About

The Wayne Highlands School District is a public school district headquartered in Honesdale, Pennsylvania, proudly serving students and families throughout central and northeastern Wayne County. Rooted in the traditions of its communities while continually preparing students for the future, Wayne Highlands provides educational opportunities from Kindergarten through Grade 12.

The District's mission centers on building a strong school-community alliance dedicated to dynamic and flexible educational processes, success for all students, interdependent lifelong learning, and respect for oneself and society. These principles help guide the District's academic programs, student services, extracurricular opportunities, and commitment to preparing students for success beyond graduation.

Our Schools

Wayne Highlands School District is home to six traditional school buildings, each serving an important role in the educational journey of its students:

• Stourbridge Primary Center — Kindergarten through Grade 2
• Lakeside School — Grades 3 through 5
• Wayne Highlands Middle School — Grades 6 through 8
• Honesdale High School — Grades 9 through 12
• Damascus School — Kindergarten through Grade 8
• Preston School — Kindergarten through Grade 8

The District also maintains the Wayne Highlands Virtual Campus, providing another educational option for students and families.

Excellence in Education

At Wayne Highlands, education extends far beyond the traditional classroom. Students are provided opportunities to develop academically, socially, artistically, technologically, and physically. From early literacy and elementary education through advanced high school coursework, career and technical opportunities, and preparation for college and the workforce, the District strives to meet the individual needs of every learner.

Wayne Highlands also provides a continuum of special education services from Kindergarten through graduation, with an emphasis on giving students access to the general education curriculum and providing appropriate services and supports.

Career preparation is another important component of the educational experience. Honesdale High School provides vocational opportunities supported through the Carl D. Perkins program, including areas such as health professions, carpentry, agriculture, and career preparation.

Technology and Innovation

Technology has become an integral part of teaching, learning, communication, safety, and the daily operations of Wayne Highlands School District. The District continues to invest in modern technology infrastructure and digital learning resources that provide students and educators with the tools necessary to succeed in an increasingly connected world.

Technology is not simply equipment—it is a pathway to opportunity. By combining strong classroom instruction with innovative technology, Wayne Highlands can provide students with opportunities to collaborate, communicate, create, research, and develop the digital skills they will need in college, careers, and life.

Arts, Athletics, and Student Life

Wayne Highlands recognizes that some of the most meaningful educational experiences happen beyond the classroom. Students have opportunities to participate in athletics, music, performing arts, clubs, student organizations, leadership programs, and other extracurricular activities.

The arts continue to be an important part of the Wayne Highlands experience. District students participate in band, chorus, theatre, and other performing arts opportunities, with students earning recognition at the regional and state levels. Athletics similarly provide opportunities for students to develop teamwork, discipline, leadership, school spirit, and pride.

A Commitment to Community

Perhaps one of Wayne Highlands School District's greatest strengths is the relationship between its schools and the communities they serve. Parents, families, educators, administrators, support staff, community organizations, businesses, and residents all contribute to creating opportunities for students.

The District also places a strong emphasis on student safety and wellness. Its Safe Schools planning includes collaboration among school representatives, emergency management, law enforcement, and community service agencies, reflecting the importance of community partnerships in maintaining safe and supportive learning environments.

Preparing Students for the Future

Wayne Highlands School District honors the traditions that have shaped its schools while continuing to embrace new opportunities for the future. Whether through academics, technology, athletics, the arts, career preparation, or community service, the goal remains the same: to provide every student with opportunities to discover their talents and achieve their potential.

From a student's first day of Kindergarten to the moment a senior walks across the stage at Honesdale High School, Wayne Highlands is committed to creating an educational experience built upon opportunity, achievement, respect, innovation, and community.

Regions and constituent municipalities

Map of Wayne County with the highlighted boroughs and townships served by WHSD.

The district is divided into three regions, which include the following municipalities:

Region I

• Buckingham Township
• Damascus Township
• Manchester Township
• Preston Township
• Scott Township
   

Region II

• Bethany Borough
• Dyberry Township
• Honesdale Borough
• Lebanon Township
   

Region III

• Berlin Township
• Cherry Ridge Township
• Oregon Township
• Prompton Borough
• Texas Township (partially in the Wallenpaupack Area School District)