Evart High School recently announced it will add five new courses this fall.

The classes are Anatomy, Computer Essentials, Python Coding, Multimedia Arts and Rock Band. According to Evart High School Principal Tom Pashak, the classes are unique and will help students expand learning opportunities.

“We were looking for classes that would improve student engagement,” Pashak said. “You can create a class that a student likes, but more importantly, the class needs to have value for the student. These classes can help our students prepare for high-demand, comfortably paying jobs to support a family.”

The school has been applying for financial aid through grants and other resources, but Pashak said the teachers, Winter Cashman, Chase Hintermeister, Eli Vincent and Brittany Westendorp, have ultimately made it possible.

“We have the teachers to be able to teach these classes,” Pashak said. “More importantly, they have the passion too.”

Since 2020, Evart High School’s enrollment has decreased by more than 20 percent. In 2026, the school will have 222 students — the lowest since at least 1985. It is one of four local schools that will have lower enrollment this fall (Big Rapids, Chippewa Hills and Marion). Baldwin, Morley Stanwood, Pine River and Reed City all have reported increases for 2026.

When asked about enrollment concerns, Pashak said these unique classes aim to help students enjoy learning and create a positive educational environment.

“I definitely think it gives us a good chance of not only bringing in kids, but keeping them in our district. We want to improve engagement, which means learn more, behave better and show up more. We want to improve test scores and make sure our building is an ideal environment to learn. We are on the right track, but we still have a long way to go."

The school year for Evart High School begins Wednesday, Aug. 19.