With school ending for the summer on May 27^th, it wasn’t just the last day for classes. It was the first day to begin a new adventure for Wayne County High School JROTC Cadets Summer Canseco, Tiffany Damian, Elijah Kidwell, Robert Bob Lewis, Amelia Ramsey, Amber Russell, Deborah Sexton and Roscoe Steiber who were traveling to Blue Grass Army Depot in Richmond, KY, as advanced party to begin five days of Junior Cadet Leadership Camp (JCLC). 

The Wayne County Transportation are proud of their safe record and hope motorists will remember school bus stop laws to keep students safe at the start of the school year. The safety of the young people in the community has never been more important. The Wayne County School staff have been undergoing all kinds of update trainings geared towards student safety.

   Wayne County School District has a new needed position filled by a familiar face, former Wayne County Middle School Principal Melissa Gossage. Gossage has been named the Human Resources director and has hit the job running.

 Students who are enrolled in Family and Consumer Science classes at Wayne County High School have a lot to look forward to this school year. They will be exposed to all kinds of projects and learn from a variety of speakers. This past school year, some of the highlights were creating the iconic Kentucky Hot Brown in their nutrition class to developing parenting skills through their adopted “egg baby” to making Tailgate Caviar and getting to sample it

Wayne County High School celebrated their 2022 graduating seniors in multiple ways and certainly wish them bright and happy futures ahead. They will be missed as the new school year gets close to beginning on August 17th. A new group of students were welcomed to the high school during orientation on August 2nd where freshmen got their bearings with the help of a great group of mentors!   

Thanks to the Defensive Action Against Drugs for once again coordinating the back to school free school supplies give away on July 22^nd.  The Wayne County Schools and DAAD wished to thank everyone that helped in any way with the Free School Supply Drive-Thru.

Orientation schedules are just around the corner. Each school has a specific style of offering their back to school orientation events. Check out the online registration options to get your paper work started more conveniently.

Each year, WCHS Instructor Kelly Brown shares her Project Lead the Way lab class, complete with students who have earned their white coats. The younger students from Bell Elementary who are invited for a visit, are inspired by the attention they receive from the 'big kids' who share an anatomy lesson with them at various stations located around the classroom. It's a win-win for learning because the high schoolers become experts at their stations and are happy to share with their younger peers!  

Congratulations to the Wayne County High School Academic Hall of Fame inductees and their families. This  past school year there were 50 seniors who met the requirements to be included into this prestigious group. Student scholars met the following conditions after the first seven semesters  being inducted into the Academic Hall of Fame: A cumulative grade point average of 3.75; met the ACT College Benchmarks (or their equivalents for state accountability) OR have passed two Dual Credit classes with a B or better grade; and have maintained at least a 94% attendance rate (excluding excused absences).    

Wayne County Schools are offering a new convenient way to register their children in school, thanks to an initiative by the district technology department. The idea is to eliminate the paper trail and be more efficient and convenient.

Students be sure and attend the school supply give away on Friday, July 22 from 6-8 p.m. The Drive-Thru event is sponsored by DAAD and Operation Unite. It is being moved from the Aspire Center to the front of the Wayne County High School for K-12th Graders.

Wayne County Schools are serving free meals to all children 18 years and younger at the following sites. Children can receive one free breakfast and one free lunch each day. Breakfast and lunch are served daily at the Wayne County Middle School. Lunch can be received Monday - Thursday on the mobile routes. Due to new changes approved by USDA meals can be Grab and Go. Families are welcome to stay and eat, but are no longer mandated to.

The Mid-Summer Meals Party Kickoff got lots of support from city government, Monticello Police Department, DAAD, Extension Service, Monticello Fire Department, Early Literacy Program, and Kynect. There were 74 children in attendance.

June was all about the kiddos, but July is for 12 and up! Teens and adults that means this is your time to shine. The Public Library has a variety of activities coming in July, and if you are interested in taking part, they would appreciate you giving them a call at 348-8565 that way they know how many to prepare for.

Master Gunnery Sergeant Darry A. Cross has been promoted to highest Marine Corps enlisted rank. He is originally from the Murl community and his parents are Al and Joyce Cross. He is a wonderful representative of the WC JROTC program!

This piece was circulating on social media from a UK Agriculture Education site about former Wayne County High School graduate Gage Tucker, who currently attends the University of Kentucky. Tucker was an excellent student in high school. He was in FFA and contributed greatly to the school garden when he was in high school. He continues to excel in college.

Monticello Woman's Club members congratulate Kristina Famulyak, a freshman at Wayne County High School, on winning first place for her painting at the GFWC-Kentucky state final student art contest.

Congratulations to Lloyd Jones for winning the $2,000 Perfect Attendance all year and congratulations to Brian Dishman and Sky Cares for winning the $1,000 Perfect Attendance second semester for certified and classified categories.

The Wayne County Junior Class received numerous awards for a variety of academic and attendance honors at the end of the school year. Parents were welcomed to watch their students receive awards.

The Wayne County Board of Education met for a special called meeting on Thursday, June 23 to discuss two items of business

The staff members retiring at the end of the school year logged 470.75 years of service to the children of Wayne County Schools. Thank you so much for your dedication and contributions to young people. 

Seniors were honored for their academic success through scholarships from college, universities, and local businesses and civic clubs, just prior to the end of the school year. They also received awards for different subject areas. Students earned an impressive number of industry certifications in a variety of vocational fields. 

The Wayne County Board of Education met in regular session for their June meeting following a reception honoring the retired staff who were each presented with a plaque for their years of service to Wayne County students.

Wayne County was well represented at the different meets this season, as well as at state!

Bell Elementary first and second graders lined the halls with their teachers to pay tribute to the seniors walking through.

Seniors had fun being honored in a variety of ways by the Wayne County High School. They even spelled out the number "22" in a drone aerial photograph taken by Mikki Simmons on the last day of school.

 It has been a memorable season for both the girls and the boys tennis teams at Wayne County Schools. Players from both teams made it all the way to state, which was held in Lexington, Ky.

The Commencement Ceremony was back to everyone being together with lots of excitement on the last day of school, Friday, May 27th. The class of 2022 had 226 graduates. Twenty-seven seniors graduated with Distinction and eleven graduated with Honors. Check out the program to learn more details.

Wayne County High School JROTC cadets and their dates enjoyed a dinner and dance at their annual ball festivities at Dale Hollow State Park. The cadets look forward to this event every year. This year's special guest was WCHS Social Studies Teacher Dean Sumpter, a former WCJROTC Battalion Commander from 2007-08, who did a great job speaking to the crowd.  

Wayne County Band members performed with other top musicians in the area at the Kentucky Music Education Association All District performance recently at Russell County. Congratulations to the local middle and high school students selected for this honor.

All kinds of opportunities have been held at the close of the school year for "Class of 2022".

FFA students recently provided a Farm Day for residents of Golden Years. Everyone had a good time at the event playing with the young animals.

Wayne County Schools is proud to sponsor their first annual Summer Music Academy. The academy will give any student in grades 6-8 an opportunity to learn to play a musical instrument that may have missed a previous opportunity. Parents please fill out the given QR Code provided.

Eight WCHS Seniors were honored recently at The Hat Field. A few days later, the Bat Cards defeated Southwestern 10-0 in five innings on Wednesday, May 18th capturing the 48th District Championship. Both of those teams advance to the Regional Tournament. Bat Cards won the first game of regional tournament. The Wayne County Baseball Team advanced to the semi-finals of the regional tournament with a 2-1 win on Monday night, May 23 against Rockcastle County. The Cardinals will play Danville at 7pm on May 24 at Somerset.

Seniors Mallory Campbell #13, Ashton Tucker #18, and Kenzie Upchurch #25 were honored at the start of the softball game on May 16th. Seniors from Casey County were also given flowers to recognize them. Wayne County lost to the visiting team. They are on the road on May 19 at an away game at Lincoln County. On May 23, they play McCreary Central at home at 7:00 p.m. for the 48th District Tournament.  

Wayne County preschoolers and kindergarten students from Walker Early Learning Center had a great time at their annual Farm Day. Special thanks to the Extension Office, Conservation Office, FFA, and Cobb who were among the many participants who worked hard to make it especially interesting for the youngest learners on campus.

Wayne County Archery had a good year.  All three teams competed in six tournaments.  The Wayne County High School team also competed in the KHSAA Regional tournament, which was hosted locally.

The Center announced the following five students who will have the privilege of participating in summer youth learning adventures that include: Madelyn Frogge, Landyn Beck, Taylor Hicks, Emily Shearer, and Brayden Lowe.   

Wayne County Area Technology students and Wayne County High School students got a thorough glimpse of all the interesting subject areas being taught nearby at Somerset KCTCS at the Road Show special event held at home. Students visited booths pertaining to all kinds of fields including everything from airplane mechanics to cosmetology and everything in between.

Wayne County School counselors and administrators gathered recently for a meeting to learn more about “Crimes against Children and Human Trafficking on the Internet” to enlighten them in order to try and combat this increasing nationwide problem. Wayne County Schools Director of Pupil Personnel Stewart York introduced the group to Supervisory Special Agent Grant R. Blevins of the U.S. Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Investigation, who gave an informative presentation on this alarming issue in Kentucky. Blevins, whose family is from Wayne County and has ties to Wayne County Schools, provided the local educators with a professional view of what is happening in the 23 counties that the five FBI agents based in London and two FBI agents in Pikeville are encountering on a regular basis.

The Boys Tennis Team is experiencing a positive season with an overall record of 11-3., especially considering that it is a small team this year. They started out the week on a high note defeating Lincoln County 7-2 and followed that up with a win over Southwestern 9-0. All six members of the team will qualify for regional competition beginning May 17th. Check out their schedule in May which includes several home games and support the team!  

The WCHS Softball Team players and coaches put in lots of time working on skills and playing a lot of games during their spring season. They have three remaining games at home on their schedule. Come out and support these Cardinal athletes! 

The final stretch promotions are geared towards encouraging high school students to do their best on upcoming testing. WCHS students are encouraged to wear their Derby hats in the media center demonstrating they were ready to tackle the final stretch of the school year on Friday, May 6th.

     The Wayne County High School Girls Tennis Team is experiencing a terrific winning season with an overall win-loss record of 13-1 currently.  “It’s the best season the girls have had since I’ve been coaching the past 8 years. Our next best overall season was back in 2019 when the overall record was 12-3.

  Wayne County Schools will be conducting their final bus evacuation drill on Wednesday, May 4^th. This will be the fourth state mandated drill of the school year to help students remember proper emergency procedures to ensure safety on board school buses. The safety measures learned apply to regular bus routes, as well as extra-curricular transportation.

     Wayne County Area Technology Center Automotive Technology student Wesley (Cole) Crabtree will have the honor of advancing to the national competition in Atlanta, Georgia, this June with his 1^st Place finish in the Automotive MLR State Contest. Automotive contestants demonstrate competency and perform skills along with Job Interviews and Written Assessments used in the occupational area for which they are training.  In addition, Wayne County High School Senior/SCC Cosmetology student MackiLee Worley competed in the Kentucky State SkillsUSA winning a first place award, enabling her to qualify for nationals.

Wayne County School’s Area Technology Center JAG (Job for America’s Graduates) students will have a “leg up” when it comes to employment after graduation, due to a variety of opportunities Instructor Brenda Hoover has given them this school year. The Wayne County Extension 4-H program shared their workforce preparation curriculum, which culminated in a mock job interview event. 

Prom 2022 was a great night with over 450 in attendance at the beautifully decorated high school gym and cafeteria. It was a fun night for the upperclassmen to get dressed up for a special dance complete with dj, refreshments, photo booth, dancing, garter line, and fireworks show on the football field. Mallory Campbell was voted on as Prom Queen and Renan Dobbs was voted Prom King. Thanks to the principal and staff for their support for the special event.  

    Migrant Recruiter Advocate Magdalena Coy was recognized for her service to Wayne County Schools’ Migrant Program during the Board of Education’s April monthly meeting. In November, she was named the number one recruiter in the state.

Bat Cards are experiencing a winning season with a record of 12-6. They play McCreary Central Monday, April 25 at 6:00 p.m. at home.

Due to the ever increasing construction costs for a new preschool-kindergarten facility, the Wayne County Board of Education paused the new building project plans and are directing the district’s Facility Planning Committee to meet and investigate other options. The committee will then share their findings during the May monthly board meeting.

The Wayne County Girls Fast Pitch Softball program is well underway with plenty of games scheduled throughout May. Currently the varsity team has a record of 7-6 up through April 21^st. Most recently, the girls won back to back games on April 21 at Jellico, Tennessee.

Wayne County Schools are pleased to announce the hiring of Austin Shearer as its next Girls’ Head Basketball Coach. Austin is only the 7th different head coach in the history of the girl’s program.

Wayne County High School Agriculture students did well at the FFA Regional Paperwork Day and at the UK Field Day competitions. Activities they competed in ranged from essays to judging to interview skills.

County Judge Executive Mike Anderson welcomed a group of professionals who work hard to help children, to a proclamation signing during April’s child abuse prevention month, recently. He and Monticello Mayor Tracie Sexton spoke about the issue of child abuse and neglect, noting how important it is to prevent these situations. Check out the outside of the middle school - YSC has provided two metal figures of a boy and girl. They are blowing pinwheels. (This is to represent the innocence of a child playing with pinwheels to represent Child Abuse Awareness). Look for the pinwheels placed in the ground and four blue solar lights that illuminate the scene at night. Thank you middle school for showing the school district's support of April’s Child Abuse Prevention Campaign.

The Wayne County Concert Band walked away from the Kentucky Music Education Association (KMEA) with the highest nod of approval possible for their performances, recently. “We performed before three judges and all three judges gave us a distinguished rating,” said Wayne County Band Director Andy Critz. “The KMEA Association Concert Assessment is our version of testing at the novice, apprentice, proficient or distinguished level.”

Wayne County High School students don't have to leave the school building to find a job these days. That is because of a new program launched by Community Work Transition Program Employment Specialist Missy Jones called Transition Tuesdays.

Both the girls and the boys teams are doing well this season with mostly winning matches under their belt. They are led by Coach Allen Burchett on the boys team and Coach Ronnie Sexton with the girls team.

Monticello Woman's Club proudly announces local art students with winning entries in the GFWC-Ky 9th District Student Art Contest. Kristina Famulyak won first place for her painting and second place for her watercolor. Jazzlyn Rigney placed second in the painting contest.

Kendall Neal and Dylan Southwood won first place Saturday, March 26 in the SAF KY High School State Championship Bass Tournament on Lake Cumberland. One hundred eighty five teams from all over Kentucky participated. Neal and Southwood won first place with their 15 pound 14 ounce catch and also qualified for the Nationals in June.

Wayne County Schools were included in a recent publication called the “Commemorative Banner Book” at the Kentucky School Boards Association 2022 Annual Conference.

You might think you are in a medical laboratory at a hospital when you step into Kelly Brown’s classroom at Wayne County High School. Students might be clad in white lab coats wearing gloves, using the same tools as the professionals doing precise work at their station.

You'll find information on all kinds of scholarships, contests, Dual credit classes, FAFSA, and newsletters. There is a wealth of information to learn about every high school student thanks to our professional Counselors.

The program included pieces like Psalm 42, Incantation and Ritual, and the Mandalorian. Band Director Andy Critz told the audience that this group had worked really hard perfecting their musical talents which has been very rewarding for him.

  Wayne County Schools’ digital learning coaches and IT staffers attended their professional development at KySTE (Kentucky Society for Technology in Education) on March 9-11 in Louisville at the Galt House. There were several speakers featured at the 2 ½ day conference, while a big number of vendors offered exhibits. Spectators could check out their products and see which ones would best enhance student learning while fitting into their schools' existing technology.

The Wayne County Board of Education approved the current and upcoming school year calendars during their monthly meeting on Thursday, March 17^th.

Spring Volleyball Skills Academy registration day is set for March 26 at the Wayne County High School Gymnasium. Students in first through fifth grade are eligible to attend. 

A large group of Wayne County High School FFA students participated in the Lake Cumberland Regional FFA Day on Thursday, March 10, at Campbellsville University. Kathren Crabtree competed in Prepared Public Speaking and received a Superior 2nd place standing and Kason Stockton competed in Goat and Sheep securing a Superior 1st place award. 

Wayne County High School athletes were recognized at a high level, recently as the basketball seasons concluded. Junior Mason Burchett and Senior Mallory Campbell were both named to the Regional All Tournament Basketball Teams.

Wayne County High School Senior Kason Stockton is headed to Kentucky Christian University in Grayson, Kentucky, to further his education with the help of a scholarship earned through his participation on the school’s bass fishing team. Kentucky Christian is a private Christian university where Stockton is one of less than a dozen high school seniors being recruited out of 122 prospects to the Knights Bass Fishing Coed Team.

     On Saturday, March 5,a couple of guys from the Wayne County Casting Cards high school fishing team scored big at the MLF at Lake Guntersville.  It was the first time Elijah Adkins and Austin Criswell had ever fished there and what a successful day.  

WCHS was able to host their annual pancake breakfast the day before the ACT exam was taken at school, with the help of some special volunteers. The pancake breakfast is held in support of the junior class who took the state mandated ACT test March 8th. The school provided a special lunch  for the juniors to give them a little extra support after the exam.

Thanks to the Wayne County Cooperative Extension Service, raised beds were built with 4" PVC pipe and dirt was moved and plastic provided to keep the weeds out at Walker Early Learning Center. The outdoor garden accommodated a planting spot for children from every classroom to learn about gardening. Wayne County High School FFA students assisted with the project. Close to 400 preschool and kindergarten students planted sugar snap pea seeds learning it is time to plant cool season crops that can be harvested once the weather turns hot. Hopefully, the project planted a seed in their minds to understand how the land can be used to raise nutritious foods.  

Lady Cardinal Basketball Team ended their season on March 1, when they were defeated by Danville in the 12th Regional Tournament, held at Lincoln County. They played Southwestern at McCreary Central in the 48th District Championship on Feb 24 when the All-Tournament Team players were named which included: Mallory Campbell, Adeline Heatherly, and Kenzie Upchurch.

Wayne County High School Juniors will join all Kentucky public school 11th graders taking the ACT on March 8th across the Commonwealth. WCHS Media Specialist Carol Ford has been reminding these students that they can practice for it online for FREE through the school library’s subscription to the Kentucky Virtual Library.

The Wayne County Wrestling team traveled to George Rogers Clark on Friday, February 25^th and Saturday the 26^th to compete in the State Wrestling Tournament at George Rogers Clark High School. Eighth Grader Coalton Kilburn at 138 lb. and Junior Colin Tucker at 126 lb. competed for Wayne County.

Students from Wayne County Area Technology Center traveled to Lake Cumberland Area Technology Center on February 21st to compete at regionals. Students engaged in skilled and leadership competitions. Check out how many students participated and placed at regionals, while doing a great job representing WC ATC. 

Wayne County High School Senior John David Rains, son of Karen and David Rains, is once again headed to the state Governor’s Cup Academic Team competition. Rains placed first in Social Studies at the recent regional level of Governor’s Cup Academic competition which was held in Danville, KY, on February 19.

Wayne County School Assistant Superintendent/Chief Academic Officer Brian Dishman was asked to compose an online article that was published on SmartBrief, an umbrella news site to Ed Tech News recently. Learn how the Wayne County School District has focused on their literacy instructional program and are making strides for students. Dishman shared how the local district is making improvements in literacy instruction through consistency, explicit phonics instruction, and a commitment to professional development.

Congratulations to WCHS Junior Colin Tucker and Freshman Coalton Kilburn on their performances at the first round of the KHSAA State Wrestling Tournament on Saturday, February 19 at Georgetown. The 16 man bracket tournament was held at Great Crossing High School. The top eight wrestlers in each weight class advance to the State Finals this Friday and Saturday at George Rogers Clark High School at Winchester.

Lady Cards defeated McCreary Central 56-35 on Monday, February 21 in 48th District competition. They will face Southwestern on Thursday, Feb. 24 at District. During their last home game, four Wayne County seniors and their families were recognized at the start of the Varsity Basketball game with Campbellsville on Thursday, February 17th.

Wayne County’s Winter Guard turned a corner by having the privilege of competing once again. They traveled a long distance to compete at their first competition in several years.

Walker Early Learning Center parents attended their recent conferences for kindergarten and preschool students. The conferences help teachers and parents to communicate face to face in an effort to help the students progress.

Senior Basketball players (l-r:) Gage Gregory, Renan Dobbs, and Bryson Slone were recognized at their senior night on February 12 when they defeated Barbourville 78-52 at home. Since then they played two games on the road where they lost to Boyle County and Rockcastle County. On Friday, February 18th they played Lexington Catholic away. On Saturday, Feb. 19 they were back at home to play  in the State Farm Classic which was a make up event. The Boys District Game at McCreary Central is set for February 25 when the Cards face McCreary Central at 7:00 p.m. Go Cards!

The Wayne County High School Academic Team is looking forward to competing at Governor’s Cup Regional Competition on Saturday, February 19 in Danville. After somewhat of a dry spell, the academic team is back on track, having won the Governor’s Cup District 48 meet recently. Wayne County High School placed first at district with a high score of 62, with Southwestern High School placing second scoring 44, followed by McCreary Central High School.

Students in Shannon Foster’s Foods and Nutrition class recently learned about the iconic Kentucky Hot Brown.

Several Wayne County Wrestlers placed in the regional competition held at McCreary Central on Saturday, February 12. Three time Regional Champion Colin Tucker finished in first place. The top four wrestlers are now headed to the State Tournament on February 19th. 

 It was just like the old days. The Monticello Elementary Gymnasium was packed with spectators with seas of blue in the stands. The athletes were wearing Monticello uniforms and the cheerleaders were clad in Monticello blue.

The Mat Cards traveled to Belfry, Kentucky on Saturday February 5, for the Pirate Invitational 11 Team Tournament. Several local wrestlers placed individually.  The Mat Cards will be in action Saturday, February 12th at McCreary Central High School . They will compete in the KHSAA Region 7 Wrestling Tournament.

Wayne County Boys Cardinal Basketball Team defeated the McCreary Central Raiders on Friday, February 4 with a score of 64 to 60. There was a big crowd on hand to support the Cards, as well as other highlights from the game. 

  Dating comes to mind when you think of Valentine’s Day. Wayne County High School Advanced Placement Biology/College Dual Credit students in Kelly Brown’s class have already experienced the dating scene in their lab with tables set up for two, complete with centerpieces, earlier this school year.

Wayne County Schools are fortunate to offer the Healthy Kids Clinic and school nurses during these trying times during the pandemic. The clinic is currently offering the Moderna and Pfizer initial Covid vaccines and booster shots. The Pfizer vaccine for children ages 5 and up is also available. Vaccine clinics are held twice a week on Wednesdays and Fridays for the general public. They are welcome to make an appointment at the clinic located behind Monticello Elementary between 8:00-9:00 a.m. and 3:30-4:30 p.m. on these days. Just call 844-435-0900.     

Two former WC Basketball Hall of Famers that lead WC to 80 victories in their careers were recognized during Retro Night. The crowd welcomed back #14 Tom Pyles who had 632 career rebounds and 895 points.  He played college basketball at Lee’s College and went on to be the Head Coach at Monticello before finishing as an assistant for the Lady Cards. 

His brother, Tim Pyles, dished out 592 assists and scored 793 career points as one of Wayne County’s greatest point guards.  He was an assistant with the Cardinal boys for 7 years before becoming the Head Coach of the Lady Cards, leading them to numerous District and Regional Championships before retiring.

Hey students ages 9-18, check out the 4-H Written Communication Contest whether it is poetry, songwriting, press releases, or public service announcements. There are a variety of categories. Deadline to enter is February 22nd! 

Wayne County High School students like Aaron Hesse, Wesley Cares and Kali Powell know how to benefit from the Center for Developments summer academic programs. In fact, some of the programs carry over into the school year. Senior Aaron Hesse and Junior Wesley Cares are still involved in their Rogers Scholar programs. They are currently doing service projects to help their community.

Congratulations to Mitchell Gregory and Aubra Branscum for both winning $1,000 in the employee attendance incentive contest! There were 67 certified staff employees eligible to win $1,000 in the employee attendance incentive drawing, that reflected perfect attendance for the first semester. There were 48 classified staff employees eligible to win $1,000 in the employee attendance incentive drawing. The $1,000 drawing will be held again at the end of the school year to see who wins $1,000 for both the certified and classified staff during the second semester, so more employees have a chance at winning. In addition, one employee with perfect attendance for both semesters in a combined random drawing will receive $2,000. Good Luck!  

  Midway University Boys Golf program has gotten one of their top recruits with Wayne County High School Senior Gage Gregory. Gregory, the son of Amy and Stewart Gregory, recently signed to play at the college level for the Midway Eagles.

The Wayne County Casting Cards team participated in a tournament on Saturday, December 4th at Conley Bottom. Kason Stockton was the overall winner with Hannah Kempton and Jenna Morrow finishing 2nd. Elijah Adkins and Austin Criswell placed 3rd. Lots of other Casting Card team members caught fish during the tournament.

Bell Elementary students gained all kinds of health information from high school students during a recent partnership with Health Teacher Megan Gehring's students. They created a health fair for first and second graders in PE Teacher Bradley Askins' class. WCHS Health Class students with the highest grades and best behavior in class were recruited to participate in the successful event, which will likely become an annual opportunity to make students more aware of their health at an earlier age. High school students are required to take one semester of health education, which is rotated with one semester of physical education.

Whether it is the Polar Express Train gearing up it's engine at Bell Elementary or a Monticello Elementary Christmas Traditions Around the World Drive-In Adventure or an after school tour of the beautifully decorated hallways at Walker Early Learning Center or the massive food drive at Wayne County Middle School or a festive spirit week at WCHS - that barely is the tip of the iceberg of magical and fun events educators have planned for their students just before the holidays. Here are a few of the events underway....  

The KABC would like to congratulate Rodney Woods (Wayne County) and Joey Thacker (Franklin County), who have been named Kentucky's inaugural recipients of the 2021 NHSBCA John Wooden Legacy Award.

The FFA Polar Express Float received second place in the annual parade organized by the Chamber of Commerce. The WC JROTC helped lead the parade with retired WCHS Teacher Calvin Kennett who was the Grand Marshall.

Students in Mrs. Shannon Foster's Early Life Span class recently looked at how thematic units can be used within many different classroom settings. Students began by reading "Where the Wild Things Are." They then designed their own wild thing and wrote a short story about their experiences with it.

Wayne County School groups to look for at the parade will be the WC JROTC, WC Band, Baseball Team, WCMS/WCHS Dance Teams, and the Casting Cardinals. Retired WCHS Teacher Calvin Kennett will be the Grand Marshal.  

Thanks to JROTC, FCA, and volunteers who helped cook the 38 lbs. of turkey, 13 large pans of dressing and all the side dishes to go with it. Plus, they delivered to homes for those in need or picked up at the cafeteria. This year, Shannon Foster's Foods and Nutrition class learned how to make homemade biscuits in a preliminary lab. They then made over 10 dozen biscuits to donate to the FCA Thanksgiving meal.  It took a village and lots of organization to pull this monumental event off. All involved did an awesome job! Wayne County Proud!

Masonry week is always an eventful week in Carpentry. Carpentry students at the Wayne County ATC learned to mix mortar with the proper ratio of cement, sand, and water. Students also learned block laying patterns and engaged in a block laying competition at the end of the week. Students learned to work together in groups to explore strengths and weaknesses.

FFA/agriculture students most recently have been finishing up the cold weather harvest and cleaning up the garden. But, at its peak this fall, the Farm Dinner Night was held where students did a good job informing visitors about this year's crop of vegetables. The garden was in perfect condition thanks to the Wayne County Extension Office and all the students' efforts to maintain it. Much of the harvest fed students' school lunches this fall.

Wayne County Board of Education approved the 2020-21 financial audit report that was presented by White and Associates, PSC, while also approving several payments for various renovation projects.

Congratulations Mallory Campbell on being selected for 12th Region Player of the Year and for receiving the All-State Honorable Mention!

McDonald's restaurants across Kentucky are supporting teachers by presenting a series of MAC Grants this fall. Each $500 MAC Grant is designed to help local teachers return to the classroom in a safe, engaging way. Recently, local McDonald’s Owner/Operators Randy and Bethany Baird presented a $500 check virtually to Marsha Bertram, a teacher at Wayne County Area Technology Center (ATC) in Monticello.

The Wayne County JROTC conducted a Veteran's Day program for their classmates and local Veterans who attended the program held in the Rodney Woods Gymnasium. The JROTC cadets did a good job honoring Veterans.

 Wayne County School students played a big role in  "Honoring All Who Served" on Veteran's Day. The parade event was sponsored by the Wayne County Disabled American Veterans Chapter 105 with DAV Commander Jeff Morgan serving as master of ceremonies.The Wayne County Band's performance of Armed Forces Medley followed by "God Bless the USA" sung by the Waynetonian Choir was impressive. Special thanks to the WC JROTC Battalion who always rise to the occasion and make everyone proud. 

The Wayne County Chapter of Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America recently participated in the statewide FCCLA initiative related to The Rae of Sunshine Foundation. Students in Shannon Foster's FCCLA Club participated in the SMILE week activities.

Save the Date for The Wayne County Schools Thanksgiving Dinner on November 25. Donations need to be left at the High School by Monday, November 22, for those that wish to contribute to this worthwhile cause. This event is sponsored by the Wayne County High School, JROTC, and FCA.

WCHS Tech Design is designing 3D printed lamp shades and selling them complete with lamps and bulbs for $20. Marsha Bertram's 3D Printing class makes all kinds of useful items. In fact, they have made masks to wear during the pandemic customized with the Wayne County logo.

Rogers Scholars -- The Center for Rural Development's flagship youth program -- is open to rising high school juniors in Southern and Eastern Kentucky who are seeking to build their skills in leadership, career exploration, entrepreneurship, technology, and community service. The program provides valuable leadership skills and exclusive college scholarship opportunities for young people throughout the region. Students apply during their sophomore year.

Wayne County High School students like William Beckley continue to build on their dreams by focusing on their local pathway of courses which include advanced placement, dual credit college, Project Lead the Way, coupled with acceptance to academic geared opportunities like the Governor Scholar’s Program.

Congratulations to Wayne County’s Mallory Campbell who has been named the 2021 12th Region Volleyball Player of the Year! The Lady Cardinals defeated Rockcastle County 3-0 on Tuesday, October 26 to advance to the region semi-finals where they were defeated by West Jessamine Wednesday evening at Rockcastle County High School. Thanks to the WCHS Volleyball Team for a hard fought and entertaining season.

Wayne County Schools are serving a special “farm to fork” menu on Wednesday, October 27^th at each of the five schools in the district. Meet the vendors that helped bring it about.

Wayne County Juniors learned how to apply for the Governor's Scholar Program, recently. They viewed a video and received helpful information and details from WCHS Counselor Elizabeth Miller who encouraged them to apply. Final applications should be turned in to the counselors’ office by 3:00 PM on Friday, December 10, 2021.

The ATC Jobs For America's Graduates Class taught by Brenda Hoover is launching a clothing drive at all Wayne County Schools beginning Monday, October 25th - Thanksgiving. This worthwhile project is Wesley Cares' Service Project for Rogers Scholar.

Three Wayne County Cross Country runners set themselves apart by placing first in their age divisions at the local Cross Country course just off KY 90. Congratulations to WCMS eighth grader Emily Shearer, WCMS eighth grader Caleb Sargent, and Monticello Elementary fourth grader Zane Upchurch for leading the packs in their races during the annual Cave Lake Fall Classic on October 16.

    The annual Agriculture Conservation Field Day offered local students an opportunity to serve and be a part of an informative special community event.  Wayne County Junior Conservation Club members introduced the audience to several of the agriculture professionals who are very familiar with the soil, water, and farmland that makes Wayne County so beautiful. FFA/Agriculture students helped prepare and serve the dinner held under a tent, after the presentations and hayride tour.

Drive-through COVID-19 testing and vaccines on October 20th and 27th 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM EST. Wayne County Park Michigan Avenue.

Wayne County Girls Soccer season concluded on October 12 at the Regional Tournament, The Lady Cardinals were defeated by Somerset 5-1.

Congratulations to Wayne County Middle School for winning the prize in the non-profit organization category & the Viewer's Choice category. 

Both the boys and the girls golf teams will be represented at the state championship in Bowling Green during fall break. The boys golf team competed in the regional tournament on September 28 at Eagles Nest Country Club in Somerset.  They won the runner up trophy.  Gage Gregory tied for first runner up and Gehrig Sexton placed 6th.  These two golfers have represented Wayne County Schools well and will be missed in the upcoming seasons. 

      The Kentucky Department of Education released the Kentucky Summative Assessment (KSA) results from last spring, which include Wayne County’s data. The impact of learning disruptions is evident in the results, both locally and statewide. The local district is aggressively working to make up for lost time and learning due to the pandemic.

Wayne County Middle School Cross Country team competed in the North Laurel Invitational, Saturday, September 25th. Emily Shearer was the overall girls champion finishing with a time of 14:04. The boys finished 2nd overall and were led by Taren Jones who finished 6th with a time of 12:33 and Collin Ramsey who finished 7th with a time of 12:37. 

The Wayne County High School Football stadium was officially named the Shawn Thompson stadium after the former football coach. Thompson and his family were recognized just prior to the game. The Wayne County Middle School football team was also recognized at a break later in the game.

Close to 5,000 pumpkins were harvested recently from the school garden thanks to WC Extension Service and FFA/Agriculture students. Blanco and orange Field Trip pumpkins were harvested so preschool - 5th graders could have their very own small pumpkin to take home. Students can participate in the pumpkin decorating contest if they would like. Pumpkins are to be decorated as book characters. Check out more information inside...

Girls Soccer Team played Taylor County at an away game on September 21st. They've played 11 games in their season, to date.

A pep rally was held at the conclusion of the parade. The high school students had fun preparing for homecoming activities. Spirit Week and the selection of the homecoming court were in support of the Cardinal Football Team. 

Wayne County High School Girls Soccer played short handed by 9 or 10 players verses eleven at the Monroe County game on Monday, September 13. Monroe County hosted the competition. The Monroe County Girls scores a total of three points winning the game!

    The Wayne County High School Marching Band received a third place overall award on Saturday, September 11^th at their first competition of the school year held at Somerset High School. Congratulations to the Wayne County Color Guard who received Best in Class and the Best Overall Award. They are coached by former WCHS Color Guard Member Shelby Gregory. 

The Wayne County Boys Golf Team participated in the South Laurel Invitational on September 11th in London, Kentucky, bringing home the runner-up title. Gage Gregory was named the overall individual Champion. There were a total of fifteen teams and some individuals which made a combined total of 92 golfers. 

The annual Wayne County Invitational, sponsored by the Monticello Banking Company, was held at the Monticello Country Club on Sunday, August 29.  A total of 72 high school golfers competed. The event featured thirteen teams and other individual golfers. Wayne County placed fourth in the tournament with a team score of 306.

Since 1961, the Lexington Philharmonic Orchestra has been one of the premier musical organizations in the Bluegrass State, exposing generations of Central Kentuckians to some of the greatest concert music ever composed. Wayne County Band has been fortunate to have input into their program through a special philharmonic musician.

Band gives first glimpse of their complex program during halftime at the Cardinal Football game on Friday, September 3, Good luck at the first band competition on Saturday, September 11th at Somerset High School, followed by North Laurel High School competition on September 18. 

Another successful grape harvesting session was held recently with Wayne County FFA students. The Wayne County Extension Service appreciates the opportunity extended by the Garrett family to continue the tradition of growing and maintaining quality grapes to benefit young people in the community.. The grapes were for sale at The Wayne County Farmers Market on Saturday, September 4th. The profits go into the FFA Alumni Account, to be utilized to support FFA members' scholarships (enough grapes were sold to fund one $500 Glyncon Garrett scholarship for a 2022 graduating VoAg student) and activities. 

Enroll your kids up to age 19 in no-cost health care coverage through the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Signing up is simple. Coverage is complete. And it’s the right thing to do. Go to kynect.ky.gov/kchip or call (877) 524-4718.