Panther Print for Parents 🐾

THANK YOU, Watervliet Community! Your support passed the $13.5 million bond! We're so excited for the bright future ahead for our community and schools. We couldn't have done it without you!

Mr. Dimino is staying after school on Tuesday and Wednesday of next week to provide assistance. (math) Students must be in his room by 3:15 PM and plan to stay until 4 PM with your own ride home.

Celebrating the Future: Panthers Commit to Their Next Chapter on Decision Day

Cheers, applause, and a few happy tears filled the air as seniors at Watervliet High School gathered with their families, teachers, and classmates to celebrate Decision Day—a momentous occasion honoring the future paths of graduating students.

Held in the school auditorium, Decision Day is a nationwide initiative that recognizes high school seniors for making postsecondary commitments, whether they’re heading to college, trade school, the military, or directly into the workforce. At Watervliet High School, it’s more than a celebration—it’s a community-wide show of pride and support for students’ hard work, dreams, and next steps.

This year’s ceremony was brimming with excitement as each senior’s name was called and their post-graduation plans were shared with the crowd. Students walked across the stage to cheers and high-fives, proudly wearing shirts representing their future schools or career paths.

The class of 2025 is headed in a variety of directions. Some students will be attending four-year universities like Western Michigan University, Michigan State, and Grand Valley State. Others have chosen to stay close to home, enrolling at community colleges like Lake Michigan College and Southwestern Michigan College, taking advantage of strong transfer programs and affordable tuition.

A growing number of students are also entering trade schools and apprenticeships, preparing for careers in cosmetology, welding, automotive repair, and other high-demand industries. Several are proudly joining the armed forces, answering the call to serve their country with the Navy, Air Force, and the Army National Guard.

“These students are making bold choices for their futures,” said Principal Powers. “They’ve overcome challenges, worked hard, and stayed focused. Decision Day is about honoring all of those accomplishments, no matter what path they choose.”

One of the most meaningful moments of the ceremony came when all seniors were invited to the stage for a group photo—a symbol of unity and celebration, regardless of their individual journeys. Parents and families were welcomed to take pictures, cheer, and enjoy the moment with their students.

Counselors and teachers who have supported these students from their freshman year to graduation beamed with pride. “It’s amazing to watch their goals take shape,” said Mrs. Dawson. “We’ve seen them grow, explore options, and now, they’re ready to go out and make their mark.”

As the ceremony wrapped up, the message to students was clear: You’ve worked hard to get here, and your future is bright. Keep striving, stay grounded, and know that your community is rooting for you.

Families lingered to take photos, exchange hugs, and say their goodbyes. With full hearts and big dreams, the class of 2025 is ready to take the next step—and Decision Day marked the start of that incredible journey.

Safe travels, Panthers. The world is waiting for you.

Freshmen: Madison Darling, Zaylea Pates, Payton Yeske, Lily Collins, Marley Alsup, Liam Allerman, Jane Rudell, JT Isbrecht, Aiyanna Forrester, and Joe Stanisci

Sophomores: Emma Owens, Hanna Lomoro, Hailey Adams, Claire Moore, Makena Guzman, Mackenzie Birmele, Ashton Coleman, Elizabeth Leblang, Jess Eldred, and Sophia Lechuga

Juniors: Jessie Desjardin, Leila Wells, Isabella Sanchez, Sukhpreet Singh, Ava Sprague, Kassandra Riggs, Chris Parkhurst, Landon Layer, Braizen Robart, Keira Tremblay, Jack Rodgers, and Natalaya Desjardin

Seniors: Alex Wilder, Grayson Richards, Ayana Marshall, Logan Schaefer, Carson Underwood, Tanner VanNiel, Mackenzie Robards, Tyler Asakevich, Nic Terry, and Noah Bentley

Juniors prepped for and participated in mock job interviews today. Thank you to English 11 teacher, Mrs. Bruce who worked with the students the last couple of weeks to prepare them. AND a BIG thank you to the following adults who took time out of their busy schedules on Friday to play the role of interviewers:

Shannon Llamas, PowerSchool Data Specialist/HR

Jim Tyler, School Board Member

Jessica Tyler, Counseling Office Administrative Assistance

Kris Lefor, Spanish Teacher

Gina Grear, School Board Member

Bill Tiefenbach, Director of Technology

Brandon Waggoner, Curriculum Director

Bryan Corkins, Science Teacher

Chris Coburn, MCAN Adviser

Jamie Dawson, School Counselor

Ric Seager, Superintendent of Schools

Lori Pline, North Elementary Principal

Officer Thornsbury, SRO

Deah Muth, Executive Secretary to the Superintendent

Space remains in many of our ATYP Summer Camps!

We hope you will share the information in our summer camp brochure, specifically our website, www.wmich.edu/precollege/atyp/summer-programs , with your students and families.

Please note, scholarships are available to any student who qualifies for any sort of federal or state assistance. This includes free or reduced lunch, Bridge Cards, Medicaid, etc.

They simply email us for the scholarship code and information as to how they qualify.

Thank you for helping us get the word out!

Nan Janecke, Program Coordinator

As prom and after prom approach this weekend, we kindly ask that you take a moment to review expectations with your student. All school rules remain in effect during both events. The junior class has worked hard to create a memorable and enjoyable evening for everyone, and we want all students to have a safe and fun experience.

Please note:

Once a student leaves the prom venue (exits the building), they will not be allowed to re-enter.

Any student found in possession of items prohibited on school property will be required to leave prom/after prom and will be subject to school consequences.

Similarly, any behavior that would be unacceptable at school will result in dismissal from prom/after prom and appropriate school consequences.

Thank you for your support in helping us ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration for all students.

Wednesday (5/14) there will be a Boys' Basketball meeting in HS Room 148 (Linderman's room) from 3:15-3:30 for all incoming 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grade boys that are interested in playing basketball this summer and next year.

Lincoln Douglas Debates are lengthy, intense, competitive speaking activities in which students debate over resolutions such as universal child care, banning fossil fuel subsidies, banning plea bargaining, and the use of autonomous weapons. Historically, they refer to the original debate between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas, both candidates for the Illinois senate seat who debated over slavery; Douglas won the debate, In the same format from the 1800s, our students selected partners to debate against and matched up equally to their skill level. Here, Taylor Green is debating Grace Ripley over universal childcare; both were evenly matched in their constructive speeches with very strong points on both sides, but Grace advanced as a winner with a stronger rebuttal speech during their rounds. Later in the competition, a strong debater, Lily Collins, requested to debate Mrs. Simmons which will be a strong matchup.

My name is Reed Rosado, and I serve as a District Representative for Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-04). This year, Congressman Huizenga is excited to once again host the Congressional App Challenge for students across Michigan’s Fourth Congressional District! Congressman Huizenga asked that I reach out to you to ask for your help in encouraging students to participate in this nationwide competition!

Officially launched by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2015, this competition is a nationwide event intended to engage creativity and encourage student participation in STEM fields. The competition allows students to compete by creating and exhibiting their software application (also known as an “app”) for desktop/PC, web, tablet, mobile, raspberry Pi or other devices. The Challenge accepts any programming language, such as C, C++, Java, JavaScript, Python, Ruby, or "block code."

Students may compete as individuals or in teams of up to four, as long as at least two of the teammates reside in Michigan’s Fourth Congressional District. The application portal is currently open, and students are encouraged to submit their app no later than November 1st.

The winner from the Fourth Congressional District, chosen by a panel of expert judges, will be featured on CongressionalAppChallenge.us. The winning app is also eligible to be on display in the U.S. Capitol, honoring the winners from across the country. Last year, Congressman Huizenga was pleased to recognize students from the Kalamazoo Area Math and Science Center for their creation, “Derma Detect.”

We hope that you will encourage your students to get involved in this transformative initiative this year, and we look forward to seeing what your students create!

If you have any questions, please contact me at Reed.Rosado@mail.house.gov or by phone at (269) 569-8595.

Best,

Jaylee Havenaar and Kimberly Romero-Chairez received a 1st place in Forensics at the regional competition which allowed them to participate in the state competition. They received 21st place out of the 57 teams that qualified for state.

5 students were still able to take their projects to the regional competition. All 5 students received an award.

Isaiah Wendt received 4th place for his live edge bar. Large Furniture Category

Connor VanLente received 3rd place for his epoxy desk. Large Furniture Category

Wyatt Macmillian received 4th place for his epoxy river table. Small Furniture Category

Lucas Wilder received 1st place for his Chest. Case Work Category

Miranda Lowell received 1st place for her Cherry wood benches. Small Furniture Category

The first place teams are going to state this Friday.

Picture of Wyatt MacMillan's epoxy river table made with black walnut wood which took 4th place in furniture division under 26".

Picture of Miranda Lowell's cherry wood bench that took 1st place in furniture division under 26"

Lucas Wilder

Friday, May 9

12:30 PM Track vs Gobles Invite at Gobles HS

4:30/6:30 PM JV Baseball vs Delton Kellogg at Delton Kellogg HS

Monday, May 12

4:00/6:00 PM Varsity Softball vs Michigan Lutheran at Watervliet HS

4:15/6:00 PM Varsity Baseball vs Kalamazoo Central at Kalamazoo Central

6:30 PM Varsity Soccer vs Fennville at Fennville HS

Tuesday, May 13

8:30 AM Varsity Golf vs Coloma at Lake Michigan Hills

4:30/6:30 PM JV Softball vs Decatur at Watervliet HS

Thursday, May 15

1:00 PM Varsity Track Boys and Girls at Bangor High School

4:00/6:00 PM Varsity Softball & Baseball vs River Valley at Watervliet HS

4:15/6:00 PM JV Baseball vs River Valley at New Buffalo HS

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.

The state of Michigan needs to identify the early childhood educators of tomorrow. Students from your school can get certified and earn credentials that open pathways to start down an ECE career road! These credentials will set these students apart.

For this month, please visit the resource hub and highlight the following 2 flyers:

• The CDA (Child Development Flyer)
• The MI-YDA (Michigan Youth Development Associate Flyer)
• ECE Resource Hub: AEYC Online Toolkit

Pathways exist for high school students to start earning credentials now and certifications help students qualify for ECE roles. School guidance counselors play a critical role in guiding students through these options.

Please help your students check out the CDA & MI-YDA to learn if one of these paths is right for them! Please let us know if you have any questions or need additional resources. Thanks for your help!

DAVID LIBERATORE

O: 216.727.3522 | M: 440.724.3565

19071 Old Detroit Rd. Suite #200

Rocky River, OH 44116

As the weather warms up, we’ve noticed that some students are arriving at school in clothing that does not align with the WHS dress code. We kindly ask for your support in helping your child choose school-appropriate attire each morning.

Clothing such as crop tops, short shorts, pajamas, tank tops, or other items that do not meet our dress code guidelines will result in a detention and the student will be required to change before returning to class.

We appreciate your partnership in helping us maintain a focused and respectful learning environment for all students. Thank you for your understanding and support.

Summer school will be held from June 16th through July 31st, running Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Families will receive a letter at the end of the school year if their child is required to attend due to incomplete or failed classes. If your child has not made up failed coursework during the school year, it’s likely they will need to participate in summer school.

Summer school provides a structured and supportive environment to help students get back on track. Classes are held in person and supervised by certified teachers. Students will receive a Chromebook on the first day and complete coursework using an online program, working independently to repeat the full class they did not pass.

In addition to attending daily, students are encouraged to continue working on their assignments in the afternoons, evenings, and weekends to ensure they complete all required work by the end of the summer. Coursework can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.

Meals and transportation are provided for students living within the Watervliet School District. Both breakfast and lunch will be available each day.

Please note: If your child is required to attend summer school and does not participate, the failed class will be added back into their schedule next school year. This could affect their progress toward graduation. Attending summer school is the best way for students to stay on track academically.

If you have any questions or need more information, please contact Mrs. Dawson at jdawson@watervlietps.org.

Thank you for your support!

May 10th Prom 8-11 PM Union and Social St. Joe

May 11th After Prom 12 AM -5:30 AM Mishawaka

May 14th Senior Scholarship/Academic Awards 6 PM Auditorium; all Seniors are asked to attend along with their families. A letter will be sent home in advance if your child is receiving an award.

May 16th Graduation speeches are due to Ms. Powers for review

May 17th Senior Class Loc- In at the HS 9:30 PM -6 AM; must have both a student and parent signed permission slip to attend, no outside guests

May 19th Check out sheets will be given to all seniors in their English classes, if you do not have an English class here, come get your check out sheet in the main office

May 20-23 Senior Exams

May 20 Periods 6 and 7

May 21 Periods 4 and 5

May 22 Periods 2 and 3

May 23 Period 1

May 22nd Senior check-out sheets are due to Mrs. Richcreek; she will give you your cap and gown once you turn in your completed check out sheet to her

May 23rd 3:10 Deadline for grades and passing all classes to walk at graduation

May 23rd All fees and fines due to the counseling office in order to walk at graduation

May 23rd 10 AM process through school buildings; students will board the buses in front of the high school, they can wear cap and gown if desired, they will process through South, around the HS track (North), the MS and then the HS. Once the procession is complete, Seniors are no longer allowed to be on school property until Field Day.

May 23rd Car Parade 4 PM Meet at the Old Mill Site, line up your car. The car can be decorated. The car that is driven must be plated and legal to drive on the road.

May 23rd Senior Sunset Silver Beach

May 28th Baccalaureate 6 PM Place to be determined (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.

If you are planning on enrolling at SMC:

Mr. Coburn is leading a field trip to SMC's campus for their orientation on May 15. This is an opportunity to complete SMC's in-person orientation, meet with an adviser, sign up for classes, and familiarize yourself with campus.

This is a joint field trip with Coloma. Transportation and lunch will be provided. Check your email for details and make sure that you have contacted Mr. Coburn about attending this trip.