PYP Pride Archive Spring 2026
PYP Pride Archive Spring 2026
April 2026
Principal's Newsletters
Calendar Reminders
- $2 Free Dress Day tomorrow, April 2
- No school for students on Friday, April 3 and Monday, April 6
- Subscribe to the calendar to get these dates, and more, on your phone!
PYP Principal's Coffee
Thursday, April 2 8:30 - 9:30 a.m.
Our final PYP Principal’s Coffee shows the next stages of schooling here at Meridian. We hear from MYP Principal Melissa Reese about the program for 6th-10th graders and from DP Principal Stela Holcombe about the program for 11th and 12th graders.
Join us in-person or virtually: please RSVP using this link so we know to expect you. If you join virtually, you can use this Google Meet link to join the meeting.
STAAR Testing Schedule (add to your calendar)
State-mandated STAAR tests take place soon for grades 3-5. The purpose of these tests is to show where our students are in their learning journey.
Now is a great time to start having calm, supportive conversations with your students to help ease any testing anxiety. Remind them to take a deep breath, stay confident, and simply do their best. Students do not need to prepare for the tests, but they should get plenty of sleep the night before and eat a healthy breakfast that morning. See STAAR page.
Primary STAAR Grades 3-5
- April 9 (Thurs): Reading 3rd – 5th
- April 16 (Thurs): Science 5th
- April 23 (Thurs): Math 3rd – 5th
Spring showcases and 5th Grade Exhibition
Mark your calendars for our Spring Showcases and the culmination of our PYP program, the 5th Grade Exhibition!
- Kindergarten - Friday, May 15, 11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
- 1st Grade - Thursday, April 16, 12:45-1:15 p.m.
- 2nd Grade - Thursday, May 7, 1:30-2:15 p.m.
- 3rd Grade - Thursday, April 2, 2-2:30 p.m.
- 4th Grade Passion Project - Tuesday, May 19, 2-2:45 p.m.
- 5th Grade Exhibition - Thursday, May 14, 5-6 p.m. (All families are welcome to attend)
5th Grade Exhibition Call for Experts
Exhibition is the culminating experience of the Primary Years Program. Each year, our students work collaboratively to explore an issue or opportunity of personal significance within a broad concept.
This year’s Exhibition is exploring the central idea, Challenges and opportunities inspire innovative ideas. Students are exploring past, present, and future innovations in a variety of areas. They will begin their research soon and we especially love to connect them with people who are closely tied to the topics – either living them out through a career or hobby. Please take a minute to view this year’s topics and sign up if you are able to provide expert knowledge.
PYP Art Show during Arts and Science Fest
Saturday, April 18 from 2-5 p.m.
The PYP Art Show is coming up! This year, it’s part of the Arts and Science Fest!
You can check out the Art Show in the PYP Cafe during the Fest. And don’t miss the rest of the Fest across the campus, including the Mays building.
Chicken eggs available for $4/dozen
Friends of Meridian has shared that the chickens are busy laying eggs, and they’re available for purchase for a discounted $4 per dozen! Proceeds go back to support the coop. Fill out the egg purchase form today.
Statewide Emergency Alert System Test April 2
April 2, from 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
The Texas Department of Emergency Management will hold statewide tests of local alert systems on Thursday. If you haven’t already registered for alerts in Williamson County, or if your contact information has changed, now is a good time to visit Warn Central Texas. Learn more about the statewide test.
Badgerdog Camp Opportunity
June 1-19 from 9 a.m. - noon
Meridian plastic film recycling drive with Ridwell
Plastic Bag Drive runs through April 30!
Do you have plastic bags saved up to recycle but don’t know what to do with them? Meridian School has joined Ridwell’s plastic bag recycling drive for schools! During the drive, if ten families become Ridwell members, Meridian will get free plastic film pick up for a whole year!
- During Arts & Science Fest April 18 (Mays Lobby)
- Between April 27-30 (Any Lobby)
RockSports Spirit Wear Sale
Enjoy 20% off all branded Meridian items at the RockSports store through April 6. Short sleeve tees are $12, sweatshirts are $16 (twill version $32), and fleece jackets are just $24!
IB Initiative: Bringing Together the Learner Profile Traits
Over the past 10 weeks, we’ve explored each learner profile trait individually and looked at the lives of people throughout history and around the world who have demonstrated each trait, but these traits don’t live in isolation. The Learner Profile is modelled by a person who demonstrates ALL of the learner profile traits and considers how, when combined, they lead to greater depth of understanding. For example, we know a risk-taker is willing to try new things, but pair that with other learner profile traits and you have new things to consider. For example, what does it mean to be a knowledgeable risk-taker or a principled risk-taker? The learner profile is the easiest piece of IB to bring home for conversations. So, continue to have conversations with your child about how they are being:
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled
Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
Student Spotlight
Spring Dance Camp
Saturday, April 11
Registration closes April 8
Spring Dance Camp (K-5) - Registration is now open!
Meridian’s Dance Team is hosting a Spring Dance Camp on Saturday, April 11 for Meridian Lions in grades K-5. Participants will also perform in the 2026 Arts and Science Fest on Saturday, April 18! Hurry! Registration ends at 9 p.m. on Thursday, April 8, or sooner if the limited spots fill up first.
ViP Social at the PYP Playground
Sunday, April 12 from 3-5 p.m.
ViP hosts their next social for the whole family at the Primary School playground, with snacks and drinks provided! Bring a chair and please RSVP to help them plan.
Arts & Science Fest
Saturday, April 18, 2026
2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
It's time for our 4th annual Arts & Science Fest! Enjoy live performances, interactive demos, a mobile planetarium, and exhibits from more than 30 school and community STEAM partners! Discover rockets with Longhorn Rocketry Association and Meridian Aerospace Club. Play with City of Round Rock Park Rangers. Enjoy a whole wing of hands-on science fun with Austin Community College!
Questions? Reach out to Lynda Chapel, Community Coordinator.
⏰ Score a free T shirt if you sign up to volunteer by April 2! ⏰ If you’re not sure if you’re really needed at big events like this, consider this your invitation! We still need at least ten volunteers to make this event a success!
Thank you to our sponsors, ThermoFisher Scientific, Blick Art Materials, Handzies, and A+ Federal Credit Union!
Wizard of Oz: Spring Musical
🌈 Follow the Yellow Brick Road to Meridian’s Musical Production of The Wizard of Oz! There’s no place like our stage! Join us somewhere over the rainbow for a magical evening as our talented students present the beloved musical, The Wizard of Oz.
✨Performances
- April 23, 24, and 25 at 6:30 p.m., with a matinee April 25 at 2 p.m.
🎟 Tickets
- Pre-Sale: $10 Adults | $5 Students (coming soon on myschoolbucks)
- At the Door: $12 Adults | $6 Students
March 2026
Principal's Newsletters
Calendar Reminders
- $2 Free Dress Day next Thursday, April 2
- No school for students on Friday, April 3 and Monday, April 6
- STAAR tests begin April 9 for grades 3-5
- Subscribe to the calendar to get these dates, and more, on your phone!
PYP Principal's Coffee
Thursday, April 2 8:30 - 9:30 a.m.
Our final PYP Principal’s Coffee shows the next stages of schooling here at Meridian. We hear from MYP Principal Melissa Reese about the program for 6th-10th graders and from DP Principal Stela Holcombe about the program for 11th and 12th graders.
Join us in-person or virtually: please RSVP using this link so we know to expect you. If you join virtually, you can use this Google Meet link to join the meeting.
It was a windy and fun World Parade!
Fundraising Opportunity: Water for Africa
5th grade students are excited to launch a meaningful fundraising campaign to help provide clean drinking water to communities in Africa. Through We Help Two, we are selling fun & comfy socks to raise funds for a clean water well project.
Meridian plastic film recycling drive with Ridwell
Plastic Bag Drive runs through April 30!
Do you have plastic bags saved up to recycle but don’t know what to do with them? Meridian School has joined Ridwell’s plastic bag recycling drive for schools! During the drive, if ten families become Ridwell members, Meridian will get free plastic film pick up for a whole year!
- During Arts & Science Fest April 18 (Mays Lobby)
- Between April 27-30 (Any Lobby)
Yearbook Update: almost sold out
Did you miss the ordering deadline? There are 150 remaining books to be sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. Purchase your 25-26 yearbook today.
Not sure if you purchased a yearbook? There are two easy ways to find out!
- Verify your yearbook purchase here
- Search your email for the following phrase: Jostens Order Confirmation #
Your help is needed with attendance
With respiratory viruses making their way through the school in January and February, we saw a significant drop in student attendance this quarter. Hopefully, we are getting past that and everyone returns from spring break healthy and strong for the final quarter! Higher engagement and attendance is something we pride ourselves in at Meridian.
Studies show that missing even nine days a year (95% attendance rate) can hinder both a student’s learning and grades. Students are at the heart of our mission, and we miss them when they’re not here!
Primary Class Photos March 24
PYP Class photos will be taken on Tuesday, March 24. These are group photos of the entire class with their teacher. Students should wear their school uniform. Order forms will be sent home in folders. You can also pre-order class pictures online. These are only available for a limited time, unlike individual photos, and are only sold to families.
Families always retain the option to opt out of vendor-provided school photography if they choose. Please fill out this form if you do not wish for your child to be photographed during primary class photos and/or the spring picture day. Otherwise, no action is required. A note: neither of these options goes into the yearbook. If you missed last week's notice with more details, you can review it here.
RockSports Spirit Wear Sale
From March 16 - April 6, enjoy 20% off all branded Meridian items at the RockSports store. Short sleeve tees are $12, sweatshirts are $16 (twill version $32), and fleece jackets are just $24!
Amplify Austin review
Thank you for supporting Meridian World School during Amplify Austin! We raised more than $1,500 in two days. The link is open year-round, and it’s a simple way for members of our community to donate without going through our school donation software. Please feel free to share with extended family and friends any time!
Upcoming Free Dress Days
- Friday, March 6: World Parade Cultural Dress. Students and staff may choose to wear cultural wear or national team jerseys to celebrate their culture or heritage!
- Tuesday, March 10: $2 Free Dress Fundraiser. Bring $2 to your child’s classroom teacher next Monday or Tuesday morning and your student can wear free dress on Tuesday! (regular, school-appropriate clothing – no pajamas/costumes).
Amplify Austin: today and tomorrow
March 4-5
Meridian World School is taking part in Amplify Austin this year! It’s Central Texas’ biggest giving day of the year, and it’s an easy way for you to share support of Meridian with friends, family members, and colleagues.
What we’re asking: Please share our giving link on your social media channels, as well as to friends and family members. It’s an easy low stakes way for our community to donate to the school.
Make it extra special by sharing a story about what Meridian has meant to you and your family on social media or share with us at [email protected] and we will feature it on our Amplify Austin page
Our goal is to raise $2,000 in community support through March 5, and we need your help spreading the word!
A message regarding Lifetouch Photography Services
We are aware of recent concerns that circulated on social media regarding Lifetouch, the company we work with to take student photos. With Spring photos scheduled for April 21 (grades K-12) and primary classroom group photos scheduled for March 24 (grades K-5), we want to share what we have learned, and to assure you that student safety and data privacy remain our highest priorities.
According to Lifetouch:
- Student images are used solely for school records and parent purchases.
- Images are never shared, sold, or used to train artificial intelligence.
- Lifetouch remains in full compliance with all applicable state and federal laws, including FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act).
Families always retain the option to opt out of vendor-provided school photography if they choose. Please fill out this form if you DO NOT wish for your child to be photographed during the spring picture day and primary class photos. Otherwise, no action is required.
To learn more directly from Lifetouch, you review their safety and security protocols and a statement from their CEO.
IB Initiative: The Learner Profile Trait of Reflective
This quarter, our IB Initiative each week will focus on one of the learner profile traits.
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled • Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
Our last learner profile trait is the trait of being reflective. According to the IB Organization, reflective people thoughtfully consider the world and their own ideas and experience. They work to understand their strengths and weaknesses in order to support their learning and personal development. As you can tell from this definition, an internal reflection always has an external outcome. This week, our students will be learning that reflection is about looking back and looking ahead. Being reflective can help us define our beliefs and values, push us to learn from mistakes and struggles, and guide our actions in the future.
Find activities and book ideas on Meridian’s website to extend the discussion of what it means to be reflective at home.
IB Initiative: The Learner Profile Trait of Thinker
This quarter, our IB Initiative each week will focus on one of the learner profile traits.
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled • Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
To be a thinker, according to IB, means:
- We use critical and creative thinking skills to analyze and take responsible action on complex problems.
- We exercise initiative in making reasoned, ethical decisions.
What does a thinker look like? This week, on the announcements, we are looking at the lives of Alexander Graham Bell, Joshua Dahn (the creator of the conundrums we do each week on the announcements), Juliette Gordon Low (the founder of the Girl Scouts), and Archimedes who discovered pi through mathematical calculations. Through the lives of these people, we will see that thinkers focus on their task and benefit from working with others. Thinkers use evidence and reasoning to support their thinking. Creative thinking can turn a dream into a reality. And finally, thinkers have determination to keep trying new ideas until they find a solution.
Find activities and book ideas on Meridian’s website to extend the discussion of what it means to be a thinker at home.
IB Initiative: The Learner Profile Trait of Open-minded
This quarter, our IB Initiative each week will focus on one of the learner profile traits.
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled • Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
To connect with International Week at Meridian, we are exploring the learner profile trait of open-minded. According to the IB, to be open-minded means to critically appreciate our own culture and personal history, as well as the values and traditions of others. Open-minded individuals seek and evaluate a range of points of view, and are willing to grow from the experience.
This week, on the announcements, we will explore a broad range of people and groups to consider what they can teach us about being open-minded. We will learn that open-minded people and groups:
- embrace the ideas and cultures of others and see value in other people.
- see potential in everyone which leads to success in areas of enjoyment
- are willing to grow and change as they consider the perspectives of others.
- stand up against close-minded people to try to broaden their perspectives.
New turf installed on Primary Sport Court
Third graders test toys made by 8th grade design students
Testing the toys with the target audience is part of the evaluation stage of the design cycle, which began with researching how children play, creating an isometric drawing in Procreate, building a cardboard prototype, and then creating the final wooden toy with wheels.
Students are encouraged to donate the toy should they wish to do so.
Students collaborate on Regional Science Fair
On February 21, eight third- and fourth-grade students proudly represented our school at the Greater Austin Regional Science and Engineering Fair. They all performed exceptionally well, showcasing their creativity, critical thinking, and dedication. Some students collaborated as teams, while others independently designed and presented their own projects — each demonstrating impressive effort and achievement.
Lions Acting Troupe Closed 25-26 Season with a tribute to International Week
Lions Acting Troupe wrapped up their spring play, A Thousand Cranes, on Tuesday with a moving tribute to Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who attempted to fold 1,000 cranes while in the hospital with leukemia from the Hiroshima atomic bombing.
The Troupe will host crane folding at Saturday’s Festival of Cultures. Their goal is to fold 1,000 cranes (senbazuru, or 千羽鶴) to send to the Children’s Peace Monument in Hiroshima, Japan, as an offering of hope and peace from our learning community.
Experience Meridian: Mini Job Fair
Wednesday, April 1 from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Interested in working at Meridian or know some amazing educators who’d like to join our team? Check out our Experience Meridian Mini Job Fair April 1! Register for your spot or forward to family and friends today.
Spring Dance Camp
Saturday, April 11
Registration open April 1-8
Spring Dance Camp - Meridian’s Dance Team will host a Spring Dance Camp on Saturday, April 11 for lions in grades K-5. Participants will also perform in the 2026 Arts and Science Fest on Saturday, April 18! Registration opens Wednesday, April 1 and ends at 9 p.m. on Thursday, April 8, or sooner if the limited spots fill up first. Learn more.
Arts & Science Fest
Saturday, April 18, 2026
2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
It's time for our 4th annual Arts & Science Fest! Discover live performances, interactive demos, a mobile planetarium, and exhibits from more than 30 school and community STEAM partners! Past exhibits include lava lamp experiments with Millipore Sigma, egg drops with Dell, art activities, slime making with Thermo Fisher Scientific, and more! Join the fun as an exhibitor or sponsor an activity! Reach out to Lynda Chapel, Community Coordinator.
Thank you to our sponsors, ThermoFisher Scientific, Handzies, and A+ Federal Credit Union!
World Parade + Photo
Friday, March 6
No entry or early dismissal between 1:30 - 3:15 p.m.
The parking lot will be closed between 1:30 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. for the parade and photo. If you need to pick up your student early on March 6, please arrive before 1:25 p.m.
Parade
Students may walk in this beloved annual parade under a country of their heritage/choice. Those not marching watch as spectators. Students can wear cultural wear or national team jerseys.
All School Photo (will be canceled if raining/wet)
Following the World Parade, we will gather students, faculty, & staff for an all-school photo! This is a tradition once every five years, and this year, we celebrate 15 years at Meridian. Students not in cultural wear are encouraged to wear their red polo shirt or red spirit wear.
Festival of Cultures + Holi Celebration
Saturday, March 7 from 2-5 p.m. Holi Celebration starts at 5:15.
Explore family- and student club- led country and culture booths in this 9th annual Festival of Cultures! Learn about countries, sample food, try games and make crafts! Enjoy Primary Student Performances, the Black Culture Choir, and the Texas Dragon/Lion Dance Team. Celebrate your family’s culture and heritage with a country booth, or volunteer.
Note: the Holi Celebration will depend on the weather. If it is raining, we will not be able to hold a color throw. We will continue in the Mays lobby with performances only.
February 2026
Principal's Messages
Lion’s Acting Troupe presents A Thousand Cranes
Monday, March 2 - Tuesday, March 3 at 6 p.m.
As part of International Week, the Lion’s Acting Troupe presents A Thousand Cranes, a powerful and moving play inspired by the true story of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl in post-war Japan who begins folding paper cranes in the hope of healing, and peace. Performances are March 2 and 3 at 6 p.m. in the Primary School Gym.
Show tickets are $5 each on MySchoolBucks, with limited tickets available at the door if not sold out.
We hope you’ll join us in celebrating art, culture, and our shared commitment to peace.
Lion’s Acting Troupe: call for origami cranes
Join Lions Acting Troupe in a school-wide act of remembrance, hope, and unity by folding a paper crane (pdf instructions, video instructions) and bringing it to the performance. If you are unable to attend, cranes may be dropped off in Mr. Franklin’s classroom (C-1). We will string the cranes together into garlands and display them in the school. At the end of the year, the garlands will be sent to the Children’s Peace Monument in Hiroshima, Japan, as an offering of hope and peace from our learning community.
We hope you’ll join us in celebrating art, culture, and our shared commitment to peace.
Fifth Grade students: New Instrument Trial Day
Is your 5th grader interested in band or orchestra next year? Don't forget to sign up for this hands-on small-group instrument trial (10 minute time slot per student). All 5th grade students are welcome, but this event is by appointment only. Please sign up for the Instrument Trial in advance. Learn more about what to expect. Registration closes Tuesday, March 3 at 6 p.m.
No School February 13 - 16
A reminder: there is no school for students Friday or Monday. Enjoy the four day weekend!
Upcoming Free Dress Days
Friday, March 6: World Parade Cultural Dress
Tuesday, March 10: $2 Free Dress Fundraiser
Fundraising Opportunity: Water for Africa
5th grade students are excited to launch a meaningful fundraising campaign to help provide clean drinking water to communities in Africa. Through We Help Two, we are selling fun & comfy socks to raise funds for a clean water well project.Amplify Austin
March 4-5
Meridian World School is taking part in Amplify Austin this year! It’s Central Texas’ biggest giving day of the year, and it’s an easy way for you to share support of Meridian with friends, family members, and colleagues.
What we’re asking: Please share our giving link on your social media channels, as well as to friends and family members. It’s an easy low stakes way for our community to donate to the school.
Make it extra special by sharing a story about what Meridian has meant to you and your family on social media or share with us at [email protected] and we will feature it on our Amplify Austin page
Our goal is to raise $2,000 in community support through March 5, and we need your help spreading the word!
Board applications due March 2
Meridian has three upcoming openings for our Board of Directors:
- Two community members (community packet)
- One Meridian parent (parent packet)
Should you know someone who you would recommend as a community member, send them the packet above or contact the Board! If you’d like to serve as a parent, please submit a completed parent application to the Board. Applications are due by the end of day Monday, March 2.
International Week deadlines
- K-12 Students can walk in the World Parade on March 6! ⏰ Today's the last day for us to order a flag if your country is not already on the list.
- K-5 Students can sing & dance in the grade level performances at the Festival of Cultures! ⏰ Registration CLOSES today, Feb. 11.
- Families: volunteer at the Festival of Cultures or host a country booth!
- Student Clubs: Host a booth or activity with your club or organization!
T shirt sales close Monday
To guarantee your size shirt for Festival of Cultures/Holi Celebration and Arts & Science Fest, order your shirt on MySchoolBucks by Monday!
Sales close Monday evening so that we can order the shirts from RockSports. A limited number of additional shirts will be available at the event.
Last chance: 2026-2027 admissions
Will you have siblings new to Meridian (K-9)? You must apply now for next school year!
If a currently enrolled student's sibling will be new to Meridian in the 2026-2027 school year (in grades K-9), please fill out an application for the sibling before February 28. Siblings only receive priority in the lottery if you apply before the deadline.
If you have questions please email [email protected].
Report absences on Skyward
When your student is absent, please report it through Skyward as soon as possible.
- Log into Skyward and click on your student’s Attendance tile.
- Click on the green + Add Absence Request to the right side of the Absence Request tab.
- Complete the Absence Request Details.
- Click save in the upper left corner of the request and you’re done.
Have a doctor’s note? You can attach a doctor’s note to your Absence Request before or after you have submitted it. Click edit and then the Attachments link in the upper right of the request.
Please email Triple A. You're welcome to copy your child's teacher as well.
$2 Free Dress Day tomorrow, February 5
Thursday, primary students may come to school in regular clothing (not in uniform) when they bring in $2! To participate, they can bring money to their teachers in the morning. No costumes or pajamas. Clothing choice must be appropriate for school.
Additional $2 Free Dress Days will be March 5, April 2, and May 7. Proceeds support our 8th Grade class trip to Camp Olympia!
Play it Safe Training: Action Required
Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center will teach Play It Safe (child abuse prevention) lessons to Kindergarten–5th grade students. Meridian World School follows an opt-in policy, which means a parent or guardian must provide permission for their child to participate in this program.
Please complete one form per child by February 12, 2026. If you have any questions regarding the program, please contact one of our counselors:
Dana Burks (Grades K, 2, 4) – (512) 660-5230 x 173
Heather Mossell (Grades 1, 3, 5) – (512) 660-5230 x 140
We will host a parent preview of the Play It Safe materials during the January 23 Principal’s Coffee. If you are unable to attend the Coffee, WCCAC also hosts community preview events that families may attend. You can find more information and upcoming events through WCCAC Eventbrite. The next online parent preview sessions are February 18 (Spanish) and February 19 (English).
IB Initiative: The Learner Profile Trait of Inquirers
This quarter, our IB Initiative each week will focus on one of the learner profile traits.
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled • Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
Inquirers nurture their curiosity, developing skills for inquiry and research. They know how to learn independently and with others. They learn with enthusiasm and sustain their love of learning throughout life.
IB’s definition of the trait of inquirer points us to the approaches to learning that we focus on within all three IB programs. In order to grow as inquirers, students need to learn research and thinking skills to know how to take action on their curiosity. Self-management skills help them learn independently while social skills help them learn with others. Communication skills help them both take in information and share their passion for learning with others.
This week, on the announcements, we are looking at the curiosity types of inventors, scientists, artists, and explorers. Each of these groups of people applies their curiosity about the world to discover or create something new. You can check out the Curiosity Compass resource from Britannica to learn more about these curiosity types. What aspect of life is your child curious about and how can you nurture that curiosity at home or in the community?
Find activities and book ideas on Meridian’s website to extend the discussion of what it means to be an inquirer at home.
IB Initiative: The Learner Profile Trait of Communicator
This quarter, our IB Initiative each week will focus on one of the learner profile traits.
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled • Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
According to IB, communicators express themselves confidently and creatively in more than one language and in many ways. They collaborate effectively, listening carefully to the perspectives of other individuals and groups.
Communicators use communication skills, including taking in information through reading, watching and listening and sharing information through speaking, writing and non-verbal means of communication. This week on the announcements we will continue our exploration of people who demonstrate this trait and tie our learning to Black History Month as well by learning about how people like Levar Burton, Louis Armstrong, Toni Morrison, Maya Angelou and Frederick Douglass all show us different aspects of what it means to be an effective communicator.
Find activities and book ideas on Meridian’s website to extend the discussion of what it means to be a communicator at home.
IB Initiative: The Learner Profile Trait of Principled
This quarter, our IB Initiative each week will focus on one of the learner profile traits.
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled
Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
Ask a child what it means to be principled and they will usually say it means doing the right thing even if no one is looking. This is a great foundation to a deeper understanding. According to IB, to be principled is to act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness and justice, and with respect for the dignity and rights of people everywhere.
Principled people take responsibility for their actions and their consequences. This week, our exploration of this trait on the announcements will help us see some key components of being principled:
- Let your principles (your beliefs and values) guide your actions.
- Notice problems in your world and take action to try to solve them.
- Be willing to stand up for what you believe is right.
- Inspire others to join you as you stand up for your beliefs.
- Have the honesty and courage it takes to try to bring change.
- Open the door for others to succeed (not only focusing on yourself).
Find activities and book ideas on Meridian’s website to extend the discussion of what it means to be principled at home.
IB Initiative: The Learner Profile Trait of Balanced
This quarter, our IB Initiative each week will focus on one of the learner profile traits.
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled
Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
According to the IB, balanced people understand the importance of balancing different aspects of our lives—intellectual, physical, and emotional—to achieve well-being for ourselves and others. They recognize their interdependence with other people and with the world in which we live. This week on the announcements, we are continuing our look at the lives of people who demonstrate the trait of being balanced. In the month of February, we will be focusing on people tied to Black History Month. This week, we are learning from the lives of Cater G Woodson, Oprah Winfrey, Barack Obama, and Simone Biles to see that people in all walks of life know what it takes to be balanced.
Find activities and book ideas on Meridian’s website to extend the discussion of what it means to be balanced at home.
Student Spotlight: Sidharth P.
Fourth grader Sidharth P. and his team recently won second place in the regional competition for the FIRST LEGO League Challenge. They scored 440 of 545 points and presented a cost effective solution for a challenge (loss of artifacts) that is faced by Archeologists in dig/excavation sites.
FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Challenge is an international STEM robotics program for students ages 9–14. Teams design, build, and program a LEGO-based robot to complete missions and research a real-world problem to present an Innovation Project with their solution. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity.
Arts & Science Fest
When: Saturday, April 18, 2026
2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Celebrating Be Sweet to Others Day!
Each year, our primary students celebrate Be Sweet to Others Day with grade-level service projects. Here’s what each grade is doing!
- Kindergarten - Gift baskets for firefighters and police officers
- 1st grade - Canned and boxed goods drive for the Round Rock Serving Center
- 2nd grade - Collecting gently used clothes and blankets for Quail Valley Ministries
- 3rd grade - Care baskets for custodians, cafe, and nursing staff at Meridian
- 4th grade - Making toys for animals at the Williamson County Animal Shelter
- 5th grade - Walk for Water to learn about the lack of clean water around the world
Activities connected with Be Sweet to Others Day go on throughout the year. Soon, fifth graders will fundraise help contribute to a water project in Africa. Earlier in the year, kindergartners got to learn fire safety from firefighters. Second graders completed an Empathy Walk on Tuesday where they tried different playground surfaces barefoot to see what it might feel like to have no shoes.
It’s Counselor Appreciation Week, and we are so thankful for Ms. Burks, Ms. Mossell, and Mr. Tate!
ESL Parent/Guardian Night tonight
Wednesday, Feb. 4 from 7 - 8 p.m.
Parents and guardians of students in the Emerging Bilingual program received an email from Mr. Reyes, PYP Assistant Principal, with a Zoom link to today’s ESL Parent/Guardian Night. The purpose of the School's ESL program is to support Emergent Bilingual students in their linguistic and academic performance. During this event, we'll share how the school accomplishes these purposes and how families can partner with us. If you have questions, please reach out to Mr. Reyes (K-5) or Mr. Verleye (6-12).
Canceled: Capitol Performance by Meridian band and choir
This event has been canceled.
Black History Month Jamboree & Dress Day
Thursday, Feb. 12, The Meridian Black Student Union presents their second annual Black History Month Jamboree: Celebrating Black Culture! Open to all Meridian families (grades 8-12 can attend without a guardian, but we highly encourage parent/guardian attendance). Enjoy talent acts, visual arts, a fashion show, Black history speeches, and snacks.
During the school day on Thursday, February 12, all students and staff are invited to dress in celebration of Black History Month and the Jamboree!
Options include:
- 'Celebrate Black Culture' spirit wear
- Black history/culture themed T shirt
- Colors (red, black, yellow, green)
- Do you have roots in African culture? Wear your traditional African attire!
Friends of Meridian's Celebration of Flavors kicks off International Week
Friday, February 27 at 6 p.m.
Georgetown Community Center
Friends of Meridian presents their 5th Annual International Celebration of Flavors: Sips, Samples & Silent Auction—an evening of global bites, drinks, and community fun! This will be an age 21+ kick-off for International Week hosted by the Friends of Meridian!
World Parade + Photo
Friday, March 6
Parade
Students may walk in this beloved annual parade under a country of their heritage/choice. A reminder: sign up before Feb. 25; no late submissions will be accepted this year.
All School Photo
Following the World Parade, we will gather students, faculty, & staff for an all-school photo! This is a tradition once every five years, and this year, we celebrate 15 years at Meridian. Students not in cultural wear are encouraged to wear their red polo shirt or red spirit wear.
No entry or dismissal: 1:30 - 3:15 p.m.
The parking lot will be closed between 1:30 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. for the parade and photo. If you need to pick up your student early on March 6, please arrive before 1:25 p.m.
Festival of Cultures + Holi Celebration
Saturday, March 7 from 2-5 p.m. Holi Celebration starts at 5:15.
Explore family- and student club- led country and culture booths in this 9th annual Festival of Cultures! Learn about countries, sample food, try games and make crafts! Enjoy Primary Student Performances, the Black Culture Choir, and the Texas Dragon/Lion Dance Team. Celebrate your family’s culture and heritage with a country booth, or volunteer.
January 2026
Principal's Messages
School Closed Monday, Jan. 19 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Slides, Course Sheets for Rising 6th Graders
5th Grade Families can review the slides from Tuesday’s Rising 6th Grade Information Night. Course sheets are due back to your child’s teacher by January 26.
Principal’s Coffee
Friday, January 23 from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
We hope to see you at our third PYP Principal’s Coffee! We are excited to welcome Tiffany Sturman from the Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center, who will share information about Play It Safe, the child abuse prevention and personal safety curriculum used on our campus.
Ms. Sturman will preview the age-appropriate presentation materials with our families to help you make an informed decision about opting in. This preview will be recorded and made available after the coffee for families who are unable to attend in person.
Parking: There will be a student Career Fair at the same time on Mays; we recommend parking along the grass closest to primary (parking map). Doors open at 8:15 a.m.
We look forward to seeing you next Friday!
Grades 3-5: Interim Assessments Jan. 28-29
Next week, students in grades 3-5 will participate in our first round of interim assessments. These assessments help teachers better understand how students are progressing and identify areas where additional support or reteaching may be helpful.
On Wednesday, January 28, students will complete the Writing Interim, and on Thursday, January 29, students will complete the RLA Interim. You can support your child by helping them arrive at school on time, ensuring they get a good night’s sleep and a healthy breakfast, and reminding them to do their best.
The information gathered from these assessments allows teachers to adjust instruction, provide targeted support, and strengthen student learning moving forward.
Two actions for currently-enrolled families: admissions for 2026-2027 School Year
January 1 – February 28
Siblings new to Meridian (K-9): apply now for next school year!
If a currently enrolled student's sibling will be new to Meridian in the 2026-2027 school year (in grades K-9), please fill out an application for the sibling before February 28. Siblings receive priority in the lottery but must apply before the deadline.
Currently enrolled students: One-question Commitment Form
Please fill out a one-question Commitment Form on Skyward. The form is available to the primary parent (the one listed first) on Skyward. There are three options for the answers: returning, not returning, and not sure yet. This is not a final answer; this allows us to plan for the admissions process.
If you have questions please email [email protected].
$2 Free Dress Day January 15
Next Thursday, primary students may come to school in regular clothing (not in uniform) when they bring in $2! To participate, they can bring money to their teachers any day between Monday and Thursday of next week. No costumes or pajamas. Clothing choice must be appropriate for school.
Save the dates: additional $2 Free Dress Days will be February 5, March 5, April 2, and May 7. Proceeds support our 8th Grade class trip to Camp Olympia!
Teacher Experiences Auction raised nearly $10,000!
Thank you for supporting our Teacher Experiences Auction! Together, we raised $9,400 to be used toward special school projects like a marquee.
Federal Report Card available
The 2024-2025 Federal Report Cards for Texas schools are now available through the TEA website. See what information federal report cards contain and review Meridian’s 24-25 Federal Report Card here.
MLK Ceremony & March
Opportunity to engage in Advocacy
Texas Public Charter School Association (TPCSA) invites Meridian families to join their mailing list to receive action alerts and other emails. If interested, please subscribe to their emails here.
TPCSA is a statewide organization representing Texas charter schools and advocates for public charter schools and the thousands of students we educate. While the Legislature is not currently in session, lawmakers are already shaping priorities that will affect the next session.
By signing up to receive TPCSA’s emails and action alerts, you can stay informed and, when you choose, take simple actions—such as contacting your elected officials—to support public charter schools and the students we serve.
2026 Yearbook Cost rises to $75 on January 19
A reminder, the yearbook cost will rise from $70 to $75 on January 19. Get yours today at a cheaper price! Need to pay over time? Jostens has a payment plan option. Yearbooks are delivered in the late spring semester.
Fifth Grade: Rising 6th Info Night January 13
Fifth Grade families: join us for a Rising 6th Grade Family Information Night on January 13 from 6-7 p.m. in the Mays Cafe! Adults and students welcome; park in the student parking lot by the cafe and enter through the cafe doors. Learn more.
Alumni Recognition Day: January 8
Every year, Meridian hosts an Alumni Day where alumni return to campus for visits to the high school classrooms, focus groups with current Meridian parents, and lunch with their former teachers. Meridian parents and guardians are invited to talk with alumni and alumni parents/guardians on how the alumni have benefitted from the quality IB education they received at Meridian. If you would like to meet the alumni and their parents tomorrow, please RSVP.
Counselor’s Corner
Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center will be teaching Play It Safe lessons to Kindergarten–5th grade students at Meridian World School.
Meridian World School follows an opt-in policy, which means a parent or guardian must provide permission for their child to participate in this program. Please indicate below whether you do or do not give consent for your child to take part.
We will host a parent preview of the Play It Safe materials during the January 23 Principal Coffee.
Please complete one form per child no later than February 12, 2026. If you have any questions regarding the program or its implementation at our school, please contact one of our counselors:
Dana Burks (Grades K, 2, 4) – (512) 660-5230 x 173
Heather Mossell (Grades 1, 3, 5) – (512) 660-5230 x 140
IB Initiative: The Learner Profile Trait of Caring
This quarter, our IB Initiative each week will focus on one of the learner profile traits.
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled
Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
This week is Holocaust Remembrance Week. This week schools are asked to help students understand the lessons we can learn from this difficult period of history. In the primary grades, we do not focus on the specific events, but focus more on treating others with respect and tolerance and learning to be an upstander rather than a bystander when others are being mistreated. So, we are connecting these ideas to the learner profile trait of CARING as all of these attitudes and actions are part of being a caring person. IB defines the trait of caring as showing empathy, compassion and respect. A caring person has a commitment to service and acts to make a positive difference in the lives of others and in the world around them. This trait is important as we learn to build relationships with those around us.
Find activities and book ideas on Meridian’s website to extend the discussion of what it means to be caring at home.
IB Initiative: The Learner Profile Trait of Risk-Taker
Over the next 10 weeks, our IB Initiative each week will focus on one of the learner profile traits.
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled
Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
These traits are part of all IB programs and help us become internationally-minded individuals. On the announcements each week, we will share about the trait and then examine the lives of individuals past and present who exhibit the trait of the week to see what we can learn from their lives about what it looks like to demonstrate that trait.
To be a risk-taker, according to IB, means:
- approaching uncertainty with forethought and determination
- working independently and cooperatively to explore new ideas and innovative strategies
- being resourceful and resilient in the face of challenges and change.
What does a risk taker look like? This week, on the announcements, we are looking at the lives of Philip Jaison, the first Korean American citizen, Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon, Sam Altman, inventor of ChatGPT and Martin Luther King, Jr., civil rights activist to see what we can learn about what it looks like to be a risk taker. We hope students will see that risk-takers try new things, new places, and new ideas and use their knowledge and skills to persist through challenges. Risk-takers aren’t afraid of failing because they know they can learn and grow from failure. And finally, risk-takers do the right thing even if it is not the easy thing.
Find activities and book ideas on Meridian’s website to extend the discussion of what it means to be a risk-taker at home.
IB Initiative: The Learner Profile Trait of Knowledgeable
This quarter, our IB Initiative each week will focus on one of the learner profile traits.
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled
Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
According to the IB Organization, knowledgeable people develop and use conceptual understanding, exploring knowledge across a range of disciplines. They engage with issues and ideas that have local and global significance. Our exploration of the trait of knowledgeable this week will also show us a few other important pieces of what it means to show this trait:
- Knowledgeable people build on the ideas of others and share their knowledge to inform others.
- Inventors use their knowledge to create or invent.
- Knowing about the world and various cultures can help bring people together and make the world a more peaceful place.
- Knowledgeable people are often known for using their knowledge to help others.
Find activities and book ideas on Meridian’s website to extend the discussion of what it means to be knowledgeable at home.
Spelling Bee participants
This week, students in grades K-5 took part in our annual oral spelling bee! The students showed great dedication in preparing for the event and performed exceptionally well. Congratulations to our top three winners:
K-2 division: Amaira, 1st (Kindergarten); Arjun, 2nd (Second Grade); Aarav, 3rd (Kindergarten)
3-5 division: Rowan, 1st (Fifth Grade); Adhvik, 2nd (Third Grade); Karthik, 3rd (Third Grade)
Spring Semester Preview
Want a quick look at the Spring Semester’s events and programs? Check out this news article. Just know that this far out, dates and times might change!
For up-to-date information, subscribe to our Events listings by clicking on the “subscribe” link at the top right side of the page.
- Choose iCal or Google Calendar. (The Download .ICS option will not update when times or dates change.)
- You can subscribe to our main calendar or campus-specific calendars.
Parent & Child Fairytale Dance
Saturday, January 31, 2026
Students in the Class of 2027 are hard at work planning a transformation of the primary gym into a fairytale wonderland with themes throughout!
This dance is a tradition for PYP (K-5) students and the adult of their choice to enjoy an evening of fairytale-themed fun, with wand making, face painting, and more. You’re welcome to dress up in fairytale or storybook attire.
- Kinder - 2nd Grade: 4 - 5:30 p.m.
- 3rd Grade - 5th Grade: 6 - 7:30 p.m.
Get tickets on MySchoolBucks: $15 per person (parent or child). Sales close January 29 at 5 p.m. with limited availability at the door.
ESL Parent/Guardian Night
Wednesday, Feb. 4 from 7 - 8 p.m.
Parents and guardians of students in the Emerging Bilingual program received an email from Mr. Reyes, PYP Assistant Principal, with a Zoom link to next Wednesday’s ESL Parent/Guardian Night.
The purpose of the School's ESL program is to support Emergent Bilingual students in their linguistic and academic performance. During this event, we'll share how the school accomplishes these purposes and how families can partner with us. If you have questions, please reach out to Mr. Reyes (K-5) or Mr. Verleye (6-12).
Black History Month Jamboree & Dress Day
Thursday, Feb. 12, The Meridian Black Student Union presents their second annual Black History Month Jamboree: Celebrating Black Culture! Open to all Meridian families (grades 8-12 can attend without a guardian, but we highly encourage parent/guardian attendance). Enjoy talent acts, visual arts, a fashion show, Black history speeches, and snacks.
During the school day on Thursday, February 12, all students and staff are invited to dress in celebration of Black History Month and the Jamboree! Options include:
- 'Celebrate Black Culture' spirit wear
- Black history/culture themed T shirt
- Colors (red, black, yellow, green)
- Do you have roots in African culture? Wear your traditional African attire!
International Week
Save the date! Highlights include:
- Friday, February 27 – Friends of Meridian's International Celebration of Flavors: Sips, Samples and Silent Auction
- Friday, March 6 – World Parade (students only)
- Saturday, March 7 – Festival of Cultures