Attendance on the rise

For the second straight month, Whitehall Middle and High School Principal Hannah Nieskens has reported an increase in attendance at the schools.

At the board of trustees meeting last week, Nieskens said the number at the high school has increased to 140, adding they are expecting one more next week. She reported the number at the middle school has also increased, with a current enrollment of 86. Nieskens said that because the number has increased in the high school they have had to order more textbooks for ninth graders, where the enrollment has risen above 40.

“It’s a good problem to have,” Nieskens said.

PLAYOFF GAMES

The Whitehall School Districts will not see receive money made from hosting two MHSA State Playoff Games.

Nieskens said with a total paid attendance of 712 in the opening round game against Shepherd there was a profit of $1,621.34, but that money will go back to the MHSA. She said the attendance was half the number November 3 against Shelby, and after reimbursing the traveling school -- the profits were at a loss.

Nieskens and K-5 principal Britt McLean both discussed recent non-tenured teacher evaluations. Nieskens said she points out the positives of what she sees from the teacher, but also gives them something to improve on.

“Everyone seems to be moving in a positive direction. That is always nice to see,” she said.