🐾WHS ROAR REPORT🐾

To celebrate our Winterfest festivities, students decorated the halls and dressed up throughout the week.

For hall decorating, fourth place went to the juniors, followed by the seniors in third place. The freshmen earned second place, leaving the sophomores with first place. Congratulations to all classes for their creativity and school spirit!

Now introducing the Watervliet Winterfest 2026 Royalty:

Freshmen Representatives:
Jolie Bertuca and Roman Arndt

Sophomore Representatives:
Alicea Tuinstra and Bryce Strong

Junior Representatives:
Kalyn Manley and Isaias Mendez

Congratulations to Isaias Mendez and Jolie Bertuca, who were crowned Prince and Princess earlier today at the high school pep assembly.

Senior Representatives:
Leila Liberto-Taylor and Tyler Woodson
Kassandra Riggs and Dimetric White
Taylor Green and Jeremy Morton
Grace Ripley and Mark Birmele
Sienna Bulat and Jessie Desjardin

Please welcome our 2025 Homecoming Queen Lily Summers and 2026 Mr. Watervliet Giovanni Ayala as they crown our new Winterfest royalty.

This year’s Winterfest King: Jessie Desjardin
This year’s Winterfest Queen: Leila Liberto-Taylor

Congratulations to our new Watervliet royalty!

The Watervliet High School Student Council would also like to thank the class advisors, teachers, and everyone who helped make Winterfest 2026 a success. Your support and generosity are truly appreciated.

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.

Meeting Minutes

Date: February 4

Topics Discussed

Student Concerns

• The only concern raised today was the idea of using soft zip Chromebook covers.

• Students shared that they have seen these used in other districts and believe they could help protect devices.

• This idea will be shared with Mr. Tiefenbach.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

• The group discussed parent-teacher conferences and the idea of pushing conferences later into the spring in future years.

• Students received a brief overview of how school calendar dates are negotiated between the teachers’ union and administration.

Career Fair

• Students reviewed the list of career fair speakers and the rooms where they will be located.

• A suggestion was shared to possibly hold the career fair by grade level in the gym, allowing students to walk around and visit speakers.

• This idea will be shared with Ms. Irmen and the JMG class for future consideration.

8th Grade Transition Skills

• The team reviewed the list of skills created by teachers to help 8th grade students better prepare for high school.

• Students felt that 8th grade teachers do a good job teaching these skills.

• They noted that once students arrive at the high school, success often depends on individual choices and effort.

Discipline Data Review

• Updated discipline data was reviewed.

• Students noticed a significant increase in cell phone violations in this year over last year.

• The group agreed that more consistent enforcement of the policy by staff may explain the increase compared to last year.

Next Steps

• The SAC will meet again in two weeks.

• The group assists Ms. Powers by providing student feedback and input on programming and operations at the high school.

All Senior Trip money is due by Friday Feb 20th. If you can get it in beforehand that would be great also. We have a chaperone meeting Sunday Feb 22 at 2pm at the High School Cafeteria. Thank you

Interested in learning about the U.S. Service Academies (Army, Navy/Marine Corps, Air Force/Space Force, Coast Guard, or Merchant Marine)? An informational presentation will be held Tuesday, February 11 during 1st hour in Ms. Irmen’s room. Students curious about college options, leadership paths, or military careers are encouraged to attend.

There is no detention today after school.

The Tech Center is closed today. Tech students may check out after 4th hour. Student who stay in the building must attend career day sessions for the remainder of the day.

Calling all Watervliet students! Do you have a talent or passion—poetry, art, performance, acting, or more? Show it off on March 14. Practices are Wednesdays, 3:15–4:30 in Room 173. Want to contribute in a non-performing way (art, poetry, costumes, props, etc.)? Join work days Thursdays, 3:15–4:30, also in Room 173. Can’t make a practice or unsure how to share your talent? Contact Mrs. Steadman or Ms. Sargeant—they’re happy to help.

The Berrien Community Foundation Scholarship application is due February 10! Please make sure to complete your application before then. If you have any questions, please see Mrs. Tyler or Mrs. Dawson in the guidance office.

Attention juniors and seniors: Do you want to earn a biliteracy seal on your diploma?

To earn the Michigan Seal of Biliteracy, students must demonstrate strong proficiency in English and at least one additional language by graduation.

• Seal appears on diploma and transcript

• Strengthens college, scholarship, and job applications

• Can earn college credit at some universities

• Students earn the biliteracy stole to be worn at graduation

If you want to sign up to take this test email Mr. Waggoner at brandon.waggoner@watervlietps.org

Just a reminder that TODAY is a half day of school and there is no school Monday due to mid winter break.

Softball sign-ups are in the High School Office this week

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.

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.

Scholarships for

Michigan High Schools!

Application deadline
Juniors: March 1, 2026
Seniors: February 15, 2026

The Horatio Alger Association seeks to provide scholarship assistance to deserving students who have demonstrated integrity, determination in overcoming adversity, academic potential, personal aspirations, strength of character and financial need.

My name is Nicholas Bauer and I am the Michigan Field Director
for the Horatio Alger Scholarship Program.

Most students apply for scholarships because a counselor encouraged them to do so, and your recommendation truly makes a difference.

I am writing to ask for your help in sharing this opportunity with your qualified juniors and seniors and encouraging them to apply.

JUNIORS: The Association awards (3) $25,000 National Scholarships

and (15) State $10,000 scholarships. Deadline: March 1st

SENIORS: $10,000 to $52,000 scholarships to specific colleges and

universities across the United States. Deadline: February 15th

(see website for details)

Key criteria for qualification:

1. Enrolled as a full-time high school junior

2. Demonstrate critical financial need (NEW INCOME LEVEL < $100,000)

3. Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity
4. At least a 2.0 GPA
5. Be a United States Citizen

To see more details, visit https://horatioalger.org/scholarships.

Attachments

First attachment: Juniors Flyer

Second attachment: Seniors Flyer

Scan the QR code on flyer to easily access the application

If you are looking for additional information, please visit our website:

horatioalger.org

Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or

if you would like additional materials.

Kindest regards,

Nick Bauer

Michigan Field Director

nbauer@horatioalger.org

248-953-9379

MEC also offers trade school and college scholarships for eligible seniors. The eligibility criterion is a cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4-point scale (we do ask for transcripts), and the student must live in a household that receives any MEC service (electric, propane, or fiber). This year, the question is for them to create a time capsule with at least 5 items to open in 10 years. They must create a video of themselves showing the time capsule, what’s in it, and why they chose those items. Scholarships are worth $1,000, and if the student is chosen, they could win an additional $1,000 scholarship after completing their first year of college or trade school.

I’m attaching a flyer that explains this in more detail, or you can visit this link on our website to learn more. I can also mail paper copies or drop some off at your school. Please let me know if you’re interested.

The deadline to apply is March 16, 2026.

Please find the Athena Education Scholarship application for Berrien County high school senior students attached to this email or located on our website https://womensserviceleaguesj.com/ . This scholarship will be awarded to an outstanding young person who exhibits a commitment to our community through philanthropy and volunteerism.

We will consider all senior students who live or attend school in Berrien County for this award. Additional criteria are outlined in the attached application packet.

Please distribute copies of the Athena Education Scholarship packet to interested candidates. Applications and supporting documents can be sent to the Women's Service League Scholarship Committee upon student completion; however, ensure all applications are received no later than March 2, 2026.

Applications and support materials should be sent to our email: wslpink@gmail.com (Please note we are no longer taking physical submissions to out PO Box).

On behalf of the Women’s Service League, thank you for reviewing this information and for providing your students with this scholarship opportunity. Please feel free to forward this information to all high school counselors or secretaries who may be able to facilitate getting this information to the high school seniors. If you have any updates to your staff list of counselors, please forward them to me so that our list and correspondence remain current.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Kate Hooper

Athena Chair/ Executive Member

wslpink@gmail.com

Women’s Service League

https://womensserviceleaguesj.com/

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.

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.

There was plenty of action for the Varsity wrestlers this weekend, with Panthers participating in four different individual tournaments.

On Friday evening the girls went to St. Joe finishing 8th out of 24 teams. Ellie Norman earned three pins to take first and Brooklyn Woollett earned two pins and finished second.

The girls would be at it again on Saturday in Fennville, where Naduhleigh Robart finished in second place and Brooklyn Woollett and Ellie Norman both were first. On the boys side in Fennville Josh Koch earned a pin and Sam Roland went 3&2 with two pins.

JT Isbrecht was the lone Panther representing Watervliet at the Greater Berrien County Invite in St. Joe on Saturday, using two tech falls and a pin to work his way into the final and finish in 2nd place.
The Panthers are back in action on Wednesday, with a pair of conference duals in Martin.

Indoor Track at Aquinas Meet #2

Watervliet was represented by only one individual this weekend at Aquinas College for their

second indoor meet of the season. There were almost 600 kids at the meet and Sam Casiano

started his day by running in the 1600M Run, which had 74 boys running in it. For some reason

Sam was put in the heat with all the youngsters in it, and he came out on top in his heat with a

time of 4:51.68. It was a little off his best but was still good enough to finish 19 th out of the 74

runners.

Sam then came back and ran the 800 in a time of 2:14.97 which was good for 32 nd place out of

78 runners. Great effort on Saturday Sam…Keep it up.

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 Mrs. 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.

I am an only child, so I live with my mom and dad on our farm, along with 3 dogs and 7 cats. Sociology/ Psychology and U.S. history in depth are my two favorite classes, it’s hard to pick between the two. U.S. history is amazing since I love history and in the class you really get the opportunity to learn about things you otherwise would never know about and have been forgotten by most, really though, Mr. Andrew makes the class the way it is, because he is an excellent teacher. I also really enjoy Sociology/ Psychology, since I have an interest in how the human mind works. I like all my teachers for different reasons so I don't want to pick a favorite. I am currently in Quiz Bowls and in the spring I do track. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with my friends, taking my dog to see new places, or doing outdoorsy stuff in general. Then when I'm all tuckered out I like to lay back and watch movies in bed. After high school I plan on joining the Coast Guard in which I will try to pursue a career in Homeland Security, though that may change. I still plan on getting a college/university education. I am proud to be a WHS Panther because I think this school does a good job trying to ensure the best education for its students, and that it provides us with a pretty good atmosphere.

TODAY was our annual Career Fair at WHS! This year’s event has been planned and organized by our JMG (Jobs for Michigan Graduates) students, who have done an outstanding job coordinating speakers and creating student schedules for the day. We are incredibly proud of their leadership and hard work!

Students had the opportunity to hear from a wide variety of terrific speakers representing multiple career pathways, giving them valuable insight into future options, education, and workforce opportunities. We are truly looking forward to an engaging and meaningful day of learning and exploration.

Attendance will be taken, and students are expected to attend. With such an exciting lineup of speakers and opportunities, this is definitely a day they won’t want to miss!

Chayse Your Dreams: Chayse Ott Trade & Apprenticeship Scholarship is awarding a total of $2600 in 2026 (four $650 scholarships) to Seniors from Watervliet Public School, WAY Program & Coloma Community School.

We would greatly appreciate your help sharing this opportunity with your Seniors! These career paths typically don’t have a lot of scholarship opportunities as well as the students not seeking them. This scholarship is designed to be accessible with very little effort.

No GPA or formal essay required, open to various career paths and funds can be used for several needs.

Please see attached Scholarship flyer for additional information

Application deadline is March 31, 2026

Email applications to: chayseyourdreams21@gmail.com

Thank You for supporting students as they take the next step towards their futures!

My family consists of my Mom and a few brothers and sisters, Throughout my senior year my favorite class has got to be JMG (Jobs for Michigan Graduates) because we constantly interact with other students in the classroom and learning about many careers. My Favorite teachers has got to be Mrs. Irmen and Mrs. Brush

Because they are both very understanding and encouraging, I am a captain of the varsity cheer team As i've done Football and basketball cheer the last 2 seasons After High school i plan to major into Sonography specifically cardiac and I am proud to be a panther because of the experiences and opportunities that we have.

My family consists of my mom Gina Grear who is a senior director at a company called Moody's and she is also on the Watervliet school board. My dad Mr.Gregeory Grear who is a retired teacher and stay at home dad to our 7 cats. And my sister Stella who is 25 and works at the Meijer pharmacy in Stevensville as a pharmacy technician. Of course my 7 cats, 4 ferrets, and some ducks and chickens. My favorite class has been Mrs.O'tools Anatomy class junior year. It was really interesting learning about the human body and dissecting things. I also had my favorite foreign exchange student, Eider, in that class so It was definitely 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 always talk to her about how my days have been. She's given me so many amazing opportunities to learn new instruments and teach the 5th, 6th, and 7/8th graders to love and play instruments as much as I do. I always love talking with her and she has carried this band program for a long time and I am very happy I got to be a part of it for so many years. I am in no current winter sports but I ran cross country earlier this year. In my free time I like to watch movies/TV shows, cook, and play games with friends. After high school I plan to attend SMC majoring in Social work and plan to join their band and orchestra as well. I'm proud to be a WHS panther because I'm part of an amazing band program with an amazing teacher and have met so many great people that I am very grateful to have met.

FRESHMEN

Bell, Anna
Barnard, Annabelle
Bertuca, Jolie
Burke, Remington
Domingo-Sturgeon, Ayvah
Hayes, Aaron
Martinez, Gabriel
Owens, Evan
Robards, Braiden
Romeo-Chairez, Daniella
Rogers, Aleksander
Shafer, Paige

SOPHOMORES

JUNIORS

Coburn, Alexis
Colemen, Ashton
Collins, Braydon
Daisy, Angelica
Harris, Sienna
Kirby, Max
Leoni, Sarah
McKie, Gage
Medlin, Maycie
Moore, Claire
Ortega, Brisa
Reed, Jayden

SENIORS

We will be hosting a short informational meeting soon about Girls State 2026, an exciting leadership and citizenship program held at Michigan State University from June 14–20, 2026. Girls State is a hands-on experience where students learn about leadership, government, teamwork, and civic responsibility. All program costs are fully covered, with transportation being the only responsibility. If you are interested in leadership, government, or personal growth, this is an amazing opportunity. More details and meeting information coming soon — stay tuned!

📚 After-School Homework Help – Tuesday–Thursday

We encourage all students to take advantage of our after-school homework help program, which is available every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday until 4:15 PM.

This support time provides students with a quiet, structured environment to complete homework, study, and receive extra help when needed — all with no interruptions. The location is announced daily during morning announcements, so students know exactly where to report.

We strongly recommend helping your child build this into their routine early in the semester. Developing the habit of staying after school for focused work time can make a big difference in organization, stress levels, and academic success.

If your child needs a calm place to work, extra academic support, or simply time to stay caught up, after-school homework help is a great option!

To earn the Michigan Seal of Biliteracy, students must demonstrate strong proficiency in English and at least one additional language by graduation.

Requirements:

• Graduate from a Michigan high school

• Meet all English Language Arts graduation requirements

• Demonstrate Intermediate High proficiency in another language through an approved test that the high school will administer on February 25th.

  • Reading

  • Writing

  • Listening

  • Speaking

Why It Matters:

• Seal appears on diploma and transcript

• Strengthens college, scholarship, and job applications

• Can earn college credit at some universities

• Students earn the biliteracy stole to be worn at graduation

If you want to sign up to take this test email Mr. Waggoner at brandon.waggoner@watervlietps.org

Portrait of a Graduate – What You Need to Know

A Portrait of a Graduate is a district-created framework that defines the skills, knowledge, and behaviors every student should have when they graduate in order to be successful in college, careers, and life.

Once created, this Portrait will:

• Guide new programs and curriculum decisions

• Help us evaluate and improve current offerings

• Ensure all students receive the instruction and experiences they need to succeed

Over the next few months, we will gather input from students, families, staff, and community partners. Our goal is to finalize this document by May. I will begin working with high school staff next week during early release time.

If you have any questions or would like to be involved in the process, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We appreciate your partnership as we build this important vision for our students.

• Purpose of a Portrait of a Graduate

  A Portrait of a Graduate clearly defines the skills, knowledge, and character traits students need to be successful in college, careers, and life. It helps guide instructional decisions, program development, and curriculum planning, ensuring our educational experiences align with the real-world needs of students. This framework also strengthens collaboration between schools, families, and the community.

  Stakeholder Engagement Plan

  We will gather input from a wide range of stakeholders, including:

  • Students: Student leaders, CTE students, and students representing diverse backgrounds and learning needs

  • Parents & Families: PTO families, parents of students with disabilities, and multilingual/multicultural families

  • School Staff: Teachers, counselors, administrators, and support staff

  • Community & Business Partners: Local businesses, healthcare and manufacturing partners, Chamber of Commerce, workforce agencies, and service organizations

  • Faith & Community Organizations: Local clergy, youth leaders, and service organizations

  • Postsecondary Partners: Colleges, trade unions, apprenticeship programs, military recruiters, and technical training centers

  This collaborative process ensures that our Portrait of a Graduate reflects the values, expectations, and aspirations of our entire community.

Media Center Expectations

The Media Center is a shared space designed for learning, collaboration, and quiet productivity. To help keep it welcoming, organized, and effective for all students, we ask that everyone use the space responsibly and respectfully. Please refer to the chart below for additional guidance.

Important Media Center reminders:

• Come prepared with the materials you need.

• Use the space for its intended purpose — studying, reading, research, or approved academic work.

• Be mindful of noise levels so everyone can focus.

• Clean up your area before leaving.

• Treat furniture, books, technology, and equipment with care.

• No cell phone use.

• Report any issues or concerns to an adult right away.

Thank you for helping keep our Media Center a positive, productive space for all Panthers. 🐾

At Watervliet High School, student safety is our top priority. We want every Panther to feel safe and supported while at school.

To help with this, we have created the Panther Hotline — a simple way for students to report a safety concern if they ever feel uncomfortable speaking directly to an administrator or teacher.

By clicking the link below, students can anonymously share their concern. As soon as a report is submitted, Ms. Powers receives an immediate email notification so that the situation can be addressed quickly.

🔗 https://forms.gle/YH6RG4pnJzsZBHtj9

Please encourage your student to use this resource if they ever feel unsafe or see something concerning. Together, we can ensure that WHS continues to be a safe place for all of our Panthers.

📅 February Calendar Dates — Important Events for Parents

• February 4 – SAC Meeting, 7:30 AM

• February 5 – Parent-Teacher Conferences, 4:00–7:00 PM

  • Senior Parent Meeting, 6:00 PM

• February 6 – Half Day of School

  • Career Fair (morning – all students)

  • 11:40 AM dismissal

• February 9 – No School for Students or Staff

• February 10 – 4th Hour Woodworking Field Trip

• February 12 – Pre-Festival Band Concert, 7:00 PM

• February 17 – Pre-Festival Choir Concert, 7:00 PM

• February 18 – PAC Meeting, 7:00 PM (All parents invited)

• February 23 – PBIS Meeting, 3:15–4:15 PM (All parents and students invited)

• February 24 – 6th Hour Woodworking Field Trip

• February 25 – Early Release Day

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 min)

Lunch A Class 11:32-12:23 (51 min)

Lunch B 11:27-11:57 (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

A Lunch 10:47-11:17

A Class 11:17-11:51

B Class 10:47-11:21

B Lunch 11:21-11:51

Period 6 11:56-12:30

Period 7 12:35-1:10