Principal’s Message

IRE Families,
As we head into the final week before Spring Break and close out Quarter 3, we want to take a moment to thank you for your continued partnership. This time of year is a great opportunity to reflect and recharge. We hope your family is able to enjoy a restful and meaningful break together.
As we look ahead to the final 10 weeks of the school year, finishing strong is key. Small, consistent habits can make a big difference in keeping students academically sharp while still making space for fun and connection.
Here are a few simple questions you might use during Spring Break to support learning at home:
  • What are you reading right now, and what’s happening in your book?
  • Can you tell me about a new word you learned or noticed?
  • Where do you see math in our day today (shopping, cooking, traveling)?
  • Can you write or draw a story about something we did today?
  • What is something new you learned this year that you’re proud of?
  • What is a goal you have for the last part of the school year?
Even 10–15 minutes of reading, writing, or math practice each day can help maintain momentum, while still leaving plenty of time for rest, play, and family connection.
We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with you in supporting your child to feel known, loved, and valued each day. We look forward to a strong finish together this spring!
Last, 5th grade closed out their annual Pi Day celebration by getting to the “pi” the principal. Three students memorized nearly 100 (or over 100) digits of pi! Holy smokes. See some of the photos below.
Best,
Tyler Dockins, Principal
Nate Beede, Assistant Principal
Rebecca Kratzig, Dean of Instruction

School Safety Drill Update

At IRE, student safety is our top priority. As part of our ongoing safety efforts, we follow the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) developed by the “I Love U Guys” Foundation. This approach uses clear, consistent language so students and staff know exactly how to respond in any situation.
This month, we will be practicing two important drills:
  • Shelter-in-Place: Students remain inside and take protective action (often used for environmental situations like weather or air quality).
  • Evacuation (2nd instance for the year): Students safely move to a designated location outside or away from the building.
These drills are practiced in a calm, age-appropriate way so students feel prepared and confident.
Questions to ask your child at home:
  • What do you do during a shelter-in-place drill?
  • Where do you go during an evacuation?
  • How does your teacher help keep you safe?
  • Why is it important to practice safety drills?
  • What questions do you still have about school safety?
Thank you for partnering with us to ensure every student feels safe, known, and cared for at school.
Spring Break is April 6-10. School resumes on April 13.

Native American Student Union Presents Children of the Earth Pow Wow

Families are invited to attend the Children of the Earth Pow Wow hosted by Squalicum High School’s Native American Student Union on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Squalicum High School Gymnasium in Bellingham. This traditional pow wow is planned by Native student youth leaders and celebrates Native American dancing, singing, arts and crafts, vendors, and food. Grand entries will take place at 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM, and the event is free to attend with free parking.
All are welcome at this drug- and alcohol-free community event. A free community dinner will be provided. This is a wonderful opportunity for students and families to experience and celebrate Native culture and traditions in our region.

PTA Meeting

You’re Invited!
Meridian PTA Meeting
Wednesday April 1st, 4:00-5:30pm
In the Building A staff lounge
Doors open at 3:50- Please wait outside until dismissal is over before entering the building for the meeting.
We will be discussing:
Planning for end of the year field day
Check in on yearbook
Recap on past events
Financial reports and more!
All are welcome! No obligation to volunteer- come see what we are all about!

Yearbook Photos Needed

The PTA is working hard on designing this year’s yearbook, and we need more photos! If you would like to upload photos, you can use the link below to access our community album and add photos to your student’s classroom folder.
Yearbook photo upload:
OR you can email pictures to the PTA directly. Please include your student’s name and class, and the event the photo is from if it’s not obvious. 
Pictures DUE by April 3rd 2026.