Wayne Highlands School District

🏞️ The Wayne Highlands School District is a large, rural public school district based in Honesdale, Pennsylvania, serving much of central and northeastern Wayne County. It’s known for its expansive geography, strong academics, and deep community roots.

📍 Location & Coverage

• Address: 474 Grove Street, Honesdale, PA 18431
• Covers approximately 435 square miles — nearly one-third the size of Rhode Island — making it the second-largest geographical district in Pennsylvania
• Serves towns and boroughs including Honesdale, Damascus, Lakewood, Preston, and surrounding areas

🏫 Schools in the District

Wayne Highlands operates six schools: 

• Stourbridge Primary Center | PK–2 | Honesdale
• Lakeside Elementary School | 3–5 | Honesdale
• Damascus Area School | PK–8 | Damascus
• Preston School | K–8 | Lakewood
• Wayne Highlands Middle School | 6–8 | Honesdale
• Honesdale High School | 9–12 | Honesdale

👩‍🏫 Enrollment & Staff

• Serves around 2,364 students from Pre-K through 12th grade
• Maintains a student-teacher ratio of 13:1
• Employs 100% certified teachers and 5 full-time counselors

📚 Academics & Performance

• Graduation rate: 92%
• Reading proficiency: 68%
• Math proficiency: 55%
• Offers AP courses, gifted programs, and dual enrollment options
• Notable for strong performance in Keystone Exams and PSSA scores, especially at Honesdale High School and Damascus Area School

🌍 Demographics

• Student body: ~91% White, 6% Hispanic, 2% multiracial, <1% Black, Asian, and Native American
• Economically disadvantaged: ~47% qualify for free/reduced lunch

💰 Financials

• Annual budget: ~$54.3 million
• Spending per student: ~$22,433
• Revenue sources: 63% local, 34% state, 3% federal

🎓 Culture & Community

• Offers a Virtual Campus for flexible learning
• Hosts events like Matilda the Musical, track championships, and community education programs
• Known for its marching band, performing arts, and athletic achievements, including the Honesdale High School baseball team’s league title