Western Wayne Middle School is excited to announce that the popular national Girls on the Run program is now ‘up and running’ on our campus! Girls on the Run is a non Profit organization which offers a running based after school program to Elementary and Middle School students. The 6th to 8th grade program is called Heart and Sole. Each week our students play team building games, followed by a strength workout AND a running workout…phew! Our Fall season is underway, and there will be a Spring season too…both lasting 10 weeks. At the end of each season, students will take part in a celebratory, non-competitive 5k with hundreds of other GOTR members. Girls on the Run has awarded Western Wayne 15 full scholarships, so there is no charge for our students. The program is coached by Rachel Fitzmorris, who is a Paraprofessional at the MS and by Rachel Dennis, MS secretary. They are assisted by Amanda Steinmetz from our District Office and parent coach Bernadette Metschalut. Mrs Fitzmorris said “This program offers students who may not be in organized sports a chance to participate and discover the joy of movement. It also helps them build connections and self confidence.” Mrs Jennifer Bradley, Principal, said “I am very excited about the opportunities that the Girls on the Run will provide for our Middle School students. GOTR empowers Middle School girls to lace up their sneakers, chase their dreams, and build resilience, proving that the journey to self -confidence and success begins every step they take together😊” Any parents or staff interested in volunteering with Girls on the Run, or helping as ‘Running Buddies’ for our students in the 5k on November 18th are invited to email rfitzmorris@westernwayne.org
5th and 6th grade parents – Attend this FREE program to help your youth navigate the pressures and expectations of life during their teen years to succeed and achieve a brighter future
Five sessions will be held on Tuesdays, October 3– November 7, 2023, from 5:30 – 8:00 p.m. (No program on October 31.)
Parents and caregivers can enhance their parenting skills by learning how to: ➢Promote health and well-being during the teen years. ➢Develop healthy beliefs and clear standards for behavior. ➢Deal with anger in a positive way and manage family conflict to strengthen bonds with youth. ➢Protect their children from substance abuse and other problematic behaviors. ➢Strengthen family bonds and increase youth’s involvement in the family through the teen years. Youth attend session 4 with parents and caregivers and will learn skills they can use to avoid peer pressure. The program is open to all parents and caregivers and their 5th and 6th grade children in the Western Wayne and Lake Ariel community. It includes a FREE dinner for the entire family and childcare for younger family members
For more information or to register, contact by September 25: E-mail: prosper@westernwayne.org; Call: (570)878-2385; Or return registration form below to your principal.
5th and 6th grade parents – Attend this FREE program to help your youth navigate the pressures and expectations of life during their teen years to succeed and achieve a brighter future.
Parents and caregivers can enhance their parenting skills by learning how to:
-Promote health and well-being during the teen years.
-Develop healthy beliefs and clear standards for behavior.
-Deal with anger in a positive way and manage family conflict to strengthen bonds with youth.
-Protect their children from substance abuse and other problematic behaviors.
-Strengthen family bonds and increase youth’s involvement in the family through the teen years.
Guiding Good Choices – Guests Karen Thomas, PROSPER field coordinator and Margaret-Ann Gager, parent participant discusses this evidence-based program and the positive changes in has made in Margaret-Ann’s family. This interactive, skill-based program is open to families with youths ages 9 – 14. A new 5-week virtual program starts June 19th and an in-person program in the fall at the area school districts. To register or learn more contact Karen at kat1@psu.edu or call 570-878-2385.
The Western Wayne 8th grade class, the class of 2027, sit together as a class after having received their awards and honors.: Madelyn McClure, winner of The Daughters of the American Revolution Award; Grady Farley, winner of the American Legion Award; and Dr. Matthew Barrett, Western Wayne School District Superintendent.
Western Wayne Middle School Principal Mrs. Jennifer Bradley reminded eighth grade students of the importance of completing small tasks so as not to become overwhelmed by large tasks as they prepare to head to high school. Bradley reflected on a speech that retired United States Navy Four-Star Admiral William Harry McRaven made by suggesting students “make their bed” in the morning to be able to then start a day with already one task accomplished. Bradley reminisced about how middle schoolers, when they first enter sixth grade, have many anxieties about the small task of opening their lockers. She reminded the students about how far they have come and told them to continue to rely on their family and friends for support and guidance as they prepare to move on to high school. Eighth grader Dakota Douglas, Middle School Student Council president, proudly led her classmates and all in attendance in the pledge of allegiance. Dakota said she truly enjoyed her time in the Western Wayne Middle School. She looks forward to all she will learn in high school. She is especially excited for her high school chorus class and aspires to become a chorus teacher. “I love singing and working together with my classmates,” she said. The featured event of the Moving-Up Ceremony was all 8th grade students receiving awards in various categories for excellence or improvement in all academic and unified arts classes. In addition, students received awards for good citizenship, excellent work habits, 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. 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 chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the local American Legion present these awards. The Daughters of the American Revolution Award was presented to 8th grader Madelyn McClure. Madelyn 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 and honesty, service, courage, leadership, and patriotism. George Schaffer presented the American Legion Award to 8th grader Grady Farley. Grady 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. Both Madelyn and Grady felt extremely honored to receive their respective awards. They also both, at first, felt shocked to learn the Daughters of the American Revolution and the American Legion had chosen them for these high honors. Madelyn is a hard-working young woman who especially loves to study science and who loves to work with her horses in her spare time. She has done excellent work for her Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science competitions throughout her middle school career and plans to continue her involvement in high school. In addition, she is an avid member of her local 4-H Club and Pony Club having rode horses since she was a young girl. She is an honor roll student who looks forward to her academic experiences in high school. “I am excited for my upper level math classes,” Madelyn said. Fellow classmate Grady is also a hard-working individual and honor roll student. He most enjoys his science classes in middle school. In addition, he enjoys sporting activities in his free time including both boating and skiing. “I am most looking forward to experiencing new classes and learning new things next year,” Grady said. Another special part of this year’s Moving-Up Ceremony was a special recognition given by Mrs. Bradley to retiring secretaries Bridgit Erb and Michele Rosko, who both work in the middle school office. Between the two of them, they have a combined 51 years of service to the district. Both Erb and Rosko have worked for many years to plan and organize the moving up ceremony among doing so many other tasks. Bradley had the community, faculty, staff, and students give the ladies a well-deserved round of applause. In her closing remarks, Mrs. Bradley reminded students again to not forget “to make their bed” as they get ready to enter high school letting them know that taking the first step in a new journey is quite an accomplishment in itself. On the way out and into the stadium, guests and others in attendance were treated to seeing a gallery of posters that students and their families made of favorite memories of their students to add a personal touch of their memories throughout the year to the event. Western Wayne faculty, administration, and staff wish the class of 2027 best wishes for their high school experience.
4th-6th grade parents and caregivers. Attend this FREE VIRTUAL five-session program to help your youth navigate the pressures and expectations of life during their teen years to succeed and achieve a brighter future.
Middle School students participate in minute-to-win-it spirit games.Western Wayne High School students who helped during the spirit games: Robert Scramuzza, who served as master of ceremonies; Lillian Maros, who served as master of ceremonies; Kallie Wehrmann, who helped set up games; and Julia Wehrmann, who helped set up games.Middle School students participate in spirit games.Western Wayne Middle School Student Council officers Laila Rainford, secretary; Emma DeNunzio, vice president; Dakota Douglas, president; and Olivia Black, treasurer.
Western Wayne Middle School students couldn’t hide that Wildcat Pride during the week of May 8 through May 12. They had a variety of dress-up days such as character day and decades day to show their school spirit throughout the week ending with the school’s traditional spirit games celebration for students in grades 6 through 12. Students enjoyed playing a variety of games including dodgeball, minute-to-win-it games, and musical chairs, among others. All of the students enjoyed this bonding exercise with their classmates and look forward to the rest of their end-of-year activities.
The Sixth Grade Middle School ChorusThe Seventh Grade Middle School ChorusThe Eighth Grade Middle School Chorus
The Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth Grade Middle School Chorus groups recently went on a variety of fun and educational spring field trips. All groups are under the direction of the Middle School Chorus and General Music teacher, Mrs. Joyce Covaleski. The Eighth Grade Chorus’s field trip to Knoebels Amusement Resort was a reward for three great years in Middle School Chorus. The second trip was the Sixth Grade Chorus who enjoyed some fun and sun at McDade Park after seeing Disney’s The Little Mermaid at the Scranton Cultural Center. The third trip was the Seventh Grade Chorus’s field trip to Bethel Woods to visit the field where Woodstock took place, see the 1960s Music and Art Museum, and learn about the 1960s, protest music, and visual arts. Mrs. Covaleski is proud of all of her students’ accomplishments this year and was glad they could enjoy their field trips!
The Third Annual Cat Pack Games were held on Wednesday, May 24 at Sharkey Rosetti Stadium. After a musical welcome from the Western Wayne Marching Band, student CAThletes from EverGreen, RDW, and the Middle and High Schools spent the day running, jumping, throwing, and playing! Student volunteers from the High School assisted in setting up and running the games and activities, taking photographs, and face painting. The day was a perfect highlight of some of the many talents of our students. Thank you to everyone who helped make it a great day!
Western Wayne 7th Grade Chorus students.Western Wayne 8th Grade Chorus students.
Western Wayne Middle School Chorus concerts for grades 7 and 8 took place this spring for the community to enjoy. The 8th Grade Chorus recently performed rock classics in their concert. Also, the 7th Grade Chorus recently performed folk songs from around the world in their concert. The Western Wayne Middle School Chorus for both 7th and 8th grade is under the direction of Mrs. Joyce Covaleski.
ALL NEWS
Girls on the Run Summer Camp a SuccessJuly 18, 2024 The first ever Western Wayne Girls on the Run summer camp has been declared a “runaway success!!” Twenty-three students from EverGreen and R.D. Wilson Elementary schools spent a week running, playing, creating arts and crafts, and team building at the EverGreen campus in June.
Well-deserved thanks to coaches Bernadette Metschulat, Taryn Vitris, Dr. Stephanie Major, Kristin Rock, and Sara Orlosky.
The group would also like to recognize our junior coach, high school student Annie Williams. High School students earn volunteer hours by coaching with GOTR!
Finally, thanks to our unbelievably supportive Western Wayne Administration and the United Way for fully funding all twenty-three students.
Rachel Fitzmorris, GOTR site liaison and middle school staff member said,
“We are focused on growing this wonderful program, and we would love to recruit more coaches! We are hosting a fall season of GOTR starting in September. Practices will be held on Wednesdays after school at the Middle School for 6th to 8th grade. We are firming up a location and time for the Elementary school students (3rd through 5th). The program culminates with a celebratory 5K at Keystone College (transportation provided) with dozens of schools in attendance.
Coaches only need to be willing to pitch in and support the students. No running experience is needed.”
Student sign-ups will start on our return to school. For more information or to volunteer, please email rfitzmorris@westernwayne.org. [...]
Join our food service team!July 18, 2024Join our food service team!
Part-time position opening at Western Wayne High School
Work when you student is in school 9:30 am -2:30 pm, no weekends, holidays or snow days
Starting rate $14.00 per hour
Please contact Western Wayne District Office for an application packet @ 800-321-9973 option 5 or email mliptak@westernwayne.org. [...]
Wayne Pike/Shriners Club receive monetary donation from fashion students and teacherJuly 1, 2024A monetary donation was made to Treasurer, Roger Dirlam of Wayne Pike/Shriners Club on behalf of the Western Wayne fashion students and teacher Colleen Carmody. This year’s proceeds were collected at this year’s show, titled “Fashion is Daunting” held on May 21, 2024 in WW Veterans Memorial Auditorium. While raising funds to help our community; this annual charitable event also allows for a display of students’ senior collections, competitive pieces, yearly projects and the continued support of the sewing and design vocation. [...]
High School Hosts Graduation for Class of 2024June 11, 2024The Class of 2024 celebrate at the end of their graduation ceremony
Western Wayne Class of 2024 Salutatorian Jacob Schott
Western Wayne Class of 2024 Valedictorian Adrian Agnello
President of the Class of 2024 Taylor Maiocco makes a speech at graduation.
The Class of 2024 stand after all have received their diplomas.
Wildcat Pride was bursting from the audience at Western Wayne’s Veterans Memorial Auditorium on the evening of Thursday, June 6, for the graduation of the class of 2024. This is a class with a high school experience unique in many ways having had to do some of their time in school virtually for the end of their 8th grade year and in masks for their freshman and part of their sophomore years. They have learned to persevere through uncertain times and are ready for the next steps of their lives. Student speakers at graduation gave their classmates advice for the exciting, new journey that lies ahead of them.Senior Taylor Maiocco, president of the class of 2024, gave the welcome address. She left her classmates with some advice about not fearing change, “Life isn’t long enough to do something you don’t love. So don’t be afraid to change your mind or actions because your options are limitless. Live life to the fullest; be as present as you can be; and do what makes you truly happy.”Later, Taylor presented the Class Mantel to Lillian Maros, junior class president. Following the presentation of the mantle, the class salutatorian and valedictorian gave speeches. Senior Jacob Schott, Waymart, was named the salutatorian of the class of 2024 with a final overall GPA of 101.78. Jacob is the son of Daniel and Denise Schott. Along with being an excellent academic student, Jacob was involved in Western Wayne clubs and activities. He was extremely dedicated to the Robotics Club, FRC Team 4285 the Camo-Bots for four years, and served as the co-team captain. In addition, he was a member of the National Honor Society. In the future, he plans to attend Pennsylvania College of Technology to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Automation Engineering Technology: Robotics and Automation. “My favorite high school memory is qualifying for and competing at the FIRST Robotics Competition World Championship in Houston, Texas, and finishing in the top 25% overall,” Jacob said. “ I believe that it was through my participation on the robotics team that I have become most prepared for my chosen career field of automation engineering. This club taught me all about the world of robotics, but also challenged my engineering and design process skills. I learned valuable life lessons, such as public speaking, and trade skills through this club. I also believe my advanced classes, such as AP Language and Composition, AP Calculus, and AP Physics have helped me, by allowing me to earn college credit while in high school.” In his salutatorian speech, Jacob summed up the evening with a quote from Nelson Mandela, “It always seems impossible until it is done.”He then discussed the many seemingly impossible achievements that his classmates have achieved both academically and in their various extra-curricular activities throughout their time in high school. Jacob’ seemingly impossible achievement was helping to lead the robotics team to their great success at worlds this year which put Western Waye on the map in the world of robotics.“Four years later, here we are. We did what seemed impossible,” Jacob said. “The ball is in your court now. I challenge each and every one of you to leave here tonight doing what Nelson Mandela said. Try something new. Take a risk. You never know what kind of an outcome it could have. Leave these four walls and make a name for yourself. Change the world for the better. I know you are all capable of doing so.” Fellow classmate Adrian Agnello, Waymart, was named valedictorian of the class of 2024 with a GPA of 102.13. Adrian is the son of Jessica and Joseph Agnello.Adrian also has done numerous activities both inside and outside of the classroom at Western Wayne. He has participated in FBLA, PJAS, Student Council, Student Ambassador, Scholastic Team, Varsity Soccer and Swimming. In the future, he plans to attend The University of Scranton to attain a degree in BioChemistry and then attend medical school with hopes of becoming an anesthesiologist. “My favorite high school memory is making it to nationals for FBLA twice and getting to visit Chicago and Atlanta,” he said. “At Western Wayne, I was taught to not fear failure, and this will help me be even more successful in my future.” In his valedictorian speech, Adrian quoted successful businessman and author Robert T. Kiyosaki, “Winners are not afraid of losing, but losers are. Failure is simply a part of the process of success.”Adrian continued, “Failure can be a reminder that success is not always easy, but with hard work and perseverance it is possible.” He then asked his classmates to reflect on some of the failures they encountered in high school and what they learned from them.“High school is filled with failure and so is life,” Adrian said. “However, if these failures are taken as learning experiences, our lives can be filled with even more successes than failures. It is what you choose to take out of it that determines your outcome.”He gave his classmates more advice, “We must learn to view every mistake or failure as an opportunity to learn and to improve.” Adrian ended his speech by saying, “High school has been an incredible journey, however, the best is yet to come. Remember to never fear failure.”Following the speeches, all graduates received their diplomas and were presented as the Class of 2024 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. [...]
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.