MYP Mane Archive

Meridian K-8 Glow Run: Register and pledge today!

Survivors, ready? It’s time for National Honor Society Field Day

8th Grade Semi Formal

May 4, 2024 from 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

If not enough tickets are sold, the semi-formal will be canceled.

8th graders are cordially invited to a Starry Night Celebration! This magical evening will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the Mays Café. Make memories under the stars with dancing, awards, food, friends, a photo booth, and more.

Buy your tickets now on MySchoolbucks for $12. Online sales end at noon Friday, May 3. Each attendee who purchases a ticket on MySchoolBucks is automatically entered into a drawing to win a Chick-Fil-A or Starbucks gift card.

Tickets may be purchased at the door for $20. Contact Mrs. Leaf with questions.

Attention parents/guardians: We need a couple parents to help lead decorations and set up for the dance. If you are interested please email [email protected]. Please sign up to volunteer and/or donate to help make this dance great for our students!

Attention: Current 10th graders and parents/guardians

MYP IB Grading Parent/Guardian meeting

Action required of current 9th and 10th graders

Review 2024-2025 course requests in Skyward

Deadline to request course changes: Friday, April 19

To ensure students have accurate course requests for next year, we have opened a window for students and parents to review course requests for accuracy in Skyward. This window closes Friday, April 19, and no course change requests will be allowed after that date.

• Review how to verify your course selections in Skyward
• If needed, request any changes on this form by Friday, April 19

Meridian K-8 Glow Run: Register and pledge today!

Meridian has partnered with Booster to help raise $35,000 for improvements to the primary outdoor spaces and Mays Aux Gym. 

Starting today, families can register their students and start making pledges! Here are tips on how you can help Meridian reach our goal: 

Then, it’s time for the fun! May 14, students in grades K-8 get to join in on the Glow Run in the Mays gym to fulfill those pledges! The more funds we have, the more improvements we can make! All students will get to participate regardless of pledges.

8th Grade Semi Formal

It’s STAAR time

Please read this document for details on upcoming STAAR exams. 

April 18: Grade 8 Social Studies

April 23: Grades 6-7 (Some 8) Math

April 23: Grade 8 (Some 9) Algebra 1 EOC

Parents/Guardians of 6th-9th Graders: please complete this short survey indicating interest in your child receiving a bagged lunch from the cafeteria on April 23. It’s a unique testing day due to the length of the exam. This is for planning, not a reservation.

Graduation Requirement: Passing the STAAR EOC exams which include (English 1, English 2, Freshman Biology, Algebra 1, and 11th grade US History) is a graduation requirement.

MYP IB Grading Parent/Guardian meeting

Action required of current 7th through 10th graders

Review 2024-2025 course requests in Skyward

Deadline to request course changes: Friday, April 19

To ensure students have accurate course requests for next year, we have opened a window for students and parents to review course requests for accuracy in Skyward. This window closes Friday, April 12, and no course change requests will be allowed after that date. Please follow these two easy steps:

• Follow the steps in this document to verify your course selections in Skyward.
• Use this form to request changes (if needed) by Friday, April 19.

If no changes are needed, no action is needed.

Attention 9th grade: Order your class spirit wear

Class of 2027: order your 9th grade spirit wear today! This is a special Class of 2027 limited edition hooded zip up jacket. This is approved spirit wear that can be worn Monday through Friday. Sales ends today, Wednesday, April 10.

9th and 10th grade Epic Game Night

Spirit Week: Dress up day themes

Thursday, April 11: Pajama Day (wear pajamas, bring blankets and stuffed animals)

Friday, April 12: Pep Rally - Meridian Minion Day (dress as minions from despicable me)

MYP IB Grading Parent/Guardian meeting

Spring Picture Day: Sign up your student

Picture Day is Friday, April 5 – Action Required by April 4 at noon

If you want your secondary student to take a spring photo, you must fill out this Spring Picture Sign Up Form by Thursday, April 4 at noon. Read on for additional important information:

• Students are invited to wear school appropriate "spring dressy" or "spring casual wear" for these photos. They may wear this attire all day.
• Pre-orders are not required. As long as you fill out the Spring Picture Sign Up Form by Thursday, April 4 at noon we will pull your student for a photo. 
• How to Order:
  • Option 1: You will receive a proof in a couple of weeks and you can order pictures at that time if you like your child's image.
  • Option 2: If you desire to pre-order, visit lifetouch.com and enter this Secondary Picture Day ID code: EVTVRWMJV. If you choose this option, please print and send the online order payment receipt to school with your student on picture day and remind them to take it to the camera!
• Please note that there are no retakes or make-up days for spring photos. 

Please note: All primary students, grades K-5, will have Spring Pictures taken so there is no need to sign them up in advance. Primary students have a different Picture Day ID code; see the PYP Pride newsletter for details.

Email Sarah Whitley with any questions about Spring Picture Day.

Attention 9th grade: Order your class spirit wear

Class of 2027: order your 9th grade spirit wear today! This is a special Class of 2027 limited edition hooded zip up jacket. This is approved spirit wear that can be worn Monday through Friday. Sales ends Wednesday, April 10.

9th and 10th grade Epic Game Night

April Spirit Week: Dress up day themes

Monday, April 8: Milky Way Monday (wear bright clothes, all black, or space themed clothing for the eclipse)

Tuesday, April 9: USA Day (wear patriotic clothing)

Wednesday, April 10: Style Wednesday (dress in a specific style/wear your favorite outfit)

Thursday, April 11: Pajama Day (wear pajamas, bring blankets and stuffed animals)

Friday, April 12: Pep Rally - Meridian Minion Day (dress as minions from despicable me)

10th grade College Field Trip

Spring Picture Day: Sign up your student

Picture Day is Friday, April 5 – Action Required by April 4 at noon

If you want your secondary student to take a spring photo, you must fill out this Spring Picture Sign Up Form by Thursday, April 4 at noon. Read on for additional important information:

• Students are invited to wear school appropriate "spring dressy" or "spring casual wear" for these photos. They may wear this attire all day.
• Pre-orders are not required. As long as you fill out the Spring Picture Sign Up Form by Thursday, April 4 at noon we will pull your student for a photo. 
• How to Order:
  • Option 1: You will receive a proof in a couple of weeks and you can order pictures at that time if you like your child's image.
  • Option 2: If you desire to pre-order, visit lifetouch.com and enter this Secondary Picture Day ID code: EVTVRWMJV. If you choose this option, please print and send the online order payment receipt to school with your student on picture day and remind them to take it to the camera!
• Please note that there are no retakes or make-up days for spring photos. 

Please note: All primary students, grades K-5, will have Spring Pictures taken so there is no need to sign them up in advance. Primary students have a different Picture Day ID code; see the PYP Pride newsletter for details.

Email Sarah Whitley with any questions about Spring Picture Day.

Attention 9th grade: Order your class spirit wear

Class of 2027: order your 9th grade spirit wear today! This is a special Class of 2027 limited edition hooded zip up jacket. This is approved spirit wear that can be worn Monday through Friday. Sales ends Wednesday, April 10.

New Date: 9th and 10th grade Epic Game Night

April Spirit Week: Dress up day themes

Monday, April 8: Milky Way Monday (wear bright clothes, all black, or space themed clothing for the eclipse)

Tuesday, April 9: USA Day (wear patriotic clothing)

Wednesday, April 10: Style Wednesday (dress in a specific style/wear your favorite outfit)

Thursday, April 11: Pajama Day (wear pajamas, bring blankets and stuffed animals)

Friday, April 12: Pep Rally - Meridian Minion Day (dress as minions from despicable me)

Postponed: 9th and 10th grade Epic Game Night

Attention Juniors: Interested in playing golf next year?

We are exploring the idea of starting a golf team at Meridian for next school year. If your student is interested in playing, please complete this form. The coach would be Mr. Morales, DP Environmental Science teacher.

MYP (6-10) Principal’s Coffee

Tuesday, March 26 at 9 a.m. (in-person or virtual)

Join us for the MYP Principal’s Coffee at the secondary library in the middle school building. We invite you to meet with school leadership and ask any questions you might have.

We will have an in-person and virtual option. If you are planning to attend virtually, you can join using this link. Please park in the designated visitor parking spots on this map.

10th grade College Field Trip

Spring Picture Day: Sign up your student

Picture Day is Friday, April 5

Action Required by April 4 at noon

If you want your secondary student to take a spring photo, you must fill out this Spring Picture Sign Up Form by Thursday, April 4 at noon.

Read on for additional important information:

• Students are invited to wear school appropriate "spring dressy" or "spring casual wear" for these photos. They may wear this attire all day.
• Pre-orders are not required. As long as you fill out the Spring Picture Sign Up Form by Thursday, April 4th at noon we will pull your student for a photo. 
• How to Order:
  • Option 1: You will receive a proof in a couple of weeks and you can order pictures at that time if you like your child's image.
  • Option 2: If you desire to pre-order, visit lifetouch.com and enter this Secondary Picture Day ID code: EVTVRWMJV. If you choose this option, please print and send the online order payment receipt to school with your student on picture day and remind them to take it to the camera!
• There are no retakes or make-up days for spring photos. 

Please note: All primary students, grades K-5, will have Spring Pictures taken so there is no need to sign them up in advance. Primary students have a different Picture Day ID code; see the PYP Pride newsletter for details.

10th Grade Personal Project Expo

9th and 10th grade March Madness Game Night

Saturday, March 23 from 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Play and hang out at Meridian's 9th and 10th grade March Madness Epic Game Night!

Enjoy volleyball, basketball, soccer, poker, Xbox, Dungeons and Dragons, karaoke, corn hole, dodgeball, and more! Pizza, snacks, and water are included.

Students wishing to bring a guest should fill out the guest approval form and email it to Ms. Leaf or hand it in to the front office to the attention of Ms. Leaf. The Game Night is in the Mays Gym; please enter through Middle School front doors.

Buy your tickets on MySchoolBucks for $11 online; sales end on Friday, March 22 at noon. Tickets at the door are $16. If not enough tickets are sold, the game night will be canceled.

Attention Juniors: Interested in playing golf next year?

We are exploring the idea of starting a golf team at Meridian for next school year. If your student is interested in playing, please complete this form. The coach would be Mr. Morales, DP Environmental Science teacher.

MYP (6-10) Principal’s Coffee

10th grade College Field Trip

Meridian is excited about the upcoming overnight 10th grade College Field Trip to the Dallas area Tuesday, April 2 through Wednesday, April 3. The trip will include:

• Visit to SMU or Baylor on Tuesday
• IB College Fair hosted by the Texas IB Schools Association Tuesday from 1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. where nearly 100 universities will be present.
• Visits to University of North Texas and University of Texas at Dallas on Wednesday

Cost: The $160 cost includes transportation, hotel, lunch on both days, and breakfast on the second day. Students should bring money for dinner on the first night of the trip and any spending money for campus bookstores or additional snacks.

Deadlines:

• Parents need to complete the Permission Form - Class of 2026 College Trip and TXIB College Fair by March 1
• Parents will need to pay $160 either through the Class of 2026 College Trip link through MySchoolBucks or drop off a check payable to Meridian by March 4 to the high school office. Free and reduced lunch families will receive an invoice directly from the school.

IB College Fair:

To learn more about the IB College Fair, please check out the links below:

• Texas IB College Fair Flyer
• Texas IB College Fair Presentations List & Schedule
• Texas IB Snack Bar Items (Students will have lunch before the event, but just wanted to share the information about available snacks.)

If you have any questions about the college field trip, please contact Martha MacFarland.

Tonight: DP Theatre Year 1 presents Blithe Spirit

Buy your tickets now: 6th and 7th Grade Glow Dance

The 6th and 7th grade Glow Dance is Saturday, March 2!

• 6th grade 6 - 8 p.m.
• 7th grade 7 - 9 p.m. 
• Tickets are $12 on MySchoolBucks or $20 at the door. Ticket prices include pizza.

Lark & Owl: Book Fair, Art Exhibit, and Concert

Sunday, March 3 from 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Looking for a unique Fine Arts experience? Come to Lark & Owl Booksellers and enjoy crafts, live music by Meridian’s Orchestra, and an art exhibit. A portion of sales from books purchased during the event benefits Meridian’s secondary libraries!

The art exhibit includes over 80 original works from students in Rachel Meissner's 8th Grade Art course. The exhibit centers on the unit "Portraits of Role Models" and includes graphite portraits; still life, grid, and facial feature formative work; and Independent Inquiry paintings and drawings.

7th grade Makers Fair: Fill out the participation form now!

10th Grade Personal Project Expo

Attention 10th Grade Parents! Please plan on joining us for the Personal Project Expo on Thursday, March 7 in the Mays Gym. Students will showcase their projects to students during the day and to parents after the carline from 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Students will help clean up from 5:30 p.m. - 5:50 p.m. If you are able, please sign up to donate a snack for the students. The Personal Project Expo is a great way to celebrate their hard work and creativity. Any questions about the Personal Project Expo can be directed to Martha MacFarland.

Nurse’s note: Important immunization requirements

Is Your Student in a Club?

Yearbook club photos were taken on January 25. Parents/guardians please review these photos and names to verify that your student's name is spelled properly and/or to inform if the student missed picture day (the student is listed as "not pictured" in this situation). Students have been invited to review this document and report errors as well.

Action Requested: If you find any errors, please fill out this form by this Friday, February 23 at 11:59 p.m. so that we can make necessary corrections.

DP Theatre Year 1 presents Blithe Spirit

On Wednesday, February 28, DP Theatre Year 1 students will present Blithe Spirit by Noel Coward. In this farce, a séance intended for fun conjures up far more than expected, as a deceased wife returns to haunt her husband and his new spouse with disastrous consequences. This show will be presented in Meridian's Black Box theatre twice with performances at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Admission is free.

Lark & Owl: Book Fair, Art Exhibit, and Concert

Coming soon: 7th grade Makers Fair

The 8th grade field trip to Camp Olympia in Trinity, Texas will be October 23-25, 2024. This is a three day overnight, off campus learning experience. An assembly was held last week where students learned about the trip and what Makers Fair is.

To help reduce the cost of the trip students have the opportunity to participate in the Makers Fair. This event/fundraiser will take place during our Arts & Science Showcase on April 6. 

Here is some important information about the trip and Makers Fair:

• 8th grade Camp Olympia and Makers Fair presentation 
• Maker’s Fair Participant Information
• Makers Fair Participant Form - deadline to submit is Sunday, March 3

Conversations for parents and students

Nurse’s note: Important immunization requirements

Your School Health Team is planning ahead for the 24-25 school year! As a Texas State requirement, Students must receive a Meningococcal and updated Tdap vaccination before 7th grade.

Students will not be able to start the school year without proof of receiving these immunizations (or without an up-to-date medical or conscious exemption). Email immunization records to [email protected] or reach out with any questions or concerns. Again, these immunizations are needed prior to the start of the 24-25 school year.

Celebrating Black History Month

Thursday, February 15 students are invited to participate in Afrocentric Dress Day. Wear clothes and colors that represent Black culture.

Monday, February 26 students are invited to come to school in their natural hair, whether they rock an Afro, wear it down or in their favorite style for Afro Day! A group photo will be taken at 4:15 p.m. in the Mays Lobby.

Following the group photo for Afro Day come chat with Ms. Janice Williams: Remembering the Civil Rights Movement (Mays Building).

Lark & Owl: Book Fair, Art Exhibit, and Concert

Coming soon: 7th grade Makers Fair

The 8th grade field trip to Camp Olympia in Trinity, Texas will be October 23-25, 2024. This is a three day overnight, off campus learning experience. We will have an assembly to talk to students about the trip and what Makers Fair is.

To help reduce the cost of the trip students have the opportunity to participate in the Makers Fair. This event/fundraiser will take place during our Arts & Science Showcase on April 6. We will share all the details, Makers Fair sign up, and instructions in upcoming newsletters.

This weekend: High School "Sweet Like Candy" Spring Dance

Coming soon: 7th grade Makers Fair

The 8th grade field trip to Camp Olympia in Trinity, Texas will be October 23-25, 2024. This is a three day, overnight, off campus learning experience. We will have an assembly to talk to students about the trip and what Makers Fair is. 

To help reduce the cost of the trip students have the opportunity to participate in the Makers Fair. This event/fundraiser will take place during our Arts & Science Showcase on April 6. We will share all the details, Makers Fair sign up, and instructions in upcoming newsletters.

Save the date: 6th and 7th Grade Glow Dance

The 6th and 7th grade Glow Dance will be on Saturday, March 2 (6th grade 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. and 7th grade 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.). Tickets will go on sale next week; $12 on MySchoolBucks or $20 at the door. Ticket prices include pizza. More information about the dance will be coming soon.

Attention: Math Track 2 Credit by Exam sign up

Wednesday, April 10 : Credit by Exam (1 of 4)

If your student is interested in pursuing Meridian’s Math Track 2 program, please read the information in the 6th-10th grade Secondary Meridian Math Tracks and Qualifying Letter. This letter includes important information about registering for the Credit by Exam (CBE), exam dates, and study guide.

Learn more about Meridian’s Track 2 Math Program, CBE dates, and how to qualify. If you have questions, please contact your current grade level counselor.

6th and 7th grade: Stefanie Zook

8th and 9th grade: Andy Harvey

10th grade: Nick Manuzsak

Attention Parents/Guardians of Current 9th and 10th Graders

New courses: Public Speaking and Research and High School Concert Choir!

Our current 9th and 10th grade students have made their preliminary course selections for next year with our high school counselor (Mr. Manuszak). Learn more about the 10th grade course options and 11th grade course options. 9th and 10th grade students and their parents/guardians are invited to meet one-on-one with Mr. Manuszak.

Pro tips: Sign up and schedule this meeting during a class period when your student can most afford to miss instructional time (for example, you may want to avoid scheduling the meeting during their math class).

Questions about any of the above? Reach out to Mr. Manuszak.

MYP (6-10) Principal’s Coffee

Did you miss the MYP Principal's Coffee? Take a look at the slides.

Topics include:

• Course selections
• STAAR Interim results
• Returning students Skyward form
• Upcoming events
• Athletics
• And more!

10th grade play: Tonight!

Wednesday, January 31 at 6 p.m.

Meridian Theatre 2 10th grade play is tonight. Chemical Imbalance: A Jekyll and Hyde Play by Lauren Wilson is a darkly comedic adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. It’s a fast paced romp about men and women tightrope walking the line between good and evil. This performance will be held in the Black Box Theatre (Mays building). Admission is free!

Tickets on sale: High School "Sweet Like Candy" Spring Dance

Saturday, February 10 from 7 p.m. -10 p.m.

Buy your ticket now for $10 each on My School Bucks! The cost increases to $20 at the door, so please purchase in advance to save money and help us plan. This is not a semi-formal event. Students are asked to wear school appropriate attire. Students who desire to bring a guest from outside of Meridian should fill out the guest approval form or pick up a form from Ms. Riley.

Parent/guardians: Sign up and help make the spring dance a success for our 9th-12th graders. Thank you to parent volunteer Jacy Knoop-Troullier and DP AP Wendy Riley for taking the lead in organizing this event.

Attention: Math Track 2 Credit by Exam sign up

Wednesday, April 10 : Credit by Exam (1 of 4)

If your student is interested in pursuing Meridian’s Math Track 2 program, please read the information in the 6th-10th grade Secondary Meridian Math Tracks and Qualifying Letter. This letter includes important information about registering for the Credit by Exam (CBE), exam dates, and study guide.

Learn more about Meridian’s Track 2 Math Program, CBE dates, and how to qualify. If you have questions, please contact your current grade level counselor.

6th and 7th grade: Stefanie Zook

8th and 9th grade: Andy Harvey

10th grade: Nick Manuzsak

Sex Education Parent Meeting presentation slides

Did you miss the Sex Education parent meeting or wanted to review what was covered? Take a look at the slides to see what you missed.

10th grade sexual education curriculum 

We are extending our sexual education curriculum to 10th grade. Our 10th graders will be provided two lessons as approved by the board. These lessons will take place during college readiness and will be provided by Mr. Manuszak. Complete the opt-in form by Friday, February 2 to indicate if you would like them to participate in the lesson.

You may review the lessons being provided by clicking on the lesson title (Consent, Sexting and the Law and Not Made for TV) in the opt-in form. You will be prompted to complete a registration form with Advocates for Youth to access the lesson.

Attention Parents/Guardians of Current 9th and 10th Graders 

New courses: Public Speaking and Research and High School Concert Choir!

Our current 9th and 10th grade students have made their preliminary course selections for next year with our high school counselor (Mr. Manuszak). Learn more about the 10th grade course options and 11th grade course options. 9th and 10th grade students and their parents/guardians are invited to meet one-on-one with Mr. Manuszak.

Pro tips: Sign up and schedule this meeting during a class period when your student can most afford to miss instructional time (for example, you may want to avoid scheduling the meeting during their math class).

Questions about any of the above? Reach out to Mr. Manuszak.

Tickets on sale: High School "Sweet Like Candy" Spring Dance

Saturday, February 10 from 7 p.m. -10 p.m.

Buy your ticket now for $10 each on My School Bucks! The cost increases to $20 at the door, so please purchase in advance to save money and help us plan. This is not a semi-formal event. Students are asked to wear school appropriate attire. Students who desire to bring a guest from outside of Meridian should fill out the guest approval form or pick up a form from Ms. Riley.

Parent/guardians: Sign up and help make the spring dance a success for our 9th-12th graders. Thank you to parent volunteer Jacy Knoop-Troullier and DP AP Wendy Riley for taking the lead in organizing this event.

Sex Education Parent Meeting and Action Required

Did you miss the Sex Education Parent meeting on Monday? Take a look at it to see what you missed. You must complete the form below, by January 26, for your child if you would like them to participate in the sexual education curriculum for their given grade level. Students who are not participating in the Sex Ed curriculum will have alternative assignments to work on.

6th grade opt in form

7th grade opt in form

8th grade opt in form

9th grade opt in form

10th grade sexual education curriculum 

We are extending our sexual education curriculum to 10th grade. Our 10th graders will be provided two lessons as approved by the board. These lessons will take place during college readiness and will be provided by Mr. Manuszak. Complete the opt-in form indicating if you would like them to participate in the lesson.

You may review the lessons being provided by clicking on the lesson title (Consent, Sexting and the Law and Not Made for TV) in the opt-in form. You will be prompted to complete a registration form with Advocates for Youth to access the lesson.  

MYP (6-10) Principal’s Coffee

Tuesday, January 30 at 9 a.m.

Join us for the MYP Principal’s Coffee at the secondary library in the middle school building. We invite you to meet with school leadership and ask any questions you might have. Please park in the designated visitor parking spots on this map.

10th grade play: next week!

Wednesday, January 31 at 6 p.m.

Update your calendars: Meridian Theatre 2 10th grade play has been rescheduled. Chemical Imbalance: A Jekyll and Hyde Play by Lauren Wilson is a darkly comedic adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. It’s a fast paced romp about men and women tightrope walking the line between good and evil. This performance will be held in the Black Box Theatre (Mays building). Admission is free!

Attention Parents/Guardians of Current 9th and 10th Graders 

Our current 9th and 10th grade students have made their preliminary course selections for next year with our high school counselor (Mr. Manuszak). Learn more about the 10th grade course options and 11th grade course options. 9th and 10th grade students and their parents/guardians are invited to meet one-on-one with our Mr. Manuszak.

Pro tips: Sign up and schedule this meeting during a class period when your student can most afford to miss instructional time (for example, you may want to avoid scheduling the meeting during their math class).

Questions about any of the above? Reach out to Mr. Manuszak. 

Lions Camp Parent Meeting follow up

Thank you for attending our Lions Camp last week. To follow up on your questions, we have added a significant amount of information to the slide deck. Please take a look at the High school transition presentation and review additions regarding athletics, college acceptance, college preparation, and counseling support. 

Please reach out with any questions to Ms. Lane or Ms. Leaf.

Middle School Spelling Bee results

Wow!! Great work from our spelling bee participants! They had some very challenging words. What wonderful risk-takers!

6th through 8th Grade

1st Place - Navdeep D.

2nd Place - Yana A.

3rd Place - Ahladita B.

Navdeep D. and Yana A. will represent Meridian Middle School in the pre-qualifying test to move on to Austin Regional Spelling Bee.

10th Grade Personal Project Expo is around the corner! 

Attention 10th grade students and families: The Personal Project Expo will be here before we know it. Mark your calendars: the expo takes place in the Mays Gym on Thursday, March 7. Take a look at the Personal Project Expo schedule to see what the day will be like. Consider signing up to donate snacks for the students. It is a long day of presenting, and the kids really appreciate snacks. If you have any questions, please contact Martha MacFarland.

10th-12th grade Math Tutorials 

Saturdays from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Ms. Riley offers math tutorials on Saturdays through January. Don’t forget to RSVP. Please pick up your student promptly at 1 p.m. so that Ms. Riley can proceed with her weekend!

Rising 9th Graders Lions Camp and Parent Meeting

Wednesday, January 17

Lions Camp 1:30 p.m. - 5 p.m.: Our rising 9th grade students will participate in our 3rd annual Lions Camp this afternoon Wednesday, January 17. The purpose of the event is to familiarize students with some of Meridian's general education and elective classes, ease anxiety about high school expectations, and view the high school building. 

Rising 9th Grade Parent/Guardian Meeting: This meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. (after Lions Camp) in the Mays Café. You are strongly encouraged to attend if you are undecided about your student returning to Meridian next school year, 2024-2025. Meridian has so much to offer in the high school years! Come learn what’s in store for your student if you choose to remain at Meridian through graduation.

The transition from middle to high school is a pivotal time in a student's life! We aim to support them and their parents/guardians as best as we can.

Sex Education Parent Meeting and Action Required

Meeting Monday, January 22 at 6 p.m.

Join us for an information Zoom session regarding the sexual education curriculum that will be presented to students in February. You must complete the form below, by January 26, for your child if you would like them to participate in the sexual education curriculum for their given grade level. Students who are not participating in the Sex Ed curriculum will have alternative assignments to work on.

Zoom meeting link

6th grade opt in form

7th grade opt in form

8th grade opt in form

9th grade opt in form

Attention Parents/Guardians of Current 10th Graders 

Your students complete the MYP Programme this school year! Next year, they enter the IB Diploma Programme, the academic programme for grades 11-12.

Our current 10th grade students, the Class of 2026, learned all about the IB Diploma Programme and made preliminary course selections for next year during visits from our IB Diploma Programme Coordinator (Mr. Ryder) and our high school counselor (Mr. Manuszak) during their College and Career Readiness class. Learn more about the 11th Grade Course Selection Form.

IB Diploma Program (DP) Information Night

Attention rising juniors and your parents and guardians! Learn what’s in store for your student and how Meridian can meet their educational needs and prepare them for success after graduation. The IB Diploma Programme Information Night talks all about program options that prepare students for college majors and professional careers in Computer Science, Engineering, Medicine, and more! Interested families of current 8th and 9th graders are also welcome!

When: Tuesday, January 23 from 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. in the Mays Café

Parking: Park in the senior parking lot and enter via the Mays Café patio entrance. Parking map

Presenters:

Stela Holcombe, IB Diploma Program Principal

Charles Ryder, IB Diploma Program Coordinator

Nick Manuszak, High School Counselor for Grades 10-12

One-on-one Individual Planning Meetings with the Counselor

In addition to the IB DP Information night, 10th grade students and their parents/guardians are invited to meet one-on-one with our high school counselor, Mr. Manuszak. This is a great opportunity to get individual attention from the counselor and ask questions about course options in the IB Diploma Program. 

Pro tips: Sign up for a meeting date on or after January 24 so that you can first attend the IB DP Information Night. And schedule this meeting during a class period when your student can most afford to miss instructional time (for example, you may want to avoid scheduling the meeting during their math class).

Questions about any of the above? Reach out to Mr. Manuszak.

10th grade play: Rescheduled!

Wednesday, January 31 at 6 p.m.

Update your calendars, Meridian Theatre 2 10th grade play has been rescheduled. Students will present Chemical Imbalance: A Jekyll and Hyde Play by Lauren Wilson. This darkly comedic adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde is a fast paced romp about men and women tightrope walking the line between good and evil. This performance will be held in the Black Box Theatre (Mays building). Admission is free! 

10th Grade Personal Project Expo is around the corner! 

Attention 10th grade students and families: The Personal Project Expo will be here before we know it. Mark your calendars: the expo will take place in the Mays Gym on Thursday, March 7. Personal Project Expo schedule: 

• During the school day: Students showcase projects to students
• 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.: Students present to parents/guardians after carline
• 5:30 p.m. -5:50 p.m.: Students help clean up

Families, please consider signing up to donate snacks for the students. It is a long day of presenting, and the kids really appreciate snacks. The Personal Project Expo is a great way to celebrate our students’ hard work and creativity. If you have any questions, please contact Martha MacFarland.

Message from the Nurse: spinal screenings

Our school will be conducting state mandated spinal screenings for 7th grade girls and 8th grade boys on January 18 and 19 during PE. Students should plan to wear a thin tank top or t-shirt underneath any sweaters or heavy clothing on the day they have PE.

If you have questions please contact the nurse via email at [email protected]. If you would like your student to be exempt please email the nurse no later than January 18 by 8 a.m.

10th-12th grade Math Tutorials 

Saturdays from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Ms. Riley offers math tutorials on Saturdays through January. Don’t forget to RSVP. Please pick up your student promptly at 1 p.m. so that Ms. Riley can proceed with her weekend!

Interims will start taking place this month 

Students will be completing interims this month. Teachers use the information from the interims to guide instruction for the second semester. Interims provide students with an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the STAAR assessment platform.

January 11 - 12: 8th grade US history and 9th grade Biology

January 18 - 19: 6th, 7th, and 8th grade ELA 

January 22 - 23: 8th grade Science, 9th grade ELA, and 10th grade ELA, 

February 12 - 16: 6th, 7th, and 8th grade Math classes and 9th grade Algebra

Payment due Friday, January 12: 6th Grade Field Trip

Trip date: January 26

Sixth graders are invited to participate in this year’s field trip to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science.

Payment is due by January 12. No payments will be received after January 19. For more information, please read the guidance document. If you have any questions after reading this document please reach out to Matthew Castaneda.

Rising 9th Graders Lion’s camp

Wednesday, January 17

Join us as we host our 3rd annual Lion's Camp. The rising 9th grade parent meeting will be held after the camp at 5:30 p.m. in the May’s Café. The purpose of the event is to familiarize students with some of Meridian's general education and elective classes, ease anxiety about high school expectations, and view the high school building. This is a pivotal time in a middle-schooler's life. We aim to support them and their parents as best as we can.

10th grade play: Meridian Theatre 2

Wednesday, January 17 at 6 p.m.

Meridian Theatre 2 students will present Chemical Imbalance: A Jekyll and Hyde Play by Lauren Wilson. This darkly comedic adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde is a fast paced romp about men and women tightrope walking the line between good and evil. This performance will be held in the Black Box Theatre (Mays building). Admission is free!

Sex Education Parent Meeting: Save the date

Monday, January 22 at 6 p.m.

Join us for an information Zoom session regarding the sexual education curriculum that will be presented to students in February. You must complete the below form for your child if you would like them to participate in the sexual education curriculum for their given grade level. Students that are not participating in the Sex Ed curriculum will have alternative assignments to work on.

Zoom meeting link

6th grade opt in form

7th grade opt in form

8th grade opt in form

9th grade opt in form

IB Diploma Program informational meeting

Tuesday, January 23 from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Open to families of current 10th, 9th and 8th graders

Attention current 10th graders and your families! You're invited to join us in the Mays Café to learn all you need to know about the IB Diploma Program (DP) at Meridian. Families of current 8th and 9th graders are also welcome to attend. Park in the senior parking lot and enter the building via the Mays Cafeteria patio.

10th-12th grade Math Tutorials 

Saturdays from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Ms. Riley offers math tutorials on Saturdays through January. Don’t forget to RSVP. Please pick up your student promptly at 1 p.m. so that Ms. Riley can proceed with her weekend!

Interims will start taking place this month 

Students will be completing interims this month. Teachers use the information from the interims to guide instruction for the second semester. Interims provide students with an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the STAAR assessment platform.

January 11 - 12: 8th grade US history and 9th grade Biology

January 18 - 19: 6th, 7th, and 8th grade ELA 

January 22 - 23: 8th grade Science, 9th grade ELA, and 10th grade ELA, 

February 12 - 16: 6th, 7th, and 8th grade Math classes and 9th grade Algebra

6th Grade Field Trip to the Perot Museum

Payment due January 12

Trip date: January 26

Sixth graders are invited to participate in this year’s field trip to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science on January 26.

Payment is due by January 12. No payments will be received after January 19. For more information, please read the guidance document. If you have any questions after reading this document please reach out to Matthew Castaneda.

Rising 9th Graders Lion’s camp

Wednesday, January 17

On Wednesday, January 17 from 1:30 p.m. to 4:55 p.m. we will host our 3rd annual Lion's Camp. The rising 9th grade parent meeting will be held after the camp at 5:30 p.m. in the May’s Café. The purpose of the event is to familiarize students with some of Meridian's general education and elective classes, ease anxiety about high school expectations, and view the high school building. This is a pivotal time in a middle-schooler's life. We aim to support them and their parents as best as we can.

10th grade play: Meridian Theatre 2

Wednesday, January 17 at 6 p.m.

Meridian Theatre 2 students will present Chemical Imbalance: A Jekyll and Hyde Play by Lauren Wilson. This darkly comedic adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde is a fast paced romp about men and women tightrope walking the line between good and evil. This performance is on Wednesday, January 17 at 6 p.m. in the Black Box Theatre (Mays building). Admission is free!

Sex Education Parent Meeting: Save the date

Monday, January 22 at 6 p.m.

Join us for an information Zoom session regarding the sexual education curriculum that will be presented to students in February. You must complete the below form for your child if you would like them to participate in the sexual education curriculum for their given grade level. Students that are not participating in the Sex Ed curriculum will have alternative assignments to work on.

Zoom meeting link

6th grade opt in form

7th grade opt in form

8th grade opt in form

9th grade opt in form

IB Diploma Program informational meeting

Open to families of current 10th, 9th and 8th graders

Tuesday, January 23 from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Save the date of Tuesday, January 23 for a very important information session for our rising 11th graders! This meeting will cover all you need to know about the IB Diploma Program (DP) at Meridian. Families of current 8th and 9th graders who are interested in learning more about DP are also invited. The meeting will be from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. in the Mays Café. You may park in the senior parking lot and enter the building via the Mays Cafeteria patio.

10th grade Math Tutorials will continue in January

10th-12th grade students

Great news! Ms. Riley will continue offering math tutorials on Saturdays during the month of January–but at a new time, from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Parents/guardians, please make sure to pick up your student promptly at 1 p.m. so that Ms. Riley can proceed with her weekend! Don’t forget to RSVP.

Sex Education Parent Meeting: Save the date 

Monday, January 22

Join us for an information Zoom session regarding the sexual education curriculum that will be presented to students in February. More info regarding Sex Ed and the Zoom meeting will be shared in January.

6th Grade Field Trip to the Perot Museum

Payment due January 12

Trip date: January 26

Sixth graders are invited to participate in this year’s field trip to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science on January 26.

Payment is due by January 12. No payments will be received after January 19. For more information, please read the guidance document. If you have any questions after reading this document please reach out to Matthew Castaneda.

10th grade Math Tutorials will continue in January

10th-12th grade students

Great news! Ms. Riley will continue offering math tutorials on Saturdays during the month of January–but note the new time is from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Parents/guardians, please make sure to pick up your student promptly at 1 p.m. so that Ms. Riley can proceed with her weekend! Don’t forget to RSVP.

Attention Parents/Guardians of current 10th Graders

Tuesday, January 23

Save the date of Tuesday, January 23 for a very important information session for our rising 11th graders! This meeting will cover all you need to know about the IB Diploma Program at Meridian. More information will be published about this next week!

Save the Date: 10th Grade College Trip

April 1 - 2 or April 2 - 3

We hope all of our 10th graders will participate in this overnight trip to the Dallas area. We will take the​m​ to the IB College Fair and do a college tour at two universities. In the past, we have visited UT Dallas, UT Arlington, University of North Texas, and Baylor University. We have not yet determined which college campuses we will visit just yet. In addition to the educational benefits of this trip, this is also a great bonding experience for the class. 

The cost for the trip will be approximately $150 per student. This fee will cover bus transportation, hotel accommodations, and almost all meals. Financial assistance/payment plans will be offered.

The IB College Fair has been scheduled for April 2. Depending on the arrangements made for the college tours, the trip will either be April 1 - 2 or 2 - 3. Aside from saving these dates on your family calendar, no further action is needed on your part at this time. Questions? Email DP Principal Stela Holcombe.

Final math tutorial for December

For students in grades 10-12

We have one remaining session of Saturday math tutorial with Ms. Riley on this Saturday, December 9 from 10 a.m. -12 p.m./noon. Please sign your student up and put the date on your family calendar. If your student does not RSVP but then decides to come at the last minute, that's totally fine.

Tutorial location: Students should enter the high school building through the main lobby entrance. The tutorials are located in the downstairs chemistry lab (H1.04).

Secondary Winter Dress Week

Our health clinics serve all our students grades K-12. Occasionally they need help restocking supplies that our students might need. Check out their list to see how you can help. If you order from their Amazon wish list please have items shipped to you and have your student drop items off at either the primary/high school or middle school clinics. 

Uniform needs

We have an immediate need for boys and girls size 4t-10 bottoms (pants, jeans, shorts, skirts, etc). The clinics use items from the uniform exchange closet but we have run out. If you have new or gently used pieces, consider donating them and help us restock the uniform exchange closet. Thank you for supporting our clinics. Questions? Email [email protected].

Course selection meetings for rising 8th and 9th graders

Rising 8th graders

Our upcoming 8th graders have a very scripted schedule for their 8th grade year. Students will continue with their current chosen language. All 8th graders take visual arts and design. You may schedule an optional meeting with Mr. Harvey to review what your rising 8th graders schedule will look like. 

• Make your appointment for the optional rising 8th grade meetings.
• Learn more about the 8th grade choice sheet before your meeting.

Rising 9th graders

Mr. Harvey is meeting with students and families to complete 4-year grade plans and review requested course selections. Please make your appointment and save the date.

• Make your appointment for your rising 9th grade meetings.
• Learn more about the 9th grade choice sheet and four year plan before your meeting.

Attention Parents/Guardians of current 10th Graders

Tuesday, January 23

Save the date of Tuesday, January 23 for a very important information session for our rising 11th graders! This meeting will cover all you need to know about the IB Diploma Program at Meridian. More information will be published about this next week!

Save the Date: 10th Grade College Trip

April 1 - 2 or April 2 - 3

We hope all of our 10th graders will participate in this overnight trip to the Dallas area. We will take the​m​ to the IB College Fair and do a college tour at two universities. In the past, we have visited UT Dallas, UT Arlington, University of North Texas, and Baylor University. We have not yet determined which college campuses we will visit just yet. In addition to the educational benefits of this trip, this is also a great bonding experience for the class. 

The cost for the trip will be approximately $150 per student. This fee will cover bus transportation, hotel accommodations, and almost all meals. Financial assistance/payment plans will be offered.

The IB College Fair has been scheduled for April 2. Depending on the arrangements made for the college tours, the trip will either be April 1 - 2 or 2 - 3. Aside from saving these dates on your family calendar, no further action is needed on your part at this time. Questions? Email DP Principal Stela Holcombe.

MYP IB Grading Parent/Guardian meeting

Tuesday, December 5

Join us next week and learn more about MYP grading. We will be sharing where we are going with Standards Based Grading and would like families to provide feedback. The meeting will be from 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. in the Middle School Mays Café. Please submit any questions you have prior to the event.

6th Grade Field Trip to the Perot Museum

For students in grades 10-12

We have two remaining sessions of Saturday math tutorials with Ms. Riley and/or Dr. Oldfield in December. Please sign your student up and put these dates on your family calendar. If your student does not RSVP but then decides to come at the last minute, that's totally fine. 

Tutorial location: Students should enter the high school building through the main lobby entrance. The tutorials are located in the downstairs chemistry lab (H1.04).

Winter Dress Week

December 11 – 14

Get ready for winter dress up week! The week of December 11, before winter break, students may wear the following:

Monday: Holiday or ugly sweater

Tuesday: Uniform with winter/holiday accessories (hat, antlers, headband, socks, etc)

Wednesday: Plaid or college shirt (no early release, this will be a full day of school)

Thursday: Pajamas

Course selection meetings for rising 8th and 9th graders

Rising 8th graders

Our upcoming 8th graders have a very scripted schedule for their 8th grade year. Students will continue with their current chosen language. All 8th graders take visual arts and design. You may schedule an optional meeting with Mr. Harvey to review what your rising 8th graders schedule will look like. 

• Make your appointment for the optional rising 8th grade meetings.
• Learn more about the 8th grade choice sheet before your meeting.

Rising 9th graders

Mr. Harvey is meeting with students and families to complete 4-year grade plans and review requested course selections. Please make your appointment and save the date.

• Make your appointment for your rising 9th grade meetings.
• Learn more about the 9th grade choice sheet and four year plan before your meeting.

Reach out to Mr. Harvey with any questions.

MYP IB Grading Parent/Guardian meeting

Tuesday, December 5

Join us and learn more about MYP grading. We will be sharing where we are going with Standards Based Grading and would like families to provide feedback. The meeting will be from 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. in the Middle School Mays Café. Please submit any questions you have prior to the event.

6th Grade Field Trip to the Perot Museum