school and can use the funds for their projects among other activities.
The Drama Club meets on a regular basis after school to work on a variety of projects and activities.
“Drama Club gives students a place where they can express themselves,” club vice president, Jason Vass, explained. “We are like one big family in our club and really enjoy coming together to work as a team on events such as the Car Show.”
All of the members of the Hot Rod Club, Drama Club, and Drama Parents Club cordially invite the public to attend this fun-filled event. Come out and see some great vehicles, take some chances on our basket raffle, enjoy some food, and enjoy some time socializing. Hope to see you there on SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19. The rain date is Saturday, September 26. [...]
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.
