As fall approaches, we’re reminded that each new season brings opportunities to reflect and renew. With the start of this school year, I want to reconnect with you — not just as Interim Principal of Watervliet Jr/Sr High School — but as someone who has been part of this community for the past two decades. And while my title may be new, my commitment to our students and families remains the same.
Watervliet is more than a city — it’s a legacy. For generations, the halls of the Jr/Sr High School have echoed with the voices of students who carry forward the grit, heart, and pride that define this community. It’s where families have built their lives, shared their struggles, and celebrated their triumphs together. And though recent years have tested us, they’ve also reminded us of what matters most: believing in our youth and what they can become.
However, that potential is only realized when the entire city — parents, educators, neighbors, alumni, and community leaders — stands together. Public education has and always will be a partnership. Success only happens when we set high expectations for our students while surrounding them with support and accountability. Our students deserve to be challenged and held to standard, but also to be seen, heard, and believed in. After all, they carry that legacy with them every time they walk into a classroom, step onto a field, or represent us in the real world. True Cannoneers are not defined by their struggles. They are defined by their potential.
This is where you come in. We need parents engaged in their child’s learning, caregivers willing to ask for help when they need it, neighbors who cheer our students on, alumni who stay connected, and educators and coaches who lead by example. This year, let’s recommit to being the community our Cannoneers need. Let’s show up at games, concerts, and school events. Let’s celebrate their victories, help them grow from setbacks, and remind them that Watervliet pride isn’t just words — it’s action.
Change won’t happen overnight, but it starts now, with consistency, compassion, and collaboration. Together, we can ensure that when our Cannoneers leave these halls, they carry with them not only the skills needed to be contributing members of society, but also the pride and purpose of a community that stood by them every step of the way. Watervliet’s future is already here. Let’s give them every reason to believe this city believes in them.
Michael Foust 🤟
#WeAreVliet
New Safety & Security Measures at WJSHS for 2025-2026
The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain a top priority for the Watervliet City School District. Beginning this fall, the district will implement several new measures to strengthen building safety and security. These include:
- OpenGate – a new metal detection system that students will walk through each morning to help identify prohibited items before they enter the building.
- SmartPass – an online hall pass system that allows us to better monitor student movement throughout the day.
- Campus Security Monitor – a dedicated staff member assigned to enhance on-site safety and provide additional supervision.
- WayFinder Bus Swiper System – a program that improves attendance accountability by tracking student ridership on WCSD buses.
Student Schedules are now live!
Student schedules for grades 6–12 are now available on the Parent Portal. There, you can view your student’s classes as well as their locker information. If you need assistance signing up or logging in, please visit our Parent Portal Help Page. If you have any questions or concerns about your student’s schedule, please contact the WJSHS Counseling Office at 518-629-3302. Our school counselors are available to support you:
- Chelsie Gleason – Grades 6–8
- Riley Gallagher – Grades 9 & EVOLVE
- Dave Olszewski – Grades 10–12 (A–K)
- Katelyn McAvoy – Grades 10–12 (L–Z)
Arrival & Dismissal Times
Doors Open for all students at 7:30 a.m. Junior High students (grades 6-8) are expected to grab breakfast (to eat in their homeroom), stop at their lockers and be in their homerooms by 7:40 a.m. Also at 7:30 a.m. Senior High students (grades 9-12) will be allowed into the building, and can grab breakfast and eat in the cafeteria.
At 7:57 a.m. our first bell will ring, and all students (grades 6-12) will head to period one, which begins at 8:00 a.m. Our day at WJSHS consists of eight 45-minute classes, which include 3 minutes of transition time in between periods, and a 20-minute lunch for each student. Students in grades 6 & 7 will begin their dismissal at 2:16 p.m., and students in grades 8-12 will dismiss at 2:41 p.m.
Most of our afterschool activities will begin at 2:45 p.m., and there is a late bus (for transportation-eligible students) at 3:40 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays throughout the school year.
Important Dates
- Thursday, 8/28 – New Student Orientation (10 a.m.-12 p.m.)
- Wednesday, 9/3 – 6th Grade Orientation (1-2 p.m.)
- Thursday, 9/4 – First Day of School!
- Saturday, 9/6 – WCSD Welcome Back Festival (1-4 p.m.)
- Thursday, 9/11 – School Pictures (Grades 6-8)
- Friday, 9/12 – School Pictures (Grades 9-12)
- Thursday, 9/19 – WJSHS Open House (6-7:30 p.m.)
Year Three of Cell Phone-Free at WJSHS
This fall marks the third year in which Watervliet Jr/Sr High School is phone-free. Yondr pouches, which every student will receive, will still be used to implement our personal device policies, and distraction-free learning will continue to be our focus. Phones and electronics are expected to be secured in a pouch and in every student’s own locker throughout the day. In the case of an emergency, parents and guardians may always call the high school main line at 518-629-3300 to speak with their child.
Transportation Information
WCSD school bus transportation is available for any student in grades 7-12 who lives 1.2 miles or more from Watervliet Jr/Sr High School. School bus transportation is also available for any 6th graders who live more than .5 miles or more from the school. Specific school bus information, including bus stops and pick-up and drop-off times, has been mailed home to families that qualify.
Please arrive at your bus stop 5-10 minutes early and be sure to follow school bus safety rules while riding the bus. If you have questions or concerns, please call the WCSD Transportation Coordinator at 518-629-3224.
6th Grade Parents & Guardians!
We know the transition from 5th to 6th grade can bring some anxiety for both students and parents. To help make this change as smooth as possible, we’re hosting a 6th Grade Orientation on Wednesday, September 3, from 1–2 p.m.
During orientation, you’ll have the chance to meet teachers, see your classroom, and drop off supplies—so that the first day feels a little less overwhelming. We’ve also prepared some helpful flyers for parents (linked below) with tips and guidance. Middle school is a big step for every student, and while the transition can feel tricky, our goal is that these proactive measures help ease some of those natural concerns.
Helpful Links
WJSHS Student & Parent Handbook
Parent Portal Sign-Up Information (Online Gradebook & Report Cards)
ParentSquare Sign-Up Information (WCSD Communication Platform)