Panther Print for Parents 🐾
WEEKLY UPDATE FROM THE PRINCIPAL-DECEMBER 6TH
AFTER SCHOOL HOMEWORK HELP FOR THIS COMING WEEK!
TUESDAY AND THURSDAY WITH MRS. O'TOOLE AND NHS MEMBERS.
TUESDAY AND THURSDAY WITH MRS. HUNT.
DECEMBER 10th ALL SOPHOMORES ARE HEADED TO THE VAN BUREN TECH CENTER!
Buses will board at the Main High School entrance at 11:40.
All 10th graders will eat first lunch!
All sophomore field trip to Van Buren Tech Center December 10th, 2024. On this trip students will get the opportunity to explore several programs at Van Buren Tech Center. Students were able to identify programs of interest two weeks ago when Mrs. Maack visited their English classes. On the 10th they will be given a schedule to utilize that will allow them to visit their previously identified programs of interest. The main goal of this field trip is to expose 10th graders to the programming that Van Buren Tech Center offers so that they can make scheduling decisions this spring concerning attending Van Buren Tech Center for their junior school year.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11TH BUILDING WIDE CAREER FAIR FOR ALL STUDENTS!
Students will follow their normal schedule for periods 1-7 and participate in different activities each hour focused on career readiness and preparation. All students are expected to be in school. Attendance will be taken each hour. Thank Dr. Mosher for putting together the day's events. Check out the different activities below:
Mr. Corkins: My Next Move Personal Interest Profiler
Mr. Andrews: Create a Resume
Ms. Irmen: Create a Resume
Mr. Dimino: Job Benefits (pay, vacation, sick, insurance, pension, etc.)
Mrs. Hunt: Make a Career Vision Board
Mrs. Lefor: United Way presentation
Mr. Linderman: College Tour (scavenger hunt)
Mrs. Bruce: Mock interviews
Mrs. O'Toole: Networking (students will rotate between business professionals)
Mrs. Riedinger: (students will rotate between business professionals)
Mrs. Sibley: College Tour (scavenger hunt)
Mrs. Simmons: Career Explorer (career assessment program)
Mr. Steele: Mock interviews
Mr. Tremblay: Networking (students will rotate between business professionals)
Mr. Weber: My Next Move Personal Interest Profiler
Mrs. Girton/Mr. Arter/Ms. Stofko: Meyers Briggs Assessment
All lab classes: Investigate Trade Options
Brush/Brant/Hollandsworth: A combination of all of the activities above depending on the hour
BUY YOUR YEARBOOK NOW!
We are excited to announce that 2025 Yearbooks are now on sale. Dec. 1 - 20.
Discounted presale price is $45 which includes a free name stamp on the cover. Students may purchase during school from a yearbook staff member or Mrs. Brant. Make checks payable to Watervliet Public Schools.
Yearbooks can also be purchased online through this link: https://www.yearbookordercenter.com/index.cfm/job/2956
After Dec. 20, yearbooks will be $50 and optional name stamps an additional $5.
WHAT'S UP IN THE GUIDANCE OFFICE THIS WEEK?
Counseling Staff have been in Sciences classes this week conducting Career Development lessons in Xello. Wednesday we were with Mrs. O'Toole's classes covering topics on Career Demands, and Budgeting. On Friday we were with Freshmen in Mr. Corkin's classes exploring Career Factors. Next week on Monday we will be with Seniors in Mr. Dimino's classes covering Job Interviews , and Juniors in Mrs. Irmen's classes exploring Career Demands. Please discuss these topics with your student and have them show you their Xello account.
Additionally, with sophomores we discussed the HOBY Youth Leadership Summit and the process for applying to be a sponsored participant. Please see the attached documents for more information concerning HOBY and the application process.
Start your Saturday right with a warm stack of pancakes for a great cause!
Start your Saturday right with a warm stack of pancakes for a great cause! The Watervliet High School National Honor Society is thrilled to invite you to our Annual Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser on Saturday, December 14th, from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM, in the Watervliet High School Cafeteria. For just $7 a plate, enjoy two fluffy pancakes with your choice of toppings, crispy bacon, a savory sausage, and a refreshing drink. Every bite you take helps support the incredible work of our National Honor Society. Don’t miss this chance to make a difference while savoring a delicious breakfast—we can’t wait to see you there!
UPCOMING ATHLETIC EVENTS
Attention to all parents of students going on the trip to Europe.
Attention to all parents of students going on the trip to Europe. This is a reminder that there will be a mandatory meeting on Thursday, December 12th in the High School Cafeteria. Contact Mr. Andrews if you have any questions.
STUDENT SURVEY RESULTS
Thank you to the 109 Panthers who completed our student survey in the last couple of weeks for your SAC.
Your SAC team met with Ms. Powers this morning and these are the issues that will be/were addressed:
1. Bathrooms will be checked weekly for working locks, doors, sinks, toilets, paper towels and toilet paper. If you notice something is ever broken/missing in a bathroom, please come to the main office immediately.
2. Efforts to have students at each lunch clean up their tables, and not cut in line-- are in place. You can help by not jumping the line and throwing away your trash.
3. Bus 5 is full but not over the legal capacity. If you have individual concerns, come see Ms. Powers privately. She has been reassured that this is not an issue.
4. We have put in the announcements that students are to walk on the right side of the halls. Please do this and do not group up in the halls or at the lockers which prevents other students from getting through.
5. We do not have active bullying at the high school. If you are hearing people being bothered or you are being bothered, send Ms. Powers an email so that she can end the behavior for you or someone else.
6. The concerns shared about football helmets have been shared with the AD.
7. Neither the AD nor the PE teacher have any concerns with the dustiness level of the gym floor.
8. Mr. Andrews does not have concerns regarding broken desks in his room.
9. The faculty will review the tardy policy as the concern was shared that students are more late to class by having to go to the office to get a pass; more info on this soon. No changes can be made per the student handbook until the 25-26 school year.
10. District staff have been asked to use the middle room of the media center whenever possible so that dual enrolled students may remain in the media center. This will not always be possible. If there is no adult meeting in the media center, dual enrolled students are expected to be in the media center for all dual enrolled time.
11. Students have concerns about PDA in the building. Teachers have been reminded to write a referral for students engaged in more than hand holding. if you are seeing PDA in the building, email Ms. Powers.
Any student can come see Ms. Powers anytime with issues that he/she wants to see addressed on the building. The SAC will continue to monitor these concerns and re survey the student body in February.
NOVEMBER 2024 SENIOR STUDENT OF THE MONTH--AUBREY JAMES!
My parents are Rachel and Chad James and I have a younger brother named Lochlann.
Mrs. O'Toole has been my favorite teacher since I took her biology class in my sophomore year. She's extremely helpful and I continue to work with her through NHS.
My favorite class so far has been my American History class with Mr. Andrews. History is my favorite subject; I learned so much from that class. I was also able to become better at public speaking and presenting projects by taking his class.
I am involved in basketball and softball while also being a member of the National Honor Society, Student Council, Student Advisory Council, and my 2025 class of representatives.
In my free time, I enjoy watching movies and hanging out with my friends.
After high school, I plan to continue my education and become a Physical Therapist.
I'm proud to be a WHS Panther because, despite being small compared to other schools, we still excel in many aspects.
NOVEMBER 2024 SENIOR STUDENT OF THE MONTH --CHAZ HART!
My mother and my father have been two very influential people in my life. They’ve always been thorough, caring, and loving. My family is generally hardworking, resilient, and kind in their words and actions, I'm dearly grateful for them. Honestly, I don’t really have a favorite teacher, every teacher here at Watervliet has been considerate, benevolent, and genuine! Yet, if I have to choose, I say Mrs. O'Toole, she's patient and kind! English 12 has been my favorite class thus far because we're able to read books of our choice independently, learn important information about colleges, and create works such as a portfolio and personal statement. Currently, I am not involved in any sports. I do attend the Virtue Club which has been awesome! It has allowed me to create more deeply rooted connections with the people around me while also acting as a good basis to grow in many important areas such as one's character. In my free time, I enjoy photography, reading, writing, and listening to music. After high school I plan on either enlisting in the military or going to college where I'd potentially study architecture, photography, or something else. I'm still a little unsure as to what I'd pursue specifically. I'm grateful to be a WHS Panther because when I originally started here as a Sophomore, I was warmly welcomed in! I have been treated with kindness, dignity, and respect even while I have been flawed. I've made many memories as a Panther, I've made many mistakes as a Panther, I have improved as a Panther, I have changed as a Panther, and as a Panther, each and every person I've personally spoken to or have not spoken to, student or staff, is beautifully unique and matters greatly to the Watervliet community and to God. This is why I'm proud to be a Panther.
NOVEMBER 2024 JUNIOR STUDENT OF THE MONTH--JENNA RITTER!
My family consists of my mom and my siblings. I’m the youngest, with an older sister and brother. My favorite teacher is Mrs. O’Toole she’s always been really helpful with anything I’ve asked her during my two years in her class. Currently, I am participating in winter cheerleading. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family. After high school, I plan to attend college to pursue a career in cardiac sonography. I’m proud to be a WHS Panther because of the opportunities I’ve had and the wonderful friends I’ve made.
NOVEMBER 2024 JUNIOR STUDENT OF THE MONTH--JACOB PLEYER!
My mom and dad are John and Ashley Pleyer. I have 2 older sisters named Allie and Mariah. Mariah is now married and living in California and Allie is still living here with us in Michigan. Ms. Irmen has been my favorite teacher because she engages with students and has many great teaching techniques. I am a starter on the varsity basketball team. I like to workout and hangout with family and friends in my free time. I plan to college basketball somewhere as of right now I’m undecided where. I’m proud to be a Watervliet Panther because I believe we’ve built a family culture and everyone comes together for everything.
NOVEMBER 2024 SOPHOMORE STUDENT OF THE MONTH--GAGE MCKIE!
My family consists of: my mom, dad, brother, David.
My favorite teacher has been Mr. Linderman because even when I was struggling with his class he helped me with whatever I needed help with.
My favorite class is Gym because I really like being active and gym helped me stay up in shape.
I am involved in: Football basketball choir.
In my free time I like to hang out with friends or play sports.
I don't know what I plan to do after high school, but I'm leaning towards college to pursue a career in construction.
I've been a panther my whole life and the community just keeps getting kinder and more welcoming
NOVEMBER 2024 SOPHOMORE STUDENT OF THE MONTH--SIENNA HARRIS!
I live with my mom, dad, and my sister Ella. I would say Mrs. Hunt and Mrs. Brush are my favorite teachers because they're both very supportive and they make my love for art and choir grow stronger. My favorite class has been art because we learn about so many forms of art and it's always so fun to work on projects and learn new techniques. I was involved with Watervliet Football Cheerleading, and I am excited to be involved in our upcoming school musical. Outside of school, I perform in local theater programs such as Children's Music Workshop, Performing Arts Workshop, and Lake Michigan College. I like to draw, sculpt, write, spend time with my grandma's cats, be with my friends, read, and perform musical theater (a few favorite roles of mine being: Katie Gardner/Echidna in The Lightning Thief, Pinocchio in Shrek Jr, Cherry Sundae/Oompa Loompa in Charlie in the Chocolate Factory, and most recently: Oaken in Frozen Jr.). I plan on going to college to pursue an education that is heavily involved within the arts or with animals. I'd like to end up on Broadway someday (or even write my own musical!). I am proud to be a WHS Panther because they offer so many programs that give students of any interest opportunities to thrive in the places they belong.
NOVEMBER 2024 FRESHMAN STUDENT OF THE MONTH--GIANNA BERRY!
My favorite teacher is Mrs. Hollandsworth because she is one of the nicest, most caring people I have ever met and I think we're really lucky to have her. My favorite class is history because I love the fun, vibrant/chill vibe that we have and it's fun while we get our work done. Sports that I am involved in are volleyball basketball softball and track. When I have free time I like to hang out with my friends, read, or play sports. After high school I plan to go to college specifically Berkeley and study being a psychologist. I'm proud to be a WHS panther because we have great education for students provided by wonderful teachers and a great athletics program.
NOVEMBER 2024 FRESHMAN STUDENT OF THE MONTH--JOSE CRUZ MARAGARITO!
I love my family, especially my sisters but they can be a handful sometimes but I still love them
My favorite teacher is Mrs. Hunt because she always want us to do something we can achieve and thrives us to keep going forward.
My favorite class is art because I love to draw and just do art in general
I am involved in no clubs
I like to listen to music, play games, watch my phone, or just take a nap.
I hope I can get into a college to pursue my career and goals.
I'm proud because it shows me how I can change even if it means to change a little bit.
STAFF SPOTLIGHT--MRS. SIBLEY!
I am originally from Marcellus, where I still live with my family. I earned a BA in Mathematics from Michigan State University and an MA in Educational Leadership from Western Michigan University. In 1997, I joined the teaching staff at Watervliet High School. While my primary teaching focus has been Algebra 2, I have also taught a variety of other subjects over the years, including Algebra, SAT Prep, Pre-Algebra, Computer Applications, AP Computer Science, Pre-Calculus, and Health.
In addition to my teaching responsibilities, I have been involved in numerous extracurricular activities at WHS, with one of the highlights being my role as the Student Council Advisor. I am proud to be a WHS Panther, working alongside an outstanding team of students and teachers.
SENIOR SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY
THE FAFSA IS OPEN!
Dear Senior Families:
The FAFSA is now open and able to be completed!
Students who can complete the FAFSA by December 20th (within the first 20 days that it is open) will receive a free goody bag from Ms. Powers. Students who complete the FAFSA by Spring Break will be able to participate in the Pie a Staff Member in the Face event, in which students get to pick the staff member of their choice to pie in the face before leaving for spring break.
Mr. Coburn, our certified FAFSA expert, will be meeting with your Senior in the next month to ask the following questions: (1) where have you applied? (2) where have you been accepted? (3) do you have your FSA ID?
If you would like to meet with Mr. Coburn to get assistance in completing the FAFSA, please reach out to him at christopher.coburn@watervlietps.org. He is available during and after the school day to meet with any parent who would like assistance.
It only takes 30 minutes to complete the FAFSA once you have all of the needed information: FSA ID for both parent and student, 2023 tax information, total current account amount for both parent and student, net worth of any businesses, SS # for both parent and student, and a list of all of the schools to which your Senior has applied.
It is our goal that 100% of the Class of 2025 completes the FAFSA this year. Whether your child is headed to post secondary training or not, plans can change over the summer. We want your child to be ready for whatever comes their way in the Fall of 2025 with a completed FAFSA! THANK YOU !
DUAL ENROLLMENT FOR THE SPRING
The letter below has been mailed home to all families of eligible students who are not yet dual enrolled for the spring semester. Please reach out to us with questions.
NEEDED ITEM GIVEAWAY!
SOPHOMORE CLASS RINGS!
Jostens is the official partner of Watervliet HS and we work with Sophomores for their Class Ring program. We are trying to keep parents and families informed about the Class ring Program.
Now a days you can design and order your class ring online at Jostens.com, or place your order in school like the old days. Class ring design packets were passed out at school through you sophomore English classes. Make sure you check out the exclusive sophomore ring promos that are valid during your order window. Save $$ and get a free class of Hoodie. We will be in school to take class ring orders on Dec. 2nd to take class ring orders size fingers and display all rings. The class ring promo will end on December 16th. You can order later but the promo will not be valid. We wanted to send you this email so you can get started.
Click on the social media link below for how to videos and order dates.
You can always call my office anytime if you have questions. Hope to see you on Dec. 2nd during lunch on class ring order day
Jim Ross/Jostens
269 217 6936
Watervliet HS Class ring design videos and order shop
Don’t forget to check out the new Tradwinds collection at a lower price
Jim Ross
Jostens of southwest Michigan
269-217-6936
HOMETOWN CHRISTMAS
ATTENTION SENIORS!
Jostens is the official partner of Watervliet HS and we work with Seniors for their Graduation, C&G and senior rings. We are trying to keep parents and families informed about the upcoming graduation and C&G order deadlines. Now a days you will place your online at Jostens.com. We will be in school to take orders on Dec. 2th to take class ring orders and show all new senior apparel. Remember this is not just a C&G order. Everything we do is custom for you school and this graduation year, so make sure you are planning on how you will celebrate your seniors accomplishments. All prices are reduced when you place your order while the class window is open. You class window is open now and will close on Dec. 20th We wanted to send you this email so you can get started.
Click on the social media link below for how to videos and order dates.
You can always call my office anytime if you have questions.
Jim Ross/Jostens
269 217 6936
Watervliet HS Graduation and C&G order information and how to videos
Jim Ross
Jostens of southwest Michigan
269-217-6936
WHERE IS MR. COBURN IN DECEMBER?
Mr. Coburn is the Michigan Adviser college adviser that is assigned to work with seniors in both the Watervliet and Coloma school districts. He has already met with each Senior at least one time this year in order to establish how can assist each in achieving their plans for life after high school. Seiors and their parents can meet with him as needed. Feel free to reach out to him at christopher.coburn@watervlietps.org.
WESCO PEPSI CHALLENGE 2024
Wesco is honored to be part of every community in our 55 locations and is fortunate enough to give back to them. Through our relationship with Pepsi, $20,000 of fountain profits will be donated to local public high schools like yours.
Every Wesco location will donate three cents from each fountain drink sold to local public high schools during November until the $20,000 donation goal is reached. Each Public High School will receive a minimum of $100. The rest of the $20,000 pledge will be distributed according to sales.
As one of the high schools selected, you will be notified of the amount collected from your local Wesco in early January. We are excited to work with Pepsi on this generous giving program for our local public education.
Sincerely,
Bryan Link
Marketing Director
Wesco Inc.
LORI'S PLACE
STANDARDS BASED GRADING
Do you want to know more about our standards based learning and grading initiative? Be sure to visit our informational page that explains how we assess and grade in the standards based system. If you have questions, please be sure to speak with your student's teacher or principal.
MONDAY NIGHT PHONE CALLS
Parents will receive a Monday night phone call if a student is failing any class as of Monday morning. This will occur every week of the school year. If you receive this call, please talk with your child. Ask to see your child's grades in Canvas or log into Canvas yourself.
1. What work is your child missing?
2. What is your child struggling with?
3. Does your child need to complete missing work from being absent?
4. Does your child need to meet with Mrs. Dawson to get extra assistance?
Email or call Mrs. Dawson, the School Counselor, if you do not know how to help your child with failing grades. jdawson@watervlietps.org.
POSITIVE BEHAVIOR INTERVENTIONS AND SUPPORTS
Each week of the school year, the faculty at the high school will review with your child the expectations in one area of the building. The purpose of teaching and reviewing these expectations with your child is to 1. Make sure they understand the expectations in the building and 2. Assist them in having success at the high school. Please review the BATHROOM expectations with your child. The expectations below will be reviewed during this coming week.
MICHIGAN ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIP FOR SENIOR FAMILIES!
Students and their families looking to secure more financial aid for college are encouraged to register for an informational webinar about the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, which is the newest State of Michigan scholarship program expected to impact the majority of students.
Participants will be able to gather the following information:
- Information about the NEW Community College Guarantee
- Michigan Achievement Scholarship eligibility requirements
- Michigan Achievement Scholarship award amounts
- Important action items for students and families
- Additional resources and program information
All sessions are free of charge and open to the public. Register for one session only, as space is limited.
Closed captioning will be provided. If you need special accommodations to attend this meeting, contact mistudentaid@michigan.gov two business days prior to the scheduled webinar. Requests received after that date cannot be guaranteed, but every effort will be made to provide the accommodation requested.
The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential is not affiliated with National Merit Scholarship Corporation or its registered trademarks National Achievement®, Achievement Scholarship®, or Achievement Scholar®.
2024-2025 Parent/Student Calendar Dates
Take a look at the high school calendar dates for the first half of this school year. Additional dates have been added since the last time this calendar was sent home. Feel free to contact the high school office with any questions or concerns. This calendar will continue to be updated and included weekly in our parent newsletter.
DECEMBER
11 Early Release 1:10 PM dismissal
11 Career Fair
16 Winter Band Concert 7 PM
16 PBIS Mtg. 3:15 PM
18 SAC 7:30 AM
18 PAC Mtg. 7 PM
19 Winter Choir Concert 7 PM
23-31 Winter Break
JANUARY
1-5 Winter Break
6 Students and Staff Return
8 SAC 7:30 AM
10 SOTM Breakfast 8:15 AM
15-17 Exams; 1/2 days 11:40 AM dismissal
17 End of Semester 1
20 No School for Students (MLK DAY)
22 SAC 7:30 AM
27 PBIS Mtg. 3:15 PM
29 PAC 7 PM
29 Early Release 1:10 PM dismissal
PARENT ADVISORY COUNCIL TO THE PRINCIPAL
Parent/guardian input and feedback is always important at the high school. We are always in search of parents to serve on the Student Advisory Council to the Principal for the 24-25 school year. All meetings are held in person. Any high school parent is welcome to attend anytime. Mark your calendar now to attend these meetings and provide your input. All meetings are held at 7 PM in the high school media center.
December 18
January 29
February 26
March 26
April 30
May 21
COLLEGE AND CAREER READINESS NIGHTS
Each month, the high school hosts and provides educational sessions for parents on a variety of topics aimed at preparing students for life after high school.These presentations will again take place during the 24-25 school year. Mark your calendar for these important sessions. All sessions are held at 6 PM in the high school media center
Feb 25 Van Buren Tech Informational Night (intended for the parents of 9th-11th graders)
March (date to be determined) Accommodations in College Night (intended for the parents of students with IEPs and 504 plans planning on post secondary training)
April 23 Dual Enrollment Night (intended for parents of 9th-11th graders interested in earning college credit free while in high school)
24-25 Bell Schedules
Full Day
Period 1 8:10-9:02 (52 min)
Period 2 9:07-10:01 (54 min to include announcements)
Period 3 10:06-10:57 (51min)
Lunch A 10:57-11:27 (30 + 5 min passing time)
Lunch A Class 11:32-12:23 (51 min)
Lunch B 11:22-11:52 (30 min)
Lunch B Class 11:02-11:22/11:52-12:23 (51 min)
Lunch C 11:53-12:23 (30 + 5 min passing time)
Lunch C Class 11:02-11:53 (51 min)
Period 5 12:28-1:19 (51 min)
Period 6 1:24-2:15 (51 min)
Period 7 2:20-3:10 (50 min)
Half Day Schedule
Period 1 8:10-8:36
Period 2 8:41-9:06
Period 3 9:11-9:36
Period 4 9:41-10:07
Period 5 10:12-10:38
Period 6 10:43-11:09
Period 7 11:14-11:40
Early Release Schedule
Period 1 8:10-8:45
Period 2 8:50-9:24
Period 3 9:29-10:03
Period 4 10:08-10:42
Period 5 10:47-11:51
Period 5 for Lunch A 11:22-11:56
Lunch A 10:47-11:17
Period 5 for Lunch B 10:47-11:21
Lunch B 11:21-11:51
Period 6 11:56-12:30
Period 7 12:35-1:10
Late Start Schedule 2 Hour Delay
Period 1 10:10-10:45
Period 2 10:50-11:24
LUNCH A 11:24-11:54
Period 3 11:29-12:02
LUNCH B 12:02-12:32
Period 3 11:59-12:32
Period 4 12:37-1:10
Period 5 1:15-1:50
Period 6 1:55-2:30
Period 7 2:35-3:10