As we enter the time of year when there are more activities and inclement weather is a major concern, communication between the District and families is more important than ever regarding cancellations, late starts, and other vital information.
The District has implemented a new mass calling/texting system from BrightArrow to address this issue. To be effective, though, it is imperative that there are accurate contact numbers in the system. We ask that parents keep these numbers up-to-date via the PowerSchool Parent Portal, as the numbers you wish to have contacted may or may not be the same as other phone numbers in our records.
Please take a moment to check and/or set up your phone numbers in the calling system so we can reach as many families as possible when the need arises.
WAHS Juniors and Seniors and their families are invited to attend a Free Financial Aid Presentation (Financial Aid Night followed by FAFSA Completion Workshop) hosted by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) on Tuesday, December 3rd from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm in the High School Library. Please contact Mrs. Susan Sullum, WAHS College & Career Counselor ([email protected]) to RSVP.
Zipper Junction Holiday Toy Drive is Under Way!
THE HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE, now in its 8th year, brought to you by The ZIPPER JUNCTION Project™ is once again in partnership with "The Wayne County Ford & Bold Gold Media Holiday Toy Drive Challenge". THE HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE is excited to join
forces again with the Wallenpaupack Area School District, providing an opportunity for mentoring, hands-on experience,
and the power of community contribution, all in alignment with the mission of The ZIPPER JUNCTION Project™. In addition
to the community at large, THE HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE enjoys support from Wayne and Pike County officials, businesses,
school districts, and even collaborates with other toy drives. Together, they will strive to ensure Wayne and Pike County
children in need are served by this local community effort.
"It's hard to believe, but 2024 marks the 8th consecutive year for The Holiday Toy Drive. As a community we have all rallied
time and time again, coming together to pull off an amazing feat, bringing joy and smiles to hundreds and hundreds of
kids that may otherwise not have that experience around the holidays. We know we can do it because the good people
of Wayne and Pike Counties have always stepped up. Always! Monetary donations are still needed though and would be
greatly appreciated, especially this year! If you can, please donate early to aide in our planning to once again help spread
joy throughout our community", said Jim Zumpone, Chief Visionary and Founder of The ZIPPER JUNCTION Project™.
In addition to their main sponsor, "The Wayne County Ford & Bold Gold Media Holiday Toy Drive Challenge", The ZIPPER
JUNCTION Project™ hopes to again partner with individuals and businesses who will host their own events that will help
generate toy and monetary donations. Some examples include Bring-A-Toy for free entry to an event; birthday parties or
family events; Stuff a Truck, Tractor, Jeep, or Train; Pictures with Santa; or a single or multi business toy collection event
like the giant red mailboxes at both The CAR WASH On Route 6 & The CAR WASH on Hamlin Hwy. Some partners use an
official Collection Box onsite at their events with all proceeds, both monetary and in the box, donated to THE HOLIDAY
TOY DRIVE. Donations will also be accepted at the train stations during The Stourbridge Line Santa Express excursions.
The ZIPPER JUNCTION Project™ is always looking for new event ideas to fill Collection Boxes and/or provide funds.
Everyone is encouraged to visit www.ZipperJunction.org and click on the official logo of the Truck carrying the Big Bag of
Toys. Toy request applications can only be submitted online from October 1st through 31st, 2024.
Anyone interested in making a Monetary Donation, becoming a Sponsor, or to Be a Toy Drop-Off Site or Event Partner
can also visit the website for details. Toy and Gift donations can be made at the many Toy Drop-Off Sites hosting collection boxes from October 1st through December 2nd, when the boxes will begin being collected; all locations will be listed on
the website when each is available to receive toys and gifts. Additionally, Toy and Gift donations can be made at Wayne
County Ford in Honesdale during "The Wayne County Ford & Bold Gold Media Holiday Toy Drive Challenge" which runs
from November 1st through December 11th. When donating, look for the official logo to insure your donations are going
to the official program of The Zipper Junction Project™, The Holiday Toy Drive.
WNIS Drama Club to Perform Robin Hood on Friday, November 22
The WNIS Drama Club will be performing Robin Hood on Friday, November 22nd at 6 pm in the Wallenpaupack North Intermediate School Gymnatorium. The students in third, fourth and fifth grades have been working on songs, blocking, dancing, and acting since September. The story is built around Robin Hood and his best friend, Little John, who try to help the villagers of Nottingham by stealing back their money from the evil Prince John and his Sheriff.
Admission is free and the community is invited to attend. In case of inclement weather, the performance will be moved to Monday, November 25th at 6 pm.
WASA Students Meet with PSP State Police Aviation Unit
WASA students in the professional pilot pathway recently traveled to the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) Aviation Unit APU2 at the Wilkes-Barre Scranton International Airport to discuss aircraft equipment, aviation careers in protective services, and the preparation required to attain them.
PSP Helicopter and airplane pilots log thousands of hours of flight time each year on missions including, but not limited to: searches and rescues; assisting in vehicle pursuits; conducting criminal surveillances; participating in marijuana eradication efforts; crime and traffic incident scene photography; transports; conducting Emergency Management and Homeland Security missions providing an aerial platform for incident command and control; and attending events promoting law enforcement efforts.
The PSP Aviation unit provides aerial support to all federal, state and local law enforcement agencies within the Commonwealth, as well as assisting in other non-emergency situations, including major civic and sporting events. In addition to general air patrol work, the Department receives hundreds of requests for assistance annually from the 1,200 sworn law enforcement agencies in the Commonwealth's sixty-seven counties.
Like the rest of the aviation industry, the Pennsylvania State Police Aviation unit continues to grow. With over thirty trooper pilots and full-time mechanics, using six helicopters and two airplanes statewide, they are providing job opportunities for young people pursuing careers in aviation. WASA is preparing young people in our community for these and other lucrative aviation careers.
Click on each picture for a larger version with captions.
WAHS Junior Shadows at Wallenpaupack veterinary Clinic
Anthony Lin, WAHS Junior participated in a Job Shadow at the Wallenpaupack Veterinary Clinic on November 15th. Anthony was able to observe during surgical procedures, routine checkups, and diagnostic services. Anthony indicated he was somewhat interested in veterinary medicine before he shadowed at the clinic; however, afterwards, he said he was definitely interested in pursuing veterinary medicine as a career!
WAHS Hosts Reality Fair for Seniors
WAHS hosted a Reality Fair for Seniors on Thursday, November 7th. The Reality Fair was sponsored by the Dime Bank in Honesdale and was staffed by employees of the Dime Bank and volunteers from the community.
The Reality Fair simulated the financial life of an adult and provided students with an interactive experience which allowed them to make real world decisions about finances and managing money. Each student rotated through the fair booths and experienced what it's like to have a bank account, obtain a loan, manage debt, have kids and more. Students were able to choose a career pathway prior to the Reality Fair, and then received a salary based on their career choice. Students also purchased health insurance, decided on how many pets they wanted, and whether they would rent or buy a house.
Students indicated they learned a lot about managing their finances while traveling around to each booth at the Reality Fair!
Click on each picture for a larger version with captions.
School Board Honors Three at November Meeting
The Wallenpaupack School Board recognized the achievements of three outstanding Seniors at their November 11th meeting.
Joshua Griffiths has been a member of the National Honor Society and a Gold Scholar Award winner. He has also served as President of the Aviation Program, and has been a member of the Swim Team, the JV Wrestling Team, the JV Golf Team, the Band, Wind Ensemble, and Regional Band. Joshua plans to study Aeronautical Science and become a commercial pilot.
Justin Guinard has been a member of the National Honor Society and a Silver Scholar Award winner for achieving the Honor Roll. He has also been a member of the Soccer Team, the Wrestling Team, and the Track and Field Team. After graduation, Justin plans to pursue a career in the construction industry while keeping his job as a line cook.
Sarah Niemiec has participated in the Exercise Science and Sports Medicine (ESSM) Career and Technical Education program, the Tennis Team (Captain), Executive Committee, Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), Aevidum (Vice-President), the Track and Field Team, Student Council (Secretary), Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), and the National Honor Society. She has also been a Gold Award Recipient for achieving High Honor Roll. After Graduation, Sarah plans to earn a Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy and become a pediatric occupational therapist.
The School Board, Administration, Faculty, and Staff of the Wallenpaupack Area School District wish these Seniors continued success in all their future endeavors.
WAHS Students Visit ESU Nursing and Exercise Science Program
WAHS students enrolled in the Allied Health and Exercise Science Sports Medicine Career and Technical Education Programs visited East Stroudsburg University on October 30th, and received a tour of the Clinical Simulation Center in the Nursing Department, the Athletic Training and Exercise Science Labs, as well as the Communication Disorders Lab. Students were exposed to the various health sciences programs to help them further define their career paths. Mason Gonzalez and Cate Gelderman are pictured using the Vertical Jump Mat to assess their athletic performance.
WNIS Veterans Day Program Held on Monday, November 11th
Fourth grade students of the Wallenpaupack North Intermediate School participated in the annual Veterans Day Program on Monday, November 11, 2024 in the Wallenpaupack Area High School gymnasium. The students sang patriotic songs, as well as songs of the five branches of the Armed Forces and created a beautiful art display called Thank You Veterans for Your Allegiance to Our American Flag, which focuses on our appreciation of our local veterans. All students at WNIS were involved in an essay writing contest thanking our veterans. The winners read their essays during the program. Area veterans also participated in the program, along with community officials, and school administration. The principal speaker was Sgt. William Long, United States Marine Corps and Army National Guard.
WASA Students Preparing for High Paying Jobs in Aviation That Don't Require a College Degree
According to recent articles published by the US Career Institute, Forbes, and many others, Commerical Pilots are employed in the highest paid occupation without a college degree. Our Wallenpaupack Aeronautical Science & Aviation program (WASA) is preparing young people in our community to pursue this and similar rewarding aviation careers.
Professional pilot students, like Nevaeh York, and Air traffic control students, like Alex Olsommer, are using full scale flight simulation and an ATC simulator during class to learn and practice valuable skillsets in the cockpit and the tower. Aviation Maintenance students, like Tyler Warrington, are working alongside professionals to build a Cessna 150 during class. Recent WASA alumni, like Grady Hearn and Saydie Kosmuch, are acquiring their Commercial ratings and Airframe & Powerplant certifications before entering the aviation workforce. Substantial student aviation success beyond the classroom is a testament to our efforts to prepare young people for lucrative careers within our community, our region, and beyond.
Fine Arts Department Names Students of the Month for November
Briana Blaszczyk of Lords Valley is being recognized for her achievements in choral music and drama. Briana has been a member of the Color Guard, Concert Choir, Show Choir, Chamber Choir, WAHS Players, the National Honor Society, the Local History Club, the Paupack Press, the WHS News team, Student Ambassadors, and the Leadership and Diversity Committee. She has also performed with the PMEA District and Region Choirs, and serves as a Choir Section leader, and as the Class of 2025 Vice-President. Briana plans to attend a 4-year university in New York City to pursue acting.
Aryanna Carrube of South Sterling is being recognized for her achievements in the Fine Arts. Aryanna has been a member of the Art Club and the Environmental Club, and earned the Silver academic award. She plans to attend college to study environmental science and art, and to pursue a career as a science illustrator specializing in the environmental sciences.
Competitive Cheer Scores Big at Northampton Cougar Challenge
Congratulations to the Wallenpaupack Varsity Coed Cheerleading Team for kicking off their competition season in style, bringing home a 1st Place trophy in the Coed Division and an impressive 3rd Place overall at the Northampton Cougar Challenge! With a strong base score of 82, they're off to an incredible start. Good luck as you head toward Districts, Regionals, and States! GO BUCKS!
Jennifer Leary Wins Raffle Basket at Family Fun Night
The winner of the North Primary School Family Fun Night raffle basket was third-grader Jennifer Leary. Family Fun Night and the North Primary Book Fair were held on Wednesday, October 30th. Attendance for the event this year was 1,039 members of the Wallenpaupack community. Students and families enjoyed pizza, hot pretzels, snow cones, games, dancing, face painting, guest readers, and of course the book fair!
Breanna Conklin Job Shadows with Dr. Cara Dougherty
Breanna Conklin, WAHS Senior, shadowed Dr. Cara Dougherty, WAHS DEI SEL SAP Counselor, on Tuesday, October 29th . Breanna is very interested in the field of Psychology, and she said she wanted the shadowing opportunity to compare the role of a Psychologist with the role of a Social Worker. Breanna was able to draw upon Dr. Dougherty's extensive knowledge of the counseling field to learn about preventative approaches to mental health issues and clinical interventions that are appropriate for some individuals, as well as review resource materials in her office. Many thanks go out to Dr. Dougherty for sharing her expertise in the counseling field with Breanna!
WASA Students Visit Stewart International Airport
Wallenpaupack Aeronautical Science & Aviation (WASA) students recently traveled to the Stewart International Airport in Newburgh, NY. While there, students visited the 105th Airlift Wing of the NY Air National Guard and the Textron NY service center. WASA students who are preparing for careers as professional pilots and aviation maintenance technicians had the chance to tour facilities, aircraft, and speak with civilian and military crews. These experiences provided valuable opportunities for students to learn about aviation professions, equipment, and credentials required for employment. Program developer, Eric Greenberger, and High School Principal, Dr. Christopher Caruso, were in attendance to discuss plans for future aviation coursework and career opportunities for our aviation students.
The Wallenpaupack Aeronautical Science and Aviation program is Pennsylvania's premiere high school aviation program. Students in our program are preparing for lucrative careers in the aviation industry through specific pathways, including professional pilot, air traffic control, aviation maintenance, and aviation management. For more information about the WASA program, please click here.
Kaiya Kampf Job Shadows at North Primary School
Kaiya Kampf, WAHS Sophomore, shadowed in Ms. Megan McGinnis' Classroom at the North Primary School on October 16th. Kaiya has expressed an interest in teaching at the Elementary Level, so arrangements were made to have her shadow at North Primary School. Kaiya said she enjoyed shadowing Ms. McGinnis and assisting students in the classroom.
"During my job shadow, I really enjoyed my time and being able to understand how a classroom works from the perspective of a teacher. Though I am in a classroom every day, this was a different type of experience because I was focusing on a different point of view, rather than focusing on my class work from my desk. I really enjoyed getting to meet each of the kids and get a general understanding of why and how they need supported learning."
Health Sciences Exploration Day at Lackawanna College
WAHS students attended the Health Sciences Exploration Day at Lackawanna College in Scranton on October 25th, which showcased each of the colleges Health Sciences Programs including the following: Nursing; Surgical Technician; Diagnostic Medical Sonography; Physical Therapy Assistant; and Occupational Therapy Assistant. Students were able to learn about each health sciences program offered by the college including the prerequisites for the program, the role of each professional in the healthcare setting, and the multiple employment opportunities in the field. WAHS students are pictured in the Physical Therapy Lab enjoying some hands-on activities with the specialized equipment in the lab.
WAHS Students Visit the PA Program at King's College
Giada Blume and Julia Mrowka, WAHS Seniors, visited the Physician Assistant Program at King's College on October 23rd. Both students wanted to explore the five-year BS/MS Physician Assistant Program at King's, since it is among their top choice schools. Eric Grego, King's Director of Undergraduate Recruitment provided a tour of the Physician Assistant Program including the clinical labs, private exam rooms, as well as a visit with the coordinators of clinical rotations. Giada and Julia are pictured in the gross anatomy lab, where they shadowed students during their lab session.
School Board Newsletter for the October 14th Meeting
Please click here for information from the October 14th School Board meeting.
Senior Job Shadows at Pike County Emergency Management Center
Jordan Palumbo, WAHS Senior, shadowed a Public Safety Dispatcher at the Pike County Emergency Management Center on October 15th. Jordan is enrolled in the Protective Services Career and Technical Education Program at the High School, and she will be considered a "Completer" of the program at the end of this school year. Jordan has indicated she is very interested in becoming a Dispatcher once she graduates from high school, and she utilized the job shadow to gain answers to any questions she might have regarding the role of a Public Safety Dispatcher. Jordan is pictured with John Sweeney, Deputy Director of the Pike County 911 Center who provided a tour of the facility and an overview of the operations.
Our Kids Food Pantry on BRC-TV13
Notice Regarding Student Insurance - Revised for 2024-2025 School Year
Please be advised that it is the responsibility of the parents/guardians, in the event of a student accident, to provide for accidental injury expenses either through insurance or cash payment to health care providers. For this reason, the School District would like to make you aware of the availability of a low cost, standard school approved insurance policy.
The School District does not provide insurance coverage for students. If you do not have insurance or the financial ability to cover potential injury expenses, we encourage you to review this Student Accident Insurance document.
If you choose to purchase insurance through this program, please have your child return the completed insurance form with your payment to their school and it will be forwarded to the insurance company to process.
We hope this program can be a valuable service for you and your family.
On-line Learning Resources and Information for Students and Parents
In 2018, the General Assembly passed Act 44 mandating the establishment and use of the "Safe2Say Something" (S2SS) anonymous reporting system by every Pennsylvania school entity by January 14, 2019.
S2SS is a life-saving and life-changing school safety program that teaches students, educators, and administrators how: (1) to recognize the signs and signals of individuals who may be at risk of hurting themselves or others, and (2) to anonymously report this information through the S2SS app, website, or 24/7 Crisis Center Hotline.
For further information, please refer to the following documents:
Vaccination Requirements for 2018-2019 School Year Onward
In the 2018-2019 school year, there are requirements that students in 7th and 12th grade must adhere to. On the First Day of School in the fall of 2018, unless the child has a medical or religious/philosophical exemption, a child must have had the vaccinations as described in this pamphlet, or risk exclusion from school. Students at any grade, Kindergarten through 12th, including all public, private, parochial or nonpublic school in this Commonwealth of Pennsylvania must show proof of immunization before they can attend school. This pertains to vocational schools, alternative education programs, intermediate units, special education, home education programs, charter and cyber charter schools. For more information, please refer to this pamphlet.
Highmark Insurance - Transparency in Coverage Compliance
The Transparency in Coverage Rule issued by the federal government requires health insurers and group health plans to provide detailed pricing data for all covered items and services to the public in the form of Machine Readable Files (MRFs).
Highmark Insurance has provided the following documents to explain and comply with this rule.
Athletics
