Wyoming Area students excel in community projects and educational initiatives

The Wyoming Area School District held a Combined Board of Education Meeting on May 22, 2025, where several noteworthy achievements and initiatives were highlighted, showcasing the district's commitment to student engagement and community involvement.

The meeting commenced with a recognition of senior Mia Alcavilla and junior Danae Diamond for their exemplary service on the Wyoming Area School Board during the 2024-2025 school year. Board member Mr. Camp County presented plaques to both students in acknowledgment of their contributions.

Following the recognition, the board discussed a recent virtual field trip undertaken by fourth graders at the Intermediate Center to Brown Hill Farms in Tunkhannock. This educational experience, part of the Remake Learning Days initiative, allowed students to learn about corn planting and harvesting.

The meeting also featured a presentation by Courtney Penka and Courtney Wagner, participants in the 2025 Leadership Northeast Impact Leadership in Education program. They shared their social impact project aimed at revitalizing the Wyoming Area Primary Center playground. Their efforts included fundraising through local business donations, a T-shirt sponsorship, and community events, with the playground's renovation set to be unveiled at the start of the 2025 school year.

Eighth-grade gifted students participated in the annual STEM challenge sponsored by LIU 18, presenting their project titled GUTS (Geographical Underground Thermal Sensor). This innovative prototype aims to detect air pockets that could lead to mine subsidence, utilizing a drone and a land rover for monitoring. The students' research was inspired by historical incidents of sinkholes in the area, emphasizing their commitment to community safety.

The board also highlighted the success of the ukulele club at the Intermediate Center, where students learned to play over six weeks, thanks to grant funding for instruments. Additionally, 19 students participated in the 2025 Luzerne County Imbibraphon, with one team achieving a commendable fourth place out of 26.

Students engaged in environmental education through the Community Connections to Our Watershed program, conducting a water quality study on Hicks Creek and presenting their findings at a forum attended by various schools and environmental professionals.

The meeting concluded with acknowledgments of various community service projects undertaken by students, including appreciation gifts for school staff and the organization of a clothes closet that served over 40 students. The Wyoming Area School District also celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week earlier this month, recognizing the hard work and dedication of its educators.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's focus on fostering student leadership, community engagement, and educational innovation, setting a positive tone for the upcoming school year.