October is National Principals Month

Thank you Principals!In recognition of National Principals Month, we want to extend our gratitude and appreciation for our building leaders. We are grateful for the leadership and heart our principals bring to our schools every day. Thank you for creating schools where learning thrives! Please join us in recognizing our school building leaders:

Irene Reither Elementary School
Principal Tyler Dockins
Assistant Principal Nate Beede

Meridian Parent Partnership Program (MP3)
Principal Michelle Siadal

Meridian Middle School
Principal Robert Kratzig
Assistant Principal Jill Hammack

Meridian High School
Principal Shaun Doffing
Assistant Principal Rob Zabel

Welcome New Staff

Please join us in welcoming these additional new staff to Meridian School District. (Staff below were hired during the Sept. 10 and Sept. 24 school board meetings).
  • Cammy Barr, student monitor at Irene Reither Elementary
  • Taylor Breshears, teacher at Irene Reither Elementary
  • Ami Clayton, teacher at MP3
  • Kari Gorman, paraeducator at Irene Reither Elementary
  • Lukas Gravley, food service delivery and bus driver for transportation
  • Abby Hays, teacher at MP3
  • Karson Jones, student monitor at Irene Reither Elementary
  • Sarina Kinsman, librarian at Irene Reither Elementary
  • Ocean McMains, bus monitor for transportation
  • Joshua Schauls, paraeducator at Irene Reither Elementary
  • Mari Schramm, allied health teacher at Meridian High School (NCTA)
  • Kelsey VanLeeuwen, paraeducator at Irene Reither Elementary

Shine and Thrive Awards

shine and thrive recipients shine and thrive recipientsCongratulations students!

Last week we awarded students throughout the district with our Shine and Thrive Awards!
These new monthly awards recognize student achievements connected to our commitments: belonging, communication, support, wellness and learning. Each month, students are nominated by school staff. Dr. Everett and principals delivered certificates to students during the school day along with a special sticker or button. Congratulations to these students!
Harun, kindergarten at IRE: Harun received the Shining Strong Award (Wellness) because of his kindness, and for the care he shows for himself and others. Harun helps make the classroom a better place to learn and grow together.
Bella, fifth grader at IRE: Bella received the Shining Strong Award (Wellness) because of her thoughtful advocacy and commitment to student wellness. Her ideas have helped promote independence and confidence among students, and her voice helps make school a more kind and uplifting place for all.
Sofia, fifth grader at IRE: Sofia received the Trojan Voice Award (Communication) because she models what it means to be brave and kind. She speaks up with clarity and compassion, listens with empathy, and helps build a school where everyone belongs.
Parker, seventh grader at MMS: Parker received the Empowered Learner Award (Support) because she is a positive, respectful and dedicated student who values learning, supports her peers, and inspires others to prioritize education.
Myles, freshman at MHS: Myles received the Trojan Heart Award (Belonging) because he consistently shows kindness and is welcoming to all students. His friendly and caring personality helps others feel comfortable and included.
Mason, sophomore at MHS: Mason received the the Trojan Heart Award (Belonging) because he is a a natural helper. His kindness and reliability make him a trusted presence at school.
Maria, junior at MHS: Maria received the Thriving Scholar Award (Learning) because she has embraced learning with persistence and positivity. She has grown as a confident learner who asks questions, collaborates with peers, and takes ownership of her learning.
Please join us in congratulating these students!

Latinos in Action Family Night

Students present during Latinos in Action family nightThis year Meridian High School (MHS) students have the opportunity to participate in a year-long class called Latinos in Action (LIA). This class prepares students for college and careers, develops leadership skills, promotes community service and strengthens cultural identity.
The Latinos in Action class launched the new school year with a family night on Sept. 19. The event brought together over 100 attendees for an evening of shared food, culture and community.
“There is an incredible sense of belonging that is happening in our class,” said LIA teacher Kayla Bernsen. “We are so excited to see how this can help us grow and change.”
Students presented in both Spanish and English about the purpose of LIA, their goals for the year and how families can participate. The evening included a musical performance by MHS students. Mrs. Bernsen also presented to families about the class in both English and Spanish.
“This class is full of incredible, passionate and driven individuals,” Mrs. Bernsen said. “We are so excited to start the year strong and we are already planning our next event!”

Disability History and Awareness Month

During the month of October we recognize Disability History and Awareness Month to increase awareness, respect and acceptance for people with disabilities, and to bring a greater sense of pride to people with disabilities. Throughout the month we will be sharing stories on our website and social media celebrating our special services programs.

Ask Meridian

What’s the deal with the new entry procedures?

These new entry procedures are steps we are taking to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in our schools. Schools should be a place where students, staff and families feel safe, secure and focused on learning. By updating how visitors enter our buildings, we are taking proactive steps to protect that environment.

Controlled entry helps us know exactly who is in the building at all times. Camera verification allows staff to visually confirm visitors before granting access. Asking a few questions ensures that everyone has a clear reason to be on campus. Requiring all visitors to check in prevents unauthorized access and helps keep everyone accountable.

These small steps, like pressing the intercom and waiting a few moments to be buzzed in, add up to a big difference when it comes to safety.

Thank you for being part of our shared commitment to creating a safe, welcoming space for every child!

Have a question?
We value your partnership and invite you to reach out with questions, ideas or anything you are curious about! 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!

Key Dates

October
Oct. 3: No School, Staff Learning Day
Oct. 8: Regular School Board Meeting (5 p.m.)
Oct. 22: Regular School Board Meeting (5 p.m.)
Oct. 31: No School, Staff Learning Day

Observances and Recognitions
October is:

  • National Principals Month
  • Disability History and Awareness Month
  • National Bullying Prevention Month

Sept. 15-Oct. 15: Hispanic Heritage Month
Oct. 13: Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Oct. 20-24: School Bus Safety Week

Looking Ahead
Nov. 11: Veterans Day, No School
Nov. 26: All Schools Early Dismissal, No MP3 Campus Classes
Nov. 27-28: Thanksgiving Holiday (No School)
November: Native American Heritage Month