For another year, state testing results show that students in most Wayne County school districts are struggling with academic performance in English and math, although there were some gains. While many performed close to Indiana’s statewide proficiency percentages, students in most local districts demonstrated well below 50% proficiency in both subjects. Only approximately 16.2% of […]

Author Archives: Millie Martin Emery
Millicent Martin Emery is a reporter and editor for the Western Wayne News.
Western Wayne selects new superintendent
Excitement buzzed in the room before, during and after a brief special meeting on Monday, July 21, as the Western Wayne Schools board announced their choice for the district’s next superintendent and approved the related employment contract. Kelly Plank will serve as the district’s top leader, taking over as superintendent from interim Alice Johnson. Plank […]
Chanticleer adds Centerville concert venue
Just one year shy of a major milestone, Chanticleer String Quartet is continuing to offer free performances in new and traditional locations. It’s time for the Richmond-based ensemble’s 49th annual Summer Festival, which draws performers from around the country. The quartet and its guest artist, saxophonist Paul Klemperer, will play eight concerts in 12 days […]
New principal chosen for Centerville Junior High
Centerville Junior High has a new leader who’s already stationed in the combined junior and senior high building. Jason Talbot will now be in charge of the school that serves grades seven and eight. He has been assistant principal for Centerville Senior High School. Tiffani Thornburg, former CJHS principal, requested to return to teaching in […]
Cambridge City scales back zoning review
Noting budget uncertainties for the town, Cambridge City’s Plan Commission will aim to address zoning concerns without the help of outside consultants at this time. During its July 10 meeting, commission members considered whether to recommend the town council hire a Zionsville firm for $12,000-$17,000 or the town’s current lawyer for $10,000 to redo the […]
Northeastern announces search for next superintendent
On Thursday, Northeastern Wayne Schools posted an application for superintendent, inviting those interested in becoming the school system’s top leader to share about the strengths, skills and experiences that would make them a good fit for the role. The online posting did not accompany any announcement about the status of the current superintendent, Dr. Matthew […]
Potential election costs unknown for Cambridge City
Nearly everything goes up in price in 10 years, and elections are likely no exception. Cambridge City paid $1,086 in 2015, the last year the town needed its own election. If the town has a contested council race this fall, it’s responsible for covering the election costs. Election officials are still determining what that amount […]
Blue Regiment’s win ends 2-decade wait
After organizing 20 Archway Classic marching band competitions, 2025 will stand out in Blue Regiment history. Saturday’s event was the first time Centerville Senior High School took home the top prize in its own contest. With a score of 55.625, Centerville’s “Jestures” show won by more than half a point over Richmond’s “Shut Up and […]
Meet new WWS leader at reception
Western Wayne Schools has scheduled a community reception for its new yet-to-be-named superintendent and welcomed another new board member. Superintendent search WWS has planned two events related to hiring a new district leader. The board will hear public objections or support for a proposed superintendent’s contract at a special meeting at 6 p.m. Thursday, July […]
Wilbur Wright Fly-in expected to return in 2026
Citing several factors, organizers have canceled the 2025 Wilbur Wright Fly-in that usually takes place in July at Hagerstown’s public airport. Optimist Club of Hagerstown has worked with Wayne County-based Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 373, food vendors, first responders and volunteers to offer the annual event on the 4,000-foot grass runway for many years. EAA […]