The Western Wayne Drama Club hosted a Mystery Dinner for 100 guests on Saturday, December 6. This year the show featured an original script written by our very own Western Wayne Drama Club historian Molly French, high school junior. Molly was able to star in and debut her original play on the night of her birthday.
This year’s mystery centered around an art gala in which the million- dollar art piece was stolen. The audience had a fun time trying to figure out the identity of the thief along with enjoying a dinner catered by RPlace and other refreshments provided by the Drama Parent Club.
The club has plans for Molly to write her second original script for next year’s winter play event centering around a holiday theme this time and suitable for kids of all ages. Stay tuned for more information about next year’s mystery play made available later this spring.
Pictured are the cast and crew of this year’s mystery dinner play. Row one, kneeling, from left: Lola Vertalics, Audrey Capozzi, and Roslyn Knecht. Second row, from left: Britney Wertman, Zachary Jordan, Johnathon Maxwell, Jade Wetherington, Dakota Douglas, Molly French, Madison Forgione, Emma DeNunzio, Mikayla Fullone, Avery Ullner, Lylah Bucksbee, and Laila Rainford. Third row, from left: Owen Obloshny, Scott Kurent, Zachary Wilbur, Xavier Graham, and Jason Vass.
The following students were recognized by the Student Council as students of the month for October. 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, Ayvari Ford-Rakosnik, freshman, is extremely creative and insightful. She goes above and beyond with her creative writing assignments. Also, her teachers say she is passionate and courteous.
“I love challenging myself to read, write, and express myself through performance art,” Ayvari, color guard and drama club member, said.
Next, Grace Owens, sophomore, is helpful, friendly, and pleasant. Her teachers note how she includes others with a genuine heart and does needed classroom tasks without being asked. She actively participates in her classes and helps her teachers keep their rooms tidy. Also, Grace is very active in her church.
In addition, Cameron Press, junior, always volunteers to help in class, works hard, and his teachers say he is easy-going and empathetic. In addition, Cameron recently earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout.
Lastly, senior Braden Laity is hard-working and juggles many activities and academic goals. His teachers say that he doesn’t stop until the work is done. In addition, he is respectful, polite, and cares about his grades.
The Western Wayne School District congratulates these October students of the month and wishes them the best in their future endeavors.
From left, Braden Laity, Cameron Press, Grace Owens, and Ayvari Ford-Rakosnik.
The December edition of Scholarships & Career Opportunities is now available. All grades should read this document to get information on college, careers, important dates, SAT/ACT exams and of course…scholarships!
The Western Wayne High School Semi Formal was held on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Ladore, Waymart. Approximately 300 students, faculty, and security team were in attendance.
Students nominated sophomores Frederick Lauemoeller and Myla Smith as Semi Prince and Princess. Everyone in attendance enjoyed a beautiful Candyland theme for their special evening.
“I had a wonderful experience as Semi Princess,” Myla said.
From left: Paul B. Gregorski, high school principal; Frederick Lauemoeller, Semi Prince; Myla Smith, Semi Princess; and Robert Black, high school assistant principal.
The Western Wayne Drama Club’s Mystery Dinner and Show will take place on Saturday, December 6, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Western Wayne High School Cafeteria. This event is for students grades 8 and up and adults ONLY. Ticket sales EXTENDED until Tuesday, November 25.
The show has an original script written by our very own Western Wayne Drama Club historian Molly French, high school junior. The club is excited to debut their completely student-created show for the community.
This year’s mystery centers around an art gala in which the million- dollar art piece is stolen. Join us for a fun-filled evening and try to figure out who the thief could be. The event will also feature art pieces by Western Wayne alumni and current students.
The public is encouraged to dress in formal wear. Gowns for ladies. Suits and ties or tuxedos for men. There will be many audience prizes given including one for best dressed! Additional prizes for audience participation and the team that solves the mystery with the most details given in their report.
Tickets for adults are $25 and students grades 8th and up along with senior citizens are $20. Cost includes appetizers, soda and water, buffet dinner from RPlace, dessert, and interactive dinner show. Buffet includes: beef, chicken, penne and meatballs, roasted red potatoes, California vegetable medley, salad, and rolls.
Checks may be dropped off at the Middle School or High School main office during regular school hours. Checks should be made payable to WWDP. Checks can also be sent in with any Drama Club student. Please put your returns in a sealed envelope. Any questions, please email jmclaughlin@westernwayne.org Deadline for ticket orders is TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25. Payments can be made in advance or at the door the day of the event.
Payments also with Venmo: @WesternWayneDramaClub
If paying Venmo please clearly state your name, mystery dinner, and how many tickets you are paying for and whether they are for adults and/ or senior citizens.
We hope to see you for this unique evening which is perfect for a date night or night out with friends. Dress up and join the Western Wayne Drama Club on December 6!
Ticket reservation link below for your convenience
Tacos and bananas don’t necessarily go together at mealtime, but they do connect to an initiative for mental health awareness at the Western Wayne Middle School through their involvement in the Avedium program called the “Wear Your Care” campaign. Avedium is a US-based, student-led mental health awareness and suicide prevention program active in schools across the country. Created by students for students, its mission is to “shatter the silence” surrounding depression, suicide, and other youth issues. The name Aevidum means “I’ve got your back”.
As a follow-up to mental health awareness month students are “wearing their care” in the month of November to provoke discussion about emotional well-being. Members of the middle school Avedium group wore taco costumes to gather data on how many people who interacted with them during the day would sincerely check in on their mental state. Of the over one hundred interactions the students recorded, they reported only two remarks of genuine concern.
Western Wayne Middle School principal Casey Newcomer introduced the guest speaker at the Avedium mental-health awareness assembly on Thursday, November 20, and encouraged the student body to continue to strive to care about others in the school community as a priority.
Dr. Matthew Spott, local entrepreneur and suicide prevention counselor with the Crisis Line, Scranton, spoke to the students about his personal journey through mental health struggles. He is the Vice President of U.S. Sales for Uniphar, a global healthcare company that helps pharmaceutical and biotech manufacturers connect with patients and healthcare professionals through education, medical information, and digital engagement.
Over his 17-year career in the pharmaceutical industry, Spott has worked with some of the world’s leading life science companies. In addition, he owns The Lovelton Hotel, a family-friendly sportsman bar, hotel and restaurant in Wyoming County; leadsSpoSho Investments, a real estate company with more than 80 residential units and several community redevelopment projects; and through Spott Inc., he’s opening three new Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop locations throughout Northeast Pennsylvania.
Spott also has several ongoing development projects focused on repurposing abandoned and historic buildings across NEPA into modern, luxury condominiums.
He serves on the Board of Directors for NAMI — the National Alliance on Mental Illness — the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for millions of Americans affected by mental health conditions.
Furthermore, he is the founder of Total Game Changer (TGC) — a mindset and motivation platform that challenges people to take control of their lives and reach their potential. Through TGC, he authored his first book, Game Changer: The Seven Mindsets of Solution-Based Selling for Life-Changing Results, which explores how adopting the right mindset can transform not just how you sell, but how you live.
He earned his Bachelor of Science in Management and Marketing from The Pennsylvania State University (Penn State), an MBA in Strategy and International Business from Wilkes University, and a Doctorate in Organizational Development from the University of Southern California (USC).
Above all, Spott is a husband and father first. He lives in the Scranton area with his wife, DeAnna, and their three children, Matthew, Gianni, and Sicilia.
Spott started his presentation by telling a story about a seventeen-year-old young man who one day stood on a bridge contemplating suicide because he felt that his home situation was so terrible. Spott explained how the teenager decided to flip a coin to decide his fate. He later revealed that the struggling teen was himself.
Due to his own battle with mental health issues, Spott decided to dedicate his life to helping others who also struggle and face situations that he did as a teen. He explained that at sixteen he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. After his almost suicide attempt, he coped by being a bully to others until he was 23 years old. At 25 he had to enter a program for substance abuse, and he states that the experience saved his life.
“My life has turned around,” he explained. “It wasn’t easy. When I was younger, I didn’t know how to receive love and kindness. It felt better to make someone else feel horrible.”
After going to therapy for many years, Spott better understands how to handle his anxiety and other emotions. He explained revelations he had in therapy to the students.
“Everyone needs to find coping mechanisms,” he explained. “Talking is the number one thing we can do.”
He encouraged students to find positive outlets for their emotions. Spott recognized that the modern day is an incredibly difficult time in history for teens with the age of social media. He discussed how dopamine rushes are everywhere in the form of short videos, text messages, etc.
“The biggest joy I get right now is giving back,” he explained, encouraging the students to find outlets not connected to the internet to help make their lives more meaningful as his closing remarks. “There are resources all around if you need help. Be kind to each other. It costs nothing to be nice or to just not be mean to others. Be kind to yourselves first then you can be kind to others.”
Pictured is Dr. Matthew Spott speaking to the Western Wayne Middle School student body on Thursday, November 20.
As a tradition for many years, Western Wayne administration, faculty, staff, and students joined together on Monday, Nov. 10, to celebrate veterans in the community with a special in-school event that featured music from the high school band and chorus, a presentation by a keynote speaker, and a question and answer symposium.
Many local veterans attended the presentation at Western Wayne, some of which had special connections to district faculty and students.
Western Wayne teacher and veteran Shane Grodack, USMC retired, acknowledged the Marines 250th birthday in his opening remarks and introduced the Western Wayne High School chorus and band.
One of the band’s musical selections this year featured Western Wayne senior Scott Kurent playing the role of Abraham Lincoln and reading parts of the Gettysburg address. Scott has played many roles in Western Wayne musical productions over the years and was glad to take on this new role for the Veterans Day assembly.
“I was glad to get to relive history for my classmates in this unique way,” Scott said.
After the musical performances, Grodack introduced this year’s keynote speaker, Casey Newcomer, Western Wayne Middle School principal.
Newcomer served for six years in the United States military–four years with the Army National Guard and two years on active duty. His service included an 18-month deployment as an infantry soldier in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
After returning home, Newcomer continued to serve others– this time in the field of education. He graduated from West Chester University, taught biology for several years at a large school outside of Philadelphia, and later earned his master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Immaculata University.
Seeing a need in his district, Newcomer worked to open and lead an alternative school for underserved students. After a decade of service there, he returned with his family to Wayne County where he now serves as the principal of the Western Wayne Middle School.
In his speech, Newcomer called the Western Wayne High School and Middle School study body to action.
“Real strength isn’t about what you achieve yourself, but what you give of yourself to others,” he explained.
Newcomer described a time in his service where he provided food and other necessary goods to a family in need in a developing country. That moment was an eye-opening experience for him in which he realized just how powerful the work of the military is for others in need and what a military presence means in the lives of those struggling in countries greatly affected by war.
“Veterans are living examples of service, sacrifice, and something bigger than themselves,” he said.
In his speech, he challenged the students to live like soldiers no matter what path they choose to take in their lives.
“Choose respect over disrespect. Stand up for what is right,” he encouraged the students. “Your life has purpose when you live it for others.”
Following Newcomer’s address, the annual Veterans symposium took place on stage. The following veterans took part in this year’s panel: Shane Grodack, USMC retired; Gary Sereno, sergeant Army; Robert Smerdon, United States Air Force; Josh Harrison, United States Army; the late George Schaffer, Air Force; Clay Cole, United States Air Force; John Gaudenzi, Sergeant First Class Army, 39-year educator of the Western Wayne School District, who originated the Veterans Day festivities at Western Wayne in 1982 with fellow teacher Marie Casper; Michael Urban, Army CSM retired; Casey Newcomer, Army National Guard; and Kent Swartz, United States Air Force.
Questions were read by Grodack and created by Western Wayne High School history class students.
The veterans discussed how difficult it is to leave family and friends behind to serve along with discussing the many highs and lows of their experiences in various branches of the military.
One of the final questions asked was if the veterans would advise students in the audience to join the service.
Michael Urban, Army CSM retired and father of Western Wayne foreign language teacher Melissa Urban, commented, “The military is a good career, but you really have to prepare yourself mentally and physically for it.”
“There are a lot of advantages to being in the military like seeing and doing things other people would only read about in books,” Urban continued. “ It is a decision you have to make in your heart. Your heart is going to be the key to your success.”
Picture one, kneeling, from left: Mia Arcadipane, Ella Kieva, Kaelyn Chearney, Kamila Rivera, and Bella Kolp. Standing, from left: Shane Grodack, Western Wayne history teacher, USMC retired; Cameron Press, Madison Trapanese, Sydney Sosa, Olivia McGlone, Leah Reeger, Audrey McHugh, Makenzie Chearney, Meghan Rath, Alicia Wertman, Emma Spewak, and Casey Newcomer, Western Wayne Middle School principal, Army National Guard. All students pictured as members of Western Wayne’s Student Ambassador Program who help to serve the community at events such as the Veterans Day Assembly.
Picture two, from left: Shane Grodack, USMC retired; Gary Sereno, sergeant Army; Robert Smerdon, United States Air Force; Josh Harrison, United States Army; the late George Schaffer, Air Force; Clay Cole, United States Air Force; John Gaudenzi, Sergeant First Class Army; Michael Urban, Army CSM retired; Casey Newcomer, Army National Guard; and Kent Swartz, United States Air Force.
Picture Three: Scott Kurent, senior, reads the part of Abraham Lincoln.
Picture Four: Senior Antonio Fisichella plays “Taps” to close out the assembly with junior Jason Vass, not pictured.
Learning rhythms, beats, steps, and choreography isn’t just work for the Rockettes and Broadway stars, Western Wayne High School foreign language students have a yearly tradition of learning Spanish dancing as a part of their curriculum each fall.
Local dance instructor and studio owner Vince Brust works with the Western Wayne students to teach a variety of traditional Spanish dances such as tango, merengue, mambo, and salsa among others. Brust does this as a part of the Artist in Residence Program through NEIU-19.
The students have a few weeks of sessions with Mr. Brust in the fall leading up to a performance for the community this Thursday, November 20, at 7 p.m. in the Western Wayne High School Veterans Memorial Auditorium. Admission is FREE for everyone.
The high school students were thrilled to learn how to dance and get to meet and work more closely with their fellow classmates in the process.
“I am so excited that our students can continue this tradition of sharing their experience of learning Spanish dancing with the community,” Elizabeth Sandrowicz, Western Wayne Spanish teacher said.
There will be about 30 students participating in the Spanish Dance Performance for the local community at 7 p.m. on Thursday, November 20, in the High School Veterans Memorial Auditorium. Again, admission is FREE for all.
The students and staff involved hope to see you there for what will be about an hour of performance fun.
ALL NEWS
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. [...]
9th Graders Explore Outdoor Education at Varden Conservation AreaMay 14, 2026On May 4, 2026, Western Wayne High School 9th grade students stepped outside the classroom and into nature for a day of immersive, hands-on learning at the Varden Conservation Area. This unique outdoor educational experience brought students face-to-face with real-world environmental science through a collaborative effort involving educators from Lacawac Sanctuary, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), the Wayne County Conservation District, the Delaware Highlands Conservancy, and Trout Unlimited.
Students rotated through a series of engaging, station-based activities focused on local ecology. These included examining macroinvertebrates in a pond ecosystem to evaluate water quality, practicing fishing and casting techniques, identifying local plants and trees, and conducting chemical testing to assess stream health and pollution levels.
A highlight of the day was the release of rainbow trout, marking the culmination of the Pennsylvania Trout in the Classroom (PA-TIC) program. Throughout the school year, students in Dr. Mark Nebzydoski’s classes raised trout from eggs provided by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. The release was supported by the Pike–Wayne Chapter #462 of Trout Unlimited, with assistance from Chapter President Don Strathy and Conservation Chair and Past President Paul Ranello.
The environmental education team included Sue Cosgrove, Director of Environmental Education at Lacawac Sanctuary, Richard Arthur, Environmental Educator, Lydia Freethy of the Delaware Highlands Conservancy and Jen Campbell of the Delaware Highlands Conservancy, who guided students in macroinvertebrate identification and explained their importance as indicators of water quality. Theresa Black of the Pocono Lake Ecological Observatory Network (PLEON) led students in chemical water testing and analysis. DCNR Environmental Education Specialist Josh Heath, along with Trout Unlimited representatives Don Strathy and Paul Ranello, introduced students to responsible fishing techniques and how environmental conditions influence bait and casting choices. Rachael Marques and Alicia Utegg from the Wayne County Conservation District led a nature walk focused on plant and tree identification, highlighting key characteristics and environmental adaptations.
Prior to the field trip, students participated in classroom lessons focused on water quality, groundwater, surface water, and watershed dynamics. These preparatory activities helped students connect local environmental issues to broader ecological concepts and reinforced the importance of protecting shared water resources.
This enriching educational experience was made possible through an Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) grant provided by the nonprofit Western Wayne Education Foundation. Foundation President Christine McClure was also in attendance. Additional Western Wayne staff supporting the trip included Maria Phillips, Helene Tscheschlog, Anthony Zoppi, and Sara Orloski.
This strong collaboration between local environmental organizations and educators highlights the power of experiential learning and reflects Western Wayne’s ongoing commitment to fostering environmental awareness and stewardship among its students.
The event also received coverage from WNEP-TV, where reporter Emily Kress highlighted the day’s activities.
The news story can be viewed here:https://www.wnep.com/video/news/local/wayne-county/science-meets-nature-students-release-trout-at-varden-conservation-area/523-3cf2ef49-624d-4f00-95cd-f2573064bf60
Learn more about the partner organizations:• Varden Conservation Area: www.vardenconservationarea.com• Lacawac Sanctuary: www.lacawac.org• Pennsylvania Trout in the Classroom (PA-TIC): www.patroutintheclassroom.org• Pike–Wayne Chapter #462 Trout Unlimited: https://pwtu.org/
Picture one, from left: Josh Heath DCNR; Caspian Davis, Ryan Geisheimer, Troy Gregorski, Christopher Wright, Daisy Gravell, Addison Bartholomew, Rachel Warnock, and Madalyn Warrick.
Picture two, from left: Haley McGuire, Raelyn Simpson, Aiden Manning, Remmy Fedoryk, and Charlie Vinton. [...]
Paul Borowski & Jade Wetherington – NEIU 19 Scholar of the Year & Performing Artist of the Year – Western Wayne High SchoolMay 12, 2026Congratulations go out to Paul Borowski for being name the NEIU 19 Scholar of the Year for Western Wayne High School for the 2025-26 school year. Paul was recognized, with 23 other students from the NEIU 19 Region, at a ceremony at Lackawanna Trail High School.
Congratulations also go out to Jade Wetherington for being name the NEIU 19 Performing Artist of the Year for the 2025-26 school year. Jade was the lone recipient of the award, being chosen over other students from the entire NEIU 19 Region. [...]
Grace Moser – The Times-Tribune Scholastic Superstar – Western Wayne High School – 2026May 11, 2026Congratulations to Grace Moser on being selected to The Times-Tribune 37th Annual Scholastic Superstars.
The Times-Tribune has sponsored the annual Scholastic Superstars ceremony for nearly 40 years. This year, 25 students were selected from 15 local schools, culminating in the ceremony at Peoples Security Bank Theater of Lackawanna College for a celebration of their academic achievement, extracurricular endeavors, community service and plans for the future. Each high school in The Times-Tribune coverage area is invited to nominate three students. Sixty-eight nominations, with the names and schools redacted, were judged by a panel of local college officials. [...]
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.
