CHS Parent Bulletin
First Quarter Reflection
Dear Coldwater High School Parents and Guardians,
As we wrap up the first quarter, this is an important opportunity to pause, reflect, and have meaningful conversations with your student about their progress. The first quarter gives us a snapshot of what is going well, where improvements are needed, and what steps we can take together to ensure a strong finish to the first semester.
I encourage you to take some time this week to talk with your student about each of their classes. Go beyond simply asking, “How are your grades?” Ask questions about what they are learning, what they find challenging, how they are preparing for assessments, and whether they feel connected and supported in the classroom. Celebrate successes, but also use challenges as opportunities to identify solutions and set goals for the weeks ahead.
Parent-teacher conferences are taking place this week, and I encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to connect with your student's teachers. These conversations can provide valuable insight into your student's academic progress, classroom engagement, work habits, and areas for growth. When parents and teachers work together, we create a stronger support system for students. If something needs attention, now is the time to address it rather than waiting until the end of the semester.
This is also a good time to talk about the future. What are your student's interests? What careers are they considering? Are they exploring college, trade school, apprenticeships, military service, or entering the workforce after graduation? These conversations do not need to result in all the answers. Instead, they should help students begin connecting their education today with the opportunities they want to pursue tomorrow.
At Coldwater High School, we want every student to recognize that their daily choices, effort, attendance, and willingness to learn all contribute to their future success. There is still plenty of time to make adjustments, strengthen skills, seek help, and build momentum before the semester concludes.
Thank you for your continued partnership and for the important role you play in your student's education. Let's use this opportunity to reflect on the first quarter, establish clear goals, and work together to finish the semester strong.
Go Cards!
Dr. Steve Hope,
Principal,
Coldwater High School
Considerate - Pierce Smith
Pierce continually volunteers to help bring equipment to and from the field, even when it is not his assigned week to do so. His willingness to step up and help others is a great example of being considerate and contributing to our school community. Pierce was nominated by Mrs. Katie Jewell.
Advocate - Emmett Walters
Emmett truly exemplifies what it means to be a leader at CHS. During a varsity volleyball game held during the school day, Emmett took it upon himself to advocate for the volleyball team by teaching a group of fifth-grade girls when to cheer, which cheers to do, and how to build excitement and school spirit. He stepped up when he saw a need, without being asked to do so. It was inspiring to watch Emmett get these students excited about women's sports and encourage them to be involved. His leadership made a positive impression on the families in attendance and demonstrated what it means to be a Cardinal. Emmet was nominated by Mrs. Moore.
Respectful – Marcelle Du Toit
Marcelle is one of the most respectful and considerate students I have had in class. He comes in every day with a kind greeting and is always prepared and ready to work. He is a great asset to my Weight Training class and consistently demonstrates the qualities of a respectful Cardinal. Marcelle was nominated by Mr. Bucklin.
Dependable – Kai Zimmer
Kai has taken the initiative every day at the end of the seventh hour to make sure the computer cart is returned, all Chromebooks are in their proper places, and everything is plugged in and charging. I never asked him to do this; he simply recognized what needed to be done and took responsibility for it. Kai also goes out of his way to help others in the classroom, often assisting classmates before I even have a chance to reach the student who needs help. He is kind, compassionate, and hardworking, and he is an excellent example of what it means to be a Cardinal. Kai was nominated by Ms. Butcher.
Safe – Ariadna Figueroa Garcia
Ari advocated for a student who was having a very difficult time. She responded quickly, respectfully, and kindly, demonstrating genuine care for the well-being of another student. Her actions are a wonderful example of what it means to create a safe and supportive school community. Ari was also nominated by Mrs. Jewell.
Coldwater High School rated 'Best High School'
Coldwater High School has earned national recognition as a U.S. News & World Report Best High School, ranking among the top 30% of high schools nationwide. This distinction recognizes the school’s standing among thousands of public high schools across the United States and highlights Coldwater High School’s commitment to academic achievement and preparing students for success beyond graduation.
The annual U.S. News & World Report Best High Schools rankings evaluate public high schools using multiple measures of academic performance and college readiness. Coldwater High School’s placement among the top 30% nationally represents an important accomplishment for the school and the Coldwater community.
“This recognition is something our entire school community can take pride in,” said Dr. Steve Hope, principal of Coldwater High School. “Our teachers and staff work hard every day to provide meaningful learning opportunities, challenge students to reach their potential, and prepare them for success after graduation. This distinction reflects that commitment and the collective efforts of our students, teachers, families, and community.”
At Coldwater High School, academic success is built on a commitment to continuous improvement. Teachers collaborate to strengthen instruction, analyze student achievement data, and identify strategies that help students master essential skills. The school emphasizes literacy across all content areas, effective teaching practices, and a safe, supportive learning environment where students can thrive.
CHS also recognizes that preparing students for the future means equipping them with more than academic knowledge. Through college and career readiness opportunities, career and technical education pathways, advanced coursework, and a focus on personal responsibility, students are encouraged to develop the skills and confidence needed to pursue their individual goals.
“While national rankings provide one measure of a school’s performance, our greatest responsibility is to ensure that every student who walks through our doors has the opportunity to succeed,” Dr. Hope said. “We are proud of this recognition, but we also understand that continuous improvement is essential. We will continue working together to make Coldwater High School a place where every student finds success.”
This national recognition provides an opportunity to celebrate the school’s accomplishments while continuing to focus on student learning, growth, and future opportunities.
To view Coldwater High School’s profile and ranking, visit U.S. News & World Report’s Best High Schools.
Perfect Score for Marching Band!
On Tuesday, October 13, the Coldwater Cardinal Marching Band traveled to Mattawan High School to participate in Marching Band Festival. At Festival, bands are evaluated by judges in three categories: Marching, Music, and General Effect/Showmanship. Each judge’s scores are averaged to determine an overall rating on a scale of 1 to 5, with a Division I rating representing the highest level of achievement.
This year, the Cardinal Marching Band earned a Division I rating in every category, resulting in an overall Division I rating—the highest possible honor!
Congratulations to our talented student-musicians, drum majors, Ariadna Figueroa Garcia and Katherine Smith (pictured above), and director, Mrs. Katie Jewell, on this outstanding accomplishment! Your hard work, dedication, and Cardinal pride were on full display. We are proud of you!
Soccer: Conference Champs!
The Coldwater High School Boys Varsity Soccer Team put together an outstanding regular season, finishing with an impressive 14-game unbeaten streak and an overall record of 13-1-2. The Cardinals’ consistent performance, determination, and teamwork helped propel them to the top of the conference, earning them the conference championship!
This remarkable accomplishment reflects the hard work and commitment of the players and coaching staff throughout the season. The team’s ability to compete at a high level and maintain its momentum over 14 consecutive games is a testament to their dedication and the strong team culture they have built.
Congratulations to our Cardinal soccer players and coaches on a fantastic regular season and a well-deserved conference championship. Way to represent Coldwater High School!
Girls Golf Finishes Ninth in State!
The Coldwater High School Girls’ Golf Team capped off an outstanding season with an impressive ninth-place finish at the state finals! This accomplishment reflects the student-athletes’ dedication, hard work, teamwork, and commitment to excellence throughout the season. Their performance at the state level is something to be proud of and a wonderful way to conclude a successful year.
Congratulations to Coach John Petzko and student-athletes Payton Longstreet, Alivia Arnold, Harper Anglin, Aubrey Eberts, McKinley Earles, and Julianna Cowles on a fantastic season! Your hard work and determination represented Coldwater High School well. Congratulations on a great finish, Cardinals! Coach Petzko was also named Regional Coach of the Year.
Lakeland Students Enjoy Volleyball Game
On Tuesday, September 29, students from Lakeland Elementary School enjoyed a special opportunity to attend a Coldwater High School girls’ volleyball game. The event was organized to promote women’s sports, encourage young students to get involved in athletics, and showcase the hard work, teamwork, and dedication of our Cardinal student-athletes.
The Lakeland students had a great time cheering on the CHS volleyball team and experiencing the excitement of high school athletics firsthand. Following the game, students also had the opportunity to meet the CHS players, giving them a chance to connect with the athletes and celebrate the positive role models within their school community.
Events like this help build connections between our schools while inspiring the next generation of Cardinals. By highlighting women’s athletics and providing students with opportunities to engage with high school athletes, we hope to encourage more young students to discover the confidence, friendships, and opportunities that participation in sports can provide.
Promoting E-bike, E-scooter and Skateboard Safety
Coldwater High School is taking steps to help students make safe and responsible choices when traveling throughout the community. CHS Resource Officer Azookari and Dean of Students Ms. Swartz recently spoke with students about the importance of e-bike, e-scooter, and skateboard safety, emphasizing the need to understand and follow local traffic laws.
The Coldwater Police Department has also issued a public reminder about city traffic and safety regulations in response to the growing number of electric bicycles, scooters, and skateboards being used on local streets. Students and community members are encouraged to review Coldwater City Ordinance No. 875, which outlines rules for these alternative forms of transportation within city limits.
Important safety requirements include:
Yielding to pedestrians: Riders must always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and be mindful of others sharing the road and sidewalks.
Following traffic laws: Riders must obey all applicable traffic signs, signals, and regulations.
Electric skateboard restrictions: Electric skateboards must use designated sidewalks or bike lanes when available and are prohibited from operating in the City's Central Business District.
Bicycle regulations: Standard and electric bicycles must follow applicable traffic laws, including additional speed restrictions and mandatory dismount requirements along Chicago Street.
As these transportation options become increasingly popular, understanding the rules of the road is essential to keeping riders, pedestrians, and motorists safe. Through collaboration between Coldwater High School and the Coldwater Police Department, we can help students develop responsible habits and make informed decisions when traveling around our community.
Our goal is simple: promote awareness, encourage responsibility, and keep our Cardinals and community members safe.
Picture Retakes
Picture retakes will take place on Friday, October 30. All pictures may be purchased online. Picture packets are available in the Main Office.