Watervliet High School

CONGRATULATIONS TO YOUR SEPTEMBER 2025 SENIOR STUDENT OF THE MONTH--ABIGAIL KLOPP!
In my family I have my mom, dad and little brother. My little brother Caleb is a 5th grader at North School.
My favorite teacher is Mrs. O'Toole because I love science and she does an amazing job of sharing her love for science and teaching. She is also one of my NHS advisors so over the years we have got to spend lots of time together!
I like to spend my free time with friends and family. I also enjoy reading and going on walks. When I spend time with my friends we are usually shopping or going on some sort of adventure!
After high school I plan on attending a 4 year university (hopefully University of Tampa, GO SPARTANS!) and study Biology or Biochemistry.
I am proud to be a WHS panther because of the community that has been built from the teachers and students!

CONGRATULATIONS TO YOUR SEPTEMBER 2025 JUNIOR STUDENT OF THE MONTH--SHELBY SCHLIPP!
My family includes my Mom, my Dad, my Stepmom, my Brother, and my Sister. I live in two different houses and we have two cats at each house as pets, my Sister has a rabbit at my Mom's house.
My favorite teacher is Mrs. Hollandsworth. She has been one of my teachers since I first started band in 5th grade. She is very caring towards everyone in the band and helps all of the band do our very best.
This year my favorite class has been AP Bio. This is because I like the subjects that we talk about and am interested in pursuing after high school.
In my free time, I like to hang out with my friends and family. I like to go to the beach and I also like to go see any movie in a movie theater.
After high school, I want to go to college, I'm not sure where. I want to study either biology to become some sort of doctor, or business.
I am proud to be a WHS panther because this school gives me and everyone else so many opportunities to succeed further in life. The people and community within the school are also amazing.

CONGRATULATIONS TO YOUR SEPTEMBER 2025 JUNIOR STUDENT OF THE MONTH--GABE SHOTTS!
My family consists of my aunt and uncle and our 3 cats.
My favorite teacher is Mr. Weber because he makes lots of jokes and makes learning about government very fun.
My favorite class is Anatomy, because there are only four other people in my class as well as Ms. O'Toole is very understanding and will give you extra time if you need it to complete an assessment.
I love watching T.V and playing video games with my friends.
I would love to try and pursue making or helping develop technology in some kind of way after high school.
I'm proud to be a WHS Panther because coming here has given me an opportunity to change my life, and I couldn't be more grateful.

CONGRATULATIONS TO YOUR SEPTEMBER 2025 SOPHOMORE STUDENT OF THE MONTH--JANE RUDELL!
There are 6 members in my family. There is my dad, mom, my brother John, and my two sisters Julie and Jessica while I'm the youngest. This year my favorite teachers have been Mrs. Lefor and Mrs. Hunt. They have both been so welcoming the years I've known them and I am really appreciative of that. After high school, I hope to find myself in schooling for a future in optometry. During my free time I like to stay at home in bed like most people. I am not one to go out and socialize. I'd rather stay at home and wind down. I am proud to be a WHS Panther because our school is filled with community and compassion for one another and I'm glad to be a part of such a welcoming community.

CONGRATULATIONS TO YOUR SEPTEMBER 2025 SOPHOMORE STUDENT OF THE MONTH--BRAYDEN GETTYS!
My family is composed of my mom, my step dad, my brother and my sister. My brother is 2 and my sister is 4. My mom helped me through a lot and I love her and appreciate her more then she will ever know. My step dad helped teach me a lot since I didn't grow up with a dad. He taught me a lot and am thankful for him.

My favorite teacher has been Mr.Dennison. I like how he makes jokes and everything isn't too serious. Also his projects are fun.

My favorite class has to be woodshop. I've never had the class in any other school and it is so fun, plus I think everyone should take woodshop. It's a good skill to have. In my free time I either play sports, or hangout with my friends. After high school I want to go into welding and eventually own my own welding business one day.

I'm proud to be a WHS Panther because of the pride this school has for its teaching and community.

CONGRATULATIONS TO YOUR SEPTEMBER 2025 FRESHMAN STUDENT OF THE MONTH--DESTINY STENSON!
I have 5 siblings. Their names are Jaylee, Jasper, Eleanor, Oliver, and Victoria. My favorite teacher has been Mrs. Hollandsworth because I love her personality, and she is a great teacher. My favorite class is Theatre because it is a fun class. I enjoy singing and reading in my free time. After high school, I might like to go to college to do graphic design, or be a dental hygienist. I am proud to be a WHS Panther because of our high scores in marching band.

CONGRATULATIONS TO YOUR SEPTEMBER 2025 FRESHMAN STUDENT OF THE MONTH--MILA SIRK!
My family is my dad Kris, my mom Julie, my older brother Gage, my younger sister, Addison, and my baby brother, AJ. My dad and brother love to joke around and play games while my two younger siblings are energetic and like playing. My mom is a huge music fan, often going to concerts and festivals.

My favorite teacher here has been Mrs. Irmen due to her chill nature and humor that makes things in class bearable and fun. I like to draw and listen to music in my down time, often listening to indie rock.

I would like to get into U of M after my high school stay to become a full body surgeon.

I am proud to be a WHS Panther because of our high reputation in the MCBA and our high test scores in general.

Check out this week's ROAR REPORT from WHS!
https://secure.smore.com/n/c1amb

📣 Good Morning, Watervliet High School Panthers! Today is October 3rd.
My name is Moeko Crago and I’m your Friday morning announcement reader!
💡 My Good Thing for Today is: ______________________________________

🎂 Birthdays
Let’s wish a very happy birthday over the weekend to Maritza Lopez-Morales, Brooklyn Woollett, Aiyanna Forrester & Mr. Tremblay

🍴 Lunch Menu
Today’s lunch is: pepperoni pizza, cottage cheese, sweet peppers, pineapple
October begins College application month at the high school.All of our seniors will complete college applications this month. Mrs. Simmons will be sharing her college story today.
For those of you who don’t have Mrs. Bruce for Senior English this year — good news! She is available to meet with you on Tuesday, October 7th during 2nd hour to help with:
✨ College applications
✨ Resumes
✨ Personal statements
✨ Common App questions
✨ Any other application concerns
Just stop by Mrs. Bruce’s room during 2nd hour with your questions — she’ll be happy to help you get started and feel confident with the process! 💜🐾
Debate Practice is Monday after school in Mrs. Simmons’ room 137. Please be there immediately after school. You must be there in order to participate in the Debate meet next Wednesday. Practice will be until 4 p.m.—----------------------------------------------------------
🎨 Panther Mural Design Contest
Your Student Advisory Council to the Principal (SAC) is looking to award one lucky and talented Panther $100 for designing a mural outside the main office!
🎨 Turn in your proposal to Mrs. Hunt by the end of the day Monday to be considered.
Debate time: Don’t forget that Monday after school is our debate practice from 3:15-4:00 in Mrs. Simmons’ room 137. You must attend practice to attend Wednesday’s debate.

🧾 Dual Enrollment Grade Check
It’s time for our first dual enrollment grade check of the year!
All dual enrolled students — please show Mrs. Tyler your grades as soon as possible.

🐾 Panther Pride Pass Winners 🎉
👏 Congratulations to: Julian Diamond & Brianna Shriver

Please stop by the Main Office before 3rd hour to pick up your coupon!

🏅 Sports Update

🎁 Freshmen Incentive
The following freshmen should come to the office now with a filled-out assignment notebook to earn a prize!
👏 ___________________________

🚶‍♂️ Hallway Expectations
This week, teachers will be reviewing Hallway Expectations in 2nd hour.
Our goal: keep the halls moving and help everyone get to class on time!
✅ Stay to the right
✅ Keep moving
✅ Be respectful
PSAT testing: Next Thursday, all juniors and voluntary sophomores are taking the PSAT at the high school. The test will start right away at 8:10 AM. All juniors and those sophomores who volunteered should be in school on Thursday, ready to test.
—--------------------------------------------------------------
🇺🇸 Pledge of Allegiance
At this time, please stand.
The privilege of this day was made possible by those who have fought — and continue to fight — for the freedoms we enjoy.
Let’s honor them by placing our hands over our hearts and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
If you are wearing a hat, please remove it.
“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
Those are all of our announcements for today. Make it a great day or not Panthers, the choice is yours.

Imagine a world where animals merge to form entirely new species! These hybrids carry the abilities of three different animals and adapt to habitats that support their unique traits. Students in Art II designed and illustrated their own Evolution Animals, showcasing whimsical creatures and the environments they call home.

Dear Senior Parents and Guardians,

October is College Application Month, and we’re excited to support your senior as they take important steps toward their future! Throughout the month, we’ll be offering several opportunities to help every student prepare for life after graduation.

Here’s what’s happening at Watervliet High School this month:

📅 College Application Days in Senior English Classes
Students will complete college applications in their English classes. Seniors will be applying to Southwestern Michigan College (SMC), Lake Michigan College (LMC), completing the Common App., AND completing any other applications for schools in which they have interest.

✏️ Additional Support with Mrs. Bruce
If your senior does not have English at the high school, Mrs. Bruce will be available on October 7th and October 21st during 2nd hour to help with:

College applications

Resumes

The Common App

Personal statements

Any other college or career questions

🎓 College Fair – October 17th
We’ll host a College Fair on Thursday, October 17th, and all seniors are strongly encouraged to attend. Representatives from multiple colleges will be here, and past graduates will speak about their college experiences.

💰 FAFSA Now Open!
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now open! We encourage all families to complete the FAFSA as soon as possible to ensure eligibility for grants, scholarships, loans, and free money for any post-secondary training.
👉 https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa

🎯 Our Goal:
We want every senior to have a plan for life after graduation — whether that’s college, trade school, the military, or the workforce.

If you or your senior need any assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Mrs. Dawson in the Counseling Office. She’s happy to help guide you every step of the way!

All seniors and their families have been emailed this information.

With Panther Pride,
Christina Powers
Principal, Watervliet High School
📧 cpowers@watervlietps.org
| 📞 269.463.0730

📣 Good Morning, Watervliet High School Panthers!
My name is Chris Parkhurst and I’m your Thursday morning announcement reader!
💡 My Good Thing for Today is: ______________________________________

🎂 Birthdays
Let’s wish a very happy birthday to Kelsey Howell & Mrs. Hunt! 🎉🎈

🍴 Lunch Menu
Today’s lunch is: grande walking taco, cantina salsa & guacamole, fresh cut melon

October begins College application month at the high school.All of our seniors will complete college applications this month. Mrs. Brush will be sharing her college story today.
—--------------------------------------------------------------
🎨 Panther Mural Design Contest
Your Student Advisory Council to the Principal (SAC) is looking to award one lucky and talented Panther $100 for designing a mural outside the main office!
🎨 Turn in your proposal to Mrs. Hunt by the end of the day Monday to be considered.

🧾 Dual Enrollment Grade Check
It’s time for our first dual enrollment grade check of the year!
All dual enrolled students — please show Mrs. Tyler your grades as soon as possible.

🐾 Panther Pride Pass Winners 🎉
👏 Congratulations to: Liam Allerman, Alvin Jones, Aleksander Rogers, Anne Tuinstra & Ayvah Domingo!

Please stop by the Main Office before 3rd hour to pick up your coupon!

🏅 Sports Update

🎁 Freshmen Incentive
The following freshmen should come to the office now with a filled-out assignment notebook to earn a prize!
👏 ___________________________

📚 After-School Homework Help
Need a quiet place to study or a little help with assignments?
Join Mrs. Brant after school today in her classroom.

🚶‍♂️ Hallway Expectations
This week, teachers will be reviewing Hallway Expectations in 2nd hour.
Our goal: keep the halls moving and help everyone get to class on time!
✅ Stay to the right
✅ Keep moving
✅ Be respectful

🇺🇸 Pledge of Allegiance
At this time, please stand.
The privilege of this day was made possible by those who have fought — and continue to fight — for the freedoms we enjoy.
Let’s honor them by placing our hands over our hearts and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
If you are wearing a hat, please remove it.
“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

Early Middle College Opportunity for Sophomores

Today, sophomores heard a presentation about an exciting opportunity — the Early Middle College (EMC) Program through Watervliet Public Schools and Lake Michigan College (LMC).

This program allows students to begin taking college courses during their junior year of high school. By the time they finish their senior year, they will have completed one year of college coursework — all while still enrolled at WHS!

Here’s how it works:
🎓 Students graduate with their class after 12th grade, then continue for one additional year at LMC.
💰 WPS pays for all of the college coursework, saving families thousands in tuition costs.
🎉 By age 19, your child could earn both a high school diploma and an associate’s degree — at no cost to you!
➡️ After completing the program, students may transfer their credits to a four-year college or university to continue working toward a bachelor’s degree if they choose.

We’ll host an Early Middle College Parent Night in December to share more information and answer questions.

If you’re interested in getting your child started on this pathway, please contact Mrs. Dawson in the Counseling Office — she’ll guide you through the next steps.

📅 Important Note:
Applications open in December and are due during the sophomore year, so now is the perfect time to begin exploring this opportunity.

We’re proud to offer this incredible program to help our Panthers get a head start on their college journey! 🐾

🎉 Hispanic Heritage Week Celebration!

Check out the amazing staff and students helping us celebrate Hispanic Heritage Week by dressing up as vaqueros today! 🤠

This theme was chosen because the cowboy tradition actually began with the vaqueros of Spain and Mexico before it spread across America. What a fun way to honor that history and culture! 🇲🇽🇪🇸

✨ Tomorrow’s Dress-Up Theme:
Wear something that represents your own cultural heritage — let’s celebrate the rich diversity that makes our Panther family so special! 🌎❤️

📚 Today’s Trivia:
We asked, “Name the two animals on the Mexican flag.”
🎉 Congrats to Aiyanna Forrester, who was the first to answer correctly — the eagle 🦅 and the snake 🐍!

💬 Spanish Word of the Day:
Fuerza — meaning strength 💪

Keep showing that Panther fuerza as we continue celebrating Hispanic Heritage Week! 🐾

📣 Good Morning, Watervliet High School Panthers!
My name is Natalaya Desjardin, and I’m your Wednesday morning announcement reader!
💡 My Good Thing for Today is: ______________________________________

🎂 Birthdays
Let’s wish a very happy birthday to Cadia Raines and Nathan Williamson! 🎉🎈

🍴 Lunch Menu
Today’s lunch is: Cheeseburger, Baked Cheetos, Sliced Tomato, Sugar Snap Peas, and Fresh Grape Clusters. 🍇🍔

October begins College application month at the high school. Each of our seniors will be completing. All of our seniors will complete college applications this month. Mrs. Hollandsworth will be sharing her college story today.
—--------------------------------------------------------------
🎨 Panther Mural Design Contest
Your Student Advisory Council to the Principal (SAC) is looking to award one lucky and talented Panther $100 for designing a mural outside the main office!
🎨 Turn in your proposal to Mrs. Hunt by the end of the day Monday to be considered.

🎓 Early Middle College Presentation – TODAY @ 10:00 AM
All sophomores should report to 3rd hour for attendance, then head to the Media Center once attendance has been taken.

🧾 Dual Enrollment Grade Check
It’s time for our first dual enrollment grade check of the year!
All dual enrolled students — please show Mrs. Tyler your grades as soon as possible.

🐾 Panther Pride Pass Winners 🎉
👏 Congratulations to: Sophia LeChuga, Angelica Daisy, Joelle Petznick, Aubrey Hayes & Payton Yeske
Please stop by the Main Office before 3rd hour to pick up your coupon!

🏅 Sports Update
JV Volleyball Battles Through Serve Receive Struggles to Win in Three Sets In a thrilling match that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the JV volleyball team emerged victorious in a hard-fought three-set battle, defeating Fennville with scores of 25-22, 22-25, and 17-15. The opening set showcased the team’s resilience and energy. Despite early serve receive issues that led to a few quick points for the opposition, the players rallied with strong net play and strategic serving to edge out a 25-22 win.
The second set saw continued struggles in serve receive, which allowed the opposing team to capitalize on several free balls and build momentum. Although the JV squad fought back, they fell just short, dropping the set 22-25.
With the match tied and tension high, the third set was a nail-biter. Serve receive continued to be a challenge, but the team showed grit and determination, making key adjustments and communicating more effectively on the court. Clutch plays in the final moments sealed the deal, with the JV team clinching the set 17-15 and securing the overall win.
Coach and players alike acknowledged the need to improve serve receive but celebrated the team’s ability to stay composed under pressure and finish strong. The match was a testament to their growth, teamwork, and competitive spirit.

🎁 Freshmen Incentive
The following freshmen should come to the office now with a filled-out assignment notebook to earn a prize!
👏 ___________________________

📚 After-School Homework Help
Need a quiet place to study or a little help with assignments?
Join Mr. Dimino after school today in his classroom.

🚶‍♂️ Hallway Expectations
This week, teachers will be reviewing Hallway Expectations in 2nd hour.
Our goal: keep the halls moving and help everyone get to class on time!
✅ Stay to the right
✅ Keep moving
✅ Be respectful

🇺🇸 Pledge of Allegiance
At this time, please stand.
The privilege of this day was made possible by those who have fought — and continue to fight — for the freedoms we enjoy.
Let’s honor them by placing our hands over our hearts and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
If you are wearing a hat, please remove it.
“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

A key part of Capturing Kids’ Hearts (CKH) is empowering students to take ownership of their learning and their community. When students are given opportunities to lead, they build confidence, communication skills, and a sense of responsibility.

Today, Mrs. Bruce modeled this beautifully by having her students participate in literature circles, where students led and facilitated their own conversations. 💬📚

We love seeing our Panthers step into leadership roles—whether it’s guiding a discussion, leading a group activity, or modeling positive behavior. Our goal is to create classrooms where student voice and leadership shine every day! 🐾🙌

🎉 Day #2 of Celebrating Hispanic & Latino Heritage!

We’re keeping the celebration going, Panthers!
Today’s trivia question was:
🧩 This traditional Mexican dish is made from corn dough, filled with meat, cheese, or peppers, wrapped in a corn husk or banana leaf, and steamed. You don’t eat the wrapper, but inside is a warm and tasty bundle often enjoyed during holidays.

✅ Answer: Tamales!
👏 Congratulations to Sophia Lechuga, today’s trivia winner!

📚 Spanish Word of the Day:
Respeto (reh-SPEH-toh) → Respect 🙌
Example: Mostramos respeto a todos. → We show respect to everyone.

🤠 Tomorrow’s Dress-Up Day: Cowboy/Cowgirl Day!
Join us in celebrating the origins of the cowboy — the vaquero — which began in Spain and Mexico long before it spread across the Americas!

Students can wear:
👖 Jeans or denim skirts
👕 Button-up or plaid shirts
👢 Cowboy boots
🧢 Western-style belts and buckles
🤠 Cowboy hats or sombreros (if appropriate and respectful)
🧣 Bandanas or scarves

💡 Fun Fact: The word “cowboy” comes from the Spanish “vaquero”, which means “cattle driver.”

Let’s keep celebrating and learning together — ¡Vamos, Panthers! 🐾❤️💛

📣 ¡Buenos días, Panteras de Watervliet High School!
Hoy es martes, 30 de septiembre.
Mi nombre es Giovanni Ayala, ¡y soy el lector de los anuncios de esta mañana!
💡 My Good Thing for Today is: ______________________________________

🎂 Birthdays
Happy to Natalaya Desjardin!

🍴 Lunch Menu
Today’s lunch is: crispy chicken w/macaroni & cheese, baby carrots, garden salad, broccoli & cauliflower bites, kiwifruit
📅 Meetings & Events This Week
📘 Student Advisory Council (SAC) – Wednesday @ 7:30 AM
If you’re a student representative, please make sure to attend!
📊 Count Day – Wednesday
It’s very important that all students are present on Wednesday. Please plan ahead and make sure you’re here all day!
🎓 Early Middle College Presentation – Wednesday @ 10:00 AM
All sophomores will attend this presentation to learn more about Early Middle College opportunities.
______________________________________________________________
🐾 Panther Hotline
All students have been emailed a link to the Panther Hotline.
Remember: If you see something, say something!
______________________________________________________________
🧾 Dual Enrollment Grade Check
It’s time for our first dual enrollment grade check of the year!
All dual enrolled students, please show Mrs. Tyler your grades as soon as possible.

🐾 Panther Pride Pass Winners 🎉
Congratulations to: Tyrus Humphrey, Braelynn Campbell, Addison Smith & Noah Fuller.
Please stop by the main office before 3rd hour to pick up your coupon!

🏅 Sports Update

🎁 Freshmen Incentive
The following freshmen should come to the office now with a filled-out assignment notebook to earn a prize!

There is after school homework help on Tuesday today with Mrs. Simmons. Meet her in her room after school for a quiet place to work or assistance with homework.
🚶‍♂️ Hallway Expectations
This week, all teachers will be reviewing Hallway Expectations in 2nd hour.
Our goal is to keep the halls moving and make sure everyone can get to class on time.
Please pay close attention to the expectations shared — keep moving and stay on the right side!

🇺🇸 Pledge of Allegiance
At this time, please stand.
The privilege of this day was made possible by those who have fought — and continue to fight — for the freedoms we enjoy.
Let us honor and respect them by placing our hands over our hearts and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
If you are wearing a hat, please remove it.
“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

✨ ¡Esos son todos nuestros anuncios por hoy, Panteras!
Que tengan un gran día — o no — la elección es suya. 🐾

🎤 Student Speaking with Peer Support
In Capturing Kids’ Hearts, we know that confidence grows in community. When a student is invited to speak in front of the class—whether sharing a reflection, giving feedback, or presenting an idea—they don’t have to stand alone. By having two supportive classmates stand beside them, we create a sense of safety, belonging, and encouragement. These peers serve as “support partners,” modeling empathy, active listening, and unity. This simple strategy helps students feel valued, builds trust, and reinforces the idea that we’re all in this together. 💪🐾
Thank you to Mrs. Cromer for utilizing this CKH strategy in her classroom today as students shared their good things!