Panther Print for Parents 🐾

THANK YOU to the Senior announcement readers for the 24-25 school year who did such an awesome job everyday this year!

Alyssa Brown

Ayana Marshall

Chaz Hart

Lilly Summers

Logan Schaefer

We Welcome the new announcement readers for the 25-26 school year who will get started next year and help us out in the main office every day!

Grace Ripley --Mondays

Giovanni Ayala--Tuesdays

Natalaya Desjardin--Wednesdays

Chris Parkhurst --Thursdays

Moeko Crago --Fridays

2025-2026 Final Forms Registration is Opening Soon!

Attention all Watervliet High School and Middle School students interested in athletics!

Mark your calendars – Final Forms will officially open for the entire 2025-2026 sports year this Sunday, June 15th! This is where you'll complete all the necessary paperwork to get cleared for participation.

Especially for our Fall Sports Athletes: To ensure you're fully eligible and ready for practices and tryouts, please make sure all your Final Forms are completed and your up-to-date physical is submitted no later than August 11th, 2025. Don't let a forgotten form keep you on the sidelines!

Access the platform and get started here: https://watervliet-mi.finalforms.com

The Bangor clinic offers free physicals to students but parents do need to call ahead and make an appointment, fill out forms, etc.

RESPONSIBILITIES and DUTIES OF THE TEAM

🗣️ Student Voice & Feedback

Conduct and review student surveys on school climate, curriculum, cafeteria, technology use, etc.

Host a town hall to gather input from community members. This will be a one time evening requirement.

Serve as a liaison between the student body and administration.

Review and offer feedback on school policies, rules, and proposed changes.

Participate in staff hiring panels (if necessary during or at the end of the year)

🎓 Academics & School Improvement

Offer input on academic schedules, exam prep, and other programming.

Advise on digital learning tools and how they're used in class

🏫 Culture, Climate & Community

Create campaigns to improve school culture (e.g., kindness week, anti-bullying, inclusion).

📣 Communication & Representation

Meet regularly with the principal to share student concerns and suggestions.
Speak at school board meetings or community events on behalf of students.
Create promotional videos or materials for events or school pride.
Welcome visitors and new students, representing the student body.

🛠️ Projects & Initiatives

Propose and lead school improvement projects (e.g., beautification, recycling, murals).
Create proposals for student amenities (e.g., lounge spaces, hydration stations, vending options).

💡 Leadership Development

Present in May to the WPS School Board on the accomplishments and impact of the team.

✅ Organizational & Logistical Roles

Create meeting agendas and take minutes.
Organize subcommittees for various projects.
Track progress on council goals and initiatives.
Help manage SAC communications (email, calendar, reminders).
Budget or fundraise for SAC-related activities or projects.

Representing the FRESHMEN Class: Sophia Rader, Alex Zuniga, Caroline Weber, Owen Williams, Adisyn Lambright, Tyler Jarvis

Representing the SOPHOMORE Class: Madison Darling, Jayden Brassard, McKaylen Laws, Katelyn Brown, Cadence Phillips, Nolan Weckwerth, Gianna Berry

Representing the JUNIOR Class: Hailey Adams and Norma Gutierrez

Representing the SENIOR Class: Natalaya Desjardin, Keira Tremblay, Moeko Crago , Grace Ripley, Abigail Klopp, Izzy Tarantino

Thank you to the following students who will be serving as mentors on August 18th for our freshmen class!

Keira Tremblay

Grace Ripley

Abigail Klopp

Moeko Crago

Riley Smith

Aubrey Hayes

Kassandra Riggs

Addison Smith

Alina Bell

Jaylee Havenaar

Giovanni Ayala

Izzy Tarantino

Kendal Kiefer

Marissa Lowell

Chris Parkhurst

Dylan Collins

Ava Sprague

Shelby Schlipp

Liliana Perez

Mackenzie Webster

This week, Mrs. Sibley’s AP Computer Science students from the high school took a special trip to South Elementary to visit Mrs. Iliff’s 2nd grade class for an exciting, hands-on collaboration. The high schoolers led engaging activities centered around computer science principles and coding using Code.org. From sequencing commands and creating games, to solving puzzles, the second graders got a firsthand experience with the fun and logic of coding — all with the guidance of their enthusiastic high school mentors.

In addition to learning basic coding skills, the younger students also got a glimpse into the world of computer science careers. The high school students shared their own interests and aspirations in tech-related fields, inspiring curiosity and big dreams in their 2nd grade buddies. It was a joyful and educational experience for everyone involved, with all the second graders actively participating and thrilled to work side-by-side with their older classmates. This meaningful partnership showcased the power of peer mentorship and the excitement of exploring future-ready skills at any age.

We are excited to be able to offer two additional on site dual enrolled courses for the 25-26 school year. These are classes that will be taught here in the high school building through Lake Michigan College with a Lake Michigan College instructor. Your student must have a cumulative 3.0 GPA to register for either of these classes. Please check out the description of the classes below. Have your child come talk to Mrs. Tyler this week in the counseling office to add either of these courses into a schedule for next year. The courses are entirely free and paid for by WPS.

Fall Semester 1 CIS 100: Foundations of IT and Microsoft Office (required for business and accounting degrees)

Fall Semester Esports 110: games studies, gamer community, evolution of video games

WHS is offering an elective careers course for all juniors and seniors next year. It is a year long course for which a student will earn elective credit. Is is called Jobs for Michigan Graduates. The course is a pass/fail course, meaning that it will not be included in your child's GPA. Mrs. Irmen, WHS Chemistry teacher, will be the teacher for the course. Check out the flyer below for more information. Students will participate in a job readiness curriculum. They will be visited by classroom speakers and attend field trips that solidify their plan for life after high school. The class is primarily intended for students who may not know what they want to do after high school and for students who believe that they are headed directly to the workforce. However, the class is open to all current 10th and 11th graders for next year, regardless of their tentative plan. Please reach out to Mrs. Dawson, if you would like to see your child scheduled for this class at jdawson@watervlietps.org. If you have questions or concerns about the course, feel free to reach out to Ms. Powers at the high school office. Thank you!

If you're interested in joining Watervliet High School Robotics team Pantron-X #9758 for the 2025-2026 school year, please scan the QR code from a poster in the hallway or bathroom and fill out the Google Forms document.

Pictured from left to right:

Emma Owens (10th), Zaylea Pates (9th), Madison Darling (9th), Landon Layer (11th), Kassandra Riggs (11th), and Ayana Marshall (12th). Not pictured due to the change in date: Mackenzie Robards (12th) and Liz Leblang (10th). The Students of the Month were honored at a special breakfast on Monday morning.

Thank you to Mrs. Hunt for assisting with all of the handprints in the wall behind them.

Thank you the WHS faculty and staff for their ongoing nominations each month!

Madison was nominated by Mrs. Lefor, Mrs. Sibley, Mr. Corkins, and Mrs. Richcreek.

My parents are Tiffany and Joshua Darling. I have three siblings: Ivan, Kenzi, and Adeline. My favorite class has been Spanish because it is fun. My favorite teacher is Mrs. Lefor because she is nice and understanding. I am in the Student Council and I play Volleyball and Soccer. In my free time I like to hang out with my friends and family. After high school I plan to go to college and become a Veterinarian. I am proud to be a Watervliet Panther because of the opportunities I get.

Mrs. Simmons shared: Madison is such a conscientious student. Her positive attitude is infectious and fills the classroom. She is always prepared and attentive in class and excels in English. I look forward to seeing her continue to shine throughout high school.

Mr. Tremblay shared: I really appreciate her hard work during PE Class and in all of our activities this year.

Mr. Linderman shared: Madison is a diligent, motivated, and conscientious student who has a tremendous work ethic. She is a quiet leader who is respected by her peers and works very well collaboratively. Madison is extremely intelligent, produces work at the highest quality, and consistently scores at the top of the class in World History and Geography.

Zaylea Pates was nominated by Mr. Corkins, Mr. Linderman and Mrs. Lefor.

I live with my mom, my dad, my step parents, my younger brother and two stepsisters. My older brother lives in Ohio and is 23. I have 5 dogs, not all in the same house though. I also have two bearded dragons, 3 bunnies and a cat in our home.

My favorite class would probably be ELA because reading and writing are some of my favorite things to do! I have multiple favorite teachers because they have been really nice and enjoyable teachers: Mrs. Riedinger if she were here, Mr. Steele, Mr. Linderman, Mrs. Lefor and Mr. Dimino. They have all been so welcoming to the start of my high school year. I tried out for volleyball but sadly did not make the team this year due to a stretched tendon in my knee. In my free time I enjoy making poetry and posting it. I also like to read and I like to play with my bearded dragons: Trevor and Wizzy. I also enjoy collecting things. I collect sewing pins although I don't sew and I collect beer bottle caps and will eventually make art out of it. After high school I plan to look for careers in paranormal investigation and possibly go to college for it. If that career does not work, my next go is to become a tattoo artist. I am proud to be a WHS panther because there are such kind people at the school and it's such a welcoming place.

Mr. Tremblay shared: She works hard each day and appreciate her positive attitude in class

Mrs. Lefor shared: I am so proud of you! Zaylea, you are a student that gives 110% every day. I appreciate your hard work and more importantly your positive attitude. I am lucky to have you at the end of the school day because you always put a smile on my face. I really hope you are taking Spanish next year so we can spend another year learning Spanish together.

Mr. Dimino shared: Zaylea Pates has given a strong academic effort in Algebra all year. She asks questions in class and over email and doesn't hesitate to demand answers. Her effort in class is a model for her classmates, and many students have worked in groups with her and upped their own effort because of Zaylea.

Mr. Linderman shared: Zaylea is an incredibly hard-working student who has not missed a single assignment this entire school year in World History. Her assessment scores have improved significantly throughout the year due to her impressive work ethic. She is always prepared for class and brings a great positive attitude on a daily basis.

Emma Owens was nominated by Mrs. Lefor and Mrs. Simmons.

I have two brothers that are in 8th and 2nd grade, along with my mom and dad in my family. My favorite class this year has been history. Mr. Andrews makes it very easy to learn and teaches the historical events with pictures, videos, and sometimes acting the situations out for different perspectives. My favorite teacher so far has been Mrs. Simmons. She is very nice and she puts effort into helping me and the rest of her AP students. I am playing AAU basketball for sports and I like to watch TV shows or play basketball in my free time. After high school I plan on going to a four year university for college. I am proud to be a part of Watervliet because of the athletics and education opportunities.

Mr. Andrews shared: It has been a pleasure having Emma in class this year. She is a diligent student who never misses a due date. On top of that Emma turns in high quality work, and does well on projects and level four questions. Whenever I call on her during class she is engaged and ready to answer. I will miss having Emma in class when the year is over.

Mrs. Simmons shared: Emma is a student with a strong work ethic in English and AP Seminar. She is very quiet, but absorbs everything she's taught. This is evident by her excellent presentations in AP Seminar and her exceptional writing skills. As quiet as she is, her effort has not gone unnoticed, and I'm very proud of what she's accomplished.

Liz Leblang was nominated by Mr. Andrews and Mrs. O'Toole.

My favorite class this year was medical terminology. I felt it gave me a great understanding of what the medical terms are that I’ll be using as a general surgeon in the future, and being educated at a young age can help my development. My favorite teacher this year is Mr. Andrews. He’s always so joyful and supportive and helps the students get a better understanding if needed. He’s also very lenient when it comes to certain circumstances and he’s a great teacher to have. A club sport that I play is volleyball for Southwest. A few of my favorite things to do in my free time are read my Bible and spend time outside when it’s warm. After high school I plan to get my bachelors degree at LMC and then move forward into med school to become a general surgeon. I’m proud to be a Watervliet high school panther because the teachers are always so positive!

Mr. Andrews shared: Liz is a very positive presence in class. Her contstant smile and upbeat nature help make her class a positive experience for all of us. She has consistently gotten better and better throughout the year at getting assignments in and has also improved her responses to level 4 questions on assessments. I will miss her positive and friendly attidude a great deal

Mrs. Lefor shared: Congratulations! I know how hard you have worked to achieve this goal. Liz is always working hard and wanting to ensure she does what is expected. She is willing to ask questions and will volunteer to answer questions in class (which is hard when it's a foreign language). I appreciated her dedication and her willingness to share her thoughts and perspectives on life.

Mrs. O'Toole shared: This student demonstrates consistent diligence throughout the academic year. She proactively engages in science-related tasks beyond the regular school hours, such as practicing sutures. Her friendly demeanor is a positive presence in the classroom, and she collaborates effectively with her peers.

Landon Layer was nominated by Mr. Andrews, Mrs. Irmen, and Mrs. Richcreek.

I have my mom, my stepmom, (who is a nurse) and my stepdad, who works at this school. My brother is a freshman who's homeschooled and plays professional video games. I also have my sisters; one is an 8th grader and the other is in 4th grade. My favorite class has been Sociology/Psychology, as it is very interesting to me. My favorite teacher is Mr. Weber because I know him the most, and he is very humorous. I am involved in Varsity Soccer, as well as the Track team. I like to play, discover, and listen to all kinds of music. I also enjoy video games and hanging out with others. I plan to go to college to pursue a law degree and become the top prosecuting attorney of a major county in America. I am proud to be a Panther because I get the education and knowledge I need to excel in life.

Mr. Andrews shared: I have had the pleasure of having Landon in class each of the past two years. His genuine interest in history is apparent every day. He asks insightful questions, often looking for deeper understanding of a topic. Landon is always engaged and ready to answer questions. He also completes projects at a high level. I'm very glad I was able to have a student so interested in history twice!

Kassandra Riggs was nominated by Mr. Weber, Ms. Irmen, Mrs. O'Toole, and Mrs. Richcreek

I have 4 brothers and 2 sisters. My favorite class this year has been Psychology because I find it interesting and Mr. Weber makes it fun. Mr. Andrews has been my favorite teacher by far. He makes his class so interesting and he is funny. In my free time I like to read, watch movies and bake. After high school I plan to attend LMC and become a legal secretary. I am proud to be a Panther because I feel connected with my peers, and our teachers and staff take interest in our lives.

Mr. Andrews shared: Kassandra is a fantastic student and even better person. I am fortunate to have had her both last year and the first semester this year. She proved herself to be a diligent student, but also someone who was kind to others and always willing to work with a variety of people. It was a pleasure having here in class. Her only fault is wearing a Coloma jacket around Europe....

Mrs. O'Toole shared: I have had the pleasure of working with Kassandra for two consecutive years, and she consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic. She completes her assignments promptly, often ahead of schedule, and is proactive in assisting with additional tasks during designated work periods once her responsibilities are fulfilled. A fellow student recently remarked during a group project that Kassandra's positive attitude, motivation, and collaborative spirit make her a pleasure to work with.

Mr. Weber shared: Kassandra is hardworking and smart, has a great and unique sense of humor. Been great having her in two classes each day this year.

Mackenzie Robards was nominated by Mr. Dimino, Mrs. Bruce, and Mrs. Richcreek

My name is Mackenzie Robards. I am a senior here at Watervliet. The important people in my family to me would be my Mom, Dad, little brother, and my best friends; Kendall K.and Sienna B. The reason they are so important to me is because they support my career, sports, and school choices. My favorite class I take is my Agriculture and Natural Resources class. The reason behind that is because I am wanting a career in Agriculture, whether that be with a florist or having my own cattle ranch. I have learned way more than what I already knew from being in 4-H. I also became a FFA member, and met so many people with the same interest as me. You really get to expand your knowledge when you go to conventions, or contests. My favorite teacher here at Watervliet would be Mr. Dimino, because he really explains the material we learn thoroughly and helps when needed. I play Varsity Softball. I like to spend my free time with my family and friends, also riding my horses, and playing ball. My plan after high school to go to LMC or SMC to get my general studies done and then eventually transfer to MSU to use my FFA state degree credits. I am proud to be a Watervliet Panther because of our athletics and schooling.

Mr. Andrews shared: I have not had Mackenzie in a couple of years, but my recollection is of a student willing to participate, kind to others, and as someone dedicated to her studies. When I have seen her in the halls since she always greets me with a smile and a "hello". It may seem like a small thing, but those types of niceities brighten the days of those around her. I wish Mackenzie the best moving forward.

Mr. Dimino shared: She has worked very hard in personal finance this year which was a hard task because of sports and tech. She questions everything and has an aura about her that demands answers that make sense to her. She always works hard and has a great drive to be successful.

Ayana Marshall was nominated by Mr. Dimino and Mrs. Richcreek.

I live at home with my mom and stepdad, and I have 6 siblings. My oldest lives up north and just had her 3rd baby. My brother is in the air force and lives in Japan. My other two are currently in college. And the last two live at home with me. My favorite class was freshman year World History with Mr. Hickman because we learned how to think for ourselves and in the world around us. My favorite teacher was Mr. Andrews because he made learning fun, and always made me laugh (do not tell him I find him funny). I am currently involved in Student Council, National Honor Society, Student Advisory Council, and am captain of the Varsity Wrestling team. In my free time I like to go kayaking, camping with my family, and anything with my friends. After high school, I plan on attending Saginaw Valley State University to wrestle, while getting my Bachelors Degree in Marketing. I am proud to be a WHS panther because I believe Watervliet has given me the tools necessary to become successful in life.

Mr. Andrews shared: Ayana is one of the most enthusiastic students I can every remember having. She came in every day with a smile and not only ready to learn, but eager to learn. Her positive attitude was contagious. This was true when I had her in class and still true every time I saw her in the halls, on the trip to Europe, or any other place we ran into each other. Her upbeat personality and dedicaation to excellence will be missed as she graduates this year.

Pick up your T-shirt Thursday the 29th at 10:15am in the lobby. Class photo will be taken at 10:30 AM after T-shirt pick up in the gym. Seniors will then proceed up behind the school for their field day/senior picnic. Lunch will start at 11:30-12:30. We will also have an ice cream truck back there. Inflatables, games, and photo bus will be up there and ready to go when they get out there from the picture :) Then, they will have graduation practice at 3:15 (so they can leave field day at 3 to head into the school.

In order to walk at graduation, students are not permitted to wear ANY of the following:

NO TENNIS SHOES (even if they are brand new)

NO SHORTS

NO JEANS

Khakis or dress pants required.

NO HEELS (this is because of the damage that they cause to the turf) Ladies can wear wedges, flats, or platform shoes

NO SUNGLASSES

Your decorated cap must be approved IN ADVANCE. If you show up to graduation and your decorated cap does not meet the "appropriate" standard, you will not be permitted to walk at graduation.

Only cords distributed or approved by the school can be worn.

Only students who earn the seal of biliteracy can wear a serape. It is distributed by the school.

Ladies are encouraged not to wear neon or bright colors, as the coolor will be seen through the white gown.

Boys are not permitted to wear tank tops as their sole shirt.

Friday, May 23

4:30/6:30 PM JV Baseball vs Allegan at Watervliet HS

4:30/6:30 PM Varsity Softball vs Saugatuck at Saugatuck HS

Saturday, May 24

4:00 PM MS/Varsity Track Distance Under the Lights at Houseman Field (Aquinas College)

Tuesday, May 27

9:00 AM Varsity Golf vs Kalamazoo Christian at Bedford Valley Golf Club

5:00 PM Varsity Baseball vs Hartford at Bangor High School

5:00 PM Varsity Softball vs Schoolcraft at Coloma High School

Underclassmen awards this year will be held in the evening so that more of our parent community can be in attendance. The annual awards ceremony will take place on Tuesday, June 3rd at 6 PM in the high school auditorium. You will receive a letter in the mail if your child is receiving an award.

May 28th Baccalaureate 6 PM high school auditorium (this is a final time of reflection for the students in the class;) all Seniors and families are asked to attend; it will be followed by cake and punch

May 29th Senior Class Picture in the Class T Shirt taken in the stadium

May 29th Senior Field Day 11-3

May 29th Senior Picnic 2 PM

May 29th Graduation Practice 3:15 PM in the media center (required in order to walk at graduation)

May 30th Graduation– Students meet in the media center by 5:30 PM; group photos begin at 5:45 sharp, graduation start at 6:30 PM in the stadium

If your child has a concern regarding anyone's safety in the building (student or staff), the Panther Hotline is an anonymous way to report the information to the building principal immediately. It is always preferred that the student come to the office to talk face to face about the concern, however if that is not possible, the Panther Hotline is the best way to get the information to building administration immediately. All students have been emailed this link. It is also posted around the school building.

https://forms.gle/iy8Nep5DZDjZYwsF7

Once completed, the information comes directly to the principal in the form of an email.