Trina was a 6x Dist. Champion at Lakeland High School. Also PIAA State champion, high jump ’04; PIAA State runner-up, high jump ’06; SX PIAA State medalist; She was 3X Lackawanna League Div. All-Star; 2X Scranton Times All-Reg. Girls’ track Performer of the Year; member of Lakeland Girls’ 4×400 relay team, running Lacka. Track Conf. All-time best time of 4:00.86 in ’05. She was a key member of Girls’ track teams, with 4 straight div. championships; 3 Jordan relay titles & 2 Dist. championships. At East Stroudsburg University, Trina was a 3X NCAA National Championship qualifier (Heptathlon/Pentathlon); Women’s track/field All-Time Cont. Championship point scorer; 2x Conf. champion; ranks top 5 All-Time @ ESU in 4 Indoor track events, and top 5 All-Time in 6 outdoor track events.
Pictured are members of the 2025 Western Wayne Homecoming Court, front row, from left: Maggie Kotchessa and Xavier Graham. Second row, from left: Paul Borowski, Khloe Mistishin, Audrey Agnello, and Vinny Baldini. Third row, from left: Robbie Carrelle, Hannah DeStefano, Logan Vinton, and Madison Trapanese.
The Western Wayne School District invites the community to attend its annual homecoming game this coming Friday, Oct. 3 vs. West Scranton. The public is encouraged to bring a donation for our Food Drive to the game and will gain free admission for doing so. The donation truck will be near the gate of the Sharkey Rosetti Stadium.
The Western Wayne Homecoming Court presentation will begin about 6:30 p.m.. The ten seniors on this year’s court feel extremely honored and excited to be a part of this ensemble.
Members of the court include: Hannah DeStefano, Xavier Graham, Audrey Agnello, Maggie Kotchessa, Khloe Mistishin, Robbie Carrelle, Vinny Baldini, Paul Borowski, Madison Trapanese, and Logan Vinton.
All of our senior court members have been highly involved during their time at Western Wayne in a variety of clubs, sports, and other activities.
First, Hanah DeStefano, South Canaan, has participated in four years of softball and volleyball; three years of basketball; four years of Student Council, and three years of Future Business Leaders of America, FBLA.
Upon graduation, she plans to play softball at a four-year university and major in medical sonography. She has thoroughly enjoyed her science classes at Western Wayne with some of her favorite times being in those classrooms.
“Some of my favorite high school memories were spending all of my free time in Ms. Masankay’s room,” she said.
Next, Xavier Graham, Lake Ariel, has been involved in four years of Drama Club, Marching Band, and Ultimate Frisbee; three years of Stage Crew; two years of Chess Club; and one year of Anime Club.
For his future plans, he wishes to attend Marywood University to major in arts and performance.
One of his most memorable moments in high school involved one of his favorite teachers.
“I will always remember dancing to ‘Soda Pop’ with Mrs. Ort in the band room,” he said.
Another featured member of our court is Audrey Agnello, Waymart, who has participated in numerous activities including: ten years of competitive swimming; six years of Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science, PJAS; fours years of track and field, cross country, Youth Advisory Committee, high school swimming, FBLA, Student Ambassador group, and CATS Club; three years of National Honor Society, NHS; and one year of Tomorrow’s Leaders Today.
In addition, she has held the following leadership positions: current vice president of CATS Club, four years as Student Council class president, and current president of NHS.
She plans to use all of her leadership experience to help her pursue her career goal of becoming a labor and delivery nurse. Audrey has always been a person who has worked to overcome any obstacles in path to excellence.
“I will always remember returning to school after my spinal fusion,” she said. “I walked into the gym and was surrounded by a warm welcome of friends and teachers that made me feel so loved.”
Another featured court member is Maggie Kotchessa, Lake Ariel, who has also been involved in many activities including: four years of volleyball, basketball, FBLA, and Student Council; three years of NHS; and two years of softball.
Upon graduation, she wants to attend a four-year university to become a special education teacher.
She has always valued friendship and helping others during her time at Western Wayne.
“Some of my best times in school were walking with my friend Anthony between classes,” she said.
Next, Khloe Mistishin, Lake Ariel, is another member of our court who has been highly involved during her time in school with the following activities: four years of varsity soccer, basketball, softball, FBLA and Student Council; and three years of NHS.
Her future plans are to attend college with a major in speech pathology. She has enjoyed her time with both her guidance counselor and best friend the most in her high school years.
“I will always remember hanging out in Mrs. Gribble’s office with Grace,” she said.
Next, featured gentleman on our court is Robbie Carrelle, Sterling, another highly involved student who has participated in the following: four years of indoor and outdoor track and soccer; and three years of FBLA, NHS, and Envirothon.
Upon graduation, he wishes to pursue track in college and aspires to become a financial advisor.
Robbie has always enjoyed using humor to brighten his classmates and teachers’ days. One such moment like this led to his favorite memory.
“I will always remember when I told my friend Logan he couldn’t fit under the bus, and Ms. Masankay sent us to the guidance,” he said.
In addition, Vinny Baldini, Waymart, an accomplished Western Wayne athlete is also a member of this year’s court having been involved in the following: four years of varsity football and baseball; two years of varsity track and field; and three years of FBLA and Student Council. Also, he is the current student body president.
For his future plans, Vinny wishes to attend a four-year college to play football and major in education.
Vinny has always enjoyed spending time with his friends in school.
“I especially enjoyed the moments I spent with my friends throughout my junior year,” he said.
Next, Paul Borowski, Waymart, is another accomplished Western Wayne student, who has participated in the following sports and activities: four years of football and wrestling; three years of FBLA and NHS; and two years of track and field and Envirothon.
Upon graduation, he plans to attend a four-year college and major in civil engineering.
He has many favorite memories with the best ones involving sports travel.
“I will always remember staying overnight at the hotels during wrestling tournaments,” he said.
Our final featured young lady on the court is Madison Trapanese, Lake Ariel, who has also done many activities throughout her school years including: FBLA, Envirothon, 339 group, Avedium, Student Council, Student Ambassador group, NHS, Yearbook, Junior Leadership Northern Poconos, and National Honor Society of High School Scholars. In addition, she also notes going to the gym and helping with her family businesses as important parts of her high school years.
Upon graduation, she wishes to either attend Lackawanna College to earn an associate’s degree in ultrasound or to attend St. Joseph’s University to earn an associate’s degree in nuclear medicine technology.
As is the theme with many of our Homecoming Court students, her favorite memory also included beloved teacher Ms. Masankay.
“I will always remember her Honors Chemistry class,” she said.
Finally, Logan Vinton, Waymart, is a featured gentleman on our court who is highly involved in sports and school clubs including: four years of Hot Rod Club; three years of NHS and soccer, and one year of baseball. In addition, he is an Aevidum member.
For his future plans, he wishes to attend college at Lackawanna for petroleum and natural gas.
He will always remember his time with his teammates in school.
“My favorite memory is hanging out with my friends on the way to soccer games,” he said.
All of the members of our homecoming court look forward to bonding with each other and making memories during homecoming at Friday’s game. The court along with the rest of the Western Wayne community invite the public to join them on Friday, Oct. 4 at 6:30 p.m. for the homecoming festivities followed by the game.
Pictured are members of the 2025 Western Wayne Homecoming Court, front row, from left: Maggie Kotchessa and Xavier Graham. Second row, from left: Paul Borowski, Khloe Mistishin, Audrey Agnello, and Vinny Baldini. Third row, from left: Robbie Carrelle, Hannah DeStefano, Logan Vinton, and Madison Trapanese.
Wildcat Pride was bursting from the audience at Western Wayne’s Veterans Memorial Auditorium on the evening of Friday, June 6, for the graduation of the class of 2025. This is a bright class of students who have excelled in academics, athletics, and club activities having gained a total of $6,075,675 in college scholarships and grants at their recently held senior night. Student speakers at graduation gave their classmates advice for the exciting and new journey that lies ahead of them for their very bright futures. Senior Lillian Maros, president of the class of 2025, gave the welcome address. Lillian ended her speech in a unique way by having her class honor the many role models who have shaped their life journey thus far. “I was once told that everyone, at least once, deserves to be on the receiving end of a round of applause,” she said. “As a theater kid myself, I couldn’t agree more, and I ask any parents, guardians, siblings, teachers, and administrators to stand, and let our class applaud you for all of the opportunities you have given us.” Later, Lillian presented the Class Mantel to Audrey Agnello, junior class president. Following the presentation of the mantle, the class salutatorian and valedictorian gave speeches. Senior David Elias III, Hamlin, was named the salutatorian of the class of 2025 with a final overall GPA of 100.41.
David is the son of Carrie and David Elias. Along with being an excellent academic student, David was involved in Western Wayne clubs and activities including: FBLA, basketball, PBIS, and track and field.
In the future, he plans to attend Marywood University with an undecided major.
“My favorite memory from high school was attending the FBLA state conference as a freshman in Hershey,” David said. “While at Western Wayne, I’ve learned important skills such as critical thinking and time management that will help me through college and beyond.” In his salutatorian speech, David let his classmates know it is ok to be undecided about their futures as long as they follow their inner drive. “We have the ability to blaze our own paths different from what our parents did and what others expect of us,” he said. “As long as we follow what truly matters to us, we will get where we are supposed to go.” David summed up the evening with a quote from LeBron James, “Education is the most important thing in life. No matter what you do, you have to be educated, and you have to learn.” He then ended his speech with these encouraging words to his class, “We are closing a major chapter in our lives, but with the hope that we will be able to keep learning throughout whatever endeavors come next with the goal of reaching greatness.” Fellow classmate Lia Hartman, Lake Ariel, was named valedictorian of the class of 2025 with a GPA of 100.94. Lia is the daughter of Chad and Mayumi Hartman. Lia also has done numerous activities both inside and outside of the classroom at Western Wayne. She has participated in NHS, Student Council, Marching Band, serving as a drum major her junior and senior years; District and Region Band, Envirothon, Science Olympiad, and FBLA. In the future, she plans to attend The University of Scranton as a biochemistry major and then attend medical school to pursue pathology. “My favorite moment throughout high school was seeing the smile on people’s faces after having a good field show,” Lia said. “I believe the teachers at Western Wayne have pushed me to succeed and provided me with many meaningful opportunities.”
In her valedictorian speech, Lia reminisced about how in her freshman year when she saw that she was ranked first in her class that she had a fleeting thought about what it would be like to deliver a graduation speech. At that time, all she felt was anxiety, but now faced with the reality, she said she felt nothing but honor and pride to get to deliver this speech to her class. Her speech focused on the idea of how motivation is a key aspect in life especially when facing a milestone moment like graduation. “Motivation is a truly powerful force,” Lia said. “It is a psychological drive and combination of our values, goals, and beliefs. It pushes us toward success.” Lia said in preparation of her speech she asked many of her classmates to discuss with her their motivations and found them to be a variety of forces including God, drive for success in sports and academics, along with wanting to inspire others to work hard, and to make family proud. She quoted one of her favorite books, The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, “What makes the desert beautiful is that somewhere it hides a well.” She told her classmates to not lose hope if they find themselves lost in their journey after high school at times, “As long as you latch onto your own motivations, you will continue to trek forward towards the future, and you will undoubtedly find your own well.” She then left her classmates with these words of advice, “Always remind yourself why you decided to go on this journey in the first place. Never let go of that initial spark. I encourage you to go out there and become the inspiration that gives others their sparks.”
Following the speeches, all graduates received their diplomas and were presented as the Class of 2025 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: Senior Elizabeth Washine works on one of her many art projects at Western Wayne. After graduation, she will attend Duquesne University to study secondary education English and creative writing.
Picture two: from left: David Elias, salutatorian, and Lia Hartman, valedictorian, hard at work on a project after being named “most likely to be your boss” for their high school yearbook.
Picture three: from left: Allyson Irvine and Grace Lidy taping a segment for Western Wayne Broadcast which they both worked on this year.
Picture four: from left: high school English teacher Amanda Jenkins, student council co-advisor; Madison Stiffler, Prom Queen; and high school Spanish teacher Sara Orloski; student council co-advisor; at the Homecoming game this past fall when Stiffler was named queen.
Picture five: from left: High School Principal Paul B. Gregorski; senior Mason Rush, Prom King, and his mom Western Wayne high school English teacher Megan Rush. Mason will attend Juniata College this fall with a merit scholarship to study criminal justice and education.
Picture six: from left: Colette Schmitt, who played Sophie; and Lillian Maros, who played Donna; in Western Wayne’s production of Mamma Mia this past spring for their senior year. Lillian has won numerous creative writing and band awards over her time in high school. She plans to start her own business upon graduation and move to Texas with her family. Colette Schmitt will serve an 18 month mission trip for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints after graduation and plans to study to become a chiropractor as her career path.
Picture seven: from left: Stephanie Maxwell, who played Rosie; and Robert Scramuzza, who played Bill in Western Wayne’s production of Mamma Mia this past spring for their senior year. Stephanie will attend The University of Alabama in the fall to study pre-law and minor in theater. Robert will attend RIT in the fall to study engineering.
Picture eight: is senior Rebekah Palko on her horse Paxil at Salem View Farms She has done competitive equestrian for many years, and Paxil was her first horse.
Picture nine: Salutatorian, David Elias III
Picture ten: Valedictorian, Lia Hartman
Picture eleven: The class of 2025 after receiving their diplomas
Picture twelve: The class of 2025 celebrating
List of 2025 Graduates
Mackenzie Jean Adams Zoe Lorah Albitz Thomas John Bain Lily Barber Jacob Alexander Barna Alexis Barr Vallita Princess Belinova Aubrey Shay Bell Jamal Lee Benedict Kayne Michael Bihler Theodore Robert Black Natalia Lydia Borrelli Lillian Grace Bronson Matthew T. Brown Connor Howard Bryant Anthony Canzano Douglas Robert Chapman James Samuel Chapman Stacey Christopher Madelyn Rose Chrobak River Collins Nikko Condi Angelina L. Correa Nicholas Cotter Andrew Crissey Addison Grace Daniels Evan Joseph Dean Emily Ann Dicello Annaliese Dickison Hannah Lee Dockemeyer Anthony John Donnini Lauren Letizia Dramisino Michael Samuel Durso Jonathan Hunter Dwyer Zariah Edmunds David John Elias III Jayla C. Fiorella Jeffrey David Foote, Jr. Olivia Giovanna Ford Aiden Patrick Forney Kalob Alejandro Franko Jordan Frisbie Sean James Galliford Colton Michael Geary Zachary Aiden Gibbs Cedar C. Gilpin Jared Joshua Goldman Addison Lynn Griffin Bryan James Guarniz Daniel Hall David J. Hallberg Lia Mimi Hartman Paige Elizabeth Haswell Jaden Desire Headen Chase Hobgood MaKennah Lynn Holbert Colton J. Hoose Brianna Michelle Hoyer Jak Michael Hubinger Allyson Grace Irvine James Ethan Jimenez Sydney Grace Justice Alyssa Lynn Ellis Kapalski Jayden Kellachow Austin D. Kenyon Kendra May Kerylovicz Lily Patrice Kieva Nicole Marie Klim Ethan Tyler Lamberton Grace K. Langendoerfer Frederick Frances Leonetti III Grace H. Murphy Lidy Travis Mark Locker Ryleigh Niccole Mahon Lance Maiocco, Jr. Matvey Mamoshuk Lillian Grace Maros Addison Brooke Matthews Stephanie K. Maxwell Daymon Robert McGuire Robert William Mildner, Jr. Nelson Edgardo Miranda-Miranda Seth Montijo Bryson Moscarelli Hayden William Mundrake Teagan S. Murphy Brendan Joseph Olivo Michael Banavan Olivo Tyler Ovens Sean Davon Owens Rebekah Lane Palko Owen S. Palkovic Raegan Alaina Palmer Jessica Rose Palopoli Nicholas Anthony Pane Mercedes D. L. Pedersen Robert F. Phillips, Jr. Addyson Bailey Pruss John Patrick Pyatt III Aliyah S. Ratchford Anthony Joseph Redmond Hunter Baron Reichling Jayden Michael Rivera Karter M. Rizzi Timothy Richard Roberts, Jr. Noel Michael Rodriguez Hayden Timmy Romanaskas Evan John Ronchi Ayden K. Rosengrant Nikita Rud Mason Scott Rush Abigail Faith Sadowski Ryan Michael Schane Colette Ann Schmitt Kennedy Carolyn Ortman Scott Robert Nicholas Scramuzza Davis M. Sheppard Vincent Charles Silon Kathryn E. Skirpan Thomas Joseph Smith Neima Marie Smith-Horst Sienna Skye Stevens Madison Naomi Stiffler Dylan David Stookey Ashley Lynn Toscano Bella Marie Trumbull Noah Vail Joshua Shawn Vinton Makayla Marie Walton Ava Michell Ward Landon R. Wargo Elizabeth Blaire Washine Logan Weaver Julia Ross Wehrmann Kallie May Wehrmann Cassidy Ann Zeiler
The Western Wayne Hot Rod Club and Drama Club will host their 2025 Annual Car Show on SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 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. In addition, the Drama group will sell a variety of concessions. 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 on SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the High School parking lot near the stadium. 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 May 27, 2025, Western Wayne High School 9th grade students stepped outside the classroom and into nature during a day of immersive, hands-on learning at the Varden Conservation Area. This outdoor educational experience brought students face-to-face with real-world environmental science, thanks to the collaboration of expert educators from Lacawac Sanctuary, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), the Wayne County Conservation District, and Trout Unlimited. Students rotated through three engaging, station-based activities focused on local ecology. They examined macroinvertebrates in a pond ecosystem to evaluate water quality, practiced casting techniques during a fishing demonstration, and conducted chemical tests to assess stream health and pollution levels. A highlight of the day was the release of rainbow trout as the culmination of the Pennsylvania Trout in the Classroom (PA-TIC) program. Throughout the school year, Dr. Mark Nebzydoski and his students 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 Paul Ranello and Youth Advisors Don Strathy and Pat Guinnane. The environmental education team featured Nicole Seul, Director of Environmental Education at Lacawac Sanctuary, and Richard Arthur, Environmental Educator, who guided students through macroinvertebrate identification and their role as indicators of water quality. Theresa Black from PLEON (Pocono Lake Ecological Observatory Network) led students in chemical water testing and interpretation. DCNR Environmental Education Specialist Josh Heath, along with Trout Unlimited representatives Don Strathy and Pat Guinnane, introduced students to responsible fishing techniques and how environmental conditions influence bait and casting choices. Leading up to the field experience, students participated in classroom lessons about water quality, groundwater, surface water, and watersheds. These preparatory activities helped connect local environmental issues to broader ecological concepts, reinforcing the importance of water as a shared natural resource. This enriching day in nature was made possible through an Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) grant provided by the nonprofit Western Wayne Education Foundation, whose president, Christine McClure, also attended the event. Accompanying the students were Western Wayne educators Dr. Mark Nebzydoski, Maria Phillips, Helene Tscheschlog, and Christine McClure. This collaboration between environmental organizations and local educators highlights the power of experiential learning and reinforces Western Wayne’s commitment to fostering environmental stewardship among students. Learn more about the partners involved: • Varden Conservation Area: www.vardenconservationarea.com Facebook – Friends of Varden Conservation Area DCNR Varden Conservation Area • Lacawac Sanctuary: www.lacawac.org Facebook – Lacawac Sanctuary • PA Trout in the Classroom (PA-TIC): www.patroutintheclassroom.org • Pike – Wayne Chapter #462 Trout Unlimited https://pwtu.org/
Pictures show Western Wayne ninth grade students engaged in immersive hands-on learning.
ALL NEWS
Students Present Aquaponics Challenge Project at Regional BanquetMay 7, 2026On May 5, 2026, students from Western Wayne High School proudly presented their student-led environmental education project at the Community Connections to Our Watershed banquet, held at Montage Mountain. Their project, an Aquaponics Challenge System, was designed, researched, and implemented entirely by the student team.Aquaponics is a sustainable food production system that combines aquaculture (raising fish) with hydroponics (growing plants without soil). In this balanced system, fish waste provides essential nutrients for plant growth, while the plants naturally filter and clean the water for the fish. The Western Wayne team developed their system to demonstrate how this closed-loop approach can support both food production and water quality.As part of their project, the students raised trout from eggs to approximately three to four months old before preparing them for release into a local stream. A major focus of their work involved addressing water quality challenges, particularly nitrate buildup from fish waste. Through research and problem-solving, the team explored ways to improve natural filtration within their system, including redesigning components and upgrading equipment such as water pumps to maintain optimal conditions.The project also emphasized key components of the Aquaponics Challenge, including system design, environmental monitoring, and community outreach. Students utilized technology such as climate control tools and irrigation systems while also connecting with local organizations and professionals for support. In addition, they worked to share their knowledge beyond the classroom by engaging others in understanding sustainable practices and watershed stewardship.This presentation was the culmination of months of work as part of the Community Connections to Our Watershed program, a regional environmental initiative that has been in place for over 20 years. Each year, teams of five students and one teacher from schools across Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties participate in the program. Coordinated by the education teams at Lackawanna and Nescopeck State Parks, the program immerses students in watershed science through field experiences and collaboration with environmental professionals.Throughout the year, the Western Wayne students participated in field trips to Keystone College, Lackawanna State Park, the Old Forge borehole, the Anthracite Heritage Museum, Lacawac Sanctuary, Pennsylvania American Water treatment facilities, and the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail. These experiences deepened their understanding of how human activities impact local watersheds and helped inform their aquaponics system design, particularly in understanding the relationships between aquatic organisms, plants, and water quality.This year’s Community Connections to Our Watershed program included schools from across the region: Carbondale, Forest City, Lakeland, Mountain View, Old Forge, Riverside, Western Wayne, and Wayne Highlands in Lackawanna County; and Crestwood, Hanover Area, HAAS, HACC, Hazleton Area, Northwest, Tunkhannock, and Wyoming Area in Luzerne County.The program is made possible through the support of Pennsylvania American Water Company, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), and the DCNRWatershed Education Program.Picture one, from left: Mark Nebzydoski Ph.D., advisor; Rhys Locklin, Noah Benson, Aidyn Graci, Aliyah Gregory, and Giana Graci.Picture two, the group from Western Wayne making their presentation, from left: Aliyah Gregory, Giana Graci, Rhys Locklin, Noah Benson, and Aidyn Graci. [...]
Science meets nature: Students release trout at Varden Conservation AreaMay 6, 2026Students in Wayne County are getting an up-close look at nature with an opportunity to study what’s right in their backyard.
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 [...]
Western Wayne Hosts Prom with Support of Local BusinessesMay 6, 2026Western Wayne hosted their annual prom with “A Starry Night” theme at a new venue this year New Leaf Farm in Waymart on Saturday, May 2. The event focussed around local community businesses who hosted food trucks for the event including: Lupo Russo, 2 Ways One Passions, and Pop-Pop’s Grill and Catering. The students also enjoyed gourmet cupcakes from Ms. Michele Dugan along with cotton candy donated by Mrs. Paula Lamberton
There were 225 students and guests in attendance. Event sponsors included: Ariel View Inn (AVI), Leeward, Waymart Hotel, Iron Hill at 1940,and Meadowbrook Stables, and For the Birds, who provided flowers.
The students in attendance enjoyed this new experience. Senior Maggie Kotchessa thought this unique prom experience was a great idea.
“I really loved all of the food choices,” Maggie, who decided on a pulled pork sandwich from Pop-Pop’s, said.
Her classmate Norman Phillips’ grandfather owns Pop-Pop’s, and he was excited his family business could be a part of the event.
“It was really neat having my grandfather there doing what he loves,” Norman said. “He usually travels around to do a number of different gigs, and it was really neat having him at our prom.”
In addition to the variety of food items at the event, the students also were treated to a mocktail bar. Junior Madelyn McClure wrote a grant through the Wayne County Community Youth Advisory Committee and the district used the money to fund the mocktails for prom.
Also, the community donated a variety of gift cards for the students as prizes. Each student in attendance got a raffle ticket for a chance to win.
The 2026 Prom Court included: Vinny Baldini, King; Audrey Agnello, Queen; and
Mia Gifford, Hannah DeStefano, Olivia Haines, and Sofia Ochlan served as attendants.
The students enjoyed this unique prom experience and thank the district for their continued support of student events.
Picture one: Mr. Paul Gregorski, high school principal; Vinny Baldini, King; and Audrey Agnello, Queen.
Picture two:: Olivia Haines, Hannah DeStefano, Vinny Baldini, Audrey Agnello, Mia Gifford, and Sophia Ochlan. [...]
Scholarships & Career Opportunities – May EditionMay 4, 2026The May 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!
Click here: https://ww3.westernwayne.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Scholarships-and-Career-Opportunities-May-2026.pdf [...]
Western Wayne Annual Art Exhibit & Spring Concerts on May 9May 4, 2026Western Wayne’s annual art exhibit and spring concerts will take place on Saturday, May 9.
The art exhibit will run in the high school gymnasium from 2 to 5 p.m. It will mainly feature high school artwork with special displays by our seniors. In addition, a select sample of middle and elementary student artwork will be on display.
The concert schedule is as follows: the sixth-grade concert will begin at 11 a.m.; the seventh- grade concert will begin at 1 p.m., the eighth- grade concert will begin at 3 p.m.; and the high school concert will begin at 5 p.m. with all concerts in the Veterans Memorial Auditorium at the high school.
There will be concessions for sale in the high school cafeteria throughout the day. All events are free of charge. Please join us in the celebrating the arts in our school. [...]
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.
