Can you guess why it's her favorite day of the year?!?!?
about 1 hour ago, Christina Powers
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Our Panthers continue to sharpen their claws — getting stronger, more confident, and better every week!
Check out this week's ROAR REPORT!
https://app.smore.com/n/16cvn
about 2 hours ago, Christina Powers
CONGRATULATIONS SPEAKERS! Being selected to speak at graduation is truly an honor that reflects consistent hard work, leadership, and the positive example these students have set throughout their time at Watervliet High School. Over the past week, we’ve spent time thoughtfully narrowing down these important roles, considering both academic dedication and contributions to our school community. We are proud to recognize the students who will be serving as graduation speakers this year. Please see the list of student speakers below, and join us in congratulating them on this well-earned privilege.
about 2 hours ago, Christina Powers
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CONGRATULATIONS PANTHERS! Each year, Watervliet High School recognizes Greg Chisek Senior Scholars, an honor named after longtime WHS principal Greg Chisek, who was a strong advocate for academic excellence and student success. Seniors earn this distinction based on a combination of their cumulative GPA and SAT scores, recognizing those whose academic performance truly stands out. This year, only seven seniors met the qualifications, making it an especially meaningful accomplishment. These students’ dedication, perseverance, and commitment to learning reflect strong Panther Pride and the Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop mindset we value at WHS. We are proud of their achievements and excited to celebrate all they will accomplish as graduation approaches.
about 2 hours ago, Christina Powers
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CONGRATULATIONS PANTHERS!
about 2 hours ago, Christina Powers
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Team coil building 2026: Art I students learned how to build tall and fast using coils of clay. This challenge leads into their final clay creature project that they will begin next week.
about 6 hours ago, Teri Richcreek
Students building coils of clay
Students displaying their coil of clay
students holding their coil made out of clay
studetns holding their clay coil project
students building their clay coil project
students working together to build their clay coil project
A big thank you to Wyatt MacMillan and Sienna Harris for their thoughtful work in creating a new resource for our students. This idea came forward through our SAC student group, which works closely with the principal. Students shared that they wanted an easier way to let the counselor know they would like to meet, and Ms. Powers also wanted to provide students with another way to report any concerns they may have in the building. This box is the result of that collaboration and student voice in action.

Wyatt built the wooden box in Woodshop, and Sienna added the finishing touch by painting the lettering in Art class. It will be mounted outside the counseling office and will give students a simple, accessible way to communicate when they need support — whether they want to connect with the counselor or share something important with administration.

This project is a great example of student leadership in action and truly reflects Panther Pride and our “Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop” mindset — students stepping up, supporting one another, and helping make our school an even better place. We appreciate their creativity, initiative, and willingness to make a positive difference for others.
about 24 hours ago, Christina Powers
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Today’s Career Fair at WHS was a great success thanks to the hard work of our JMG (Jobs for Michigan Grads) students, Ms. Irmen, and the many professionals who generously shared their time and experiences with our Panthers. We are truly grateful for the incredible support from our community members and families who stepped in to speak about their careers and help our students explore future possibilities. Opportunities like this make a lasting impact, and we appreciate everyone who helped make the day meaningful for our students.

7 days ago, Christina Powers
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list
https://app.smore.com/n/7nmbq
This is a big edition with lots of senior scholarships and a celebration of our students of the month. Check it out!
7 days ago, Christina Powers
Students in the sculpture class are currently engaged in a free choice project, exploring an impressive variety of materials from clay and tile mosaics to wire sculpture and painting.
8 days ago, Teri Richcreek
female student holdig sculpture
male student shaping clay project
female student working on clay cowboy boot project
female student painting her cardboard project
female student working on her colored pencil floral drawing
female student molding her clay project
male student working on his wire guitar  project
female student working on her clay project
CONGRATULATIONS to your SENIOR January 2026 Student of the Month--SOPHIE GREAR!!
My family consists of my mom, Gina Grear, who is a senior director at Moody’s and also serves on the Watervliet School Board; my dad, Mr. Gregory Grear, a retired teacher who is now a stay-at-home dad to our seven cats; and my sister Stella, who is 25 and works as a pharmacy technician at the Meijer pharmacy in Stevensville. Along with them, we have seven cats, four ferrets, and some ducks and chickens.

My favorite class has been Mrs. O’Toole’s Anatomy class during my junior year. It was really interesting learning about the human body and doing dissections. I also had my favorite foreign exchange student, Eider, in that class, which definitely made it one of the best parts of my day.

My favorite teacher is Mrs. Hollandsworth. She always pushes me to be the best musician I can be, and I can talk to her about how my day has been. She has given me many amazing opportunities to learn new instruments and to help teach 5th, 6th, and 7th/8th graders to love music as much as I do. I always enjoy talking with her, and she has carried this band program for a long time. I’m very grateful I’ve been able to be part of it for so many years.

I am not currently in a winter sport, but I ran cross country earlier this year. In my free time, I enjoy watching movies and TV shows, cooking, and playing games with friends.

After high school, I plan to attend Southwestern Michigan College, majoring in Social Work. I also plan to join their band and orchestra.

I am proud to be a WHS Panther because I’ve been part of an amazing band program with an incredible teacher, and I’ve met so many wonderful people along the way that I’m truly grateful for.
8 days ago, Christina Powers
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CONGRATULATIONS TO YOUR SENIOR January 2026 Student of the Month --JENNA RITTER!
My family consists of my mom and several brothers and sisters. Throughout my senior year, my favorite class has been JMG (Jobs for Michigan Graduates) because we are constantly interacting with other students and learning about a variety of career paths.

My favorite teachers are Mrs. Irmen and Mrs. Brush because they are both very understanding and encouraging. I am a captain of the varsity cheer team and have cheered for both football and basketball for the past two seasons.

After high school, I plan to major in Sonography, with a focus on cardiac sonography. I am proud to be a Panther because of the experiences and opportunities our school provides.
8 days ago, Christina Powers
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CONGRATULATIONS TO YOUR JUNIOR January 2026 Student of the Month --ANGELICA DAISY!

I am an only child and live with my mom and dad on our family farm, along with our three dogs and seven cats. My two favorite classes are Sociology/Psychology and U.S. History in Depth — it’s honestly hard to choose between them. I love U.S. History because I’ve always enjoyed history, and the class gives you the chance to learn about things you might not otherwise hear about. Mr. Andrews really makes the class special because he is such an excellent teacher. I also really enjoy Sociology/Psychology because I’m interested in how the human mind works. I appreciate all of my teachers for different reasons, so I couldn’t pick just one favorite.

I am currently involved in Quiz Bowl, and in the spring I participate in track. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends, taking my dog to explore new places, and doing outdoor activities. When I’m ready to relax, I love watching movies in bed.

After high school, I plan to join the Coast Guard and hope to pursue a career in Homeland Security, though my plans may evolve over time. I definitely plan to continue my education at a college or university as well.

I am proud to be a WHS Panther because I believe our school works hard to provide students with a strong education and a positive atmosphere.

8 days ago, Christina Powers
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CONGRATULATIONS TO YOUR JUNIOR January 2026 Student of the Month--Sarah Leoni!!
My family is my lovely mom, my two brothers Aaron and Jordan, my sister-in-law Olivia, and my two dogs Madi and Zoey.

I can’t choose between which class is my favorite, so I’ll choose these two classes, I love both ASL with Ms. Irmen, because it’s very cool to learn and we have lots of cool opportunities, and Choir with Mrs. Brush because of the songs we get to sing and I love the people in it.

My favorite teacher hands down is Mrs. Brush. She’s so kind and always knows how to cheer me up. Choir wouldn’t be the same without her

Last season I was a cheerleader, and I LOVED it, the relationship that is formed with the girls is so valuable and the practices are so much fun.

In my free time I like to read and spend time with my mom.

After high school, I want to become a hair stylist or makeup artist.

I am proud to be a WHS Panther because of the community.

8 days ago, Christina Powers
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CONGRATULATIONS to your SOPHOMORE January 2026 Student of the Month--Ethan Westfall!!
My family consists of my mom, Jen, my dad, Josh, and my sister, Eliza. My favorite class is weight training because I enjoy lifting, playing games, and getting stronger for the sports I play. My favorite teacher is Coach Tremblay because he always pushes me to be the best version of myself. I play baseball, soccer, and football. In my free time, I practice these sports and play video games with my friends. After high school, I plan to attend college, major in sports management, and pursue a career as an athletic director or coach. I also hope to play baseball in college. I am proud to be a WHS Panther because of our school spirit and successful athletic teams.
8 days ago, Christina Powers
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CONGRATULATIONS to your SOPHOMORE January 2026 Student of the Month--Kaden Conklin!
My family includes my mom, my stepdad Jason, my two step-siblings Roman and Reagan Arndt, and a lot of dogs. I also have a relationship with my dad.

My favorite classes have been Speech/Debate last year and U.S. History this year. I especially enjoyed the debate portion of Speech/Debate, where I was very successful and had a lot of fun. I’m enjoying U.S. History because I already have strong background knowledge and enjoy the activities, particularly the World War I unit and the Ellis Island project.

My favorite teachers are Mrs. Simmons and Mr. Andrews. Mrs. Simmons is the debate coach, and I enjoy both Speech/Debate and AP Seminar because they are different from my other classes. I also enjoy Mr. Andrews’ class because of my interest in history and the discussions we have, especially during the World War II unit. I hope to take classes with both of them again next year.

I am a member of the Debate Team and Student Council. In my free time, I enjoy playing video games with friends, strategy games on my own, and spending time with my dogs.

I am currently deciding between becoming a lawyer or a doctor. I plan to use the upcoming career fair and take Anatomy and/or AP Biology next year to explore the medical field. I am proud to be a Watervliet Panther because of the positive atmosphere at WHS and the supportive staff who work hard to help students succeed after graduation.
8 days ago, Christina Powers
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CONGRATULATIONS to your FRESHMAN January 2026 Student of the Month --GABE MARTINEZ!
I have a big family with four siblings and one stepbrother. My stepbrother, Lito, has Down syndrome and lives with his mom most of the time. I have two younger siblings, Aria (4) and my baby brother (2), and my brother Zion (10), who mostly plays VR in his room. On my dad’s side, I have an older brother, Diego (24), who is a Marine and whom we rarely get to see. My dad is a mechanic who works hard and supports my sports, and my mom works at the school and is usually in a good mood.

Jazz Band has always been my favorite class because I love playing the drum set. I’m not the best, but I’ve improved a lot and enjoy the freedom to play fills and solos. I hope all the practice helps me get into a good college and maybe even play in a band someday.

My favorite teacher is Mrs. Hollandsworth. She’s understanding, jokes with everyone, and really cares about the band—even when she gets tough.

I play several sports. I took a break from basketball this year but plan to return next year. I’ve also played soccer and baseball, but now I’m focusing on track, cross country, and marching band (which I definitely consider a sport).

In my free time, I like playing drums and video games like Minecraft, Call of Duty Black Ops 3, and Hollow Knight. After high school, I hope to go straight to college and get a job that pays well enough to support myself.

I’m proud to be a WHS Panther. We have talented, athletic students and some great teachers, and our school has had some big wins recently, including Baseball Champions in 2024 and 1st place in Flight V for Marching Band in 2023 and 2025.
8 days ago, Christina Powers
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CONGRATULATIONS to your FRESHMAN January 2026 Student of the Month--Anabelle Barnard !
I live with my mom, dad, and my two younger sisters, Dylan and Stevie. My favorite class is theater because I love performing in plays. My favorite teacher is Ms. Irmen because she is laid back and makes what we are learning very engaging. I participate in varsity sideline cheer, competitive cheer, and Virtue Club. In my free time, I enjoy reading, watching movies, and playing the drums. After high school, I plan to attend a community college and then transfer to earn my bachelor’s degree in performing arts. I am proud to be a WHS Panther because it is a great school. The teachers truly care about their students and want them to succeed.
8 days ago, Christina Powers
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We would love to see all of our WHS Panther families with their high school student/s in tow on Thursday night!
9 days ago, Christina Powers
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This week's ROAR REPORT IS HERE! Check it out!
https://app.smore.com/n/x5h4u
14 days ago, Christina Powers