The Spartan

Welcome to our district newsletter, The Spartan, which highlights our students and their school experiences and provides a glimpse of what to expect in the month following. If you have a topic you would like to learn about, please let us know by emailing nmescher@waynelocal.net.

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"We see value in the information we have collected and are creating a focus from what we’ve learned from our stakeholders. We look forward to taking steps that align with the excellence of Wayne Local Schools," said Dr. Ison, Superintendent.

The 2024 WLS Community Survey results were collected and analyzed by an independent source, the Ohio School Boards Association. Did You Know: This is the first time in history that Wayne Local Schools has collected feedback through a community-wide survey that included parents, staff, community members, and students.

In case you missed it; WLS Business Manager Ken Lackey provided an update on the district's upcoming facilities projects at the February Board Meeting. You can find this information under "Key Items" in the February Board of Education Recap.

Contact Information

To stay informed about district and building-wide news, please keep contact information in your student's FinalForms up to date. Thank you.

March 10 - WLS Board of Education Meeting at 6 p.m. (PAC, second floor)

March 14 - 2-Hour Early Release/End of 3rd Quarter

March 17- 21 - Spring Break

2024-2025 School Calendar

The Power of Rigor in Education

Dear Spartan Families and Staff,

As we continue our journey through 2025, we have explored two essential components of our 3 R’s—Relevance and Relationships. This month, I want to highlight the third pillar: Rigor—a key driver in ensuring that every student is challenged, engaged, and prepared for the future.

Rigor is more than just difficult coursework or high academic expectations; it is about fostering a learning environment where students develop critical thinking skills, perseverance, and a growth mindset. At Wayne Local Schools, we are committed to creating classrooms where students are encouraged to stretch beyond their comfort zones, solve complex problems, and apply their knowledge in meaningful ways.

A rigorous education does not mean overwhelming students with work, but rather providing them with opportunities to think deeply, ask questions, and engage in productive struggle. Whether it’s through advanced coursework, hands-on learning experiences, or collaborative projects, rigor ensures that students build the resilience and adaptability needed for success in an ever-changing world.

Of course, rigor is most effective when paired with strong relationships and relevance. When students feel supported by their teachers and peers, they gain the confidence to embrace challenges. When they see the relevance of what they are learning to their futures, they are more motivated to push themselves academically.

As we continue striving for excellence, I encourage our students, staff, and families to embrace rigor as a pathway to growth and achievement. Together, we can ensure that every student is not only challenged but also inspired to reach their fullest potential.

Thank you for your dedication to our students and for making Wayne Local Schools a place of excellence.

Best Wishes,

Sam Ison
Superintendent, Wayne Local Schools

At Wayne Local Schools, we are committed to financial transparency and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. One of the best tools available to ensure openness in government spending is The Ohio Checkbook - a trusted resource that provides both local and state financial information in real-time.

The Ohio Checkbook was created as part of a statewide initiative to enhance government accountability. By combining two innovative platforms, Ohiocheckbook.com and Ohio’s Interactive Budget, this tool allows Ohioans to access detailed financial and transactional data at both the state and local levels.

WLS and all school districts in Ohio make access to financial records easily accessible via the Ohio Checkbook. To view our district’s spending data from 2018 through the end of the previous month visit: OhioCheckbook.com. This resource provides an in-depth look at how we allocate funds to support our students, staff, and educational programs.

We believe that transparency builds trust, and we encourage our community to use this valuable tool. If you have any questions regarding the district’s finances, please contact me at chuber@waynelocal.net. Thank you.

On Wednesday, February 26, Waynesville HS hosted "Future Ready" Day, an event designed to equip students with essential skills and experiences for success beyond high school. Each grade level participated in activities tailored to their specific needs.

Freshmen engaged in community service projects, giving back to local organizations such as the American Legion, Quaker Heights, The Bridge, and Morningstar Church, as well as assisting the school's athletic department. These hands-on experiences emphasized the importance of service and community engagement.

Sophomores took part in career readiness by rotating through stations focused on practical job-related skills. These included resume writing, email etiquette, job applications, addressing envelopes, basic finance, and life skills such as tying a tie and sewing a button. They also participated in a "speed interview" session, practicing real-world interview questions with local professionals in a fast-paced format.

Juniors concentrated on their academic futures by taking the ACT, a crucial step in college admissions and scholarship opportunities. Meanwhile, seniors chose between job shadowing experiences or taking the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) to explore career paths and post-graduation options.

Ms. Maloney, 6-12 Instructional Coach and one of the "Future Ready" Day event organizers, said, "This annual event reflects our commitment to preparing students for academic, professional, and personal success. We look forward to continuing this tradition and providing future classes with these valuable experiences."

A group of WHS students attended a computer science and IT career event at Sinclair Community College’s Centerville campus on February 21. The event introduced students to in-demand technology careers and their real-world impact.

Throughout the day, students engaged with industry professionals and educators through hands-on activities. Interactive stations covered key topics such as hacking, gaming, forensics, coding, and cybersecurity, offering insights into the skills needed for careers in these fields. By attending, students gained a broader understanding of career opportunities in technology and how advancements in the field shape modern life. Sponsored by Sinclair Community College, the event aimed to inspire future tech professionals and equip them with resources to explore potential career paths.

For many attendees, the experience reinforced their interest in technology and provided a glimpse into its exciting possibilities. Events like this help bridge the gap between education and real-world applications, preparing students for the evolving job market.

In Mrs. Deters' seventh grade math class, students aren't just learning about geometry, they are experiencing it. Recently, students built and "sliced" three-dimensional shapes, uncovering their hidden cross-sections. With hands-on materials in front of them, students carefully constructed cylinders, cones, and pyramids, then used tools to slice through them, revealing circles, triangles, and other surprising shapes. Each cut brought a new discovery, sparking animated discussions and plenty of “aha!” moments.

Beyond the fun, these young mathematicians are sharpening their spatial reasoning skills and calculating volume - essential skills used by architects, engineers, and even medical professionals.

Waynesville Jr./Sr. HS English Language Arts Teacher Mrs. Magoteaux was awarded the Teacher of the Month Appreciation prize from Donna Diehl of Diehl & Hubbell, LLC this month.

Mrs. Magoteaux was honored for her dedication to students and was presented with a $500 check as part of Diehl & Hubbell’s Teacher Appreciation Program, which recognizes one outstanding teacher each month. She expressed her gratitude for the recognition and how much she enjoys making a difference in her students’ lives.

To learn more about Mrs. Magoteaux, we asked her a few questions.

Tell us 3 words that describe you.

Intentional, Compassionate, Dependable

Number of years in teaching

7

What do you teach and at what grade level?

6th grade, ELA

What/who inspired you to pursue teaching?

I was fortunate to "grow up" in a classroom and see first-hand what a devoted teacher looks like with my mom. It is a special thing that this profession has turned into a "family" thing with both my siblings and sister-in-law in the field as well.

What inspires you today?

My students. It is my favorite thing in the world to see something finally "click" or help students develop a work ethic they can be proud of!

What do you love to learn about?

I love to read memoirs; especially ones about my favorite celebrities or important historical figures.

What do your students say most to you?

"Do I have to use complete sentences?"; "Mrs. Magoteaux, Mrs. Magoteaux, Mrs. Magoteaux"

What skills/talents can you share with us?

My husband and I love to sing and play guitar together; I can beatbox, and I am the district CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) trainer.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Spend time with my husband Devin, daughter Everleigh, and son Otis, play sand volleyball, read, and be outside!

Waynesville Jr./Sr. High peer leaders and adult advisors

In February, peer leaders in grades 6-12 and their adult advisors underwent training to develop fun and engaging activities that will affect a positive school culture surrounding mental health. Mrs. Issacs and Mrs. Sanders provide counseling support to students at Waynesville Jr./Sr. High and have a profound understanding of the value of SOS. “This program is focused on preventing crises before they occur, like suicide, bullying, violence, and substance abuse,” said Mrs. Issacs.

Here’s what three students (and peer leaders) think about the program’s potential to help others students at Waynesville Jr./Sr. HS:

“It’s definitely easier to talk with someone your own age, so they can assist you in seeking help.” - Lyla V., 10th grader

“If we educate each other about it (SOS), they’ll have resources to use when they run into challenges.”

“I think SOS can help if others choose to listen. As peer leaders, we’ll teach about Sources of Strength that everyone has, which can better their mental health.”

Key aspects of this program include the empowerment of students to realize the transformative value of their individual strengths as well as create a common language to allow everyone to have dialogue and offer support as challenges occur in the community.

March 1 - March 22 - HS Art Show at Miamisburg Art Gallery (WHS Night on March 5, 5-8 p.m.)

March 5 - Blood Drive from 8 a.m. - noon

March 5 - Choir Concert in PAC at 6:30 p.m.

March 6 - Parent-Teacher Conferences 4-7 p.m.

March 10 - Band Concert in PAC at 6:30 p.m. (JH) and 7:30 p.m. (HS)

March 11 - Waynesville Supper Club

March 12 - Cap and Gown Pick-Up Day for Seniors

March 12 - National Honor Society Meeting

March 14 - 2-Hour Early Release/End of 3rd Quarter

March 17 - March 21 - Spring Break

March 1 - March 22 - HS Art Show at Miamisburg Art Gallery

March 27 - Kettering Medical College visit

Waynesville Elementary students in grades 1-5 are getting a head start on exploring their future careers. Each month, during their Library time, students engage in exciting discussions about different career paths, expanding their understanding of the many possibilities that await them.

"We talk about what we like in life,” said fifth grader Abby L. “Math is my favorite subject, and I learned that engineering is a career I can think about.”

Mr. Jordan, who leads Workforce Development and Careers at the HS, introduces new career topics each month. This month’s focus? Business and Entrepreneurship. To reinforce these lessons, Principals Mrs. Garafolo and Mr. Clark highlight a career spotlight each morning during announcements, showcasing real-world opportunities and inspiring students to dream big.

Mrs. Garafolo, added, " We are so grateful for Mr. Jordan’s dedication to career exploration at an early age. By sparking curiosity and ambition now, we are helping our students build a strong foundation for their future success!"

Abby L.

The February Core Value was "Uniqueness," which WES teachers and staff define as "learning more about others so you can know more about yourself." While it's easy to notice our differences, students explored how recognizing and appreciating each person's character and interests is demonstrating an appreciation for their uniqueness.

Here's what "Uniqueness" means to two WES fifth grade students:

"For someone to be different from others ... special." - Mallory

"Being different is mostly good." - Zachary

WES students were recognized for exhibiting the value of "uniqueness" through their positive actions and interactions with others. "By celebrating what makes us unique, we foster a school environment where everyone feels valued, accepted, and inspired to be their true selves," said Mrs. Garafolo.

Students in grades 1-5 recently set sail on an exciting adventure with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, as they brought A Pirate-y Peter Pan to life in our PAC. With a swashbuckling twist on the classic fairy tale, students joined Peter Pan, Tinkerbell, the Lost Boys, and even the notorious Captain Hook for an interactive storytelling experience full of action and adventure. Some lucky students found themselves swept into the adventure, joining the performance onstage!

"Events like these remind us of the magic of theatre, sparking creativity and bringing stories to life. A huge thank you to the incredible PTO and everyone who helped make this special event happen!" - Mrs. Garafolo

March 3 - March 7 - Read Across America Week

March 6 - Parent-Teacher Conferences 4-7 p.m.

March 11 - Kindergarten Registration Night at 5 - 6:30 p.m.

March 12 - Kindergarten Registration Night at 5 - 6:30 p.m.

March 14 - 2-Hour Early Release/End of 3rd Quarter

March 17- 21 - Spring Break

March 28 - Core Value Award Ceremony

• 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year.
• One-half of all chronic mental illness begins by the age of 14; three-quarters by age 24.
• Over 31% of high school students reported that their mental health was most of the time or always not good.

One of the ways, WLS is focused on supporting student well-being is by addressing the need for school-based mental health services through a partnership with MindPeace Cincinnati. Earlier this month, students and staff completed MindPeace Surveys.

To complete the mental health needs assessment, parents were also sent an 8-question survey this week. Input from parents is invaluable and will assist us in shaping the services and resources that will best support WLS students and families. Our goal is to expand access to school-based mental health services and prioritize student well-being. Please complete the survey if you have not already done so.

MindPeace Parent/Guardian Survey

Thank you!

Coach Tim Gabbard has been an extraordinary figure in Wayne Local Schools for over four decades, as a Teacher, Athletic Director, and Coach. The district has a committee exploring ideas to recognize Coach Gabbard's contributions to WLS for an impressive 46 years of service as the WHS Varsity Girls Basketball Coach. If you have ideas for how the committee should acknowledge Coach Gabbard, please send your input to jdworetsky@waynelocal.net by Friday, March 14, 2025. Thank you.

Here's a passion project and gift from a father to his sons and their team. Glory Unwritten was filmed and produced by Vita Cinema’s Grant Peelle. This special documentary brings the Waynesville Varsity Soccer Team's season to life through cinematic storytelling, allowing players, families, and the community to relive an unforgettable year. The film recently premiered in a special red-carpet event on February 2, celebrating the team’s journey and showcasing the power of documentary filmmaking to preserve moments that matter.

Mr. Peelle is dad to Elijah (WHS senior), Aiden (WHS freshman), and husband to WES Fourth Grade Teacher Carrie Peelle.

"The seniors featured in this film have set an incredible standard for future Spartans—not just in how we compete on the field, but in how we serve our community and support our younger teammates. Their leadership has shaped this program in ways that go far beyond the game." - Varsity Boys Soccer Coach Scott Pinto

WLS student-athletes are making an impact both on and off the court. On February 14, the Lady Spartans Basketball team volunteered at Horace Mann Elementary in Dayton, helping fit children with new shoes and socks through Shoes 4 the Shoeless. “It’s hard to believe that kids so close to home don't have proper fitting shoes or even socks; they walk around all winter in pain, in shoes too small for them and no socks to keep them warm. And the worst part is they think this is normal,” shared player Avery W.

The team saw firsthand the happiness and relief as these kids could walk and run pain-free in properly fitting shoes. 211 kids received new shoes and socks thanks to Shoes 4 the Shoeless and the Lady Spartans,” said Athletic Director Mrs. Manley.

Meanwhile, the HS Boys Basketball team took time to give back in a different way - writing gratitude letters to teachers and staff. “I always try to teach players lessons bigger than basketball,” said Coach Williams. Their heartfelt messages recognized the valuable work of educators, creating a lasting impact on both the students and those who support them every day.

“Gratitude: the recognition and appreciation of the good things in life, often acknowledging that someone or something is responsible for those positive experiences.”

The Greater Cincinnati Chapter of the National Football Foundation held its 58th Annual Scholar-Athlete Banquet on February 27, and WHS Seniors Alex Amburgy and Garrett Lundy were honored.

March 1 - Wrestling: Boys Varsity - Districts (begins Feb. 28)

March 27 - Senior Banner Pictures for Spring Sports at 2:45 p.m.