Western Wayne celebrates successes, navigates change

Western Wayne Schools approved new board member Ryan Riggs, celebrated a $5,000 grant for books and hired a high school basketball coach and teacher, among several positions.

Schools

During its May 14 meeting, Western Wayne Elementary Principal Elizabeth Miller noted a colleague’s use of the word “mayotic,” a combination of mayhem and chaotic, to describe the month of activities including passion projects, musical performances and Field Day fun.

Second and third graders who didn’t pass IREAD are currently retesting. It’s new for second graders to have a second opportunity. Those who don’t pass again still qualify for promotion.

Third graders who didn’t pass have been participating in remediation since the first test results were released in late March. They can take the test again in June after summer school.

Among successes, Lincoln Middle/High School Principal Renee Lakes noted another Indiana High School Athletic Association exemplary behavior report. An official noted excellent sportsmanship and cooperation from the LMHS community at Wayne County’s track meet.

LMHS also received a $5,000 grant (one of 220 nationwide) from former first lady Laura Bush’s foundation for library books.

In other business

• The board approved a contract with Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce and five other school districts to hire a work-based learning coordinator to help meet new graduation requirements.
• WWS also renewed its contract with Sodexo Services of Indiana for buildings/grounds maintenance, custodial services and construction management.
• The district office’s summer hours are 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 7:30 a.m.-noon Friday.
• Superintendent Andy Stover addressed a false rumor that WWS’ contract with Dublin’s softball field is expiring soon. Stover said the contract doesn’t expire until the end of next year, and it’s ideal to maintain the contract until everything can be figured out. WWS has provided services, such as fixing a fallen scoreboard, and is considering tile work to address flooding. He said WWS supports girls sports and wants to ensure equal opportunities.
• Karen Hinken asked what positions would be lost when a grant runs out that pays for certain salaries. Stover said it would be difficult when those funds dissolve, and he’ll provide a confirmed list of the job titles. She said the board or incoming superintendent should address that important matter. Stover said he’d also ask Sodexo’s district manager during their year-end communication if floating staff could be provided for cleaning when positions are unfilled, per Hinken’s suggestion. He complimented Matt Webb’s willingness to work tirelessly to ensure cleanliness.
• Many thanks were shared at the end. In case he misses June’s meeting, board member Brent Fortman thanked the departing superintendent for his work, including starting the community Thanksgiving dinner. Board President Kris Bex thanked all who attended because they care about the district and its kids.

Personnel

• New hires: Scott Speheger, LMHS physical education/health teacher; Melody Mills, LMHS guidance counselor; Abby Buckley, kindergarten teacher; Hannah Best and Amanda Ewing, third grade teachers Khyleigh North, fourth grade teacher
• Adjunct contract renewal: Ashley Pitcher, third grade teacher
• Summer school teachers: Julie Buhl, Kari Christie, Kelly DeVaughn, Jordan Kennedy, Brad Miller, Brenda Mateos
• Coaches: Scott Speheger, varsity girls basketball coach; Nick Cupp, MS football coach; Michael Lathery and Kelly Klein, athletic supervisors. Summer band: Ann Fost, drill writer; Jake Fost, assistant; Shannon Moore, color guard instructor