Meridian Middle School has been selected as a 2025 Association of Washington Student Leaders / Association of Washington School Principals “Culture Kick-Off Award” winner!
This statewide recognition celebrates schools that launch the year with intention, inclusion, and heart, and who place connection, collaboration, and belonging front and center. The selection committee highlighted how Meridian Middle School’s student-centered kickoff and sustained culture-building efforts have created a place where students and adults lead together.
Principal Robert Kratzig said this award recognizes the intentional efforts made by school staff to build a strong culture of belonging.
“As Ms. Hammack and I reflected on last year and began setting goals for this year, we recognized an opportunity to really focus intentionally on making our school a place where kids feel welcome and safe – physically, emotionally, and academically,” he shared.
Principal Kratzig said as they prepared for the school year, they worked with staff on how to build a classroom culture that values all learners and fosters strong connections. He explained when students feel they belong, they do better in school. MMS is already seeing real results due to this intentional effort.
“One way we are seeing the benefits of this work is in our attendance numbers where we have over 5% more students in good standing with attendance this year versus the same time last year!” Principal Kratzig said.
Please join us in celebrating Meridian Middle School on this honor!