Our school will participate in the Healthy Youth Survey (HYS) this Fall. Youth in Washington State have been taking the HYS since 2002. The number of young people taking the survey has grown from only a few thousand to over 215,000 a year! The survey asks about how youth are doing, social relationships, mental health, substance use, risks for injury, and more. Communities, districts, schools, and public health agencies use survey results to inform policies and programs designed to support youth well-being. The HYS is a meaningful way for youth to guide the future of our state. Your youth’s participation is appreciated. Please share this information with your youth. Then talk about the survey and decide if your youth will participate. The survey will take place the week of October 27.

If you have any questions about the purpose of the survey or survey procedures, please contact the Healthy Youth Survey Principal Investigator at (877) HYS-7111 or by email at healthy.youth@doh.wa.gov. More information about the Healthy Youth Survey can be found at: www.AskHYS.net

If you would like to opt your student out of participating, please email Kelly Gookstetter at kgookstetter@meridian.wednet.edu

There will be an important meeting Tuesday, October 28th, during T3 (10:45-11:15) in the auditorium. At this time the counselors will be going over your HSBP requirements and passing out important materials for you to meet this graduation requirement.

If you attend the academy in Skagit or have a Running Start class and are unable to attend on the 28th we have also scheduled a meeting on October 29th at 2 pm in the cafeteria.

If you are unable to attend either of these meetings please make an appointment with your school counselor.

Jostens will be here on Tuesday during lunch with information about ordering a Letterman Jacket. They will have samples to try on, if you a curious about what size you might need. Be sure to have your student swing by their table at lunch for more information.

October is Disability Awareness Month – a time to celebrate the contributions, talents, and voices of people with disabilities, while also recognizing the importance of accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunity. This month is a reminder to challenge stereotypes, promote understanding, and support efforts that break down barriers—both physical and societal. Join us in honoring Disability Awareness Month by learning more, listening deeply, and standing up for a more inclusive community for everyone.

If you need to pick up your student early from school, please contact the office at 360-398-8111. We would be happy to get your student for you. If possible, please try to call at least 30 minutes in advance. We understand that emergencies happen and a last minute pick up may be needed, but it is great to have the extra time to make sure your student is ready when you arrive.

Please remember to sign in, in the office, when you arrive at school. Make sure to write your first and last name on the sign in sheet. Remember we need to be able to read your writing.

The Meridian School District Family Resource Center is open daily from 8:30am to 3:00pm daily and until 5:30pm on Wednesdays on the Irene Reither campus.

Students who qualify for free or reduced meals can stop by to get school supplies or sign up for Operation School Bell which provides new school clothes for students enrolled in Meridian School District. We also have the clothing closet available for any Meridian family looking for gently used adult and kid clothing.

Questions? Contact Alicia Roberts (English) at 360-988-1949 or Elvira Trautman (Spanish) at 360-306-2886.