Meridian Monthly – September

Welcome back, Trojans!

A Message from Superintendent Dr. James Everett
This year we are focused on amplifying what is working in our schools and growing with purpose. What I’ve seen so far fills me with excitement for all that’s ahead.

Thank you for making our schools places where students can thrive. Let’s make this year the best year yet!

First Day of School Photos

Welcome New Staff

Erin Groen, Food & Nutrition Coordinator
Please welcome Erin Groen as our new Food and Nutrition Coordinator. Ms. Groen brings over 30 years of experience in the food industry and a passion for nutrition. She worked in food service at Meridian High School from 2015-2020, before moving to PeaceHealth St. Joseph’s Medical Center. As Patient Services Manager she collaborated with the executive chef to revamp the entire patient menu, working closely with patients to ensure meals were enjoyable and with dietitians to meet a wide range of dietary needs.

That commitment to quality food and wellness is something she’s excited to focus on in Meridian. Ms. Groen looks forward to working with the district’s outstanding food service team and believes strongly in collaboration. She values the input and ideas of her colleagues, students and families to help guide meaningful, lasting improvements to the food service program.

Rob Zabel, MHS Assistant Principal
Please welcome Rob Zabel as the new assistant principal at Meridian High School. Mr. Zabel brings over 20 years of experience in education, having taught both social studies and physical education at the high school level. He began his teaching career at Snohomish High School, he then joined Sehome High School before moving to Squalicum High School in 2017.

Mr. Zabel is committed to fostering a school environment that prioritizes academic achievement and the well-being of students and staff. He is known for his collaborative leadership approach and values strong partnerships with teachers, staff, families and the broader community. He believes in embracing diverse perspectives, developing personalized learning experiences and advocating for support systems that empower all students. He is also passionate about fostering a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom.

• Rachel Berdan, Health Services Assistant at Irene Reither Elementary
• Ezra Fowler, Custodian at Meridian High School
• Payton Glasser, Teacher at Meridian High School
• Amber Jarboe-Schindler, Student Monitor at Irene Reither Elementary
• Riley Kenyon, Teacher at Irene Reither Elementary
• Alison Mathis-Youde, Paraeducator at Meridian Middle School
• Taran Tutterow, Teacher at Irene Reither Elementary
• Gregory Whitsell, Teacher at Meridian Middle School
• Alex Wiecking, Teacher at Irene Reither Elementary
• Skylar Worley, Paraeducator at Meridian Middle School

MHS FFA Club Receives Special Recognitions

MHS FFA Earns Outstanding Chapter Award
Meridian High School’s FFA (Future Farmers of America) students showcased excellence at the NW Washington Fair in August, earning top honors in both competition and character.

The chapter received the prestigious Doug Erickson Outstanding Chapter Award and placed 2nd in Sweepstakes. Meridian’s Livestock Judging Team won 1st place, with standout performances by Chloe Knutson, Hailey Brooks and Jessa Klander. Students also earned multiple individual championships.

Congratulations to all Meridian FFA students, and advisors Maria Nichols and Brent Feller, for their hard work! These achievements reflect the dedication and sportsmanship of Meridian FFA.

Brent Feller Receives State Mentor Award
CTE teacher and FFA advisor Brent Feller was recently honored with the Washington Association of Agricultural Educators’ State Award for the Outstanding Teacher Mentor Award.

This award celebrates Mr. Feller’s commitment to supporting and uplifting his fellow educators. The Teacher Mentor Award recognizes teachers who have not only dedicated their time to mentoring new teachers but have also extended their guidance to experienced professionals, creating a culture of continuous learning within the agricultural education community.

Please join us in congratulating Brent Feller on this well-deserved recognition!

Attendance Awareness Month

Good Attendance is Key to Student Success

Consistent attendance helps students thrive. Students who attend school regularly are more likely to succeed academically, build strong relationships and graduate on time. It builds routines, keeps them engaged, strengthens connections with peers and teachers and ensures they can participate in enrichment activities.

You can support good attendance by:

• Setting a consistent sleep and morning routine to help your child wake up on time and feel ready for school.
• Talking positively about school and show interest in what your child is learning.
• Scheduling appointments outside of school hours whenever possible.
• Celebrating attendance milestones to reinforce the habit.

We are proud to be partners in your child’s education. Need help? We are just a call or message away!

School Board Meetings Now Start at 5 p.m.

Upcoming Events

Bob Ames Field Dedication, Sept. 27

Meridian High School is proud to announce a special dedication ceremony to celebrate the naming of its varsity field as Bob Ames Field. The event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 27 at 1 p.m. at Meridian High School, ahead of the home football game against Forks High School.

Coach Bob Ames, a legendary figure in Meridian athletics, was a longtime teacher and football coach whose leadership, character, and dedication left a lasting impact on the community. The community is warmly invited to attend the dedication and join in the celebration.

A community celebration luau will precede the dedication ceremony at Laurel Church beginning at 11 a.m. This is a separate event, and tickets are required for entry. Please visit the Facebook event, or contact 360-303-8832 with questions.

Ask Meridian

What’s the deal?

Understanding how schools work helps our community stay connected and informed. That’s why we’re launching What’s the Deal? a space to answer your questions about school operations, history, budgets and more.

We value your partnership and invite you to reach out with questions, ideas or anything you are curious about! Submit your question using the form below.

Submit Your Question

District News for our Community

Know someone who would love school updates?

Our District News ParentSquare group is a great way to stay connected with what’s happening across the district. We share announcements, updates, stories, and even weather notifications. Whether it’s grandparents, neighbors, or local supporters, we invite you to share the sign-up link below or QR code right, so more people can join the Meridian Trojans family and stay informed!

District News Sign Up

Key Dates