🐾WHS ROAR REPORT🐾

There will be a mandatory Senior Parent Meeting on Wednesday, January 14th at 6:00 p.m. in the high school media center. We will be sharing important information regarding graduation plans, senior dates, deadlines, and expectations for the remainder of the school year. This information is critical to your student’s successful completion of their senior year, and all seniors are expected to have a parent or guardian in attendance. We appreciate your partnership and look forward to seeing you there.

Dual Enrollment Expectations & Important Information

We want to ensure that students and families fully understand the expectations and responsibilities associated with dual enrollment. Please review the information below carefully.

College Credit & Academic Responsibility

• Any class registered for and any grade received becomes part of the student’s permanent college record.

• If a student fails a dual enrolled course, it will appear on their college transcript and may negatively impact future college opportunities and scholarships.

Attendance & Participation

• Students are expected to be in their dual enrolled class every day and on time.

• If a student must be absent, they are required to notify their college instructor in advance. Contact information has been provided by the instructor.

• When not in their college class but scheduled during dual enrollment time, students must report to and remain in the online lab or designated classroom and work on their college coursework.

• Students are not permitted to leave the lab/classroom without permission from the main office.

Communication with College Instructors

• Students are expected to email or speak with their college instructor anytime they have questions or concerns.

• It is important that students establish communication early and know how to reach their instructor when needed.

Grades, GPA & Eligibility

• Students earning below a C in a dual enrolled course have failed the course and:

  • May not dual enroll the following semester at the expense of the district

  • Will be required to reimburse the district for the cost of the course

• Students who do not maintain positive attendance and at least a 3.0 GPA are not eligible to dual enroll in future semesters.

Dropping or Withdrawing from a Course

• Students are not permitted to drop or withdraw from a dual enrolled course without first speaking to the counseling office.

• If a student is struggling, they should contact the counseling office immediately.

• Students who withdraw outside of the allowable window will be required to:

  • Reimburse the district for the cost of the course

  • Forfeit eligibility for district-funded dual enrollment the following semester

Parent Communication & Grade Monitoring

• Students are expected to keep parents informed of their progress and grades.

• There should be no surprises at the end of the course regarding pass/fail status.

• Students are required to provide their college grades to the counseling office upon request.

Books & Materials

• If the school has rented a textbook for your student, it must be returned at the end of the semester.

Speeches, Assessments & Class Time

• Any speeches, exams, or assessments for dual enrollment must be completed during the scheduled dual enrollment class time.

• Students are not permitted to leave other high school classes to complete college coursework.

• Students may not pull other students out of class for any reason.

Important Reminder

Dual enrolled courses are college courses, not high school classes. Students are expected to take full ownership of:

• Their learning

• Their work

• Their communication

• Their progress

If you have any questions or if your child is interested in dual enrolling for an upcoming semester, please contact or have your child visit the counseling office.

Jamie Dawson, School Counselor
jdawson@watervlietps.org

Jessica Tyler, Counseling Office Secretary
jtyler@watervlietps.org

Students may earn an exemption from taking a semester exam based on attendance and academic performance.

• To be exempt with a B or higher, a student must have 3 or fewer total absences in that class.

• To be exempt with an A, a student must have 5 or fewer total absences in that class.

All absences count toward this incentive, regardless of the reason.

If a student qualifies for an exam exemption, they do not need to physically be in school during that exam period. That time will be considered a school-excused absence.

To restate:

• 3 or fewer absences + a B or higher = exam exemption

• 5 or fewer absences + an A = exam exemption

Our goal is to encourage strong attendance and consistent effort, while recognizing students who meet these expectations.

If you have questions about your child’s attendance or eligibility, please contact the high school office.

As we head into the final week of the semester, we want to make sure families are aware of the exam schedule so students can plan ahead and arrive prepared each day. All teachers have provided review opportunities and materials in class, and students are strongly encouraged to use the weekend to study and prepare. Please remember that final exams count for 20% of a student’s overall semester grade, making preparation especially important.

Tuesday

• Period 7 Exam: 1:30 – 3:10 PM

Wednesday

• Periods 1 & 2 Exams: 8:10 – 9:50 AM

• Break: 9:50 – 10:00 AM

• Period 2 Exam: 10:00 – 11:40 AM

Thursday

• Periods 3 & 4 Exams: 8:10 – 9:50 AM

• Break: 9:50 – 10:00 AM

• Period 4 Exam: 10:00 – 11:40 AM

Friday

• Periods 5 & 6 Exams: 8:10 – 9:50 AM

• Break: 9:50 – 10:00 AM

• Period 6 Exam: 10:00 – 11:40 AM

Students should arrive on time, be well-rested, and bring any required materials each day. Studying over the weekend, reviewing class materials, and attending any review sessions will help students feel confident and prepared.

Please note: any exam that is missed will be recorded as a 0% in the gradebook for that class. It is critical that students are present and on time for all scheduled exams.

Exam Exemptions:
If your child qualifies for five and an A or three and a B, they are not required to be in school during the exam time for that specific class, and the absence will not be counted against them. These students may arrive late or leave early based on their exam schedule with parent permission.

Thank you for your continued support as we help our students finish the semester strong!

GreenStone is excited to extend a golden opportunity to you and your students. We are offering a total of $60,000 in scholarships through our Dave Armstrong Scholarship Program and GreenStone Scholarship Program, aimed at supporting students with a passion for agriculture, natural resources or timber-related fields.

GreenStone believes in investing in the future of agriculture, and we know that your students can be an integral part of that future. Please share this information with your students who are eligible for these scholarship opportunities.

GreenStone Scholarship Program
This initiative allocates up to $40,000 in scholarships for incoming college freshmen or current high school seniors. It offers $2,000 each for students in a four-year college program and $1,000 each for students in a two-year college program. Eligible students must plan to study an agriculture or timber-related field in college.

Dave Armstrong Scholarship Program
Open to current college freshmen, sophomores, or juniors; this program awards $20,000 in scholarships, with $5,000 each for four deserving students. Recipients will embody the values and commitment demonstrated by GreenStone's former CEO, Dave Armstrong, a stalwart in the industry for 41 years.

Do You Know a Student Who Qualifies?
To be eligible, applicants for either program must reside within GreenStone's territory, covering Michigan and select counties in northeast Wisconsin. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to pursuing agriculture or timber-related studies, exhibit academic excellence, and showcase active involvement and leadership in school, community, and agricultural activities.

Act Now - Applications Open Until March 1, 2026!
Encourage your students to seize this incredible opportunity! The application window is open until March 1, 2026. Visit www.greenstonefcs.com/community/scholarships to apply or learn more.

I come from a close and supportive family, and I am the youngest of three children. I really look up to my older siblings, Essie and JD, who have always been great role models for me. My parents have always been there for me no matter what, and their constant support has helped shape who I am today. Choosing my favorite teacher is a difficult decision, but it would have to be either Ms. Irmen or Mr. Linderman because I love how engaging they are and how much they care about making sure students truly understand the material.

My favorite class is history because I enjoy learning about the world, different cultures, and events from the past. It also challenges me to think critically and grow academically. I am involved in activities that allow me to stay active, build teamwork skills, and connect with others at school. In my free time, I enjoy practicing and watching basketball, shopping, reading, and spending time with my friends and family.

After high school, I plan to continue my education in nursing, psychology, or ultrasound technologist training because I want a career where I can help others and make a positive difference in their lives. I am proud to be a WHS Panther because of our strong sense of community, school spirit, and support for one another. Being part of WHS motivates me to represent my school with pride, respect, and positivity every day.

My family consists of my parents, Victor and Jessica, my sister Amara, my dog Astro, and me. My favorite teacher has been Mr. Linderman because his class is fun and engaging. My favorite class is science because it is easy for me and I have a lot of friends in that class. I play football and basketball and am looking forward to playing golf in the spring. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with my family, playing sports, and watching TV. After high school, I plan to go to college, although my major is still undecided. I am proud to be a WHS Panther because we are a community that truly supports one another.

I am thrilled to share some upcoming virtual opportunities for High School students from the University of Michigan. Please share the below opportunities with any students you think may be interested in learning more about summer research opportunities!

• The Summer Healthcare Experience in Oncology Program Applications open on January 12
• University of Michigan Summer Program Information Session on Wednesday, January 14, 6-7p EST (Will include information about several in person, summer opportunities as well!)

Summer Healthcare Experience in Oncology, Virtual Summer Research Program - Applications openJanuary 12, 2026

*A link to the application will be posted on our website when they open: https://rogeltrainees.med.umich.edu/trainees/k-12/summer-healthcare-experience-in-oncology

The University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center’s Summer Health Care Experience in Oncology Program introduces Michigan high school students to the wide range of careers involved in cancer care, cancer research, and oncology-related fields. This virtual, introductory program provides hands-on exposure to genetic drosophila research through a partnership with eCLOSE institute and a patient case study project, to explore key facets of cancer science and care. Students will also engage in faculty lectures, panel discussions, and participate in skill-building workshops to expand their knowledge, build professional networks, and support their future biomedical career paths. The program gives students an in-depth look at cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and scientific discovery. The program encourages applications from students who are interested in understanding how cancer affects different areas in the United States. Applicants must be current sophomores or juniors attending a Michigan high school. We encourage applications from the full spectrum of talent that the Michigan has to offer.

Program Dates:

• Monday through Friday, July 13 – 24, 2026; 9:30am -1pm.
• A two-day on-campus orientation research bootcamp (lunch provided) will take place June 15 & 16 before the virtual sessions. Attendance is recommended but not required if circumstances/location prevent participation.

Key Program Details:

• Meals provided during the optional on-campus orientation and research bootcamp June 15 & 16
• Two weeks of introductory virtual programming (July 13–24) featuring expert speakers and activity leaders across cancer care, cancer research, health disparities, and professional development
• Opportunities to collaborate and participate in beginner-level research activities with peers from other institutions
• Mentorship from oncology professionals
• A $500 stipend for each student who completes the program
• At home lab kits for research activities
• Optional monthly enrichment activities during the academic year
• PARTICIPATING INSTITUTIONS: The University of Michigan is pleased to enroll up to 20 SHE trainees. The UM cohort will complete all program activities in collaboration with peers enrolled through the University of Kentucky, University of Chicago, University of Pennsylvania, and the University of Texas at Austin.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Full-time Michigan high school student
• Current sophomore or junior at the time of application
• Strong interest in a career in scientific research or medicine
• Ability to commit to two full weeks of virtual programming during the times above

Summer Program Virtual Information Session

High school students looking for a summer opporuitnity can learn about programs in various departments at University of Michigan and how to apply. Students, parents, and teachers can register here: https://umich.zoom.us/meeting/register/IvMYGUpMTLaP7f49e45oYg#/

• Aspirnaut Summer Research Internship
• Michigan Health Sciences Pre-College Exposure Academy (SPEA)
• Research Experiences for Youth (REY) Program
• Summer Healthcare Experience in Oncology

We encourage you to share these opportunities widely. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me atprivetra@med.umich.edu. We look forward to inspiring your students to explore rewarding careers in science, healthcare, and cancer research!

I am thrilled to share that applications are now open for Girls Who Code’s Pathways summer program!

Pathways is a free, virtual program that empowers high school girls and non-binary students of all experience levels — including rising 9th graders, graduating seniors, and returning participants — to explore AI, Game Design, Cybersecurity, and more, while learning how to build tech for good. The program is entirely flexible in how participants choose to learn and requires no prior coding experience. Students complete courses at their own pace over seven weeks, from June 29 to August 14.

Beyond coding, students gain real-world insights through Partner Events with leading tech organizations, connect with peers through Girls Who Code’s private Discord community, and join optional Student Hours for live support. Participants earn a certificate for each completed course and join Girls Who Code’s lifelong alumni network, gaining access to mentorship, internships, and career opportunities in tech.

Students can apply by February 25th for priority consideration. The application closes on April 10th.

Lindsay Jones

Regional Outreach Coordinator
Lindsay.Jones@girlswhocode.com

My family includes my mom, who is a 5th grade teacher, my dad, who works in construction, and my stepmom. I have two sisters, Aubrey Hayes and Alexis Hayes, who are 18 and 22 years old. I also have two cats and one dog.

My favorite teacher has been Mrs. O’Toole because she has a great attitude and makes class enjoyable. I really enjoy Anatomy because it is a fun class that teaches me important subjects, and I like the people in the classroom as well. I am currently involved in Student Council and golf, and I am glad to be a part of both.

In my free time, I enjoy reading books, hanging out with my boyfriend, shopping, and traveling. After high school, I plan to attend college and pursue my dream of becoming a maxillofacial surgeon.

I am proud to be a WHS Panther because of the great atmosphere and the lifelong skills WHS has taught me along the way. I would also like to say thank you to Mrs. Tyler and Mrs. Dawson for always making me feel welcome in their office.

I live with my mom, my grandparents, and one of my three brothers. The other two live in Detroit with my dad. My favorite teacher so far is Mr. Dimino. He has been the best Algebra 2 teacher I have ever had, and his teaching is clear, comprehensive, and easy to understand.

I am on the Debate Team and plan to participate again next year, and I am also on the Quiz Bowl team. My favorite class is probably Sociology because I find the topics very intriguing and interesting to learn about.

I enjoy arts and crafts, reading, learning history, and watching TV shows. After high school, I plan to go into journalism in college and become a news reporter and writer.

I am proud to be a WHS Panther because my mom was one and because I have great teachers.

Student Advisory Council (SAC) Meeting Notes – January 7, 2026

Exams

Students shared that they understand the exam schedule and the plan for the week. We reiterated that athletes who are exempt from one or more exams are not required to be in the building during that exam time and will not be penalized athletically for their absence.

End-of-Semester Student Survey

We discussed the importance of gathering student voice through an end-of-semester survey, which was also completed during the previous nine weeks. With the new requirement, all survey questions and responses will be posted on our website, and the same survey will be administered to all staff.

Proposed Survey Questions:

• What do you think has gone well this 9 weeks?

• What has not gone well this 9 weeks?

• What ideas or suggestions do you have for the next 9 weeks?

Plan:

• The survey will be facilitated during 3rd hour in the first week of the new semester to ensure all students have the opportunity to participate.

• Students felt strongly that having a teacher facilitate the survey will result in more thoughtful, honest, and meaningful feedback.

  
  

8th Grade Student & Parent Meetings

We discussed upcoming 8th grade student and parent meetings. There is still some uncertainty about whether one to three meetings will be needed for both students and parents. SAC students are aware that they may be asked to help support these meetings. Traditionally, we hold one meeting per month in March, April, and May for both students and parents.

Class Offerings & Course Ideas for Next Year

Students shared strong interest in the following potential course offerings for next year. Ms. Powers and Mrs. Dawson will review and investigate these possibilities:

• First Aid with CPR Certification

• Home Economics

• Spanish 3

• AP Environmental Science

• AP Physics

• AP Psychology

• AP Computer Science

• AP Composition and Literature (Seniors)

These suggestions reflect a clear desire for both practical life skills courses and expanded AP opportunities.

In addition, Ms. Powers shared with students that we are currently investigating a Woodworking CTE program as a possible future offering.

The 2026 Rosa Parks Scholarship ($3,000) application is now available on our website: rosaparksscholarship.org

This is an annual scholarship, and we would encourage your school to ensure that our scholarship (and website) is included on your master list of scholarships. This scholarship is open to all Michigan high school seniors.

The application is also available (you can copy/paste into your browser) at:

Apply | Rosa Parks Scholarship Foundation

The deadline for filing is March 1, 2026. Scholarship winners will be announced in mid-May.

If you have questions or problems concerning the application, please email us at: info@rosaparksscholarship.org

If you received this email in error, we would appreciate you sharing with the correct individual, or let us know and we will try to find the proper contact for the school.

Thank you,

The Rosa Parks Scholarship Foundation

My name is Payton Yeske, and I am a 15-year-old sophomore. My parents are Jimmy and April Yeske, and I have a younger sister who is 8 years old. At school, my favorite teacher is Mr. Dimino. Although I enjoy all of my teachers, Mr. Dimino always manages to put a smile on my face and make people laugh. My favorite subject is math because it comes easily to me, and everything just clicks when it is explained.

I am involved in basketball, cross country, and track, and I am also part of the student council. In my free time, I like to hang out with friends and family, read, and watch movies and shows. After high school, I plan to graduate from a two-year community college with an associate degree and then transfer to a four-year university to pursue a career in crime investigation.

I am proud to be a WHS Panther because we support all of our athletes, no matter how well they do. Encouragement from others helps more students push themselves to achieve their goals.

My family is made up of my mom, my dad, my two sisters, my brother, and our dog, Frida. My parents are a big part of my life and always support me, and my siblings make life more fun and interesting with our different personalities. My dog, Frida, is also an important part of our family and brings us lots of joy with her playful and loving nature.

My favorite teacher so far has been Mrs. O’Toole because she is always positive and says hi to me when I walk into her class. She is always willing to help when I need it and is always smiling.

Art is my favorite class because it allows me to be creative and express my thoughts and feelings in my own way. I enjoy using different materials and colors to make something unique, and art helps me relax and have fun while learning. We complete smaller projects that lead up to a bigger project.

The club I am a part of is Student Council. Student Council is really fun and helps me develop leadership skills. It allows me to be involved in school activities and work with people I normally would not get the chance to work with. I also play softball, which I have been playing for about 12 years. I play on a travel team and have been doing travel softball for five years.

In my free time, I like to read books, draw, play Roblox, hang out with friends, and watch movies.

After high school, I plan to go to college and will probably stay in Michigan or attend a college somewhere warmer. I am still deciding between a few options. After college, if I stay in Michigan, I would like to move somewhere warm where it is warm all year round.

I am a proud WHS Panther because my school makes me feel included and supported. Being a Panther means showing school spirit, working hard, and being part of a community that encourages me to do my best.

Friday, Jan 9

6:00/7:30 PM Varsity Girls & Boys vs Coloma @ Coloma HS

Saturday, Jan 10

9:00 AM Wrestling Invite @ Battle Creek Central HS

Monday, Jan 12

5:00 PM JV White Basketball vs Lawrence @ Lawerance

Tuesday, Jan 13

5:30/7:00 PM JV & Varsity Boys vs Martin @ Watervliet HS

5:30/7:00 PM JV & Varsity Girls vs Constantine @ Constantine HS

Thursday, Jan 15

4:00/5:30/7:00 PM JV Boys/Girls vs Fennville @ Watervliet HS

5:30 PM Wrestling @ Allegan High School

Friday, Jan 16

4:30/6:00/7:30 PM JV Girls & Varsity Girls/Boys vs Fennville @ Watervliet HS

Saturday, Jan 17

9:00 AM Wrestling Russo Boys Invite @ Kalamazoo Central HS

Sunday, Jan 18

9:00 AM Wrestling Russo Girls Invite @ Kalamazoo Central HS

Tuesday, Jan 20

4:00 PM JV White Boys vs New Buffalo @ Watervliet MS

5:30/7:00 PM JV & Varsity Boys vs Saugatuck @ Watervliet HS

5:30/7:00 PM JV/Varsity Girls vs Martin @ Martin HS

Wednesday, Jan 21

5:30/7:00 PM JV & Varsity Boys Basketball vs Decatur @ Decatur HS

6:00 PM Wrestling SAC Quad @ South Haven HS

Thursday, Jan 22

4:00/5:30/7:00 PM JV Girls & Boys vs South Haven @ South Haven HS

Friday, Jan 23

6:00/7:30 PM Varsity Girls/Boys vs South Haven @ Watervliet HS

Eight Panther wrestlers competed in an Individual tournament at West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids on Saturday. Brooklyn Woollett finished in 1st place. Maddie Myers and Alanna Pecharich both finished in 2nd place, and JT Isbrecht finished in 3rd. Josh Koch had two wins, but fell shy of the podium. The team will head to Coloma on Wednesday for a pair of team conference duals.

We are emailing regarding the start of the GALS Michigan (Girls on outdoor Adventure for Leadership and Science) application period! The application window officially opened on December 1st and will continue until March 2. Attached is a flyer with more details about the program and the link to apply. You can also find more info at our website. We hope that you can share information about this program to potential applicants at your school.

GALS is a free summer science program for high school students from Michigan. GALS was created to increase opportunities for students who identify as female or gender-nonconforming, students of color, students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, and other groups historically excluded in the STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). All are welcome to apply. Successful applicants will spend two weeks in the wilderness of Michigan’s lower peninsula learning science hands-on with Michigan State University scientists. We are looking for applicants who have had little to no experience in learning science outside the classroom or in exploring the outdoors. We do not take academic performance into account when selecting participants and are looking for those who would succeed in this hands-on, experiential learning environment. It’s our hope that by getting these students involved in the beauty of the outdoors and natural sciences, they may be inspired to become the scientists of tomorrow.

I live with my amazing family: my mom, dad, brother, and our two dogs. My mom and dad are by far the strongest, funniest, and most caring people I know. From childhood through my teen years, my brother and I have remained inseparable, always having each other’s backs. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of such a loving and unbreakable family. Whenever I feel down or hurt, I think of my friends and family, and they give me the strength to be my best self.

In my free time, I love making art and writing poetry. I enjoy using these outlets to express myself, as self-expression is incredibly important to me. That is why art class is my favorite class—it truly makes me feel like myself and gives me a sense of purpose.

My favorite teachers are Mrs. Hunt, Mr. Weber, Mrs. Lefor, and my Van Buren Tech teacher, Ms. Tracy. They are all amazing, genuine people, and I am proud to have been a student of each of them.

My future plans change often and are still a bit unclear, but right now I am set on becoming a mental health therapist to help those in need.

I am proud to be recognized for my effort and presence in the Panther community!

My favorite teacher is Ms. Irmen because she is very laid back and easy to work with. My favorite class is JMG because I am able to get most of my work done during class time. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my friends and my girlfriend. I am currently enrolled in the JMG program, which has helped me build important skills for the future. After high school, I plan to join a union and begin my career. I am proud to be a WHS Panther because I have gained strong communication and learning skills and feel prepared to transition from high school into the real world.

Congratulations to all of our Panthers who were named December 2025 Student of the Month nominees today! 🎉 Winners at each grade level will be announced after break.

FRESHMEN

​​Zulema Alvarado

Amber Bryant

Emma Camp

Adelyn Campbell

Dallas Clark

Ayden Daniel

Ayvah Domingo-Sturgeon

Berenice Lopez-Morales

Olivia Lurkins

Lillianne Poziwilko

Aleksander Rogers

Kenadi Scott

Caroline Weber

Alex Zuniga

SOPHOMORES

Eliza Brooks

Katelyn Brown

Erica Burgos

Lily Collins

Kaden Conklin

Madison Darling

Julian Diamond

Aiyanna Forrester

Bradee Preston

Sam Roland

Annabella Schadler

Brooklyn Schlipp

Abby Solaris

Ava Thomas

Ethan Westfall

Payton Yeske

JUNIORS

Ashton Coleman

Angelica Daisy

Abbie Hayes

TJ Hess

Max Kirby

Sarah Leoni

Lucy Lodgson

Claire Moore

Jazmine Moses

Brisa Ortega

Jayden Reed

Mackenzie Webster

SENIORS

Alina Bell

Karla Cervantes

Dylan Collins

Anthony Coloumbe

Cole Getz

Destiny Lynch

Sam Milham

Kaz Miller

Ashlyn Petty

Kami Rathfon

Jenna Ritter

Jessica Rudell

Issabella Sanchez

William Sherrard

Jacob Shunkwiler

Riley Smith

Ava Sprague

Sarah Tarantino

Berrien Community Foundation’s scholarship application for 2026 is open to all Berrien County high school/early college seniors, current college students, and adults returning to college. We award close to $500,000 annually to students and adults planning to continue their education.

Thank you for sharing this information with your students; it’s so exciting each year seeing all the applications come in! Continue to encourage those who have not yet done so to complete their FAFSA and their application as early as possible. The deadline to apply is February 10, 2026, and application can be found on our website.

Sharnae Hudson

Program Coordinator

Berrien Community Foundation

2900 S. State St., Ste 2E

St. Joseph, MI 49085

ph: (269) 983-3304 ext. 5

fax: (269) 983-4939

Dear Seniors and Families,

We are excited to announce that Watervliet High School will participate in the Universal FAFSA Challenge this year. The Board of Education has approved FAFSA completion as a graduation requirement beginning with the Class of 2026.

This step is supported by new funding from the State of Michigan through the MiLEAP office, which is helping schools increase FAFSA completion statewide.

Completing the FAFSA opens doors to grants, scholarships, work-study, and other financial aid that can make college, trade programs, and post-secondary training more affordable. Our staff will work closely with seniors and families to ensure every student has the support needed to complete the FAFSA. If completing it is not possible, a parent/guardian waiver will be available.

To encourage participation, each senior who completes the FAFSA will receive a monetary reward beginning in January—and any senior who completes it by March 26th will earn the chance to pie the teacher of their choice during a school-wide assembly before spring break.

If you have any questions or need help, please contact the Counseling Office. We are here to support you every step of the way.

Event Details

• Location: Nitro Zone, 56419 Pokagon Street, Dowagiac, MI 49047
• Date: Sunday, May 3, 2026 (12am - 5:30am)
• Transportation: Depart the high school at midnight, return by 5:30am
• Safety: The venue will be “locked down”—no entry or exit after arrival
• Attendees: All students must ride the bus to and from the event; no early departures or alternate pickups (including by parents/guardians)

Student Information

• Parent/Legal Guardian must sign two forms prior to the event:
  • Permission Slip (pick up in the main office)
  • Nitro Zone Release Form
• Junior & Senior students do not need to attend prom to participate in After Prom
• Eligible to attend are WPS Junior and Senior students and their guest,including WPS Sophomore and Non-Watervliet students approved by Ms. Powers (with signed permission slip & waiver)

Additional Information

• Teresa Collins and Carrie Wilder will be present at the entire event, including when the students arrive at the school to depart for the event, while loading the buses, riding with the students to/from the event and staying until every student has left/been picked up.
• Additional chaperones and event staff will also be at the venue.
• If a student returns a permission slip but does not attend, we will notify their parent/guardian the night of the event.

Bathroom Expectations

Bathrooms are for quick and appropriate use only. Students are expected to use the restroom and return to class promptly. Bathrooms are not a place to gather, linger, or socialize.

Important bathroom reminders are as follows:

• Flush.

• Wash Hands.

• Leave the space better than you found it.

• Report any damage to the main office.

Students should go directly to the restroom and return to class without delay. Hanging out, meeting up with friends, or remaining in the bathroom for extended periods is not permitted.

Thank you for helping us keep our school respectful, safe, and focused 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.

We’re excited to announce that after-school homework help is now available for our students. Students can stay for one hour after school 3:15-4:15 PM to get extra support or simply have a quiet place to focus on assignments.

• Tuesdays: Work with Mrs. Simmons

• Wednesdays: Work with Mr. Dimino (MATH ESPECIALLY)

• Thursdays: Work with Mrs. Brant

No sign-up is required—students can just stop by the teacher’s classroom after school to participate. This is a great way to catch up on work, get extra help, or stay on top of assignments.

👉 Please note: Students will need to arrange their own transportation home after the session.

We hope many of our Panthers will take advantage of this opportunity for extra support! 🐾

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