Wayne County Community
Foundation, Youth Advisory Committee presented two separate grants to Western
Wayne High School students Rachel Hoch and Sydney Hutchinson on Friday,
January 24.
Ryanne Jennings and William Gershey,
representing the Wayne County Community Foundation, presented the grants to the
students.
Rachel Hoch,
sophomore, received a grant to use for her senior project. The project
involves her work with Western Wayne High School’s annual spring Catwalk
fashion show themed “Tune into Fashion”. Rachel will work to plan
decorations for the show along with sewing other projects for the event.
She also will choose a charity to donate proceeds from the event to.
“I felt glad
I wrote the grant,” Rachel explained. “I know the funds will greatly
benefit our spring show along with the community that will get to enjoy seeing
it.”
Fellow classmate
Sydney Hutchinson, junior, received her grant for her senior project which is a
5K color run to take place at Western Wayne High School on May 16. More
information on her project will be available at www.westernwayne.org in the
spring. Sydney is a member of both the Cross County and track teams and has
an interest in studying business in college. She believes that her
project will combine all of her interests and give her some experience in event
organizing.
“I’m excited
to use the grant money to develop an amazing 5K event for the public to enjoy,”
Sydney explained.
Western Wayne High
School administration and staff feel proud of these students who received
grants and encourage the community to come out and enjoy both of these upcoming
spring events.
Picture one, from
left, standing: Trina Barcarola (YCA), Mrs. Colleen Carmody, Rachel Hoch,
and Brendan Fitzsimmons (YCA).
Picture two, from
left, standing: Trina Barcarola, Mrs. Laura Wojnar, Sydney Hutchinson, Mrs.
Annette Fox, and Brendan Fitzsimmons (YCA).
This year Western Wayne High School has begun a student ambassador program. Ambassadors greet visitors to the high school and escort them to their destination in the building among participating in other school events. In November, the ambassadors went through a training with Julie Bialkowski from Penn State Scranton.
Senior Lenny Maiocco explained how students learned a variety of skills at the training like how properly to shake hands, how to introduce themselves, how to speak at an accurate volume, and how to be open in speaking to others along with how to dress in a presentable manner. In addition, all student ambassadors have Western Wayne blazers with the school emblem on them to wear to look uniform and professional for all of the events they participate in.
The following high school students are a part of the program:
Celeste Orchard, Madison McGlone, Jamie Bryan, Kaeli Romanowski, Skylar Long, Cyrah Bihler, McKenzie Laity, Miranda Montijo, Cassidy Asinski, Angelia Reggie, Trina Barcarola, Landon Firmstone, Zane Janiszewski, Alex Amorine, Asia Nichols, Sinclaire Ogof, Brendan Fitzsimmons, Zachary Rovinsky, Jack McAllister, Parker Howell, James Fryzel, Derek Mason, Lenny Maiocco, Alaina Maiocco, Abby Black, Sinaea Buford, Ashton Fitzsimmons, Morgan Coccodrilli, Sydney Peet, and Ezra Tetreault.
The students felt very excited to attend their first event, Curriculum Night in January. The student ambassadors had the pleasure of serving as escorts for 8th grade students and their families to give them a taste of what the high school has to offer. The following ambassadors attended Curriculum Night: Jamie Bryan, Cassidy Asinski, Miranda Montijo, Celeste Orchard, Trina Barcarola, Lenny Maiocco, Ezra Tetreault, Derek Mason, Brendan Fitzsimmons, and Landon Firmstone.
Senior Landon Firmstone was especially glad to share information about the Robotics Team to an eighth grader in his tour group. Landon is highly involved in the Robotics Team and feels privileged to help pass on the legacy of the club to future freshmen.
“You almost don’t realize how much you know about the school until you serve as an ambassador and have to pass on your knowledge about it,” Landon, who aspires to study business management in college, explained.
Fellow ambassador Jamie Bryan also made connections with students in her Curriculum Night group. Jamie is a proud member of the Western Wayne Marching Band and discussed how she met five students who have an interest in joining band in high school.
“It was great to relate to possible future band students,” Jamie said. “I hope I helped them to feel confident in their decision to join our band.”
Senior Class President Ezra Tetreault explained how he also took time during Curriculum Night to inspire young students.
“I really wanted to impress on them that they can be who they want to be at our high school,” Ezra explained. “Whether it is in band, Spanish classes, business classes, sports, everywhere you look there is another opportunity to find yourself at our school.”
In addition to the ambassadors attending Curriculum Night, they have also started giving high school campus tours to visitors from the community.
Senior James Fryzel was the first ambassador to give a tour. He escorted John Brennan and Paul Brown from the Carbondale Technology Transfer Center (CTTC). Brennan and Brown spoke to Theresa Lubash’s marketing class about the CTTC which is a place to help people start businesses. The students learned how at CTTC they provide business and technical support, guided access to funding for businesses, and space with no long-term leases among a variety of other services and resources.
James felt honored to be able to give the opening student ambassador tour to Brennan and Brown. He was able to show them around the high school before taking them to his marketing class where they gave their presentation. Just as James was glad to share his knowledge of Western Wayne with the businessmen he was also glad to gain knowledge from his experience with them as was his marketing class.
“I learned that hard work and dedication can get you far in the business world,” James explained. “I think it is important to learn from people who have experience.”
James’ marketing class will be working to gather ideas for CTTC’s marketing department and will make a trip to CTTC as a way to further enrich their business studies.
James and all of the other Western Wayne student ambassadors look forward to meeting and welcoming more community members into their school.
Pictured are the members of the Western Wayne Student Ambassador Program. Row 1 (l to r): Celeste Orchard, Madison McGlone, Jamie Bryan, Kaeli Romanowski, Skylar Long, Cyrah Bihler, McKenzie Laity, Miranda Montijo, Cassidy Asinski, Angelia Reggie, Trina Barcarola, Landon Firmstone, Zane Janiszewski, and Alex Amorine. Row 2 (l to r): Asia Nichols, Sinclaire Ogof, Brendan Fitzsimmons, Zachary Rovinsky, Jack McAllister, Parker Howell, James Fryzel, Derek Mason. Absent from photo: Lenny Maiocco, Alaina Maiocco, Abby Black, Sinaea Buford, Ashton Fitzsimmons, Morgan Coccodrilli, Sydney Peet, and Ezra Tetreault.
Western Wayne would like to thank Ryan, founder of Grain to Glory, for his hospitality and generosity! Ryan gave us the opportunity to learn how to make and take one of his signature flags. Students loved having the chance for such a hands on and engaging learning experience, with a wonderful host and his mascot Dora.
Western Wayne High School Chorus students participated in the PMEA District Chorus Festival from January 15 through January 17. Sophomore Joanna Regalbuto qualified for the PMEA Region Chorus Festival, which will be held on February 26 through February 28 at the Greater Nanticoke High School. Pictured are the Western Wayne High School Chorus students who participated at this year’s District Chorus Festival. From left: Brad Wood, Alex Taylor, Dakota Beavers, Rhonda Fenkner, Andie Solimine, Joanna Regalbuto, and Trinity Williams.
It is time to pick your classes for the 2020-21 school year. Please watch the video to hear about courses, requirements and the course request process.
Zane Janiszewski has been selected to Channel 16’s prestigious“Super16 Dream Team” for football. The football players are selected from District II, IV, and XI by the Sports Department at WNEP Channel 16. Zane is the first football player ever selected to represent Western Wayne.
Zane led the Wildcats’s this year with the following:
Total Rushing Yards – 1,881 on 231 carries
Average Rushing Yards per carry – 8.1
Rushing Touchdowns – 30
Receiving Yards – 142
Total Yards – 2,023
Total Touchdowns 33
On Defense – 42 Solo Tackles and 59 Assists
Sacks – 1.5
Zane is a 3-Sport Athlete, he also plays basketball and baseball for the Wildcats. He is the son of Ken & Karen Janiszewski and resides in Moscow.
The show was taped today, and will be aired on Channel 16 on Sunday, January 26, 2020 at 7:00 PM.
The Western Wayne High School Band and Chorus entertained students and staff on the day before the holiday break per years long tradition. Everyone enjoyed the in-school holiday concert that lifted their spirits.
“A
House is Not a Home” is a 1964 ballad made famous by Dionne Warwick in which
she sings about how the most important part of a house is filling it with the
people you care most for. This year,
throughout the Western Wayne School District, faculty, staff, administration,
and students are embracing the PBIS initiative which has the main purpose of
creating a proactive positive environment for everyone in the school community.
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 environment. A
big part of creating a place where students can thrive is to have adult leaders
that make the students believe school is like home in the respect that they can
feel safe and cared for there.
School resource Officer Robert Robbins’
continued efforts at Western Wayne are one of the reasons why students feel so
at home especially at the Middle and High schools.
Robbins has served in his position at
Western Wayne since 2013. He takes extra
time out of his day to get to know the students and let them know he is there
for them. As a part of PBIS, students in
the Middle School have been rewarded with being able to have lunch with
Robbins. Many of them have enjoyed this
perk.
“He listens to us,” eighth grader
Ireland Swingle said. “It’s fun when I
get to beat him at Uno. Spending time
with him is something new, so it’s really fun.”
Robbins explained that he thinks
playing cards with the students at lunch helps to break the ice.
“It’s actually great to sit with
them,” Robbins said. “They open up, and
you get to hear about what they like to do.
They get to see a different side of me, and I get to see a different
side of them.”
“He’s like a sports announcer when we
play,” eighth grader Austin Barger said.
“He’s really funny and really nice.
He even gave me an Uno deck one time and I really liked that.”
Robbins explained how this year for
the holiday season he sat with students at lunch and helped them color pictures
to hang on the wall in the cafeteria.
“The students are encouraged to take
them home with them,” Robbins explained.
“However, any pictures that were left behind before the holiday, I took
home and displayed at my house as a table cloth. They really mean something to me because they
represent the quality time I get to spend with the students.”
Robbins discussed why he feels it is
so important to spend meaningful time with them.
“You don’t often know what kind
of or if any attention they are getting at home. I make myself available and I see a lot of
positives come from that. The students
don’t want to let any of the faculty down by misbehaving,” Robbins said.
Working with students to help guide
them has been a part of Robbin’s job that he truly enjoys at Western Wayne. This type of work is a change from
experiences he has had in work up to this point.
Robbins has a long career path that
precedes his time at the district. Officer
Robbins served in the United States Army in the 101st Airborne
Division as a Light Wheel Vehicle Mechanic at Fort Campbell Kentucky for two
years. He earned the Army Achievement
Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Air Assault Badge.
Upon the conclusion of his active service,
Officer Robbins joined the Pennsylvania National Guard and served in Alpha Co,
1st Battalion of the 109th Infantry Regiment. In this unit, he served as a Squad Leader,
Vehicle Commander, was promoted to Sergeant and was awarded the General S. J.
Stewart Medal for service and NCO Academy Graduate Ribbon.
In 1991, Officer Robbins joined the
Pennsylvania Air National Guard and served with the Security Police Flight at
Willow Grove Naval Air Station. He was
responsible for base security, Flight Operations Security, and the protection
of aircraft and missile weapons sites.
He earned the Rank of Staff Sergeant.
He attended the Security Police Academy at Lackland Air Force Base,
Texas in which he earned the title of Honor Graduate and was awarded the
Pennsylvania Commendation Medal. Officer
Robbins received an Honorable Discharge from all three branches he served in.
Officer Robbins is a retired Pennsylvania
State Trooper, who served for 23 years and spent his entire career in the
Patrol Unit. He was promoted to Corporal
in 1999 and was responsible for nearly every facet of daily operations in a
State Police Troop. He was stationed all
over the State from Bucks County to Wayne County.
Now Robbins, especially through this
year’s PBIS initiative, works to provide many positive experiences for the
students of Western Wayne. For example,
the day before the holiday break Robbins served as D.J. for all of the lunches
in the Middle School and got to interact with students. He, also, did this at the end of the first
quarter as another PBIS reward for students and it went over so well that administration
wanted him to do it for the holidays.
Robbins surely serves as an example of the
purpose of PBIS through all of his interactions with students throughout the
district. Through his service to students he is also duly rewarded.
“Western Wayne has saved me in a
sense,” Robbins explained. “I now get to
see a lot of positive things that I didn’t always see in my career before this.
I think this is what God has called me to do.
I get to spend time with the kids and let them know they are safe here,
cared for here, loved here, and can get help here.”
Western Wayne High School had four seniors recognized as winners of the Artist of the Month Contest for this year by the Scranton Times: Sadie Nahman, January; Shailyn Pugh, May; Allison McDermott, August; and Abby Wilcox, November.
In addition, Shailyn’s art was featured on the cover of Happenings Magazine for December. She explained how she created a holiday-themed picture for Happenings with a train, Santa, and presents done in colored pencil and acrylic.
“I was happy to have my work chosen for Happenings,” Shailyn said. “I love making art because you can create what you want and make it your own in different mediums.”
The piece Shailyn created for the Artist of the Month Contest is a piece titled “Nest.”
She explained how “Nest” has many details. Shailyn crafted a nature scene with a bird’s nest in an apple tree with eggs in it.
“I like to challenge myself with the pieces I make,” she explained.
Shailyn will next challenge herself with envisioning her senior collection for Western Wayne’s annual spring art show. She explained that her collection has a Hollywood theme because she enjoys making portraits of famous people.
Fellow senior Sadie Nahman also appreciates drawing people in her art work. She explained how her art for the Artist of the Month Contest involves children playing hockey in a winter scene.
“When I create art, I like that I can change the picture to be whatever I want it to be,” Sadie explained.
Fellow Scranton Times Artist of the Month Contest winner Abby Wilcox also designed art with a winter theme. One of her pieces is a scene with winter frost on the ground surrounded by birds and rabbits.
Abby also looks forward to creating her senior collection for the spring art show at Western Wayne. Her collection has a fantasy theme with many unrealistic colors.
“I chose this theme because I like using colors and exploring what it looks like to create images that don’t have to look realistic,” she explained.
Western Wayne faculty, staff, and administration are proud of the accomplishments of these aspiring young artists and encourage the community to look for their work in the Scranton Times to celebrate their accomplishments.
Western Wayne senior Trina Barcarola recently inked with
The University of Virginia because of her vast track accomplishments. Trina is a Scranton Times Athlete of the Year
for her numerous athletic achievements in track. She also was a member of the All-State Track
Team last year. She won two gold medals
in one day at the State Championship for pole vault and 100 hurdles.
Trina
believes that many factors contribute to her success.
“My
coaches and all of the support I receive from my family and friends is
important,” Trina explained.
“I also rely on hard work, and my center, above all else, is my
faith.”
Trina
belongs to multiple clubs such as National Honor Society, Fellowship of
Christian Athletes, Youth Advisory Committee, and is the president of her
church youth group. Along with her
athletic work with the track team, Trina has played volley ball on the Western
Wayne team for three years. When she
isn’t working on her athletic craft, she can be found creating designs in her
Fashion II class at Western Wayne. As a
senior in this course, she will design a collection for the school’s annual
spring fashion show. Trina has titled
her collection “Between the Lines.”
Western
Wayne faculty and staff are thrilled for Trina to have received such a
significant scholarship from VCA. Trina
feels very excited to begin her college career.
“I’m
most looking forward to taking the next steps in my life and growing as a
person, student, and athlete.”
From left, standing: Justin
Collins, head Western Wayne track coach; and Robert Amos, Western Wayne pole
vault coach. From left, sitting, are members
of the Barcarola family: Adriana Barcarola, John Barcarola, Trina Barcarola,
Victoria Barcarola, Bernice Maiocco, and Johnny Barcarola.
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.
