Dear Families,

This week, our 8th graders completed the Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science (WCAS), officially wrapping up state testing! Staff members who helped facilitate the assessments consistently noted how focused and dedicated students were, taking their time and truly putting forth their best effort. Well done, students!

We also want to extend our heartfelt thanks to you for your support in setting students up for success. We heard about many protein-packed breakfasts, and it was great to see so many students arriving with fully charged devices, ready to go. Your partnership makes a real difference.

As we wait eagerly for the results and look forward to celebrating our students’ growth, we encourage you to have a reflective conversation with your child about their learning and testing experience. Here are a few questions to guide your discussion:

We appreciate your partnership!

-Robert Kratzig, Interim Principal

-Jill Hammack, Assistant Principal

Thursday May 22, 5:30 in the MMS Library

We are excited to provide the opportunity for next year’s 8th grade students to join Mr. Dennis and your US History teacher Ms. Garlatz on an optional but amazing trip to Washington DC March 28- April 2, 2026. There will be lots of learning and fun as we sight see our way through our nation’s capital including the National Mall, our nation’s most important government buildings and Mt. Vernon. We’ll also have a chance to go to Philadelphia to check out Independence Hall where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were written. This trip is all inclusive including airfare, hotel, food, as well as a whole program including local guides. If a deposit is put down before the start of summer the cost will be $2423, there will be an opportunity to sign up in the fall as well but the price will increase $1r00-$150 for fall sign up. If this is a financial stretch please contact to Ms. Garlatz we will do what we can to provide fundraising opportunities and possibly scholarships.

Please email jdennis@meridian.wednet.edu or kgarlatz@meridian.wednet.edu for information about our upcoming parent night or have your student sign up for more information in Mr. Dennis’s class. We will be sending more information to those who are interested soon so please let us know if you are interested.

Our 8th graders will be going to the High School on May 21st for a tour. They will start their day there, so for students who ride the bus, they will get off in the morning at the high school. If you drive your student, please drop them off at the high school between 7:40 and 7:55. Students will then ride a bus back to the middle school around 9:15 for the rest of their day.

On the last day of school, Wednesday, June 12, we will hold our 8th Grade Promotion Ceremony. Families are warmly invited to join us in celebrating this important milestone. Many families choose to take their 8th grader home after the ceremony, but students are welcome to stay for the remainder of the school day. Please note that dismissal will be early, at 12:20 p.m.

When: Wednesday, June 12, at 9:30 a.m.

Where: MMS Gym

Additionally, there is traditionally an 8th grade dance held on the evening of the last day of school. Please note that this event is not sponsored by the Meridian School District. However, you will be receiving more information from parent organizers soon.

As we begin the search for our next Meridian High School assistant principal, we want to gather your feedback. Please take a few minutes to complete this brief survey by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21. Your feedback will help guide the interview team and inform the questions we ask during the process. Thank you in advance for sharing your input.

Meridian School District is partnering with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Whatcom County to apply for a 21st Century Community Learning Center (21st CCLC) grant. This grant would provide funding to support after-school and summer programs for our students.

The community learning center would provide a safe, supportive space outside of school hours where students can engage in academic support, healthy lifestyle activities and personal enrichment activities that build on their regular school day. It would also offer educational and personal development opportunities for participating students’ families.

As part of the grant application process, we are asking families to complete a short anonymous survey. The survey includes questions about what types of programs and services would be most beneficial for our students and community. Students in grade 3-8, will also complete an anonymous interest survey next week.

This is a great opportunity to bring additional resources and enrichment to our district, and your input is essential. We appreciate your time and support in completing the survey by Tuesday, May 27.

See the flyer below for information regarding an upcoming football camp for current 6th and 7th graders.

During a recent lesson, Ms. Michelbrink, 7th-grade ELA teacher, used team jobs to support students in working cooperatively while engaging with the text Hidden Figures. Each team was assigned specific roles, ensuring that every member had a responsibility to focus on a particular aspect of the text as it was read together in class.

Reflecting on this strategy, Ms. Michelbrink shared that it was intentionally designed with student strengths in mind. Some roles are more concrete, while others require higher-level thinking and application of skills. This approach allows students to take ownership of their learning and an opportunity to choose a job that suits their strengths and learning styles.

Knowing the difference between dependence and addiction is important, especially when it comes to marijuana use. Knowing the differences can help when talking to your child about using marijuana, and understanding their potential substance use struggles.

When it comes to dependance, your body or mind gets used to using weed regularly. If you stop, you might feel off; this might look like getting irritated easily, having trouble sleeping, feeling anxious, not being as hungry, or just craving it. Being dependent doesn’t always mean you’re addicted; it just means your system has gotten used to having it around. Marijuana addiction (or cannabis use disorder) is elevated, and can have lasting impacts. This is when you keep using and don’t stop, even though it is negatively interfering with your life. It is important to note that marijuana addiction is likely to occur from consistent use and dependency on the substance. You might use more than you planned, struggle to stop, spend a lot of time getting high or recovering from it, and start skipping out on things you’re supposed to do. It affects your choices and how you live day to day.

It can be hard to tell the difference between dependence and addiction in teens, but there are some key signs. Dependence typically shows up with things like withdrawal symptoms (irritability, trouble sleeping), strong cravings, and needing more of the substance to get the same effect. Teens may use it more often, but it usually doesn’t interfere too much with their everyday life or responsibilities. Addiction, on the other hand, is more serious. It includes using more than intended, having trouble stopping, neglecting school or family obligations, and taking risks (like using in dangerous situations). A teen might spend a lot of time thinking about or recovering from their use and keep going even if it’s causing issues in their life.

Knowing the difference between marijuana dependence and addiction helps parents talk to their kids in a more understanding way. Parents can respond in a way that fits the situation, whether it’s just experimenting or starting to develop a problem. It also helps build trust. Keeping that conversation going can also help prevent bigger issues later. When parents can spot the early signs, they can step in before things get out of hand. And instead of just saying “don’t do drugs,” they can explain how marijuana affects the brain and why regular use can be risky.

Get ready to celebrate a year full of Treasured Memories! Our 2024-2025 yearbooks will go on sale starting Monday, May 12 through Friday, May 30.

Students can purchase a yearbook by bringing cash or check to the main office. Don’t miss out on this special keepsake highlighting the unforgettable moments and friendships from this school year!

We encourage families to complete the Free and Reduced Meals Application for your children. By submitting this form, you can ensure your child receives nutritious meals at school and you may be eligible for other benefits.

Completing the application is quick, confidential and can make a significant difference in your child’s school experience. Forms are available in English and Spanish on our website.

Please take a moment to fill out the form and return it to your school. Paper applications are also available in school offices.

As your student prepares for high school, you may be wondering about opportunities to get a head start on college and career pathways. At Meridian High School, dual credit programs allow students to earn both high school and college credit at the same time—often at little or no cost. These courses can help students explore interests, build confidence, and prepare for the future. Check out this letter to learn more about dual credit options at MHS and how your student can take advantage of these opportunities!

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