DP Lions Share Archive
DP Lions Share Archive 2023-2024
Week of April 24, 2024
Week of April 24, 2024
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families!
It's almost May! This means that IB exam season is upon us and graduation is fast approaching. There is a lot of new info in this week's newsletter so please read and reply with any questions!
I had the pleasure of seeing Shrek the Musical, Jr. this past weekend! It was an incredible show starring a number of our DP students. I highly recommend you go! It runs again for a second weekend this Friday and Saturday, April 26 and 27; showtime is 6:30 p.m.
On Monday and Tuesday of this week, our DP science juniors participated in the Group 4 Project. It was inspiring to hear them share what they learned in this two-day collaborative experience with their peers!
Seniors and parents of seniors, please read below for information about Senior Fun Week! If your senior plans to participate in any of the activities, we need you to please fill out the permission form and make the necessary payments in MySchoolBucks by this coming Monday, April 29.
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
DP Teacher of the Year Nominations
Deadline Extended to Monday, April 29
It's that time of the year! Please take a few minutes to nominate a DP faculty member who has made a difference in your student's school experience for DP Teacher of the Year. Please know that we will share your nomination comments with the DP teacher that you nominate even if they are not selected for DP Teacher of the Year. We do this during Teacher Appreciation Week. I hope you will take just a few minutes to nominate a DP faculty member.
Senior Fun Week - Action Required by Monday, April 29!
- Senior Fun Week information.
- Required Senior Fun Week Permission Form. This must be completed by Monday, April 29.
- Barton Springs Pool Admission ($10). This must be paid by Monday, April 29. Please select your student's name from the drop down menu to start the purchasing process.
- Topgolf 2-Hour Playtime Fee ($10). This must be paid by Monday, April 29. Please select your student's name from the drop down menu to start the purchasing process.
The Senior Play is Tonight!
Wednesday, April 24 at 6:30 p.m.
Tonight is the last night the DPY2 seniors will perform on stage at Meridian. They are excited to do a dramatic production–The Shawshank Redemption. Admission is free!
Athletics Awards Ceremony
Monday, April 29 from 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
If you have not done so already please RSVP to attend the Athletics Awards Ceremony. I'm sorry I won't be able to attend this event as I will be in California on a school-related trip.
Survivors, ready? It’s time for National Honor Society Field Day
9th, 10th, and 11th graders get ready to compete against each other on May 17 in a series of games and tasks in the annual Field Day organized and run by National Honor Society (NHS). This is such a fun day for all students involved and a true labor of service from our NHS members. To make this year's Field Day the most memorable yet, we are selling t-shirts for spiritwear and to be worn by our Survivors on Field Day. Students in 9th - 11th grades are invited to purchase them on MySchoolBucks until Thursday, May 2 to ensure delivery will be made before Field Day!
Semester 1 "A Honor Roll" and "AB Honor Roll" Lists
Students who made the "A Honor Roll" and "AB Honor Roll" for Semester 1 will be recognized at the DP Awards Ceremony on Thursday, May 2. Students and parents/guardians are invited to review the lists … but wait! Please note there are two tabs on the spreadsheet –one for all As and one for all As and Bs. If you think your student was omitted in error, please double check grades for Semester 1 in Skyward first and then email Wendy Riley if a correction is needed.
Graduation medals for Full IB Diploma Candidates - $14 in MySchoolBucks
Full IB Diploma candidates have the option of wearing an IB medal as part of their graduation regalia. If you would like to buy this item for your graduate, you can find the invoice for $14 in MySchoolBucks. Again, this is an optional purchase for seniors who are full IB diploma candidates.
Graduation ticket request due Friday, May 1
Due by: Wednesday, May 1
We look forward to celebrating the graduation of the Class of 2024 on Friday, May 24 at 7 p.m. at the Round Rock Sports Center. Each graduate may invite up to 14 guests, and there will be an opportunity to secure up to a certain number of additional tickets once we have a better idea of how many total guests we are expecting. All immediate and extended family members and friends will be required to present an official Meridian School Graduation Ceremony Ticket upon entry to the graduation venue. The graduates will not need a ticket.
Action Required: The family of every graduate must complete this Google Form by Wednesday, May 1 to request their graduation tickets. Meridian faculty and staff will be offered tickets separately, so please do not reserve tickets for special teachers or staff that you would like to invite.
Important: If you do not need all 14 of the initial tickets offered, please do not reserve them so they can be offered to families who would like to invite a larger number of guests.
Questions? Please email Stela Holcombe. Thank you!
IB Exam Schedule & Review Sessions
IB exams for seniors begin May 1 (next week!), and they continue through May 17 (DP May 2024 Exam Calendar). The only day without an IB exam over this period of time is Friday, May 3.
Several teachers are offering review sessions for the IB exams. Read the live document that lists the review sessions chronologically by date. Students are encouraged to attend as many of these optional sessions as possible. Note: This is a live document that is subject to change. Please check back for changes before showing up for a review session.
Is Your Senior Taking IB Exams?
If the answer is yes, we need your help! The IB Oasis is a room in the high school building where seniors can grab some food before or after IB exams. It is a place to decompress and refuel during the most stressful days of their Meridian career. They have three weeks of exams, so there are lots of slots available to keep the IB Oasis well-stocked. Please sign up to donate food/snacks and/or volunteer to set-up one morning in May during IB exams. Thank you to those who have already signed up!
Attention Juniors: Student Parking for 2024-2025
Action Required by Friday, May 3
It's time to sign up for student parking for the 24-25 school year! The deadline to submit this form is Friday, May 3. If no response is received, it will be assumed that the rising senior does not desire to drive and/or park on campus for the 24-25 school year. All rising seniors are asked to complete the form–even those who do not desire to drive and park on campus in the upcoming school year. This will help Ms. Riley confirm who does not need a parking space. Questions? Please email Ms. Riley.
College Newsletter (Published by DP Students)
Two seniors from the Class of 2024 (Leon T. and Abigail T.) have decided to share what they have learned about the college admissions process with you in the form of a newsletter. The content has been reviewed by our College Counselor, Kathy Gregg, but keep in mind that the newsletter is written from the perspective of the students who have contributed the content. I'm sure you will find it informative and interesting. Read the first edition of the College Newsletter.
Volunteer Needed to Assemble Informal Senior Slideshow
A parent volunteer is needed to assemble the photos the seniors provided with the music they suggested into the Informal Senior Slideshow. This is something special the seniors will enjoy and remember from their last day together on campus. If you can help make it happen, it will be greatly appreciated! Please reach out to Mrs. Holcombe this week.
Senior Fun Week: New activity at Georgetown Lake
The seniors will enjoy an outing to Georgetown Lake on Tuesday, May 21. This is happening after the annual cap and gown parade that we do for the primary and middle school students. This event at the lake will start at about 10:30 a.m. and will go through 1 p.m. Stela Holcombe is seeking some parents who would be willing to go set up that morning and do some grilling of hot dogs and/or hamburgers for the students. If you would be interested in helping with this, please email Mrs. Holcombe. Thank you!
Adopt a Senior!
The deadline to Adopt a Senior is today, Wednesday, April 24. Choose a senior you know, or one who lives nearby. Notes and treats can be dropped off at the high school office (this is pretty convenient) or to the student's home, if a home address is provided. Please Adopt a Senior (or two) and give them some much-needed encouragement in the home stretch of their Meridian career.
End of Year: Important dates for Seniors
- No summatives or major assignments will be due after Friday, April 26 (except for coseated students in English 4). This will help seniors avoid stress associated with these tasks immediately prior to IB exams, which begin on May 1.
- Last day of class for seniors is Tuesday, April 30 - but all seniors are expected to attend school daily through May 22.
- There are no retakes on the last summatives for Q4, but seniors may turn in Q4 work through 5 p.m. on Friday, May 3. (There are no IB exams on May 3.)
- Q4 Senior grades will be in Skyward by Monday, May 13 by 8 a.m.
DP Awards Ceremony
Thursday, May 2 from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. in the Mays Gym
Juniors and seniors (and their parents/guardians) who will be receiving an award will receive an email notification by Monday, April 29. Attendance is optional, but we encourage participation if you are available.
Senior Prank Night
Thursday, May 2, from 8:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.
This is the same night as the annual DP Awards Ceremony. Seniors will have time to go home, eat dinner, change, and grab their supplies for Senior Prank Night. Please know that this is a sanctioned activity that is supervised by Meridian staff.
24-25 Dance Team registration ends today!
Fierce Dance Team will perform in three area competitions, pep rallies, Varsity home games, and more next year! This yearlong sport is open to all rising 7th-12th grade dancers. Hurry! Registration ends at 9 p.m. Wednesday for the 2024-2025 Dance Team season! Check your registration status. No late registrations will be accepted!
Missed the Zoom info session on Friday, April 19? Find the recording.
Learn more: About Competitive Dance Team / Tryouts / Practices / Coaches / Fees / Registration
It’s lettering and letter jacket time!
In recognition of the dedication and commitment required to be an IB student, all Meridian juniors and seniors have the privilege of purchasing a letter jacket with the Meridian "M" on the front. In the spring of each year, sophomores may also order their jackets to wear starting in the fall of their junior year.
High school students who lettered in their activity can also purchase a Meridian letter jacket, and they can purchase a patch for the jacket sleeve representing their activity. 2023-2024 Lettering List
Thursday, April 25
Letter Jacket and Letter Patch Zoom Info Session for students who lettered in their activity and all sophomores and juniors interested in ordering a letter jacket during Advisory (1:50 - 2:20 p.m.). Parents/guardians welcome.
Thursday, May 2 and Friday, May 3
Letter Jacket Sizing & Ordering Event (and jacket sleeve patch ordering for those who already have a letter jacket) during C lunch and Advisory (1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.) in the Mays Lobby. Parents/guardians are welcome.
Letter Jackets & LetteringAthletics Awards Ceremony
Monday, April 29 from 5:30 - 7 p.m. in the Mays Gym
RSVP by Wednesday, April 24
For students who participated on competitive sports teams this year and their parents/guardians. Learn more.Get ready for 2024-2025 sports experiences!
- Introduction to 24-25 Meridian sports
- Find registration dates.
- Read the updated Terms for Participation before registering.
- Submit your 24 -25 sports physical form to [email protected]. Learn more about Physical Forms & Sports Physicals.
Secondary Enrichment dates
April 24: Registration ends at 9 p.m. for 24-25 Dance Team
April 25: Letter Jacket and Letter Patch Zoom Info Session during advisory (for students and parents/guardians)
April 27: VASE State (Art) - Jordin and Anjali advancing!
April 27 -30: DECA Nationals - Aarush is going to Nationals!
April 29: Athletics Awards Ceremony - for 23-24 competitive sports
May 1: Registration opens for Fall Competitive Sports (Cross Country, Flag Football, Volleyball)
May 2 - 3: Letter Jacket Sizing & Ordering Event in the Mays Lobby from 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. (Parents/guardians welcome)
May 4: 24-25 Dance Team tryouts. Must be registered and physically eligible to participate.
May 8: Registration ends at 9 p.m. for Fall Competitive Sports (Cross Country, Flag Football, Volleyball)
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets?
Email [email protected].Week of April 17, 2024
Week of April 17, 2024
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families!
The students enjoyed a beautiful prom this past Saturday! I'd like to offer a big Lions Roar to Alexia Thex for leading the planning and execution of this milestone event for our juniors and seniors. My favorite part of the evening was the Whataburger delivery (of course!). See below for additional shout outs to parents and local businesses who helped make "A Golden Hour" Prom 2024 a success.
Shrek the Musical, Jr. opens this Friday night. I hope to see many of you there! The show will run for two weekends. Come support seniors, Diego R., Fred A., Emmy S., Carter L., Caleb N., and Jeff P. who are in the cast or crew of the spring musical. Buy your tickets now!
Progress Report grades have been updated in Skyward as of Monday, April 15. If you have concerns about missing or failing grades, please reach out to Wendy Riley or Nick Manuszak. We conference with students regularly about their grades, but you are welcome to reach out at any time.
Lastly, a reminder that there is no school for students this Friday, April 19. Our teachers have a workday to work on planning and grading.
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Junior/Senior Prom shout outs!
"A Golden Hour" prom is in the books! A special thank you to the following businesses that donated items or provided significant discounts to help support Prom 2024:
- Celebrino Event Center
- Chick-fil-A (University Location)
- HEB (University Location)
- Nothing Bundt Cakes (Round Rock Location)
- Party On Texas
- Whataburger (University Location)
A big shout-out to the Prom Committee and all who put in hours and hours of work to make sure this event was a success: Alexia Thex, Colette Hammons , Hannah LeBreton, Deb Robion, Angela Sanchez, Evi Sanchez, Amy Linkous, Amy North, Leti Chavira, Carmen Garudo, and Arieyani Hartono (and all their families). Also thanks to everyone who donated gift cards, games or let us borrow all kinds of items.
Photos by Deb Robison
Cap and Gown delivery!
This coming Monday, April 22
Herff Jones will deliver graduation products including cap and gowns, graduation announcements, and class rings on this coming Monday, April 22, during advisory in the high school Tech Commons. If you have a balance due, please bring it with you.
DP Teacher of the Year Nominations
Deadline: Wednesday, April 24
It's that time of the year! Please take a few minutes to nominate a DP faculty member who has made a difference in your student's school experience for DP Teacher of the Year. The deadline to nominate a teacher is Wednesday, April 24. Please know that we will share your nomination comments with the DP teacher that you nominate even if they are not selected for DP Teacher of the Year. We do this during Teacher Appreciation Week. I hope you will take just a few minutes to nominate a DP faculty member.
Weekly Senior Newsletter
Seniors and parents/guardians of seniors, make sure to read the weekly Senior Newsletter. It highlights the info you need week by week! Thanks to Robyn Tester for keeping this document updated for the Class of 2024!
Action Required of current 11th 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 will close on Friday, April 19, 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.
Adopt a Senior!
The deadline to Adopt a Senior is April 24. Choose a senior you know, or one who lives nearby. Notes and treats can be dropped off at the high school office (this is pretty convenient) or to the student's home, if a home address is provided. Please Adopt a Senior (or two) and give them some much-needed encouragement in the home stretch of their Meridian career.
Parents are invited to Group 4 Project Presentations
Tuesday, April 23 from 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
The Group 4 Collaborative Science Project is scheduled for the juniors this coming Monday, April 22 and Tuesday, April 23. This is an IB requirement for all students enrolled in DP science (Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Design, and Environmental Systems & Societies). Students are grouped with representatives from each field of science. Then, they collaborate to solve a scientific challenge of their choice. Parents, please join us on the evening of Tuesday, April 23 from 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. to see the solutions that our DP science juniors come up with! Please enter via the high school lobby.
IB Exam review sessions: History and Math
IB exams for seniors begin May 1, and continue through May 17 (DP May 2024 Exam Calendar). The only day without an IB exam over this period is Friday, May 3.
The DP History exam is May 7-8. Mr. Ryder will offer several exam review sessions just prior to the exam. These sessions will be held on campus in Mr. Clark’s classroom on:
- Friday, May 3: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
- Saturday, May 4: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
- Sunday May 5: 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
The DP English Language and Literature exam is May 9-10. Mr. Baker will offer review sessions that focus on individual works. These review sessions will take place in Mr. Baker's classroom on:
- Monday, April 22: 4:15 - 5:30 p.m. (Beowulf)
- Tuesday, April 23: 4:15 - 5:30 p.m. (The Underdogs)
- Thursday, April 25: 4:15 - 5:30 p.m. (Persepolis)
- Friday, April 26: 4:15 - 5:45 p.m. (Othello: Part 1)
- Monday, April 29: 4:15 - 5:45 p.m. (Othello: Part 2)
- Tuesday, April 30: 4:15 - 5:30 p.m. (Song of Solomon)
End of Year - Important dates for Seniors
- No summatives or major assignments will be due after Friday, April 26 (except for coseated students in English 4). This will help seniors avoid stress associated with these tasks immediately prior to IB exams, which begin on May 1.
- Last day of class for seniors is Tuesday, April 30 - but all seniors are expected to attend school daily through May 22.
- There are no retakes on the last summatives for Q4, but seniors may turn in Q4 work through 5 p.m. on Friday, May 3. (There are no IB exams on May 3.)
- Q4 Senior grades will be in Skyward by Monday, May 13 by 8 a.m.
Support our seniors! Donate to the IB Oasis
The IB Oasis is a room in the high school building where seniors can grab some food before or after IB exams. It is a place to decompress and refuel during the most stressful days of their Meridian career. They have three weeks of exams, so there are lots of slots available to keep the IB Oasis well-stocked. Please sign up to donate food/snacks and/or volunteer to set-up one morning in May during IB exams.
DP Awards Ceremony
Thursday, May 2
The annual DP Awards Ceremony will be held on Thursday, May 2, from 6 p.m - 7:30 p.m. Seniors and their parent/guardian will receive an email notification by Monday, April 29, if the senior will be receiving an award. Attendance is optional, but we encourage participation if you are available.
Senior Prank Night
Thursday, May 2, from 8:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.
This is the same night as the DP Awards. Seniors will have time to go home, eat dinner, change, and grab their supplies for Senior Prank Night. Mrs. Holcombe will be working with the seniors over the next two weeks to solidify their hilarious ideas.
Free Tuition at Austin Community College
Austin Community College (ACC) has made a huge announcement about a pilot program to provide free tuition for all students in the ACC attendance zone beginning with 2024 graduates. Please read for complete details from ACC and see a news story from KUT.
Registration is now open for 24-25 Dance Team
Registration is now open for the 24-25 Dance Team season! Registration ends at 9 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24. No late registrations will be accepted!
Parents/guardians of students interested in participating are strongly encouraged to join the Zoom information meeting on Friday, April 19 from 1 - 1:30 p.m. Learn more: About Competitive Dance Team / Tryouts / Practices / Coaches / Fees / Registration.
Athletics Awards Ceremony
Monday, April 29 from 5:30 - 7 p.m. in the Mays Gym
For students who participated on competitive sports teams this year and their parents/guardians. Learn more. Action required: RSVP by Wednesday, April 24.
Get ready for 24-25 sports experiences!
- Introduction to 24-25 Meridian sports
- Find registration dates.
- Read the updated Terms for Participation before registering.
- Submit your 24 -24 sports physical form to [email protected]. Learn more about Physical Forms & Sports Physicals.
Secondary Enrichment dates
April 17: Registration opens for 24-25 Dance Team
April 24: 23-24 Lettering List published
April 24: Registration ends at 9 p.m. for 24-25 Dance Team
April 27: VASE State (Art) - Jordin and Anjali advancing!
April 27 -30: DECA Nationals - Aarush is going to Nationals!
April 29: Athletics Awards Ceremony - for 23-24 competitive sports
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets?
Email [email protected].Week of April 10, 2024
Week of April 10, 2024
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families!
What a memorable week we have had at Meridian. It was really special to share the total eclipse as a DP community on Monday, and yesterday we celebrated Ezra B. and Mary H. who have signed to play collegiate volleyball. We are all so proud of these amazing scholar-athletes! Hear Ezra and Mary’s remarks at Signing Day.
Attention Seniors and Parents/Guardians of Seniors: I have learned that a number of our seniors are currently participating in a game called "Senior Assassins". Please know that this activity is not a school sponsored activity. I want to make it very clear that this game should not be brought on campus in any way, shape, or form–ESPECIALLY in regards to bringing any kind of gun (water, Nerf, airsoft, paintball, etc) on campus. Doing so will result in disciplinary action. I encourage students and parents to consider and discuss at home the dangers this game can pose for students while playing out in the community. If you have questions or concerns about this please let me know. I just want to make sure our seniors stay safe!
We are looking forward to Junior/Senior Prom, "A Golden Hour", this Saturday, April 13! Over 130 tickets have been sold so far! Remember that tickets are not sold at the door; they must be purchased via MySchoolBucks in advance (by noon this Friday, April 12).
Lastly, I'd like to thank parent Pam Cortinas for donating cookies and frozen treats for the Eclipse event on Monday!
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Prom 2024 is this weekend!
The deadline to purchase tickets is 12 noon this Friday, April 12
Prom 2024 tickets are on sale right now on MySchoolBucks! Tickets will only be sold on MySchoolBucks. Tickets will not be sold at the door!
Theme: “A Golden Hour”
When: Saturday, April 13 from 7 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Location: Celebrino Event Center 51 County Rd 107, Georgetown, TX 78626
Cost: $65 (+ 4.6% MySchoolBucks fee)
Spirit Week is this week!
Friday, April 12: Meridian Minion Day (dress as minions from Despicable Me). Pep Rally today!
Action Required of current 11th 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 will close on Friday, April 19, 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.
It's time to Adopt a Senior!
"Adopt a Senior" gives the entire Meridian community the chance to celebrate the class of 2024 seniors in their last few weeks of high school right when they need it most. Adopting a senior can involve sending a note of encouragement or treating them with their favorite snack or a gift card.
The deadline to Adopt a Senior is April 24. Then, deliver your notes and/or small gifts between May 1 and May 17. Choose a senior you know, or one who lives nearby. Notes and treats can be dropped off at the high school office (this is pretty convenient) or to the student's home, if a home address is provided. Please Adopt a Senior (or two) and give them some much-needed encouragement in the home stretch of their Meridian career.
Last Pep Rally for the Seniors
Our last Pep Rally for the school year is this Friday! The students are invited to dress up as minions from Despicable Me. Parents/guardians if your senior asks you to leave early from school on Friday, please encourage them to stay for this last pep rally of their high school career. The pep rally is scheduled from 3 p.m.-4 pm.
11th Grade STAAR Test: US History EOC
Juniors take the US History End of Course Exam April 16. Students should plan to be in school that day except in the case of illness (in which case a make up date will be arranged). Students should be well-rested and have eaten a good breakfast. Breakfast is available in our cafeteria as always. Students may bring a clean, quiet snack and water if they wish. The exams are untimed; most will finish before lunch time. This test is required for graduation. We know our students will perform well; they always do!
Attention Juniors: DP Collaborative Science Project
The Group 4 Collaborative Science Project is scheduled for the juniors Monday, April 22 and Tuesday, April 23. This is an IB requirement for all students enrolled in DP science (Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Design, and Environmental Systems & Societies); please do not be absent on April 22 and 23.
For the collaborative science project, students are grouped with representatives from each science, and collaborate to solve a scientific challenge of their choice. Parents, please come Tuesday evening at 6 p.m. to see the solutions that our DP science juniors come up with!
IB History Exam Review
IB exams for seniors begin May 1, and continue through May 17 (DP May 2024 Exam Calendar). The only day without an IB exam over this period is Friday, May 3. The DP History exam is May 7-8, and Mr. Ryder is offering several exam review sessions just prior to the exam. These sessions will be held on campus in Mr. Clark’s classroom on:
Friday, May 3 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Saturday, May 4 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Sunday May 5 from 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Students may also use this IB History Exam Review to help prepare.
Support our seniors! Donate to the IB Oasis
The IB Oasis is a room in the high school building where seniors can grab some food before or after IB exams. It is a place to decompress and refuel during the most stressful days of their Meridian career. They have three weeks of exams, so there are lots of slots available to keep the IB Oasis well-stocked. Please sign up to donate food/snacks and/or volunteer to set-up one morning in May during IB exams.
DP Awards Ceremony
The annual DP Awards Ceremony will be held on Thursday, May 2, from 6 p.m - 7:30 p.m. Seniors and their parent/guardian will receive an email notification by Monday, April 29, if the senior will be receiving an award. Attendance is optional, but we encourage participation if you are available.
Free Tuition at Austin Community College
Austin Community College (ACC) has made a huge announcement about a pilot program to provide free tuition for all students in the ACC attendance zone beginning with 2024 graduates. Please read for complete details from ACC and see a news story from KUT.
UT Austin reinstates testing requirements for Class of 2025 (and beyond)
UT Austin has announced that they will reinstate their testing requirement for SAT or ACT beginning with applications for the Fall 2025 semester. In addition to this change, they are offering an Early Action deadline of October 15, modifications in essays, short answer requirements and letters of recommendation, and the introduction of a waitlist. Read on for all the changes UT will be implementing next year.
2024-2025 Dance Team
Registration opens Wednesday, April 17 for the 2024-2025 Dance Team season! Parents/guardians of students interested in participating are strongly encouraged to join the Zoom information meeting on Friday, April 19 from 1 - 1:30 p.m. Details about the 2024-2025 Dance Team season will be published on the website when registration opens.
Athletics Awards Ceremony
Monday, April 29 from 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. in the Mays Gym
For students who participated on competitive sports teams this year and their parents/guardians. Learn more. Action required: RSVP by Wednesday, April 24.
Get ready for 2024-2025 sports experiences!
- Find registration dates.
- Read the updated Terms for Participation before registering.
- Submit your 2024 -2025 sports physical form to [email protected]. Learn more about Physical Forms & Sports Physicals.
Secondary Enrichment dates
April 17: Registration opens for 2024-2025 Dance Team
April 24: 2023-2024 Lettering List published
April 24: Registration ends at 9 p.m. for 2024-2025 Dance Team
April 27: VASE State (Art) - Jordin and Anjali advancing!
April 27 -30: DECA Nationals - Aarush is going to Nationals!
April 29: Athletics Awards Ceremony for 2023-2024 competitive sports
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets?
Email [email protected].Week of April 3, 2024
Week of April 3, 2024
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
This week we played an April Fool's joke on the students! We made a fake announcement slide about big changes to next year's dress code, and we (the faculty/staff) dressed like the students. I had fun wearing a red polo and my crocs all day.
We are less than one week away from Eclipse Day! If you have made special plans to enjoy the eclipse as a family, of course please do so … but it would be appreciated if your student is present for attendance at 9:30 a.m. Our DP teachers are planning for regular instruction, so if you don't have special plans we encourage the students to be in school. We will all be outside for 70 minutes of free time to enjoy the eclipse together as a community. We will have the entire primary school playground, gaga ball pit, and basketball court to ourselves! Take a look at the bell schedule for the day. Email me please with questions or concerns.
I hope to see many of you at our "DP Fine Arts Night" this Friday, April 5! We’ll showcase the hard work of our DP Visual Arts and DP Theater students.
Lastly, please help me wish Wendy Riley a happy National Assistant Principal's Week! She does an amazing job as our DP AP!
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
It's time to Adopt a Senior!
"Adopt a Senior" gives the entire Meridian community the chance to celebrate the class of 2024 seniors in their last few weeks of high school right when they need it most due to IB exams, college commitments, and the emotion of the upcoming graduation. Adopting a senior can involve sending a note of encouragement or treating them with their favorite snack or a gift card.
The deadline to Adopt a Senior is April 24. Then, deliver your notes and/or small gifts between May 1 and May 17. Choose a senior you know, or one who lives nearby. Notes and treats can be dropped off at the high school office (this is pretty convenient) or to the student's home, if a home address is provided. Please Adopt a Senior (or two) and give them some much-needed encouragement in the home stretch of their Meridian career. Thank you!
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.
Sports Signing Day
Tuesday, April 9 from 1:50 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Mays Lobby
Meridian’s Sports Signing Day is a celebration of our senior student athletes who have signed to play their sport for their chosen college! Parents/guardians, staff, and students are invited to stop by and congratulate Mary and Ezra, who will be playing volleyball in college!
Prom 2024 tickets on sale now!
The deadline to purchase is 12 noon on Friday, April 12.
Prom 2024 tickets are on sale right now on MySchoolBucks! Tickets will only be sold on MySchoolBucks until Friday, April 12 at noon. Tickets will not be sold at the door!
Theme: “A Golden Hour”
When: Saturday, April 13 from 7 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Location: Celebrino Event Center 51 County Rd 107, Georgetown, TX 78626
Cost: $65 (+ 4.6% MySchoolBucks fee)
Prom Song Requests: Seniors, make song requests between now and April 1 using this song request form.
For Seniors Bringing a Guest: Seniors, are you bringing a guest who does not attend Meridian? Submit a guest approval form.
DPY2 Fine Arts Night at Meridian
Visual Arts Exhibition (5 p.m.-7 p.m.)
The Mays Building will be transformed into an art exhibition space! This culminating senior project aims to showcase the best work of Meridian’s DP Visual Arts students. Each year in the IB Diploma Program, students enrolled in Visual Arts spend their junior and senior years preparing for this special show.This year, we have 16 seniors exhibiting up to 12 artworks each. You will see a wide variety of work because the DP Visual Arts course curriculum is student-centered and places student exploration at the heart of a holistic learning experience. This means that students have a free choice to identify, select and explore artistic styles, art materials, and art forms for study which interest and excite them. You will see printmaking, photography, cyanotypes, digital illustrations, paintings, drawings, collage, assemblage, ceramic sculptures and more! Students have explored themes that include self-portraits, surreal mental landscapes, and plenty of social commentary. The broad array of work aims to spark conversations, emotions and ideas from its visitors.
Collaborative Theatre Project Performance (7 p.m.)
Our DP Theatre Seniors will present two original works of theater for their Collaborative Project. The show is Friday, April 5 at 7 p.m. in the black box immediately following the Visual Arts Exhibition (scheduled from 5 p.m.) Admission is free and the performance will be over by 8:30 p.m. These 8 seniors will be submitting selections from this performance as part of their portfolio for their IB Diploma. We invite audiences willing to take part in a talkback after the pieces are over to share valuable feedback. We encourage all theater lovers to attend and support this fantastic team of seniors: Ramsey, Donovan, Nick F, Florian, Dallin, Caleb, Jeff and Diego!
Spirit Week is next week: Dress up day themes
Monday, April 8: Milky Way Monday (wear your Meridian eclipse spirit shirt, 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)
11th Grade STAAR Test: US History EOC
The juniors will take the US History End of Course Exam on April 16th. Students should plan to be in school that day except in the case of illness (in which case a make up date will be arranged). Students should be well-rested and have eaten a good breakfast. Breakfast is available in our cafeteria as always. Students may bring a clean, quiet snack and water if they wish. The exams are untimed; most will finish before lunch time. This test is required for graduation. We know our students will perform well; they always do!
Join the tradition - The 3rd Annual Adults vs. Meridian Soccer Games!
Soccer Senior Night is Thursday, April 4!
Help us celebrate the class of 2024 seniors in the Meridian Soccer program: Henok B., Ashwin N., Florian G., and Quentin T. Join us for the brief Soccer Senior Night Ceremony just before the start of the Adults vs. Meridian Soccer games on Thursday, April 4. View the mini slideshow honoring our seniors.
Fierce Dance Team performs at Arts & Science Showcase!
Get ready for 2024-2025 sports experiences!
- Find registration dates.
- Read the updated Terms for Participation before registering.
- Submit your 2024 -2024 sports physical form to [email protected]. Learn more about Physical Forms & Sports Physicals.
Secondary Enrichment dates
April 4: Soccer Senior Night
April 4: Adults vs. Students Soccer Games
April 6: Arts & Science Showcase - Fierce Dance Team performs (time TBD)
April 9: Sports Signing Day
April 17: Registration opens for 2024-2025 Dance Team
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets?
Email [email protected].Week of March 27, 2024
Week of March 27, 2024
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
I held the last DP Principal Coffee of the year on Monday. Here is the slideshow for those who were unable to make it. I will miss this special group of seniors … and I will miss their parents as well. We share memories dating as far back as kindergarten and I count many of you as friends.
It was a joy to travel with 61 of the seniors to Italy, Switzerland, and France over Spring Break. I am happy to report we brought everyone back safely and we made incredible memories. Next year, the seniors will go to Costa Rica where the country's motto is "Pura Vida!" I am looking forward to it! Your family can raise money via RS3 fundraising; it's not too late to register for the trip. Reach out to me for information.
Lastly, regarding the Eclipse Day on Monday, April 8th. All DP students are expected to be in school on this date. We are making special plans to experience the eclipse together outside on the playground. Students will be invited to bring blankets and snacks to share with their peers for this outdoor time. More info to come soon!
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
It's time to Adopt a Senior!
"Adopt a Senior" gives the entire Meridian community the chance to celebrate the class of 2024 seniors in their last few weeks of high school right when they need it most due to IB exams, college commitments, and the emotion of the upcoming graduation. Adopting a senior can involve sending a note of encouragement or treating them with their favorite snack or a gift card.
The deadline to Adopt a Senior is April 24. Then, deliver your notes and/or small gifts between May 1 and May 17. Choose a senior you know, or one who lives nearby. Notes and treats can be dropped off at the high school office (this is pretty convenient) or to the student's home, if a home address is provided. Please Adopt a Senior (or two) and give them some much-needed encouragement in the home stretch of their Meridian career. Thank you!
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.
Prom 2024 tickets on sale now!
The deadline to purchase is 12 noon on Friday, April 12.
Prom 2024 tickets are on sale right now on MySchoolBucks! Tickets will only be sold on MySchoolBucks until Friday, April 12 at noon. Tickets will not be sold at the door!
Theme: “A Golden Hour”
When: Saturday, April 13 from 7 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Location: Celebrino Event Center 51 County Rd 107, Georgetown, TX 78626
Cost: $65 (+ 4.6% MySchoolBucks fee)
Prom Song Requests: Seniors, make song requests between now and April 1 using this song request form.
For Seniors Bringing a Guest: Seniors, are you bringing a guest who does not attend Meridian? Submit a guest approval form.
DPY2 Fine Arts Night at Meridian
Friday, April 5
Visual Arts Exhibition (5 p.m.-7 p.m.)
The Mays Building will be transformed into an art exhibition space! This culminating senior project aims to showcase the best work of Meridian’s DP Visual Arts students. Each year in the IB Diploma Program, students enrolled in Visual Arts spend their junior and senior years preparing for this special show.
This year, we have 16 seniors exhibiting up to 12 artworks each. You will see a wide variety of work because the DP Visual Arts course curriculum is student-centered and places student exploration at the heart of a holistic learning experience. This means that students have a free choice to identify, select and explore artistic styles, art materials, and art forms for study which interest and excite them. You will see printmaking, photography, cyanotypes, digital illustrations, paintings, drawings, collage, assemblage, ceramic sculptures and more! Students have explored themes that include self-portraits, surreal mental landscapes, and plenty of social commentary. The broad array of work aims to spark conversations, emotions and ideas from its visitors.
Collaborative Theatre Project Performance (7 p.m.)
Our DP Theatre Seniors will present two original works of theater for their Collaborative Project. The show is Friday, April 5 at 7 p.m. in the black box immediately following the Visual Arts Exhibition (scheduled from 5 p.m.) Admission is free and the performance will be over by 8:30 p.m. These 8 seniors will be submitting selections from this performance as part of their portfolio for their IB Diploma. We invite audiences willing to take part in a talkback after the pieces are over to share valuable feedback. We encourage all theater lovers to attend and support this fantastic team of seniors: Ramsey, Donovan, Nick F, Florian, Dallin, Caleb, Jeff and Diego!
The Eclipse at Meridian
I have heard that students think that April 8 is an optional school day. Please know that we are planning for regular instruction in our DP classes on this day so all students are expected to attend school. We are making special plans for our 11th/12th grade students to experience the eclipse together out on the playground using eclipse glasses that we are purchasing for all staff and students. If you have questions or concerns about this, let me know.
April Spirit Week: Dress up day themes
Monday, April 8: Milky Way Monday (wear your Meridian eclipse spirit shirt, 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)
Senior Slideshows and Graduation Information
Please read the senior newsletter for information about these items that are specific to seniors.
11th Grade STAAR Test: US History EOC
The juniors will take the US History End of Course Exam on April 16th. Students should plan to be in school that day except in the case of illness (in which case a make up date will be arranged). Students should be well-rested and have eaten a good breakfast. Breakfast is available in our cafeteria as always. Students may bring a clean, quiet snack and water if they wish. The exams are untimed; most will finish before lunch time. This test is required for graduation. We know our students will perform well; they always do!
UT Austin reinstates standardized testing scores in admissions
From UT News: The University of Texas at Austin will return to requiring standardized testing scores, beginning with applications for the Fall 2025 semester. Read on for more information.
Meridian Soccer advances to playoffs!
Congratulations to our Coed MS and Girls Varsity teams who are advancing to playoffs! Come ROAR for your Lions!
Girls Varsity takes on KIPP Austin Collegiate in the Area Championship!
Monday, April 1 at 5:30 p.m.
Away - KIPP 969 Field (8509 FM 969, Austin, TX, 78724)
Coed Middle School advances to the Area Semi-Finals on home field!
Tuesday, April 2 at 6:30 p.m.
Home - Rock Field (217 Commerce Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78664)
Opponent TBD
Join the tradition: The 3rd Annual Adults vs. Meridian Soccer Players Games!
Thursday, April 4 from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Rock Field (217 Commerce Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78664)
Calling all grown-ups who love soccer! Teachers, staff members, parents, guardians, coaches, friends, neighbors, etc. – everyone 18+ is invited to join the fun! This is an evening of mini soccer games of adults from the Meridian community vs. the Meridian Soccer teams. There will be unlimited substitutions! Learn more and find the extremely short Google Form to join the fun.
Soccer Senior Night!
Thursday, April 4 at 5 p.m.
Rock Field (217 Commerce Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78664)
Help us celebrate the class of 2024 seniors in the Meridian Soccer program: Henok B., Ashwin N., Florian G., and Quentin T. Join us for the brief Soccer Senior Night Ceremony just before the start of the Adults vs. Meridian Soccer games on Thursday, April 4.
Model UN wraps up the competition season with WAMUNC
We're excited to share some great news from the Washington Area Model United Nations Conference (WAMUNC)! Twelve of our high school students attended the conference, and they did an awesome job! WAMUNC is super competitive, but our students rocked it! Special shoutout to Cylee D. for winning an award – way to go, Cylee!
Secondary Enrichment dates
April 1: Girls Varsity Soccer in Area Championship!
April 2: Coed MS Soccer in Area Semi-Finals!
April 4: Soccer Senior Night
April 4: Adults vs. Students Soccer Games
April 5-6: Soccer Regionals
April 6: Arts & Science Showcase - Fierce Dance Team performs (time TBD)
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets?
Email [email protected].Week of March 21, 2024
Week of March 21, 2024
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
I hope everyone had a great Spring Break! We had a memorable time on the senior trip to Italy, Switzerland, and France. It's always a pleasure to travel with Meridian students.
We are here to support our students who are observing Ramadan. Those who desire an alternate location to sit during lunchtime may go to either the middle school lobby or to the high school tech commons. Students who desire information regarding a private prayer space should reach out to Mrs. Holcombe.
Shouts Outs: I'd like to thank Alexia Thex for leading the planning for the Target themed senior breakfast on the Friday before the break! It was "super fun" as Alexia likes to say. Other parents supported this special event including Deb Robison, Anne Hankey, Andrea Darby, Elsa Yau, Amy Linkous, and Angela Sanchez. Additional shouts out go to Robyn Tester for writing the weekly Senior Newsletter, and to Deb Robison for organizing the Popcorn Study Break on March 7.
Quarter 4 is jam packed with so many things happening for our juniors and seniors. Please reach out with questions or concerns in this final stretch of the school year.
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
DP Principal Coffee (in person)
Monday, March 25 at 9 a.m.
Please join me for the last DP Principal Coffee of the 2023-2024 school year! We will meet in the High School Cafeteria. Please park in the designated visitor parking spots on this map. I hope to see you there!
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.
Email Sarah Whitley with any questions about Spring Picture Day.
Prom 2024: Tickets go on sale Monday, March 25
Prom 2024 tickets go on sale Monday, March 25 on MySchoolBucks! Tickets will only be sold on MySchoolBucks, tickets will not be sold at the door.
Buy your tickets between Monday, March 25 at noon through Friday, April 12 at noon.
Theme: “A Golden Hour”
When: Saturday, April 13 from 7 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Location: Celebrino Event Center 51 County Rd 107, Georgetown, TX 78626
Cost: $65 (+ 4.6% MySchoolBucks fee)
Prom Song Requests: Seniors, make song requests between now and April 1 using this song request form.
For Seniors Bringing a Guest: Seniors, are you bringing a guest who does not attend Meridian? Submit a guest approval form.
Prom Committee:The parent/guardian Prom Committee is led by Alexia Thex. Parent volunteers who are willing to help implement plans for decor, food, and prom activities are encouraged to sign up to get involved! Please email Alexia Thex with questions at [email protected].
Attention Juniors: Interested in playing golf next year?
We are exploring the idea of starting a golf team at Meridian next school year. If your student is interested in playing, please complete this form. The coach would be Mr. Morales, DP Environmental Science teacher.
April Spirit Week: Dress up day themes
Monday, April 8: Milky Way Monday (wear your Meridian eclipse spirit shirt, 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)
Senior Slideshows and Graduation Information
Please read the senior newsletter for information about these items that are specific to seniors.
UT Austin reinstates standardized testing scores in admissions
From UT News: The University of Texas at Austin will return to requiring standardized testing scores, beginning with applications for the Fall 2025 semester. Read on for more information.
Friday Night Lights. All four Meridian Soccer teams play at home Friday!
All four teams are playing at home Friday, March 22, starting at 5 p.m.! This is the last home quadruple-header of the season! Pack your picnic dinner, bring a camping chair, and come out to Rock Field (less than 1 mile from the school) to ROAR for your Lions! Free admission!
Join the tradition: The 3rd Annual Adults vs. Meridian Soccer Players Games!
Thursday, April 4 from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Rock Field (less than 1 mile from Meridian!)
Calling all grown-ups who love soccer! Teachers, staff members, parents, guardians, coaches, friends, neighbors, etc. – everyone 18+ is invited to join the fun! This is an evening of mini soccer games of adults from the Meridian community vs. the Meridian Soccer teams. There will be unlimited substitutions! Learn more and find the extremely short Google Form to join the fun.
Academic Eligibility
Students must be passing all classes and have no incompletes on their grading period 3 report card in order to be academically eligible to perform and compete with their extracurricular activities.
Academic eligibility will be set at 4:10 p.m. on Friday, March 22. The next chance to regain academic eligibility is 4:10 p.m. on Monday, April 22 if students are passing all classes on their grading period 4 progress report and have resolved all prior incompletes.
Action required: Before 3 p.m. on March 22, students who are failing or have incompletes in any classes should work with their teachers to correct errors and retake summative assessments that are still being accepted. Questions? Email [email protected]
Find helpful resources:
Secondary Enrichment dates
Secondary Enrichment important dates
March 21-24: Model UN Conference - WAMUNC
April 4: Soccer Senior Night
April 4: Adults vs. Students Soccer Games
April 5-6: Soccer Regionals
April 6: Arts & Science Showcase - Fierce Dance Team performs
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets?
Email [email protected].Week of March 6, 2024
Week of March 6, 2024
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
Students, faculty, and staff are working hard to finish up the third quarter. We are so ready for Spring Break! Our IB Continuum Evaluation went great last week. The visitors commented on student engagement in the classrooms they visited, and they noted how many students and staff mentioned their appreciation for our close-knit school community.
Congratulations to Major M. and Diego R. who are Tennis State Semi-Finalists!
I wish everyone a great Spring Break!
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Class of 2024 Senior Breakfast
This Friday, March 8
The Senior Breakfast is a wonderful tradition enjoyed by our seniors and the DP staff. Can't remember what you signed up for? Here is the sign up. Please email Alexia Thex at [email protected] with questions.
Attention Juniors: Interested in playing golf next year?
We are exploring the idea of starting a golf team at Meridian next school year. If your student is interested in playing, please complete this form. The coach would be Mr. Morales, DP Environmental Science teacher.
Reminder: IB Exam fees due by May 1
A friendly reminder for parents of seniors who are taking IB exams that payment is due by May 1. The invoices for IB exams are now in MySchoolBucks. You may pay by personal check to avoid the 4% MySchoolBucks fee. Please make the check payable to "Meridian School."
Senior group photo retake
We plan to retake the Senior Group Photo Tuesday, March 19 at 12:45 p.m. Please do not be absent! Seniors are asked to dress up for this photo (no polos or jeans, please). Seniors may stay dressed up all day or bring free dress clothes to change into after the photo is taken.
DP Principal Coffee (in person)
Monday, March 25 at 9 a.m.
Please save the date for our DP Principal Coffee. We will meet in the High School Cafeteria. 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. We hope to see you there!
Save the date for Spring Picture Day
Friday, April 5
Secondary students are invited to take Spring Pictures with Lifetouch on Friday, April 5. Look for more information after Spring Break.
Sports Signing Event at Meridian
Tuesday, April 9 from 1:50 p.m. - 2:25 p.m.
Ezra and Mary have committed to play volleyball for their colleges! We will celebrate this achievement with a fun Signing Day Event in April during advisory. All seniors are invited to this short celebration!
If your senior has also committed to play their sport at the collegiate level, please email [email protected] as soon as possible to be added to this event.
Senior slideshows
Due by April 15
There are two Senior Slideshows:
- The Informal Slideshow for the senior class. Seniors can provide up to 15 photos for this slideshow.
- The Formal Slideshow for seniors and their parents/guardians. Parents/guardians can provide up to 6 photos.
Song suggestions for both slideshows are also needed. All submissions are due the Monday, April 15 after prom. Find Mrs. Holcombe’s email with all the details and links to drives for your photos here.
Pre-approval required for courses taken outside of Meridian
Parents/guardians and students are reminded that they should not register to take courses outside of Meridian without consulting with their counselor. Meridian will only post credit on the official transcript for specific courses under specific circumstances that are approved in advance. Reach out to your counselor, Mr. Manuszak, if you have questions.
Getting ready for Graduation!
Friday, May 24 from 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Round Rock Sports Center
Each graduate may invite up to 14 guests to the ceremony.
Less than 100 days to go! See your Class of 2024 Graduation Countdown Clock.
Facebook Live Graduation Stream: If you are sending out graduation announcements, consider including an invitation to watch the live stream of graduation for friends and family who can’t be there in person. Here is a printable graduation announcement insert.
Shoe Restrictions for Graduation: Graduation is indoors this year at Round Rock Sports Center! We are hoping this will be the ongoing home for Meridian graduations. We have been asked to protect the court floors. See what shoes will be and won’t be allowed.
Meridian Tennis is State Champions!
Meridian Tennis competed in the Texas Charter School Academic and Athletic League (TCSAAL) Tennis State Tournament on Saturday, March 2 in San Marcos at Texas State University. Alishia S. and Gia B. brought home Meridian’s 22nd Tennis State Championship! Leah P. finished as State Runner-Up! Alana D., Gavin H., Major M., and Diego R., are State Semi-Finalists as well! Congratulations to all of our Meridian Tennis players on a terrific season!
Roar, Lions, ROAR!
Right: Alishia S. and Gia B. are 2024 TCSAAL State Tennis Champions in Middle Schools Girls Doubles! Photo by Amy Kaur. Left: Major M. and Diego R. are 2024 State Semi-Finalists in High School Boys Doubles. Photo by Mickell Moss.
Friday Night Lights = home soccer game!
Friday, March 8 at 6:45 p.m. - Boys JV
Come out to Rock Field – less than 1 mile from the school – and cheer for your Lions! Free admission!
Join the tradition: The 3rd Annual Adults vs. Meridian Soccer Players Games!
Rock Field (less than 1 mile from Meridian!)
Calling all grown-ups who love soccer! Teachers, staff members, parents, guardians, coaches, friends, neighbors, etc. – everyone 18+ is invited to join the fun! This is an evening of mini soccer games of adults from the Meridian community vs. the Meridian Soccer teams. There will be unlimited substitutions! Learn more and find the extremely short Google Form to join the fun.
Secondary Enrichment dates
March 21-24: Model UN Conference - WAMUNC
April 4: Soccer Senior Night
April 4: Adults vs. Students Soccer Games
April 5-6: Soccer Regionals
April 6: Arts & Science Showcase - Fierce Dance Team performs
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Week of February 28, 2024
Week of February 28, 2024
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
We are almost through the end of Quarter 3 and Spring Break is in the air! But before we depart for Spring Break … we have the ACT for juniors, an EE field trip to UT for juniors, a DP Recess/Popcorn Study Break, and the Senior Breakfast! Please read on to stay in the know about all that is happening in the DP. I hope to see you at the DPY1 Theater production of "Blithe" tonight!
FYI I am going to continue doing the Tardy Lockouts in the mornings through Spring Break … they seem to be effective in reducing the number of tardies to 1st and 5th periods.
Our big IB evaluation visit is this week! I know the quality of our IB Diploma Program and the dedication of our DP teachers and students will shine.
Lastly, we are in need of donations of Kleenex. If you can donate, please sign up here. Thank you in advance!
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
The ACT (for juniors) is next week!
The ACT testing is scheduled for Tuesday, March 5. Please note the following in regards to calculators:
- Students may only use the calculator on the math test; it should be stored away when testing in the other sections of the test.
- All math problems are solvable without the use of the calculator.
- There is a DESMOS calculator built into the test.
- The school will provide hand held calculators for student use or they may bring their own.
Tonight: 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.
Senior group photo retake
Pre-approval required for courses taken outside of Meridian
Parents/guardians and students are reminded that they should not register to take courses outside of Meridian without consulting with their counselor. Meridian will only post credit on the official transcript for specific courses under specific circumstances that are approved in advance. Reach out to your counselor: Andy Harvey grades 8-9 and Mr. Manuszak grades 10-12 if you have questions about this.
Eclipse Day: April 8
Important: NO student pick up will be allowed between noon and 2 p.m. this day.
April 8 will be a special day in the lives of Central Texans. We are expected to be in the path of totality for the solar eclipse. We want families to be aware that we are having school that day.
- The school has solar eclipse glasses for students and staff and we will all go outside to experience the eclipse.
- The office will close at noon that day, and our parking lots will be blocked off for everyone to experience the eclipse
- If you are planning to pick your child up early, you will need to do so before noon.
We will share more detailed information about our plans after Spring Break.
Action required by this Thursday, Feb. 29: Adopt A Senior
Adopt A Senior is an opportunity for the Meridian community (not the class of 2024 community) to "adopt" a senior from the Class of 2024. Members of the Meridian community will sign up via a Sign Up Genius to do a little something nice for the senior they “adopted.” Every Class of 2024 family must submit the form by February 29 to let Mrs. Holcombe know if you do or do not wish to include your senior in the group of seniors to be “adopted” by the community.
DP Recess: Popcorn Pop-In
We are ready for our 3rd Quarter Recess Treat on Friday, March 1 – Popcorn! Parents/guardians are invited to sign up to contribute supplies and help with this DP Recess Treat! This event is for the Classes of 2024 and 2025. Questions? Please email Deb Robison at [email protected].
Class of 2024 Senior Breakfast
Friday, March 8
The Senior Breakfast is a wonderful tradition enjoyed by our seniors and the DP staff. We need your help making this event a success! Please sign up for donations and/or volunteer duties. Questions? Please email Alexia Thex at [email protected].
Sports Signing Event at Meridian
Tuesday, April 9 from 1:50 p.m. - 2:25 p.m.
Ezra and Mary have committed to play volleyball for their colleges! We will celebrate this achievement with a fun Signing Day Event in April during advisory. All seniors are invited to this short celebration!
Updated RS3 Information
Brian and Anne Hankey, parent leaders for the RS3, have updated the informational documents about this great fundraising program. Your family can raise all the funds needed for the senior trip and/or for IB exams. Read about the program.
Getting ready for Graduation!
Friday, May 24 from 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Round Rock Sports Center
Each graduate may invite up to 14 guests to the ceremony.
Less than 100 days to go! See your Class of 2024 Graduation Countdown Clock. Here are some tools to help you in your preparations for the big day.
Facebook Live Graduation Stream: If you are sending out graduation announcements, consider including an invitation to watch the live stream of graduation for friends and family who can’t be there in person. Here is a printable graduation announcement insert.
Shoe Restrictions for Graduation: Graduation is indoors this year at Round Rock Sports Center! We are hoping this will be the ongoing home for Meridian graduations. We have been asked to protect the court floors. See what shoes will be and won’t be allowed.
Meridian art students are honored at VASE regionals!
Seventeen Meridian artists competed in the VASE regional competition last Saturday, February 24. The following students received a Medal of Excellence: Adithi B., Cylee D., Jordin E., Andressa F., Princess I.. Anjali K., Juliet L., Leah P., Lillian P., Abby R., Kaylin S., Susan S., and Keertana V. Congratulations to all of our artists who competed in VASE!
Jordin E. and Anjali K. advance to the VASE State event on April 27 in San Marcos!
The State Tennis Tournament is Saturday!
Both Meridian Tennis teams are competing in the Texas Charter School Academic and Athletic League (TCSAAL) State Tennis Tournament this Saturday, March 2 in San Marcos at Texas State University! Meridian has 21 state titles in Tennis!
Let’s GO, Lions! Bring home some more hardware this weekend!
Meridian’s dance team finishes the season strong!
Home soccer games Friday and Saturday!
Friday, March 1 starting at 5:30 p.m. – Coed MS and Boys JV
Saturday, March 2 starting at noon – Girls Varsity and Boys Varsity
This year, our home field is Rock Field, which is less than 1 mile from the school! Enjoy the gorgeous weather and join us for home Soccer games this Friday and Saturday!
Secondary Enrichment dates
March 2: Tennis State Tournament
March 21-24: Model UN Conference - WAMUNC
April 4: Soccer Senior Night
April 4: Adults vs. Students Soccer Games
April 5-6: Soccer Regionals
April 6: Arts & Science Showcase - Fierce Dance Team performs
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Week of February 21, 2024
Week of February 21, 2024
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
Thank you for helping reinforce the need for students to arrive to school on time. The large number of tardies is very disruptive to the learning environment so we are doing a tardy lock out this week. I will be in touch with you if your student arrives late to school so that you can speak with them about the matter. Your help with this is appreciated.
Our DECA students met with great success in Houston last weekend! Five students were recognized as State Finalists (Anish S., Harshiv P., Pearson M., Abigail T., and Vijay B.) and one student (Aarush S.) qualified for nationals! I enjoyed taking the students on a tour of Rice University and showing them a bit of my hometown.
This Friday, February 23 is Tennis Senior Night! We will celebrate Diego, Garrett, Kanai, and Major at 4 p.m. at Cimarron Hills. Come help us celebrate our tennis program seniors before their last home match of their Meridian Tennis career.
We are moving closer and closer to Spring Break. I know everyone is looking forward to this needed brain break! Please reach out if we can support your student in any way.
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
ACT Practice Sessions!
ACT Practice Test Sessions with Mr. Manuszak: February 21, and 28
ACT Test: Tuesday, March 5
Our juniors will take the ACT for free on March 5. The school will handle all aspects of registration. Please see this document for detailed information about free ACT Test Prep sessions that will be offered by Mr. Manuszak.
Why is the ACT/SAT Important? During the COVID pandemic, there was a trend of many schools becoming "test optional" which means that college applications did not require students to submit SAT or ACT scores. While this still remains largely true, we have seen that some colleges are starting to require test scores again, and more and more are likely to follow suit in time. Even if tests scores are not "required," students and parents should be aware of the following:
- Many of the most competitive universities require an ACT or SAT score. While many are still test optional, students can submit a strong score as another way to show the school that they are more qualified vs. the competition.
- The ACT or SAT is another way students can show college readiness. If students meet the criteria for ELA/Writing and Math on the ACT/SAT, they do not have to take the Texas TSI.
- The ACT and SAT scores, if submitted, could help a student get considered for a merit based scholarship from a university. Some schools also have automatic tiered merit scholarships based on GPA and test scores.
ACT Calculator Requirements
The ACT testing is scheduled for Tuesday, March 5. Please note the following:
- Students may only use the calculator on the math test; it should be stored away when testing in the other sections of the test.
- All math problems are solvable without the use of the calculator.
- There is a DESMOS calculator built into the test.
- The school will provide hand held calculators for student use or they may bring their own.
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.
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.
Eclipse Day: April 8
April 8 will be a special day in the lives of Central Texans. We are expected to be in the path of totality for the solar eclipse. We want families to be aware that we are having school that day.
- The school has solar eclipse glasses for students and staff and we will all go outside to experience the eclipse.
- The office will close at noon that day, and our parking lots will be blocked off for everyone to experience the eclipse
- If you are planning to pick your child up early, you will need to do so before noon.
We will share more detailed information about our plans after Spring Break.
Seniors: IB Exam invoices in MySchoolBucks
The invoices for IB exams are now in MySchoolBucks. You are invited to pay by personal check to avoid the 4% My School Bucks fee! Please make the check payable to "Meridian School". Payment is due by May 1. If you have questions about your invoice, please reach out to Holcombe.
Adopt A Senior - Opt in or opt out by Feb. 29
What is Adopt A Senior?
This is an opportunity for the Meridian community (not the class of 2024 community) to "adopt" a senior from the Class of 2024. Members of the Meridian community will sign up via a Sign Up Genius to do a little something nice for the senior they “adopted.” For example, they might mail or deliver a note or card of encouragement or congratulations. Some community members may opt to send small gifts or gift cards to their “adopted” seniors, but we stress that gift-giving is not required to participate.
Action required now of Class of 2024 parents/guardians!
Every Class of 2024 family must submit the form by February 29 to let Mrs. Holcombe know if you do or do not wish to include your senior in the group of seniors to be “adopted” by the community.
DP Recess: Popcorn Pop-In
We are ready for our 3rd Quarter Recess Treat on Friday, March 1 – Popcorn! Parents/guardians are invited to sign up to contribute supplies and help with this DP Recess Treat! This event is for the Classes of 2024 and 2025. Questions? Please email Deb Robison at [email protected].
Class of 2024 Senior Breakfast
Friday, March 8
The Senior Breakfast is a wonderful tradition enjoyed by our seniors and the DP staff. We need your help making this event a success! Please sign up for donations and/or volunteer duties. Questions? Please email Alexia Thex at [email protected].
Sports Signing Event at Meridian
Tuesday, April 9 from 1:50 p.m. - 2:25 p.m.
Ezra and Mary have committed to play volleyball for their colleges! We will celebrate this achievement with a fun Signing Day Event in April during advisory. All seniors are invited to this short celebration!
If your senior has also committed to play their sport at the collegiate level, please email [email protected] as soon as possible to be added to this event.
Senior Group Photo Retake
Unfortunately, the group photo that we took did not turn out well. We will be scheduling a retake for March or April. Please send any dates you know your senior will be out to Holcombe by Wednesday, February 21.
Getting Ready for Graduation!
Friday, May 24 from 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Round Rock Sports Center
100 days to go! See your Class of 2024 Graduation Countdown Clock. Here are some tools to help you in your preparations for the big day.
Facebook Live Graduation Stream: If you are sending out graduation announcements, consider including an invitation to watch the live stream of graduation for friends and family who can’t be there in person. Here is a printable graduation announcement insert.
Shoe Restrictions for Graduation: Graduation is indoors this year at Round Rock Sports Center! We are hoping this will be the ongoing home for Meridian graduations. We have been asked to protect the court floors. See what shoes will be and won’t be allowed.
Senior Group Photo Retake
Unfortunately, the senior group photo that we took back in November did not turn out well. We will be scheduling a retake for March or April. Please send any dates you know your senior will be absent to Holcombe by Wednesday, February 21.
Have you ordered your yearbook?
The deadline to order a guaranteed copy of the book is March 1! There will be very few extra yearbooks (if any) this year, so please pre-order so your senior has a copy of their senior year yearbook! Order your book here online today through Josten’s.
Attention Juniors: Need $$$ for your Senior Trip and/or IB exams?
Read this RS3 Testimonial from parent, Deb Robison
"When we first heard about RS3 fundraising, it seemed like not only a great way to earn money for our senior's IB exams, but it was also a great way for my teen to learn job skills and build her resume. The bonus was doing something fun with her which was a great bonding experience for us. We thought the two of us would have to work five shifts to meet our earning goal of $750, but much to our surprise we earned $1200 in only three shifts because of how the payout bonuses work. Our Meridian RS3 Coordinators, Brian and Anne Hankey, do a fantastic job with all of the organization and communications--and they skillfully advocate to make sure we have full teams working the events so that we can get the bonus earnings. Since my student is a senior, we were only aiming to earn $750 for the IB Exams. The extra money will go to my freshman student to start her Senior Trip fund."
To get connected with RS3 fundraising at Meridian, please email Brian and Anne Hankey at [email protected].
Meridian DECA finds success at the State competition!
As members of Meridian’s first competitive chapter of DECA (a program for students interested in business), fifteen Meridian high school students competed in the State competition at the Houston Convention Center last weekend. Five students were recognized as State Finalists! One student is advancing to Nationals in Anaheim this April! Congratulations to the DECA members, advisors, and chaperones!
VASE regionals art competition
Meridian’s “Fierce” Dance Team competes in Dance Championship!
Saturday, February 24
This Saturday, our Dance Team will perform in the final competition of the season – the Vista Ridge Dance Championship! Find the schedule and the link to the spectator information for this special event where artistry and competition combine for a solid day of entertainment. Let’s GO, Lions!
Tennis Senior Night is this week!
Join us in honoring our four seniors in the Meridian Tennis program – Diego R., Garrett H., Kanai P., and Major M. See the mini slideshow celebrating their contribution to the Meridian Tennis program. There will be a brief ceremony before their final home Meridian Tennis match: Varsity vs. Hill Country
Meridian Friday Night Lights = Home Soccer Games!
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Week of February 14, 2024
Week of February 14, 2024
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
Please remember that there is no school for students on this Friday, Feb 16 and Monday, February 19!
There is always so much happening in the DP! Here are some highlights:
- I'm so excited to take a group of 15 of our students to the DECA state competition in Houston tomorrow. Join me in wishing them good luck!
- We are less than one month away from the senior trip! Crystal Lane and I will be the admin on this adventure through Italy, France, and Switzerland.
- Full-diploma juniors are meeting with their EE supervisors today.
- ACT practice sessions for juniors continue on Wednesday afternoons.
- Prom 2024 planning is underway! I visited the venue, Celebrino, yesterday afternoon and it's so beautiful! I cannot wait to see how this event comes together.
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
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).
ACT Practice Sessions!
ACT Practice Test Sessions with Mr. Manuszak: February 7, 14, 21, and 28
ACT Test: Tuesday, March 5
Our juniors will take the ACT for free on March 5. The school will handle all aspects of registration. Please see this document for detailed information about free ACT Test Prep sessions that will be offered by Mr. Manuszak starting today!
Why is the ACT/SAT Important? During the COVID pandemic, there was a trend of many schools becoming "test optional" which means that college applications did not require students to submit SAT or ACT scores. While this still remains largely true, we have seen that some colleges are starting to require test scores again, and more and more are likely to follow suit in time. Even if tests scores are not "required," students and parents should be aware of the following:
- Many of the most competitive universities require an ACT or SAT score. While many are still test optional, students can submit a strong score as another way to show the school that they are more qualified vs. the competition.
- The ACT or SAT is another way students can show college readiness. If students meet the criteria for ELA/Writing and Math on the ACT/SAT, they do not have to take the Texas TSI.
- The ACT and SAT scores, if submitted, could help a student get considered for a merit based scholarship from a university. Some schools also have automatic tiered merit scholarships based on GPA and test scores.
Attention Juniors: Need $$$ for your Senior Trip and/or IB exams?
Read this RS3 Testimonial from parent, Deb Robison
"When we first heard about RS3 fundraising, it seemed like not only a great way to earn money for our senior's IB exams, but it was also a great way for my teen to learn job skills and build her resume. The bonus was doing something fun with her which was a great bonding experience for us. We thought the two of us would have to work five shifts to meet our earning goal of $750, but much to our surprise we earned $1200 in only three shifts because of how the payout bonuses work. Our Meridian RS3 Coordinators, Brian and Anne Hankey, do a fantastic job with all of the organization and communications--and they skillfully advocate to make sure we have full teams working the events so that we can get the bonus earnings. Since my student is a senior, we were only aiming to earn $750 for the IB Exams. The extra money will go to my freshman student to start her Senior Trip fund."
To get connected with RS3 fundraising at Meridian, please email Brian and Anne Hankey at [email protected].
EE field trip for Full Diploma Juniors (date change)
New date: Thursday, March 7 (changed from February 22)
Writing the EE is a challenging and fulfilling rite of passage for our DP students. It is a core requirement of the IB diploma program. Every year, we take our EE juniors to the University of Texas to do research for this 4,000-word paper. There are three action items related to this trip:
- Read this letter that explains all you need to know about the trip (what to bring, what to wear, etc.).
- This form was due by Feb 12: EE Research Trip to UT Austin Permission Form
- Pay the $15 fee in MySchoolBucks. This helps cover some of the cost for transportation (charter buses).
Seniors: IB Exam invoices in MySchoolBucks
The invoices for IB exams are now in MySchoolBucks. You are invited to pay by personal check to avoid the 4% My School Bucks fee! Please make the check payable to "Meridian School". Payment is due by May 1. If you have questions about your invoice, please reach out to Holcombe.
Senior Yard Sign orders are due Today: February 14!
It's time to order yard signs for your senior! Only 32 have been ordered so far; don't miss the opportunity! These are a free gift from the school to your family, but you must sign up to order the sign by February 14! Note: If the student has parents who live in separate households, each household should sign up separately.
Adopt A Senior - Opt in or opt out by Feb. 29
What is Adopt A Senior?
This is an opportunity for the Meridian community (not the class of 2024 community) to "adopt" a senior from the Class of 2024. Members of the Meridian community will sign up via a Sign Up Genius to do a little something nice for the senior they “adopted.” For example, they might mail or deliver a note or card of encouragement or congratulations. Some community members may opt to send small gifts or gift cards to their “adopted” seniors, but we stress that gift-giving is not required to participate.
Action required now of Class of 2024 parents/guardians!
Every Class of 2024 family must submit the form by February 29 to let Mrs. Holcombe know if you do or do not wish to include your senior in the group of seniors to be “adopted” by the community.
Getting Ready for Graduation!
Friday, May 24 from 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Round Rock Sports Center
100 days to go! See your Class of 2024 Graduation Countdown Clock. Here are some tools to help you in your preparations for the big day.
Facebook Live Graduation Stream: If you are sending out graduation announcements, consider including an invitation to watch the live stream of graduation for friends and family who can’t be there in person. Here is a printable graduation announcement insert.
Shoe Restrictions for Graduation: Graduation is indoors this year at Round Rock Sports Center! We are hoping this will be the ongoing home for Meridian graduations. We have been asked to protect the court floors. See what shoes will be and won’t be allowed.
Senior Group Photo Retake
Unfortunately, the senior group photo that we took back in November did not turn out well. We will be scheduling a retake for March or April. Please send any dates you know your senior will be absent to Holcombe by Wednesday, February 21.
Sports Signing Event at Meridian
Date TBD
Has your senior committed to a college to play a sport? We have two seniors who have done this so far, so we are planning an official signing day ceremony for them. Please email [email protected] by the end of the day today, February 14, if your senior would like to be a part of this special recognition event.
Have you ordered your yearbook?
The deadline to order a guaranteed copy of the book is March 1! There will be very few extra yearbooks (if any) this year, so please pre-order so your senior has a copy of their senior year yearbook! Order your book here online today through Josten’s.
Prom 2024 Committee: Volunteers needed!
Prom: Saturday, April 13 from 7 pm - 11 pm
Parent volunteer Alexia Thex has agreed to lead plans for Prom 2024. We have booked a beautiful venue in Georgetown called Celebrino. We are looking for parent volunteers who are willing to help implement plans for decor, food, and prom activities. Sign up if you would like to get involved!
Important FAFSA information
SICMUN/SICMUN, Jr.
DECA competes in the state competition this week!
Good luck to the 15 high school students headed to Houston for the DECA State competition this Thursday, February 15 through Saturday 17. They will be accompanied by Mrs. Holcombe and Mr. Man.
Registration for Spring Developmental/Pre-Season Sports ends at 9 p.m. Wednesday, February 14!
Spring Developmental/Pre-Season sports experiences are open to 6th-11th grade students and are designed to help athletes prepare for the upcoming competitive seasons. Find practice schedules, fees, and more on each sports experience’s webpage:
Spots are limited! Registration ends at 9 p.m. on Wednesday, February 14, or sooner if the limited spots fill up first. Physical forms are due on February 14. See Sports Registration for more.
Boys MS Beast Basketball wins the Area Championship!
The Meridian Basketball season concluded on Saturday, February 10 when our final team in playoffs was eliminated in the Regional Tournament in San Antonio. Congratulations to all of our teams and especially Boys MS Beast who brought home some hardware!
Boys MS Beast with the Area Championship trophy. Photo by Shraddha Mundhada.
Final Home Tennis matches of the season!
- Friday, February 16 - Varsity vs. Grace Academy (No school = great chance to cheer for your Meridian Lions!)
- Tuesday, February 20 - Middle School vs. Aces
- Friday, February 23 - Varsity vs. Hill Country. This is Tennis Senior Night!
Secondary Enrichment dates
February 14: Registration ends at 9 p.m. for spring developmental/pre-season sports
February 15-17: DECA State Career Development Conference in Houston
February 16-17: Basketball State Tournament
February 23: Tennis Senior Night
February 24: VASE Regionals Art Competition
February 24 & 25: Dance Team Competition - Vista Ridge Dance Championship
March 2: Tennis State Tournament
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Week of February 7, 2024
Week of February 7, 2024
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
This week is Counselor Appreciation Week! We are so very appreciative for our amazing counselors in the DP–Nick Manuszak and Kathy Gregg. The two IB Learner Profile traits that come to mind when I think of them are "Caring" and "Knowledgeable". I'm sure you agree with me!
The annual SICMUN conference is scheduled for this weekend, February 10 - 11, at Southwestern University. As part of this event, we are excited to host 46 Model UN students from Mexico on this Friday, February 9. These Mexican students will be paired with current MUN secondary students; they will visit classes and get to experience a day of high school in the USA.
Has your senior committed to a college to play a sport? We have two seniors who have done this so far, so we are planning an official signing day ceremony for them. Please email [email protected] by February 14 if your senior would like to be a part of this special recognition event.
Parents/guardians of juniors, we hope to see you at Junior Parent Night this Thursday night. See below for more information! Parents/guardians of seniors who are taking IB exams, please check MySchoolBucks for your invoice. You are invited to pay by check (payable to "Meridian School") in order to avoid the 4% fee.
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
ACT Practice Sessions began today!
ACT Practice Test Sessions with Mr. Manuszak: February 7, 14, 21, and 28
ACT Test: Tuesday, March 5
Our juniors will take the ACT for free on March 5. The school will handle all aspects of registration. Please see this document for detailed information about free ACT Test Prep sessions that will be offered by Mr. Manuszak starting today!
Junior Parent Night is tomorrow night!
Thursday, February 8 from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Mr. Manuszak and Mrs. Gregg will host this event that will help the parents of juniors understand and prepare for the college application process. This event will include a panel of current Meridian seniors who have just completed their college applications. Come learn more from the student and counselor perspective! Students are invited to attend with their parent/guardian.
Graduation regalia order days are this Thursday and Friday!
Thursday, February 8 and Friday, February 9 in the High School Tech Commons
Order packets for graduation regalia (cap and gowns), class rings, and graduation announcements were distributed to seniors this past Monday. Parents/guardians may come to campus this week to place orders themselves on Thursday or Friday, or the senior can place their own order. You may come either day–but consider coming on Thursday, February 8 when it's less busy. Orders will be taken in the High School Tech Commons from 1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. If you don't order at school on these dates, you will have to order on your own by February 9 if you want to get your products delivered in April.
Please review the Class of 2024 Grad Products guide that Robyn Tester put together. Thank you, Robyn! Learn more about graduation essentials from our vendor, Herff Jones.
EE field trip for Full Diploma Juniors (date change)
New date: Thursday, March 7 (changed from February 22)
Every year, we take juniors who are pursuing the full IB diploma to the University of Texas to do research for their 4,000-word Extended Essay. There are two action items related to this trip:
- Fill out this form by Feb 12: EE Research Trip to UT Austin Permission Form
- Pay the $15 fee in MySchoolBucks. This helps cover some of the cost for transportation (charter buses).
This weekend: 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 Seniors: Senior trip pre-departure meeting
If your senior is signed up to attend the Senior Trip over Spring Break, please mark your calendar for a required, in-person meeting on Tuesday, February 13 from 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. in the High School Cafeteria.
This meeting is absolutely required for both parent/guardian and student!
Please bring the following items with you so we can make color copies of them:
- Student’s Driver License, Driving Permit, or Texas ID
- Student's Medical Insurance Card
- Student's Passport
NEW: Please bring $94 cash or check (payable to "Meridian School" please) for tips to be shared with tour drivers and tour guides during our trip. In previous years this cost was added to the price of the trip, but this year we are collecting it separately. It would be greatly appreciated if every family would contribute towards tips.
Seniors: IB Exam invoices in MySchoolBucks
The invoices for IB exams are now in MySchoolBucks. You are invited to pay by personal check to avoid the 4% My School Bucks fee! Please make the check payable to "Meridian School". Payment is due by May 1. If you have questions about your invoice, please reach out to Holcombe.
Senior Yard Sign orders are due February 14
It's time to order yard signs for your senior! Only 32 have been ordered so far; don't miss the opportunity! These are a free gift from the school to your family, but you must sign up to order the sign by February 14! Note: If the student has parents who live in separate households, each household should sign up separately
Sports Signing Event at Meridian
Date TBD
Has your senior committed to a college to play a sport? We have two seniors who have done this so far, so we are planning an official signing day ceremony for them. Please email [email protected] by February 14 if your senior would like to be a part of this special recognition event.
Have you ordered your yearbook?
The deadline to order a guaranteed copy of the book is March 1! There will be very few extra yearbooks (if any) this year, so please pre-order so your senior has a copy of their senior year yearbook! Order your book here online today through Josten’s.
Prom 2024 Committee: Volunteers needed!
Prom: Saturday, April 13 from 7 pm - 11 pm
Parent volunteer Alexia Thex has agreed to lead plans for Prom 2024. We have booked a beautiful venue in Georgetown called Celebrino. We are looking for parent volunteers who are willing to help implement plans for decor, food, and prom activities. Sign up if you would like to get involved!
Important FAFSA information
Boys Varsity Basketball defeated rival, NYOS, 65-64 on the Spurs court Saturday, February 3! Photo by Linda Mosqueda
Registration is now open for Spring Developmental/Pre-Season Sports!
Spring Developmental/Pre-Season sports experiences are open to 6th-11th grade students and are designed to help athletes prepare for the upcoming competitive seasons. Find practice schedules, fees, and more on each sports experience’s webpage:
Boys MS Beast Basketball plays in the Area Championship!
Wednesday, February 7 at 6 p.m.
Come pack Harmony Endeavor’s gym with red and help our last team in playoffs advance to Regionals this Friday and Saturday! Roar, Lions, ROAR!
Soccer game schedule now published!
New this year – our home field is just minutes from campus! Find this season’s Soccer Game Schedule and come cheer for your Lions!
Maintaining academic eligibility
Academic eligibility applies to all extracurricular activities with a performance or competition component, such as: competitive sports, After School Band & Orchestra, Black Cultural Choir, Model UN, DECA, the spring musical, and the Art VASE competitions.
Students and parents/guardians are encouraged to check Skyward this week for the grading period 3 Progress Report grades. Progress reports can help students regain academic eligibility, but they will not cause an already eligible student to lose academic eligibility. Progress reports can also help students make necessary adjustments to maintain their academic eligibility after 4:10 p.m. on March 22.
Find helpful resources:
Secondary Enrichment dates
February 7: Registration opens for spring developmental/pre-season sports
February 9 - 10: Basketball Regional Tournament
February 10: Model UN Conference - SICMUN
February 11: Model UN Conference - SICMUN, Jr.
February 14: Registration ends at 9 p.m. for spring developmental/pre-season sports
February 15-17: DECA State Career Development Conference in Houston
February 16-17: Basketball State Tournament
February 24: VASE Regionals Art Competition
March 2: Tennis State Tournament
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Week of January 31, 2024
Week of January 31, 2024
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
We had a very small DP Principal Coffee yesterday, but I am always happy to see those who are able to make it. Take a look at the presentation that I shared with those who attended.
The seniors are busy working on their Internal Assessments (IAs) and big tasks that are due in their DP fine arts classes (Art and Theater). Full diploma juniors are finalizing their research questions for their EE in preparation for a research field trip to the UT library on March 7 (this date was moved from Feb 22 due to transportation issues).
As always, reach out if we can serve your student or family in any way!
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Senior Group Picture with Flag of family heritage
This is an optional event for seniors that is scheduled for this Thursday, February 1. Seniors are invited to wear cultural attire, international soccer jerseys, or whatever they like to represent their family heritage. We will take this photo during Advisory. Sign up to participate!
Senior Spirit Wear: Now on sale for a limited time!
The deadline to order senior spirit wear is Saturday, February 3 at 5 p.m! Absolutely no late orders can be accepted. Place your order on MySchoolBucks place your order now.
This amazing Metallica theme design was created by senior AnnMarie Sanchez Shields.
Important spirit wear information:
White color option: The long-sleeved soft cotton shirt and the sweatshirt are only approved for Fridays.
Black color option: The black sweatshirt option that can be worn every day over a polo on Monday - Thursday! It can also be worn as spirit wear on Fridays!
We encourage you to consider buying the black sweatshirt; the white sweatshirt cannot be worn as outerwear on Monday-Thursday.
Save the Date: ACT Testing for Juniors - Class of 2025
ACT Test: Tuesday, March 5
This is a free ACT administration for our juniors. The school will handle all aspects of registration. Please see this document for detailed information about free ACT Test Prep sessions that will be offered by Mr. Manuszak starting on Wednesday, February 7!
Save the Date: Junior Parent Night
Thursday, February 8 from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Mr. Manuszak and Mrs. Gregg will host this event that will help the parents of juniors understand and prepare for the college application process. This event will include a panel of current Meridian seniors who have just completed their college applications. Come learn more from the student and counselor perspective! Students are invited to attend with their parent/guardian.
Seniors! Save the date for Graduation Regalia order dates
Thursday, February 8 and Friday, February 9
Mark your calendars: Representatives from Herff Jones Orders will be present on the Meridian campus in early February to take orders for graduation regalia (cap and gowns), class rings, and graduation announcements. Parents/guardians may come to campus to place these orders themselves, or the senior can place their own order. You may come either day–but consider coming on February 8 when it's less busy. Orders will be taken in the High School Tech Commons from 1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. If you don't order at school on these dates, you will have to order on your own by February 9 if you want to get your products delivered in April.
Please review the Class of 2024 Grad Products guide that Robyn Tester put together. Thank you, Robyn! Learn more about graduation essentials from our vendor, Herff Jones.
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 Seniors: Senior Trip Pre-Departure Meeting
If your senior is signed up to attend the Senior Trip over Spring Break, please mark your calendar for a required, in-person meeting on Tuesday, February 13 from 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. in the High School Cafeteria.
This meeting is absolutely required for both parent/guardian and student!
Please bring the following items with you so we can make color copies of them:
- Student’s Driver License, Driving Permit, or Texas ID
- Student's Medical Insurance Card
- Student's Passport
Senior Yard Signs!
Have you ordered your yearbook?
An email was sent to every K-12 family on Friday with a final reminder to order the yearbook. That blast included a list of all students who have ordered a book. The deadline to order a guaranteed copy of the book is March 1! There will be very few extra yearbooks (if any) this year, so please pre-order so your senior has a copy of their senior year yearbook! Shout out to Lacy Vain and the yearbook staff who are working so hard to meet some upcoming yearbook production deadlines! Order your book here online today through Josten’s.
Prom 2024 Committee: Volunteers needed!
Parent volunteer Alexia Thex has agreed to lead plans for Prom 2024. We have booked a beautiful venue in Georgetown called Celebrino. We are looking for parent volunteers who are willing to help implement plans for decor, food, and prom activities. Sign up if you would like to get involved!
IB Exam Billing
Important FAFSA information
“The launch of the revamped federal application to receive aid for college pushed this year’s filing deadlines, but financial aid counselors are still advising college hopefuls in Texas to fill out the form as soon as possible to up the odds of getting more money.
The new Free Application for Federal Student Aid is the biggest update to the form in decades. Mandated by Congress in 2020, the changes are expected to streamline the application to make college accessible for more families. Students will see fewer questions and a different formula used to award need-based aid.
Completing the application has been a pain point for Texas families. The form came three months late, on Dec. 30, because the U.S. Education Department needed more time to roll out changes. In a weeklong, rocky “soft launch,” the form was only accessible for intermittent periods of time, with a waiting room to manage capacity. As of Jan. 8, the form has been available 24 hours a day.
Because the changes to the new form were released late, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board pushed its own priority deadline for financial aid applications from Jan. 15 to Mar. 15.
But students should still fill out the form as early as they can so financial aid counselors can help them resolve any hitches with the new system.
More importantly, many schools provide their own award packages to students on a first-come, first-serve basis. While a student may qualify for federal aid, a school’s pot of money to subsidize tuition can tap out faster, depending on how much it has set aside for financial assistance and how generous the school wants to be with each student’s aid package.”
Basketball Area playoffs!
Meridian Varsity Basketball teams play on the Spurs court! You’re invited!
Saturday, February 3 at the Frost Bank Center
Our Girls Varsity and Boys Varsity teams play NYOS at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio starting at noon! Your tickets include the Spurs vs. Cavs game at 7:30 p.m. that night! Learn more and get tickets!
Fierce Dance Team competition!
Saturday, February 3 at Leander High School
Meridian’s Fierce Dance Team kicks off the competition season with the Leander Winter Classic this weekend! Roar, Lions, ROAR! Find our Dance Team’s schedule. Pre-purchase your wristband!
It’s here: Registration for spring developmental/pre-season sports
Registration opens February 7 for Spring Developmental/Pre-season Volleyball, Spring Running and the Spring Dance Clinic! These programs will be open to all genders for students in 6th - 11th grades. Details, including the participation fee and the training schedule will be available when registration opens. Spots are limited and will be filled based on the first to register. Physical forms are due on February 14. See Sports Registration for more.
Coming fall 2024 - Competitive Flag Football!
Meridian Athletics is bringing a pilot program of competitive Flag Football to our sports offerings next year! The goal is to create both a coed middle school team and a coed high school team that will compete in our league (Texas Charter School Academic and Athletic League). Important: Like our other fall competitive sports, registration for Flag Football will be this spring - May 1 through 9 p.m. on May 8! Please watch newsletters for updates.
Secondary Enrichment dates
February 2: Dance Team Competition: Leander Winter Dance Classic Day 1
February 3: Dance Team Competition: Leander Winter Dance Classic Day 2
February 3: Meridian Basketball plays on Spurs court. You’re invited!
February 7: Registration opens for spring developmental/pre-season sports
February 9 - 10: Basketball Regional Tournament
February 10: Model UN Conference - SICMUN
February 11: Model UN Conference - SICMUN, Jr.
February 14: Registration ends at 9 p.m. for spring developmental/pre-season sports
February 15-17: DECA State Career Development Conference in Houston
February 16-17: Basketball State Tournament
February 24: VASE Regionals art competition
March 2: Tennis State Tournament
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Week of January 24, 2024
Week of January 24, 2024
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
We had a great winter pep rally last Friday. I really appreciate Mr. Manuszak and our Student Involvement Committee (SIC) for organizing these important school spirit events for our school. We have one more pep rally in April.
I'd like to thank parent volunteers David Edrich and Deb Robison for spending some hours on campus this week taking pictures in the secondary classrooms for the yearbook! The yearbook staff is working hard to meet a big deadline on February 5.
There's a lot happening in the month of February. Graduation Regalia ordering, the high school spring dance, Junior one-on-one meetings with Mrs. Gregg (for college planning!), Junior Parent Night, ACT for Juniors, Prom 2024 planning … and more! Keep on reading!
Oh one more thing … I hope to see you at the next DP Principal's Coffee on Monday, January 29 at 9 a.m. in the High School Cafeteria.
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Secondary Club Photo Day is Thursday, January 25!
Please see the ManageBac communication from January 22. Note the Yearbook Club Picture Day Schedule with times and attire directions (subject to change). Please check the schedule before packing up for school on Thursday to ensure you have the most up to date information.
Students whose club/group has unique attire instructions, such as professional attire, must also bring a school uniform to change into for any other clubs in which they will be shown. Students who do not follow attire directions might not be pictured.
There are no make-ups for Yearbook Club/Group photos. Students who are absent or miss their session or did not follow the attire directions will be noted under their group’s photo in the yearbook as “Not pictured.”
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.
DP Principal Coffee (in person)
Monday, January 29 at 9 a.m.
Please save the date for our DP Principal Coffee. We will meet in the High School Cafeteria. 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.
We hope to see you there!
Attention: Juniors and their Parents/Guardians!
Happening now: One-on-one Junior Conferences with Mrs. Gregg, College Counselor
Each year at this time Mrs. Gregg offers an individual conference with each junior to review their course selections for senior year (if needed) and discuss their plans for after high school (this is the main focus of the meeting). Mrs. Gregg has incredible expertise about the college application process; please take advantage of this opportunity to meet with her one-on-one!
Parents/guardians are invited to attend this meeting with their student, either in person or via Zoom. Sign up for a conference.
Note: Please try to schedule the meeting during study hall or during a class when the student can most afford to miss about 30 minutes of instructional time. Read on for more information about the 2024-2025 course selection form for the rising seniors.
Save the Date: Junior Parent Night
Thursday, February 8 from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Mr. Manuszak and Mrs. Gregg will host this event that will help the parents of juniors understand and prepare for the college application process. This event will include a panel of current Meridian seniors who have just completed their college applications. Come learn more from the student and counselor perspective! Students are invited to attend with their parent/guardian.
Seniors! Save the date for Graduation Regalia order dates
Thursday, February 8 and Friday, February 9
Mark your calendars: Representatives from Herff Jones Orders will be present on the Meridian campus in early February to take orders for graduation regalia (cap and gowns), class rings, and graduation announcements. Parents/guardians may come to campus to place these orders themselves, or the senior can place their own order. You may come either day–but consider coming on February 8 when it's less busy. Orders will be taken in the High School Tech Commons from 1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Please review the Class of 2024 Grad Products guide that Robyn Tester put together. Thank you, Robyn! Learn more about graduation essentials from our vendor, Herff Jones.
Attention Seniors: Senior Trip Pre-Departure Meeting
If your senior is signed up to attend the Senior Trip over Spring Break, please mark your calendar for a required, in-person meeting on Tuesday, February 13 from 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. in the High School Cafeteria.
Please bring the following items with you so we can make color copies of them:
- Student’s Driver License, Driving Permit, or Texas ID
- Student's Medical Insurance Card
- Student's Passport
Save the Date: ACT Testing for Juniors - Class of 2025
ACT Test: Tuesday, March 5
This is a free ACT administration for our juniors. The school will handle all aspects of registration. Please see this document for detailed information about free ACT Test Prep sessions that will be offered by Mr. Manuszak starting on Wednesday, February 7!
Prom 2024 Committee: Volunteers needed!
Prom: Saturday, April 13 from 7 pm - 11 pm
Parent volunteer Alexia Thex has agreed to lead plans for Prom 2024. We have booked a beautiful venue in Georgetown called Celebrino. We are looking for parent volunteers who are willing to help implement plans for decor, food, and prom activities. Sign up if you would like to get involved!
Meridian Basketball advances to playoffs!
Congratulations to the following Meridian Basketball teams for advancing to playoffs: Girls MS, Boys MS Beast, and Boys JV Beast! Watch the Basketball Game Schedule for playoff game details!
Boys Varsity plays in a tie-breaker Wednesday, January 24 to earn advancement to area playoffs!
Let’s GO, Lions Hoops!
Secondary Enrichment dates
January 25: Secondary Club Photo Day
February 2: Dance Team Competition: Leander Winter Dance Classic Day 1
February 3: Dance Team Competition: Leander Winter Dance Classic Day 2
February 3: Meridian Basketball plays on Spurs court. You’re invited!
February 9 - 10: Basketball Regional Tournament
February 10: Model UN Conference - SICMUN
February 11: Model UN Conference - SICMUN, Jr.
February 16-17: Basketball State Tournament
March 2: Tennis State Tournament
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Week of January 17, 2024
Week of January 17, 2024
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
I hope everyone is staying warm in these frigid temperatures. Students are invited to bring blankets to school this week to keep warm (plus it's just fun to drag a blanket around!).
It's time for current juniors to select their courses for next year. Read more below about the course selection, one-on-one meetings with Mrs. Gregg, and about a "Junior Parent Night" scheduled for February 8 that will focus on the college application process.
In other news, Robyn Tester and I have begun working on plans for Graduation 2024! Graduation 2024 is scheduled for Friday, May 24 from 7 p.m. -8:30 p.m. at the Round Rock Sports Center. For planning purposes, please note that each graduate may invite up to 14 guests to the ceremony. More specific information will be shared about graduation later this spring.
Lastly, I'd like to give a shout out to our DECA students who competed at their first meet last week here in Round Rock. Almost half of them qualified for state, and we don't even have a business program at Meridian! Congrats to Mr. Holman and the amazing group of students who are leading this new club this year at Meridian.
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Attention: Juniors and their Parents/Guardians!
Course Selections for Senior Year
The time to select courses for next school year is upon us! Mr. Manuszak will meet with our current 11th grade students during advisory this Thursday, January 18 to guide them in making their course selections. Students will continue their two-year IB Diploma Program courses, but there are decisions to make in regards to taking an elective vs. taking a study hall. Read on for more information about the 2024-2025 course selection form for the rising seniors.
Save the Date: Junior Parent Night
Thursday, February 8 from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Mr. Manuszak and Mrs. Gregg will host this event that will help the parents of juniors understand and prepare for the college application process. This event will include a panel of current Meridian seniors who have just completed their college applications. Come learn more from the student and counselor perspective! Students are invited to attend with their parent/guardian.
One-on-one Junior Conferences with Mrs. Gregg, College Counselor
Each year at this time Mrs. Gregg offers an individual conference with each junior to review their course selections for senior year (if needed) and discuss their plans for after high school (this is the main focus of the meeting). Mrs. Gregg has incredible expertise about the college application process; please take advantage of this opportunity to meet with her one-on-one! Parents/guardians are invited to attend this meeting with their student, either in person or via Zoom. These meetings begin next week! Sign up for a conference. Note: Please try to schedule the meeting during study hall or during a class when the student can most afford to miss about 30 minutes of instructional time.
10th-12th grade Math Tutorials
Saturdays from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Ms. Riley will continue to offer math tutorials on Saturdays through January. Please RSVP. Parents, please pick up your student promptly at 1 p.m. so that Ms. Riley can proceed with her weekend!
Save the date: Graduation Regalia order dates
Thursday, February 8 and Friday, February 9
Mark your calendars: Representatives from Herff Jones Orders will be present on the Meridian campus in early February to take orders for graduation regalia (cap and gowns), class rings, and graduation announcements. Parents/guardians may come to campus to place these orders themselves, or the senior can place their own order.
You may come either day–but consider coming on February 8 when it's less busy. Orders will be taken in the High School Tech Commons from 1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
The Rice University Aerospace Academy
I am a graduate of Rice University, so from time to time I like to share information about programs they offer current high school students. This summer program is expensive, but it sounds like an amazing opportunity. The tuition of $6745 includes room & board, site visits & transportation during program, lectures, simulations, curriculum & materials, and faculty & staff.
“The Rice University Aerospace Academy is an immersive program designed specifically for students who are interested in pursuing careers in the field of aerospace. While staying on the campus of Rice University, students will enjoy daily forums from Rice's renowned faculty and receive unparalleled exposure to industry and government space scientists through exclusive site visits. Students will also hear from a NASA representative and former NASA astronaut Dr. Leroy Chiao, who will share his personal stories and lessons from spaceflight and experience in technology companies. Additionally, students will participate in a visit to the Lone Star Flight Museum to attend flight ground school, complete a flight prep simulation, learn the importance of flight planning, and then apply what they have learned to operate a flight simulator. Read more.”
Secondary Club Photo Day
Home basketball games this week!
Wednesday, January 17: Boys MS Bold & Boys JV Bold
Friday, January 19: Boys JV Bold, Girls Varsity & Boys Varsity
Home game admissions: Cash only. $5 adults; $3 students; $1 if wearing spirit wear; staff free with badge. Pay for one game, stay for all the games that day!
Roar, Lions, ROAR!
Basketball Senior Night
Tuesday, January 16
Despite the freezing temperature outside, the community came together to recognize our nine seniors in the Meridian Basketball program!
Not pictured: Henok B. Photo by Linda Mosqueda
Secondary Enrichment dates
January 25: Secondary Club Photo Day
February 3: Meridian Basketball plays on Spurs court. You’re invited!
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Week of January 10, 2024
Week of January 10, 2024
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
We had a great Alumni Day event last week! Over 60 alumni returned to the Meridian campus to reconnect with their peers and share about how the IB education they received at Meridian impacted their transition to college and the real world. They visited with some of our current Meridian parents and with our 10th-12th grade students, we fed them a nice lunch, and then at the end of the day we presented IB diplomas and certificates to our most recent graduates–the Class of 2023. It was a great day!
Our juniors enjoyed a fun Lock-In this weekend (everyone survived!). Soon, our current juniors will fill out their course selection sheets for the 2024-2025 school year–their senior year–Wow! Read more about this below.
Parents of seniors, I will reach out via email very soon to update you about billing for IB exams. Let's all encourage the seniors to fight "senioritis" and finish strong! IB exam time is on the horizon!
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Attention juniors: It's time to select senior year courses!
The time to select courses for next school year is upon us! Mr. Manuszak and Mrs. Gregg will visit 11th grade students during their advisory on Tuesday, January 16 to guide them in making their course selections. Students will continue their two-year Diploma Program courses, but there are decisions to make in regards to taking an elective vs. a study hall. The course selection forms will be collected on January 16.
Parent/guardians will have a chance to schedule an individual planning meeting with Mrs. Gregg to ask questions and review the course selections. These meetings will start the week of January 22; a Calendly will be sent out to RSVP for your spot next week!
10th-12th grade Math Tutorials
Saturdays from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Ms. Riley will continue to offer math tutorials on Saturdays through January. Please RSVP. Parents, please pick up your student promptly at 1 p.m. so that Ms. Riley can proceed with her weekend!
Save the date: Graduation Regalia order dates
Thursday, February 8 and Friday, February 9
Mark your calendars: Representatives from Herff Jones Orders will be present on the Meridian campus in early February to take orders for graduation regalia (cap and gowns) and graduation announcements. Parents/guardians may come to campus to place these orders themselves, or the senior can place their own order.
You may come either day–but consider coming on February 8 when it's less busy. Orders will be taken in the High School Tech Commons from 1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Interested in summer study abroad opportunities?
CIEE is a not-for-profit organization that has been dedicated to global education for over 75 years. They offer various program types for high school students and graduating seniors. Their High School Summer Abroad programs are 3 to 4-weeks long and cover topics such as World Languages (Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, and Arabic), STEM, Business, Arts, Social Change, and Leadership.
Read on for more information about these tuition programs. One of our current 10th grade students, Alana Damon, attended a program in London last summer and would be happy to share about her experience with others as an ambassador for this program.
Virtual Info Session: CIEE will host a virtual information session on January 11 at 6:30 p.m. to give families an opportunity to learn about CIEE’s summer study abroad programs in advance of the scholarship deadline on January 24. Read on for event information.
Model UN earns accolades at the MUNSA/JMUNSA conference!
January 4 - 5
Trinity University, San Antonio
Last week, Meridian's Model United Nations club embarked on an enriching journey to San Antonio for the MUNSA/JMUNSA conference. We are extremely impressed by the dedication and diligence exhibited by every student throughout their preparations. It brings us immense joy to announce that three of our outstanding high school delegates secured highly sought after awards at the event. Leon T. received Best Delegate, Sarah O. received Honorable Mention, and Vivaan P. received Distinguished Delegate. Congratulations to these talented individuals for their commendable achievements!
Home basketball games this week!
Thursday, January 11: Boys JV Bold
Friday, January 12: Boys MS Bold, Boys JV Bold, Girls MS, Boys MS Beast
Monday, January 15: Girls Varsity & Boys Varsity
Tuesday, January 16: Senior Night - Girls Varsity, Boys Varsity, Boys JV Beast
Home Game Admissions: Cash only. $5 adults; $3 students; $1 if wearing spirit wear; staff free with badge. Pay for one game, stay for all the games that day!
Roar, Lions, ROAR!
Basketball Senior Night:
Tuesday, January 16
Help us celebrate the class of 2024 Meridian basketball players at our home games on Tuesday, January 16. We will be honoring these nine seniors: Vijay, Henok, Jash, Mateo, Florian, Amarii, Aleena, Ashwin, and Gabe F. The ceremony will be held between Varsity games, around 6:15 p.m.
Academic eligibility reminders
Students must be passing all classes and have no incompletes on their grading period 2 report card in order to be academically eligible to perform and compete with their extracurricular activities. Academic eligibility will be set at 4:10 p.m. on Wednesday, January 10. The next chance to regain academic eligibility is 4:10 p.m. on Friday, February 9h if students are passing all classes on their grading period 3 progress report and have resolved all incompletes from grading period 2.
Find helpful resources:
Questions? Email [email protected]
Secondary Enrichment dates
January 10 at 4:10 p.m.: Academic eligibility now set until February 9
January 16: Basketball Senior Night!
February 3: Meridian Basketball plays on Spurs court. You’re invited!
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Week of January 3, 2024
Week of January 3, 2024
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
I hope everyone had a great winter break! I had the opportunity to spend a few days in the hill country up near Kerrville, TX. Hiking and exploring at state parks is my absolute favorite hobby, so I was really excited to visit Garner, Lost Maples, and Pedernales State Parks over the break. Pedernales State Park is only an hour away. If you have never visited there, I highly recommend it!
On this Thursday, January 4, we will welcome 50+ of our graduates back to campus for our 8th annual Alumni Day! The alumni will visit with current 10th-12th grade students –and also with the parents of current students –to share about their experiences post-Meridian. At the end of the day, we will have a recognition ceremony for the Class of 2023 where we will present them with their IB diplomas and certificates. It will be great to have our graduates back in the building for this special day.
Teachers returned to work yesterday and are working to finalize grades for Quarter 2. As always, if you have any concerns about your student please reach out. We are here to support your students!
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
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.
Action Required of Seniors!
Our professional photographer, Dez Keelty, says she has emailed senior yearbook portrait proofs to all seniors and their parents/guardians. If you did not get your proofs, please email her directly at [email protected].
If you haven't done so already, please fill out this spreadsheet to indicate which specific photo you want us to use in the yearbook. If you do not choose a picture by Monday, January 8, one will be selected for you by the yearbook staff. Thank you!
Senior parent/guardian college updates
The big fall (especially December 1!) deadlines have passed, and students should now be activating their portals at the schools where they submitted applications in order to keep track of their admissions progress. The next round of applications will be on January 3. If a student has already used Common App, there is no need to request documents from the school for additional applications. However, if they are submitting their first application they will need to see Mrs. Gregg or Mr. Manuszak as soon as possible after we return on January 3 to be sure everything is submitted correctly.
There is still no update on the FAFSA release date, other than "by December 31." The main thing you can do now is to set up an account so you're ready when the FAFSA opens. Read this great FAFSA resource.
Junior Lock-In is happening this Friday!
Friday, January 5 at 8 p.m. to Saturday, January 6 at 7 a.m.
The Junior Lock in is scheduled for this Friday, January 5! Parents, we still need one parent to help chaperone from 4 p.m. - 7 a.m. and more donations for breakfast. Please sign up to help.
Students, you must RSVP and prepay for pizza by Friday, January 5 at 4:15 p.m. Give money to Riley or Holcombe. Pizza will only be ordered for students who prepay. If financial assistance is needed, please email Ms. Holcombe. It will remain confidential.
Read on for rules and expectations for the lock in, along with information for those playing basketball.
Save the date for Graduation Regalia order dates
Thursday, February 8 and Friday, February 9
Students and/or parents/guardians will place orders for graduation regalia (cap and gowns) and graduation announcements in February. The vendor for our school is Herff Jones. More specific info will be published about this next week!
Interested in summer study abroad opportunities?
CIEE is a not-for-profit organization that has been dedicated to global education for over 75 years. They offer various program types for high school students and graduating seniors. Their High School Summer Abroad programs are 3 to 4-weeks long and cover topics such as World Languages (Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, and Arabic), STEM, Business, Arts, Social Change, and Leadership.
Read on for more information about these tuition programs. One of our current 10th grade students, Alana Damon, attended a program in London last summer and would be happy to share about her experience with others as an ambassador for this program.
Important academic eligibility reminders
Students must be passing all classes and have no incompletes on their grading period 2 report card in order to be academically eligible to perform and compete with their extracurricular activities.
Academic eligibility will be set at 4:10 p.m. on Wednesday, January 10. The next chance to regain academic eligibility is 4:10 p.m. on Friday, February 9 if students are passing all classes on their grading period 3 progress report and have resolved all incompletes from grading period 2.
Action required: Students and their parents/guardians should check their grades in Skyward after 10 a.m. on Thursday, January 4. Between January 4 and 3 p.m. on January 10, students who are failing or have incompletes in any classes should work with their teachers to correct errors and retake summative assessments that are still being accepted. Email [email protected] with questions.
Find helpful resources:
Home basketball games this week!
Wednesday, January 3: Boys JV Bold, Boys JV Beast, Girls Varsity
Thursday, January 4: Girls MS & Boys MS Beast
Saturday, January 6: Boys MS Bold, Boys MS Beast, Boys JV Beast
Home Game Admissions: Cash only. $5 adults; $3 students; $1 if wearing spirit wear; staff free with badge. Pay for one game, stay for all the games that day!
Let’s GO, Meridian!
Basketball Senior Night: Tuesday, January 16!
Help us celebrate the class of 2024 Meridian basketball players at our home games on Tuesday, January 16. We will be honoring these nine seniors: Vijay, Henok, Jash, Mateo, Florian, Amarii, Aleena, Ashwin, and Gabe F.
Secondary Enrichment dates
January 4 at 10 a.m.: Academic eligibility checkpoint: Grading period 2 report card grades ready
January 4: Model UN conference - JMUNSA
January 4-5: Model UN conference - MUNSA
January 10 at 4:10 p.m.: Academic eligibility now set until February 9
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets? Email [email protected].
Week of December 13, 2023
Week of December 13, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
Winter Break is upon us! I'm so proud of the great work our students and teachers have done this semester. Next semester will be the last semester of high school for our seniors! We look forward to making it a very special time for them.
Remember that today is a full day of school. Students may wear pajamas/onesies tomorrow (Thursday), and there is no school for students on Friday!
I wish you all a beautiful holiday season with your families!
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Parent RSVP Requested: An opportunity to connect with Meridian Alumni and Parents of Alumni!
Alumni Recognition Day: January 4
RSVP by January 2
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. The day ends with a formal ceremony where IB diplomas and certificates are awarded to the preceding year's graduates on stage in front of an audience of current high school students.
An Invitation for Meridian Parents
You are invited to join us for two dialogue sessions on Thursday, January 4, the Thursday right after Winter Break. The purpose of these sessions is to provide a space for our alumni and their parents/guardians to share how the alumni have benefitted from the quality IB education they received at Meridian. We find that these interactions between our current students/parents and our alumni student/parents are always extremely beneficial and enjoyed by all.
Session 1 - 8:30 a.m. - 9:15 a.m.: Meridian Alumni meet with current Meridian parents
Session 2 - 9:15 a.m. -10 a.m.: Parents of Alumni meet with current Meridian parents
If you would like to join us for one or both sessions, please RSVP by January 2. We will email you a reminder the day before the event, so please type your email address carefully. Questions? Email Charles Ryder.
Math Tutorials will continue in January
10th-12th grade students
Senior parent/guardian college updates
The big fall (especially December 1!) deadlines have passed, and students should now be activating their portals at the schools where they submitted applications in order to keep track of their admissions progress. The next round of applications will be after we return to campus on January 3. If a student has already used Common App, there is no need to request documents from the school for additional applications. However, if they are submitting their first application they will need to see Mrs. Gregg or Mr. Manuszak as soon as possible after we return on January 3 to be sure everything is submitted correctly.
There is still no update on the FAFSA release date, other than "by December 31." The main thing you can do now is to set up an account so you're ready when the FAFSA opens. Read this great FAFSA resource.
Junior Lock-In is happening right after Winter Break!
Friday, January 5 at 8 p.m. to Saturday, January 6 at 7 a.m.
The Junior Lock in is scheduled for the weekend immediately after Winter Break! Parents, we will not be able to have this event unless we fill all of the parent volunteer slots in this sign up. You can also support by providing breakfast donations on the same spreadsheet.
Students, you must RSVP by Friday, January 5 at 4:15 p.m. If you want pizza you must prepay (give $5 to Ms. Holcombe or Mrs. Seaman) by 4:15 p.m. on Friday, January 5. There will be no exceptions; pizza will only be ordered for students who prepay. If financial assistance is needed, please email Ms. Holcombe. It will remain confidential.
Read on for rules and expectations for the lock in, along with information for those playing basketball.
Save the Date for Graduation Regalia Order Dates
Thursday, February 8 and Friday, February 9
Students and/or parents/guardians will place orders for graduation regalia (cap and gowns) and graduation announcements in February. The vendor for our school is Herff Jones. More info will be published about this after the break!
Girls Varsity plays at home when we return from Winter Break!Home basketball games bookend winter break!
Let’s GO, Lions Hoops!
Friday Night Lights soccer starts this Friday, December 15!
Meridian Soccer hosts Wayside in our first games of the season on our new home field, Rock Field, less than one mile from campus!
Friday, December 15: Coed MS and Boys Varsity
Academic eligibility update
New dates for Grading Period 2 report cards and when academic eligibility is set! Please see the updated Academic Eligibility Dates for 2023-2024.
Secondary Enrichment dates
December 14: Home basketball games
December 15: Home soccer games
January 3: Home basketball games
January 4 at 10 a.m. : Academic eligibility checkpoint: Grading period 2 report cards ready
January 4: Model UN conference - JMUNSA
January 4-5: Model UN conference - MUNSA
January 10 at 4:10 p.m.: Academic eligibility now set until February 9
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Week of December 6, 2023
Week of December 6, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
Last week was a great week! The Group 4 Collaborative Project was a great success thanks to the hard work of our Group 4 teachers and our seniors. For the first time ever, we added an element to the project where the seniors presented their work to our 4th grade students. It was really great to see this interaction between our current and future DP science students, and we enjoyed having parents/guardians attend the poster presentations on that Friday afternoon.
After Group 4, we rolled right into the Senior Lock In! Thank you to those who donated money and food items for breakfast. The Junior Lock In is scheduled for Friday, January 5 at 8 p.m. - Saturday, Jan 6 at 7 a.m. Read more about this event below.
This week, the juniors and seniors will enjoy a social during advisory on Thursday, December 7 where they will get to be little kids again! They will decorate holiday cookies and enjoy hot chocolate together before we move into the exam week next week. Please donate needed supplies to make this event a success.
As principal, I love hearing from our alumni. They go on to do all kinds of interesting things post-Meridian. Read below about Anoushka Soni, one of our recent graduates who is studying abroad!
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Alumni Spotlight
Anoushka Soni, Class of 2023
“Hi! My name is Anoushka Soni, and I am a recent Meridian graduate from the Class of 2023. This year, I have decided to take a gap year abroad in Taiwan with the NSLI-Y (National Security Language Initiative for Youth) scholarship program (funded by the U. S. Department of State) to study Mandarin Chinese. Throughout this year, I have been living with a host family and attending Chinese classes at Wenzao Ursuline University of Languages every day. Even though I am living in Kaohsiung City (a city in the south of Taiwan), I have already been on trips all around Taiwan with my cohort members. We’ve done everything from paddle boarding in Sun Moon Lake to climbing Alishan, one of the most scenic mountains in Taiwan. Taking a gap year has already proven to be one of the most self-developing adventures I’ve had the privilege of experiencing; I can’t wait to see what the rest of this year can teach me, show me, and where it can take me.”
Donations Needed: DP Hot Cocoa and Cookie Decorating
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
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/Onesies
Junior Lock-In is happening right after Winter Break!
Friday, January 5 at 8 p.m. to Saturday, January 6 at 7 a.m.
The Junior Lock in is scheduled for the weekend immediately after Winter Break!
Parents, we will not be able to have this event unless we fill all of the parent volunteer slots that I have defined, sign up. You can also support by providing breakfast donations on the same spreadsheet.
Students, you must RSVP by Friday, January 5 at 4:15 p.m. If you want pizza you must prepay (give $5 to Ms. Holcombe or Mrs. Seaman) by 4:15 p.m. on Friday, January 5. There will be no exceptions, pizza will only be ordered for students who prepay. If financial assistance is needed please email Ms. Holcombe, it will remain confidential.
Read on for all the rules and expectations for the lock in, along with information for those playing basketball.
Save the Date for Graduation Regalia Order Dates
Thursday, February 8 and Friday, February 9
Students and/or parents/guardians will place orders for graduation regalia (cap and gowns) and graduation announcements in February. The vendor for our school is Herff Jones. More info will be published about this after the break!
Help stock our health clinics
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. Thank you for supporting our clinics. Questions? Email [email protected].
Boys Varsity Basketball defeats IDEA Bluff Springs at home on Saturday, December 2.
Friday night home basketball games!
Friday, December 8 - Boys JV Beast, Girls Varsity, and Boys Varsity vs. NYOS! Roar, Lions, ROAR!
Home Game Admissions: Cash only. $5 adults; $3 students; $1 if wearing spirit wear; staff free with badge.
Secondary Enrichment dates
December 7: Winter Concert
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets?
Email [email protected].
Week of November 29, 2023
Week of November 29, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
I hope everyone had a nice Thanksgiving holiday. We will close out Quarter 2 in just three short weeks and then we will enjoy another break.
We are looking forward to our seniors' participation in the Group 4 Project this Thursday and Friday. All seniors enrolled in DP science and those opting in from the coseated sections of ESS will enjoy two days of science exploration and collaborative problem solving. We hope you will join us for their poster presentations on Friday starting at 5 p.m. This event will be located in the high school building so please feel free to park on the high school side of campus.
The Senior Lock In is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. – after the Group 4 presentations but I need several more parent volunteers in order for this event to be possible; please sign up if you can help. The event will be located in the Mays building. Ms. Riley will meet with the seniors this Thursday to set behavior expectations for this event. We are counting on them to behave well so that this tradition can continue for years to come. Please remind your participating student to pay Ms. Riley for pizza before the end of the school day on Friday.
Reach out if you have any academic or general well-being concerns about your student as we close out the semester. We are here to support your student in any way we can.
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
IB Exam schedule and billing for May 2024
Here is the IB Exam Schedule for May 2024. If your student is taking IB exams, it's important for you to know that they cannot be rescheduled – so please do not plan travel or make doctor appointments on examination days.
Mr. Ryder has concluded registering the seniors for the May 2024 exam session. The cost per exam is $125. Families will be billed for this via MySchoolBucks in December. There is a 4% MySchoolBucks fee, so you are also welcome to pay by personal check if you prefer.
It's time for the annual Senior Lock In!
Friday, December 1 - Saturday, December 2 from 7 p.m. - 7 a.m
This is a super fun annual tradition! Parents/Guardians, sign up to volunteer to chaperone and/or to make breakfast donations and help us make this a success.
Seniors want to attend? Here is your to do list:
- Students need to RSVP
- Packing list: $5 if you want pizza ($10 for gluten free), school appropriate pajamas, blankets, pillows, and toothbrush/toothpaste.
- Optional: snacks for during the night, video gaming equipment, board games, card games, etc.
- Ms. Riley and Holcombe will meet with the seniors on Thursday during advisory to set behavior expectations. We will be located in the Mays Building for this event.
Group 4 Project presentations: This Friday, Dec. 1!
Friday, December 1 from 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
DP Science seniors (and coseated science seniors who opted in) will spend two full days exploring and innovating through the lens of science in small groups of students from Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Design. Families are invited to come and hear about what they learned. Read on for more information. We hope to see you there!
Donations Needed: DP Hot Cocoa and Cookie Decorating
Deb Robison is organizing our annual hot cocoa and cookie decorating event for juniors and seniors. This is scheduled for Thursday, December 7. Please donate needed supplies to make this event a success for the students!
Math tutorials: December 2 and 9
For students in grades 10-12
We have two remaining sessions of Saturday math tutorials with Ms. Riley and/or Dr. Oldfield scheduled 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
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Update
A message from Kathy Gregg, College Counselor:
The new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is delayed, and will be out by December 31. Mrs. Gregg will update students via ManageBac when updated information becomes available. Mrs. Gregg says, "Please don't worry about submitting information to your colleges too late, as all colleges in the country will be adapting to this delay!" Read on for more info.
Registration for Competitive Soccer and Competitive Tennis ends at 9 p.m.!
Learn more and register before 9 p.m. on Wednesday, November 29. No late registrations accepted! Competitive Soccer / Competitive Tennis, Check your registration status.
Order Meridian Basketball spirit wear
Order this optional Meridian Basketball sweatshirt before 9 p.m. on Thursday, November 30! It's approved spirit wear! Learn more and order on the Basketball Spirit Wear webpage.
Pack the stands for home basketball games!
Secondary Enrichment dates
November 29: Registration ends at 9 p.m. for Competitive Tennis and Competitive Soccer (7-12)
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets?
Email [email protected].
Week of November 15, 2023
Week of November 15, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
We are halfway through Quarter 2. Progress report grades have been updated in Skyward. If you have any academic concerns about your student, or concerns of any kind that we can help with, please reach out to us.
Congrats to both our Girls and Boys Varsity Volleyball teams for winning the regional title last weekend! I encourage you to come out to cheer them on at the state championship this coming Saturday, November 18 at Texas State University in San Marcos. Rumor has it that Roary (our school mascot) is getting a makeover so he will be there looking (and smelling!) like a new lion!
On Monday, we rolled out the Group 4 Project to the seniors who are participating in this annual collaborative, interdisciplinary learning experience. I hope you have marked your calendars to join us for their group poster presentations on Friday, December 1 from 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. The Senior Lock In is scheduled to begin right after the Group 4 presentations. We need parent support to make the Senior Lock In happen, so please read below for more details. The Junior Lock In is scheduled for January.
'Tis’ the season to be grateful! I am grateful for our close knit DP community. I wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving!
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
IB Exam schedule and billing for May 2024
Here is the IB Exam Schedule for May 2024. If your student is taking IB exams, it's important for you to know that they cannot be rescheduled – so please do not plan travel or make doctor appointments on examination days
Mr. Ryder is wrapping up IB exam registration this week! The cost per exam is $125. Families will be billed for this via MySchoolBucks in December. There is a 4% MySchoolBucks fee, so you are also welcome to pay by personal check if you prefer.
It's time for the annual Senior Lock In!
Friday, December 1 - Saturday, December 2 from 7 p.m. - 7 a.m
This is a super fun annual tradition! Parents/Guardians, sign up to volunteer to chaperone and/or to make breakfast donations and help us make this a success.
Seniors want to attend? Here is your to do list:
- Students need to RSVP
- Packing list: $5 if you want pizza ($10 for gluten free), school appropriate pajamas, blankets, pillows, and toothbrush/toothpaste.
- Optional: snacks for during the night, video gaming equipment, board games, card games, etc.
Math tutorials: December sign up
For students in grades 10-12
We have two remaining sessions of Saturday math tutorials scheduled in December. Please sign your student up and put these dates on your family calendar.
A solid review of some fundamental skills with Ms. Riley and/or Dr. Oldfield will help your student be more successful in math! If your student does not RSVP but then decides to come at the last minute, that's totally fine – we welcome them!
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).
Group 4 Project presentations: Mark your calendars
Friday, December 1 from 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
DP Science seniors (and coseated science seniors who opted in) will spend two full days exploring and innovating through the lens of science in small groups of students from Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Design. Families are invited to come and hear about what they learned. We hope to see you there!
These families are making money with RS3!
Looking for a way to help pay some of those senior year costs? Consider joining the RS3 team. You can raise money for your student to help pay for:
- IB exams (up to $750) and/or
- The senior trip (approximately $3,500) –this is an international trip scheduled for Spring Break of the senior year.
Families that participate earn tax-free dollars selling concessions at the Dell Diamond and the HEB Center. A family of three can earn over $200 in one night. Read on for more information and then email Brian Hankey at [email protected] to be added to the email group for this program.
Applying to a highly selective college or university?
Free seminar offered Wednesday, December 6 at 7 p.m.
How do students who get accepted to the nation's most selective colleges set themselves apart? This workshop is offered by a for-profit college advising company called CollegeWise. They do these free workshops to seek out clients, but you can participate in this workshop free of charge. Register if you are interested.
This is not a Meridian sponsored event. If you attend the seminar, I'd love to know if you found it valuable.
UT Austin Dept of Computer Science summer academies
Academy for All and Academy for Women are free, one-week residential programs. These programs are for high school students, entering 10-12 grade in fall 2024, who are looking to learn to code or expand their coding skills. Read on to see what is included and how to apply, deadline December 22. This year UT is also offering a new Academy for All Machine Learning Edition.
This is not a Meridian sponsored event and we do not have a partnership of any kind with this program.
Alumni Spotlight: Gabriella Furnans' "Semester at Sea"
Recent graduate Gabi Furnans is participating in a Semester at Sea program through Colorado State University. In this program, she spends the fall semester taking classes on a modified cruise ship, stopping in 11 port cities and experiencing the local culture along the way.
Portions of each port visit include class excursions, to bring the local culture and experience into the learning environment. So far, she's visited Antwerp (Belgium), Malaga (Spain), Malta, Barcelona (Spain), Athens (Greece), Gibraltar, and the Canary Islands. She is currently on ship, heading on the long voyage to Cape Town, South Africa and points beyond. The original plan was to travel through the Suez Canal and visit Jordan, Dubai, and Mumbai (India), yet the mid-east conflict caused a change of itinerary. Her trip will end in December in Thailand. Gabi reports that she's enjoying all sorts of new experiences and cultures!
Both Varsity Volleyball teams are state bound!
Saturday, November 18, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Strahan Arena at Texas State University
The Girls Varsity and Boys Varsity Volleyball teams won the Regional Championships Saturday, November 11, earning advancement to the TCSAAL State Volleyball Tournament! The Boys Varsity team is hungry for a three-peat, and the Girls Varsity team is ready to fight for their first title since 2016!
We need you there to roar for your Meridian Lions and help them sweep the Varsity Volleyball championships! Let’s GO, Lions!
See the Girls Varsity Volleyball hype video.
See the Boys Varsity Volleyball hype video.
Register now for Competitive Soccer and Tennis
Meridian Model UN earns four awards!
Meridian MUN took 57 delegates to the University of Texas to participate in the CTMUN Conference last weekend, November 10 - 12. Each student worked very hard to prepare for this conference, and everyone at Meridian (especially the advisors) are very proud of the participants! Meridian earned four awards!
Congratulations to Cylee D., Sarah R., Allison M., and Yuta G.!
The fall play, Macbeth, was impressive!
The high school cast and crew of The Scottish Play (Macbeth) transformed the black box into a post-apocalyptic war zone. The costumes, lighting, sound, sets, smoke, and props provided the stellar cast with the environment and means to bring murder, deceit, chaos, and total devastation to a spellbound audience. Bravo, Meridian Mechs!
Photo by Ed Saipetch
Secondary Enrichment dates
November 15: Registration opens for Competitive Tennis and Competitive Soccer (7-12)
November 17: First home Basketball games - Boys JV Bold, Girls Varsity, and Boys Varsity
November 18: Volleyball State Tournament
November 29: Registration ends at 9 p.m. for Competitive Tennis and Competitive Soccer (7-12)
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets?
Email [email protected].
Week of November 8, 2023
Week of November 8, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
I went to my 30th college reunion at Rice University this weekend. One of the standard questions people ask is "so what are you up to these days"? I loved sharing about my job as a principal because I truly enjoy this work and feel so fortunate to lead at a school like Meridian. I was here as a parent volunteer when the school first opened in 2011-2012! It's amazing to see how far we have come.
This Sunday is Veteran's Day! Please see below for something special we created to honor members of our community who have served our country. Thank you for your service!
Diwali is this Sunday, November 12, the Hindu festival of light. Please join us in celebrating Diwali by dressing in your traditional sarees, kurtis, salwar kameez, and Anarkali suits this Friday.
Lastly, I want to highlight that we are offering math tutorials on Saturdays! I strongly encourage you to send your student to these sessions with Ms. Riley and/or Dr. Oldfield. Please read more about this opportunity below. As always please reach out if we can do anything to support your student.
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
This Saturday, November 11 is Veterans Day!
We invited our secondary students to submit photos of family members who have served our country. Please take a moment to view the Middle School and High School slideshows we made to honor veteran family members. Thank you veterans for your bravery and service!
Senior Yearbook Portrait Days are this week!
Senior Group Photo on November 9
Senior Individual Yearbook Portraits on November 9 and 10
The tradition of taking senior photos on campus began with our first senior class in 2016! The seniors will take the annual Senior Group Photo on Thursday, November 9 at 8 a.m. in the Mays Lobby. Individual pictures will be taken on November 9 and 10. Read on to learn more about Senior Picture Day and how to pre-order pictures, and here is the schedule for the individual portraits.
High School fall play, Macbeth: This week
Show runs this week, November 9 and 10 at 6:30 p.m.
Tickets for the fall play, Macbeth, will be sold on MySchoolBucks from November 2 through November 9 at 5 p.m. The play will take place in the Black Box Theatre in the middle school building.
MySchoolBucks presale: $5 for students and $10 for adults
At the door: $6 for students and $12 for adults
Shrek Jr. Auditions: Save the date
Tuesday November 14
If your student is interested in auditioning for Shrek Jr. please have them complete the audition forms. Auditions take place on November 14 from 4:10 p.m. - 6 p.m. Please make sure to be at the school no later than 6 p.m. to pick up your student.
IB Exam registration and schedule for May 2024
November 15: IB Exam Registration Deadline
IB Exams start in early May, and we are working on putting together the official IB Exam schedule this week. Please check the newsletter next week for more information. This week, Mr. Ryder is wrapping up IB exam registration. The cost per exam is $125. Families will be billed for this via MySchoolBucks in December. There will be a 4% MySchoolBucks fee. You are also welcome to pay by personal check. More on this next week!
Is your student struggling in math?
Saturday Math Tutorials (for grades 10-12)
A solid review of some fundamental skills will help your student be more successful in math! Ms. Riley and Dr. Oldfield will be offering math tutorials on Saturdays between now and Winter Break. These tutorials are free, but we ask that you please fill out this form to RSVP. If your student does not RSVP but then decides to come at the last minute, that's totally fine – we welcome them!
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). Please sign up and put these dates on your family calendar!
All students in grades 10-12 are welcome to attend, even if they are not currently taking or plan to take IB DP math courses.
Group 4 Project Presentations: Mark your calendars
Friday, December 1 from 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Save the date for this year's Group 4 Presentations! Seniors who are enrolled in a DP science, including DP Design, and co-seated seniors who desire to participate will present. Students will spend two full days exploring and innovating through the lens of science. Families are invited to come and hear about what they learned. We hope to see you there!
Save the Dates: DP Lock-Ins
More info to come soon regarding these events, but please save the dates for our annual DP lock-ins! These events are a tradition that our students always look forward to.
- Senior Lock In: Friday, December 1 - Saturday, December 2 from 7 p.m. - 7 a.m.
- Junior Lock In: Friday, January 5 - Saturday, January 6 from 6 p.m. - 6 a.m.
DP Principal's Coffee
Thanks to those who came to the DP Principal's Coffee this past Monday, November 6. I don't have any formal notes to share from that meeting, but if you keep reading this newsletter you will be in the know!
Artificial Intelligence Education Initiative
This is not a Meridian sponsored event and we do not have a partnership of any kind with this organization, but this sounded interesting to me so I thought I would share it. Please note the program cost is $1100. If anyone decides to enroll their student in this program I would love some feedback about its quality so I know if I should share it again in the future.
“Inspirit AI is a AI enrichment program attended by students from 2000+ leading schools worldwide that teaches high school and middle school students fundamental AI concepts and guides them to build a socially impactful project in a domain such as healthcare, arts, finance, and more. Our team of Stanford, MIT, and Princeton alumni provide a small-group, interdisciplinary learning experience and we're excited to offer new Generative AI and ChatGPT focused content this year! Students may apply here for our Winter 2023 programs.”
Volleyball Regionals this weekend!
Friday, November 10 and Saturday, November 11
Girls Varsity advances to the Regional Semi-Finals in San Antonio Friday night! After winning, they will play in the Regional Championship Saturday morning! Boys Varsity plays in the Regional Championship Saturday afternoon!
Bump, set, spike! Let’s GO, Lions!
Girls Varsity Volleyball is Area Champion and headed to Regionals November 10! Photo by Kim Salazar
Visit this week’s Athletics Newsletter for more about Meridian sports.
Secondary Enrichment dates
November 10-12: Model UN Conference - CTMUN
November 10-11: Volleyball Regional Tournament
November 14: Auditions for the Spring Musical, Shrek, Jr. (6-12)
November 15: Registration opens for Competitive Tennis and Soccer (7-12)
November 18: Volleyball State Tournament
Check out more Athletics Secondary Enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets?
Email [email protected].
Week of November 1, 2023
Week of November 1, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
Is your student struggling in math? We’re offering Saturday math tutorials for our 10th-12th grade students starting this Saturday, November 4. See the sign up in the blurb below!
This Friday, November 3, is a big day! Please make sure your junior/senior attends school. It will be an A/B Day, The Theatre 2 and DPY2 Theatre students are going on a field trip to UT, we are rolling out the Extended Essay to the juniors, I will be doing a presentation about School Culture to our seniors, and we will be doing TSI testing in English for seniors who need to master this exam before they take college classes.
I enjoyed seeing our students in their Halloween costumes yesterday and today some of our Spanish and art students have painted faces for Día de los Muertos. The city of Round Rock will be hosting a Día de los Muertos processional and festival this Saturday; check it out!
Also, don't forget to join me for our next Principal's Coffee (in person) this coming Monday, November 6. More info on that below!
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
DP (11-12) Principal’s Coffee
Monday, November 6
Join us for the DP Principal’s Coffee on Monday, November 6 at 9 a.m. Meet with school leadership and ask any questions you might have.
This quarter’s coffee will be held in the high school cafeteria. Please park in the designated visitor parking spots on this map. You may come in through the high school entrance and sign in at the front office.
Saturday math tutorials (10-12)
Is your student struggling in math? Would they benefit from a solid review of key math concepts? Our own Ms. Riley and Dr. Oldfield will offer focused math tutorials on Saturdays starting this Saturday, November 4. Students should look for weekly tutorial schedule updates via the Daily Announcements and ManageBac.
Saturday, November 4 schedule
Session 1: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. taught by Wendy Riley in Room H1.04
Session 2: 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. taught by Dr. Oldfield in Room H1.04
Action Requested: If you have not done so already, please fill out this form to indicate your interest. Our goal is to support students so they can be best prepared for the IB exams in math. All students are welcome to attend, even if they are not currently taking or plan to take IB DP math courses.
Get tickets to Macbeth starting Thursday, November 2
Show runs November 9 and 10 at 6:30 p.m.
Tickets for the fall play, Macbeth, will be sold on MySchoolBucks from November 2 through November 9 at 5 p.m. The play will take place in the black box theatre in the middle school building.
MySchoolBucks presale: $5 for students and $10 for adults
At the door: $6 for students and $12 for adults
What is the play about? Adapted from William Shakespeare by Lindsey Price, this tragedy of betrayal, ambition, and murder has been adapted into an hour-long format that will excite audiences. This production is set in a post-apocalyptic war zone where "fair is foul and foul is fair," and features direction by Amy Crowl, Technical Direction by Becca Fajardo, and fight choreography by David Fried. Recommended for ages 15 and older.
Senior Yearbook Portrait Days are next week!
Senior Group Photo on November 9
Senior Individual Yearbook Portraits on November 9 and 10
The tradition of taking senior photos on campus began with our first senior class in 2016! The seniors will take the annual Senior Group Photo on Thursday, November 9 at 8 a.m. in the Mays Lobby. Individual pictures will be taken on November 9 and 10. Read on to learn more about Senior Picture Day and how to pre-order pictures. Please do not schedule doctor appointments on this date. If you have a college visit planned on this date, please let us know asap.
Attention: Seniors interested in Texas A&M
Thursday, November 2 from 6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
The Central Texas Regional Advisors invite you to an informative admissions overview. Have all your application and admissions questions answered by a Texas A&M Admissions Counselor and feel confident completing the admissions application.
These live Zoom sessions are for current seniors that plan to apply for Fall 2024 Freshman Admission. Students and parents will be able to ask questions via a chat feature, and questions will be answered in real-time. Register to get your Zoom Meeting link prior to the event.
Cross Country competes in the TCSAAL State Meet!
The Boys Middle School Premiere team and the Girls Varsity team will race in the State Meet this Saturday! Run fast, Running Lions! Let’s GO!
Girls Varsity team races in the State Cross Country Meet Saturday, November 4. Photo by David Edrich
Secondary Enrichment dates
Athletics
It’s an exciting time for Meridian sports right now! Cross Country competes in the State Meet this weekend! Our Volleyball teams continue to advance in playoffs with both Varsity teams playing in their Area Championships tonight, November 1 at home!
Cross Country
November 4: New date - Girls Varsity and Boys MS Premiere Cross Country State Meet
Volleyball
November 1: Volleyball: Boys Varsity and Girls Varsity Area Championships at home
November 1: Volleyball: Girls JV Area Semi-Finals away
November 2: Volleyball Girls MS Beast Area Semi-Finals away
November 10-11: Volleyball Regional Tournament (pending advancement)
November 18: Volleyball State Tournament (pending advancement)
Basketball
November 1: Basketball: Girls Varsity, Boys JV Beast, and Boys Varsity away
Tennis/Soccer Registration
November 15: Registration opens for Competitive Tennis and Soccer (7-12)
Clubs and Student Groups
November 10-12: Model UN Conference - CTMUN
November 14: Auditions for the Spring Musical, Shrek, Jr. (6-12)
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets? Email [email protected].
Week of October 25, 2023
Week of October 25, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
Lots going on as usual in the DP during Quarter 2! Mark your calendar for the next Principal Coffee scheduled for November 6 at 9 a.m. in the High School Cafeteria; we will meet in person. All secondary students are invited to dress up in full costume for Halloween. See info about our annual costume contest for the seniors.
IB exam registration for the May 2024 exams is due November 1. Mr. Ryder has been working with the students to get this accomplished. I invite you to talk with your student to confirm which exams they are taking and at what level (SL or HL). If you or your student have questions about this, please reach out to Mr. Ryder.
Also it’s Red Ribbon week and it’s not just for students. Check out some of our helpful Red Ribbon week parent/guardian resources.
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
It’s National Principals Month: Thank you, Ms. Holcombe
We’re so fortunate at Meridian to count Stela Holcombe as our DP Principal.
She is caring and an inquirer.
She’s never afraid to ask questions.
She encourages the building of traditions to make Meridian High School memorable and focuses on making higher academics attainable.
Click on the image to see all the fun things about Ms. Holcombe.
Yearbook picture retakes are November 1
Yearbook photo retakes happen Wednesday, November 1 for students who missed the first picture day in August or are not satisfied with the original photo.
If your student already got their photo and you or your student are not satisfied with their image from August, please follow the instructions on this Yearbook Picture Retake sign up before Friday.
Meridian DP Theatre Y1 presents: Days of Change
Sunday, October 29
Our DP Theatre Juniors have been working on an original play called Days of Change and will present this at UT on Sunday, October 29 at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Stewarded by Meridian Alum Gabrielle Lewis, the juniors have created an original piece of theatre about life without art. The performance is free and open to the public at the Winship Black Box on the UT Campus at 300 E 23rd St, Austin TX 78712. Please come support them!
Halloween Fun
Tuesday, October 31
All DP students and staff are invited to wear full Halloween Costumes on Tuesday, October 31. All clothing must be school appropriate, and no full face masks please (students must be identifiable for safety reasons). We will have our annual costume contest for seniors during advisory. If you would like to donate candy or gift cards to be used as prizes for this activity this would certainly be appreciated. Please send donations to, attention: Stela Holcombe.
EE Roll Out for Full IB Diploma Juniors
Friday, November 3 (AB Day)
Please make sure your full diploma junior is at school on Friday, November 3. We are doing a very structured roll out of the Extended Essay so we need them here – unless they are sick of course!
Senior Picture Days!
Senior Group Photo on November 9
Senior Individual Yearbook Portraits on November 9 and 10
The tradition of taking senior photos on campus began with our first senior class in 2016! The seniors will take the annual Senior Group Photo on Thursday, November 9 at 8 a.m. in the Mays Lobby. Please do not schedule doctor appointments on this date. If you have a college visit planned on this date, please let us know asap.
Seniors last name Alvarez-Majety will sit for their individual senior yearbook portrait with professional photographer Dez Keelty here on campus on November 9 (the same day as the Senior Group Picture).
Seniors last name Mathew-Villar will sit for their individual senior yearbook portrait with professional photographer Dez Keelty on Friday, November 10. This means that this group will need to dress up on both days – on November 9 for the Senior Group Picture and then again on November 10 for their individual yearbook portrait. Note: we are aware of a MUN activity on this date so we are looking at the schedule more closely.
Pre-Ordering and Dress Requirements: Read the order form/document that shares all the information you need about dress requirements and pre-ordering information. Please review it carefully with your student. The senior group photo must be pre-ordered using the order form. You can fill out the form now and send it to the school to the attention of Wendy Riley. Note: No purchase is required to be in the yearbook.
Questions about picture day should be directed to Wendy Riley.
Save the Dates for the Group 4 Collaborative Project
November 30 and December 1
The Group 4 Collaborative Project is a requirement for all seniors who are enrolled in a DP Science, even if they are not full IB diploma candidates. Please do not schedule doctor appointments or college visits on these dates. Parents/guardians will be invited to see the Group 4 Collaborative Project Presentations on December 1 from 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. and then the Senior Lock-In will begin that same night at 7 p.m. More info to come in future editions of this newsletter!
Parent Volunteers Needed for Senior Lock-In
Parents and guardians, we need you to help chaperone the Senior Lock-In scheduled for Friday, December 1 from 7 p.m. - 7 a.m. We need to secure a sufficient number of volunteers to make this event possible for our students. Sign up and help us make this tradition happen. We are looking forward to it!
Be Kind to Your Mind. Live Drug Free.
Secondary Red Ribbon Week
Thursday – October 26
Tuff Fit Thursday (Best Outfit): It's not fashionable to do drugs
Friday – October 27
Color War: Let's wage war against drugs
Seniors, Black ● Juniors, White
Halloween: Tuesday, October 31, students will be able to wear their Halloween costumes.
Costume restrictions: must be school appropriate, nothing scary, no weapons, no masks (we must be able to see faces).
Cross Country competes in the TCSAAL State Meet
Saturday, November 4 (NEW DATE)
The Boys Middle School Premiere team and the Girls Varsity team will race in the State Meet next Saturday, November 4 at Webberville Park! Run fast, Running Lions! Let’s GO! Bring home the titles!
Volleyball playoffs start at home Thursday, October 26!
Boys Varsity, Girls Varsity, Girls JV, and Girls MS Beast advance to playoffs! The top seed will host area games. Meridian hosts two playoff games this Thursday and more next week!
Thursday, October 26 - Girls Varsity in Area Semi-Final & Girls JV in Area Round of 6 at home!
Wednesday, November 1 - Boys Varsity in Area Championship at home!
Watch the Volleyball Game Schedule and Athletics Calendar for details and come support our Meridian Volleyball teams as they fight to advance to the Regional Tournament on Saturday, November 11.
Basketball games start next week!
Find the Tentative Basketball Game Schedule. The Basketball Game Schedule is subject to change.
Secondary Enrichment dates
October 26: Home Volleyball playoff games - Girls Varsity in Area Semi-Final & Girls JV in Area Round of 6 at home!
November 1: Home Volleyball playoff game - Boys Varsity in Area Championship!
November 4: NEW DATE! Cross Country meet - TCSAAL State Meet
November 9 & 10: Meridian Mechs presents “The Scottish Play” (MacBeth)
November 10-12: Model UN Conference - CTMUN
November 11: Volleyball Regional Tournament
November 15: Registration opens for Competitive Tennis and Soccer
November 18: Volleyball State Tournament
Check out more enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets? Email [email protected].
Week of October 18, 2023
Week of October 18, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
I hope everyone had a great fall break! Quarter 1 report cards are now available in Skyward. Reach out to your student's teachers with any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Quarter 1 report cards
First quarter report cards are available in Skyward. You may find your student's report card in Skyward. Report Card access: Click on the Portfolio Tile to access and download your student’s report card. You must download the PDF version of the report card to view it.
Senior Directed Scenes
Wednesday, October 18 at 6 p.m. in the Black Box Theater
The DP Theatre program seniors put on their first performance of the year tonight! They will present scenes they have directed to support their Production Proposals. They would love to have a good audience present to see their hard work come to life. This performance is free of charge. These theatre students chose the play texts themselves and have directed their peers for these individual and interesting productions. Please come and support them. Hope to see you there!
Note: We do recommend all audience members be high school aged and up due to the mature content in some of the scenes.
Scenes will be presented from:
Almost, Maine- Directed by Caleb North
(Anon)ymous- Directed by Dallin Kellogg
Epic Proportions- Directed by Florian Gentillet
Journey to the West- Directed by Donovan Cho
Julius Caesar- Directed by Jeff Palatty
The Pillowman- Directed by Nicholas Flores
The Two Musketeers- Directed by Ramsey Blackwell
The Yellow Boat- Directed by Diego Rodriguez
Secondary Scholastic Book Fair
EWallets: Consider setting up an eWallet so that your child can shop without bringing cash to school. If you created an eWallet for your child for a past book fair, you should have received an email at the end of that book fair with a link to an electronic gift card. It will go back to the account that you used to create the eWallet on scholastic.com. You can use this gift card to fund an eWallet for the next book fair. If you have questions about eWallets, please see Scholastic’s eWallets help section. Students can also pay with cash, and families can pay with cash or credit cards.
Yearbook picture retakes
Picture Proofs from the August 25 Picture Day were sent home with your student in September. These are the head and shoulder photos that will be used in the Meridian yearbook, THE WORLD. If you and your student liked the picture, no action is needed.
If you and your student are not satisfied with your child's image, your child may do a "retake" on the morning of Wednesday, November 1. Please read and follow the instructions on this Yearbook Picture Retake sign up.
If your student was newly enrolled on or after August 25 or missed the first picture day, there is no need to fill out the above form. We will automatically pull them for a photo.
Save the Dates for Senior Picture Days!
Senior Group Photo on November 9
Senior Individual Yearbook Portraits on November 9 and 10
The tradition of taking senior photos on campus began with our first senior class in 2016! The seniors will take the annual Senior Group Photo on Thursday, November 9 at 8 a.m. in the Mays Lobby. Please do not schedule doctor appointments on this date. If you have a college visit planned on this date, please let us know asap.
Seniors last name A-L will sit for their individual senior yearbook portrait with professional photographer, Dez Keelty, here on campus on November 9 (the same day as the Senior Group Picture).
Seniors last name M-Z will sit for their individual senior yearbook portrait with professional photographer, Dez Keelty, here on campus on Friday, November 10. This means that this group (last name M-Z) will need to dress up on both days – on November 9 for the Senior Group Picture and then again on November 10 for their individual yearbook portrait.
Pre-Ordering and Dress Requirements: Read the order form/document that shares all the information you need about dress requirements and pre-ordering information. Please review it carefully with your student. The senior group photo must be pre-ordered using the order form. Note: No purchase is required to be in the yearbook.
Questions about picture day should be directed to Wendy Riley.
Save the Dates for the Group 4 Collaborative Project
November 30 and December 1
The Group 4 Collaborative Project is a requirement for all seniors who are enrolled in a DP Science, even if they are not full IB diploma candidates. Please do not schedule doctor appointments or college visits on these dates. Parents/guardians will be invited to see the Group 4 Collaborative Project Presentations on December 1 from 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. and then the Senior Lock-In will begin that same night at 7 p.m. More info to come in future editions of this newsletter!
Parent Volunteers Needed for Senior Lock-In
Parents/guardians: we will need your support as chaperones for the Senior Lock-In scheduled for Friday, December 1 from 7 p.m. - 7 a.m. I will include a sign-up in next week's DP Lions Share. In the meantime, please see if you can clear your calendar to support this super fun event.
Juniors, need to raise money for your senior trip to Costa Rica?
If your family starts now, you can raise all the money your student needs for the senior trip through the RS3 fundraising program!
This RS3 Informational Document has all the details you need to know about the program. I strongly advise you to read it in full. Still want to learn more? You can find the informational Zoom Recording here.
Want to get plugged into RS3? To be added to the email list to receive further info about RS3, please email Brian Hankey at: [email protected].
Be Kind to Your Mind. Live Drug Free.
Secondary Red Ribbon Week
Monday – October 23
Mixtape Monday: Listen to bars, don't end up behind them
Tuesday – October 24
Clones Day: Friends don't let friends do drugs
Wednesday – October 25
Country vs. Country Club: Drug free pride, country wide
Thursday – October 26
Tuff Fit Thursday (Best Outfit): It's not fashionable to do drugs
Friday – October 27
Color War: Let's wage war against drugs
Seniors - Black
Juniors - White
Sophomores - Blue
Freshmen - Pink
8th grade - Purple
7th grade - Green
6th grade - Orange
Halloween: Tuesday, October 31, students will be able to wear their Halloween costumes.
Costume restrictions: must be school appropriate, nothing scary, no weapons, no masks (we must be able to see faces).
Cross Country advances to the TCSAAL State Meet!
Academic Eligibility reminder
Volleyball Senior Night!
Last regular season home Volleyball game
Volleyball playoffs start next week!
Meridian is expected to host Sub-Regional games! Watch the Volleyball Game Schedule and Athletics Calendar for details and come support our Meridian Volleyball teams as they fight to advance to the Regional Tournament on Saturday, November 11.
Competitive Tennis and Soccer registration
2023-24 Lettering Requirements
Secondary Enrichment dates
October 19: Home Volleyball game - Girls MS Beast
October 28: Cross Country meet - TCSAAL State Meet
Check out more October enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets? Email [email protected].
Week of October 4, 2023
Week of October 4, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
Fall Break is upon us! I love that our students and staff get this much needed brain break in between Q1 and Q2. DP Students (grades 11-12) will have a free dress day this Friday, October 6. Please encourage your student to make good choices when choosing apparel.
This week I want to send a shout out to everyone who made Homecoming Week a memorable one for our students. Debi Castro led the mum and garter project for grades 6-12 with support from Lynda Chapel (parent volunteer and staff member here at Meridian). Aimee Stenborg and Robyn Tester kept everyone informed via communications and daily announcement/social media slides. Erin Foster and Deb Robison organized and executed the Homecoming Dance, and Jeanne Batterton built the casino games for this dance that was attended by over 250 students. This was the biggest high school dance in Meridian history! School staff who made things happen were Virginie Gentillet (Student Council Sponsor), Wendy Riley (DP AP), and Nick Manuszak (pep rally organizer and MC).
When our alumni look back on their Meridian School experience I want them to remember that the hard work they put into their coursework was balanced with fun times such as Homecoming. There are so many others who helped make the week a great success – too many to list here but please know how much you are appreciated by me and our students.
Lastly, please remember that this Friday, October 6 is the deadline to drop or co-seat an IB diploma level course and/or drop any other courses currently on your student's schedule. Please email Mr. Manuszak if you have concerns or questions about your student's academic success.
Sincerely,
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Deadline to drop / co-seat courses is October 6
If your student is struggling in a class, please note that the deadline to drop or co-seat a course is the Friday, October 6, before Fall Break. Once a grade posts for Quarter 1, we cannot drop or change a class. Please email high school counselor, Nick Manuszak to request a conference to discuss a schedule adjustment for your student.
Quarter 1 report cards
Monday, October 16
First quarter report cards will be available in Skyward after 10 a.m. on Monday, October 16. You may find your student's report card in Skyward. Report Card access: Click on the Portfolio Tile to access and download your student’s report card. You must download the PDF version of the report card to view it.
DP Academic Eligibility Waiver applications
Due by Friday, October 20
If a student fails one of their DP level courses in Quarter 1 and does not meet Academic Eligibility, they are able to apply for a "DP Waiver" which will keep them eligible to compete/perform in their extracurricular activity. This form must be completed immediately after report card grades come out, Monday, October 16 for Q1. If your student ends up in this situation, have them email Ms. Holcombe to get help with this process.
Yearbook picture retakes
Action Required by Friday, October 27
Picture Proofs from the August 25 "Fall Picture Day" were sent home with your student in September. These are the head and shoulder photos that will be used in the Meridian yearbook, THE WORLD. If you and your student liked the picture, no action is needed.
If you and your student are not satisfied with your child's image, your child may do a "retake" on the morning of Wednesday, November 1. Please read and follow the instructions on this Yearbook Picture Retake sign up.
If your student was newly enrolled on or after August 25 or missed the first picture day, there is no need to fill out the above form. We will automatically pull them for a photo.
Juniors, need to raise money for your senior trip to Costa Rica?
An informational Zoom meeting was held on September 7 about RS3 fundraising. The Hankey family is leading the effort to organize this program for our school. If your family starts now, you can raise all the money your student needs for the senior trip!
If you missed the meeting, here is the Zoom Recording: RS3 Informational Zoom Meeting from September 7 . And then, this document RS3 Informational Document has all the details you need to know about the program. I strongly advise you to read it in full.
Want to get plugged into RS3? To be added to the email list to receive further info about RS3, please email Brian Hankey at: [email protected].
Be Kind to Your Mind. Live Drug Free.
Secondary Red Ribbon Week
Monday – October 23
Mixtape Monday: Listen to bars, don't end up behind them
Tuesday – October 24
Clones Day: Friends don't let friends do drugs
Wednesday – October 25
Country vs. Country Club: Drug free pride, country wide
Thursday – October 26
Tuff Fit Thursday (Best Outfit): It's not fashionable to do drugs
Friday – October 27
Color War: Let's wage war against drugs
Seniors - Black
Juniors - White
Sophomores - Blue
Freshmen - Pink
8th grade - Purple
7th grade - Green
6th grade - Orange
Halloween: Tuesday, October 31, students will be able to wear their Halloween costumes.
Costume restrictions: must be school appropriate, nothing scary, no weapons, no masks (we must be able to see faces).
OctoberMed Talks, hosted by Texas A&M University School of Medicine
Texas A&M University School of Medicine is hosting the OctoberMed Talks, virtual event series for high school students in grades 10-12. Talks happen every Thursday in October at 6 p.m. on Zoom. The OctoberMed Talks are designed to provide aspiring healthcare professionals with valuable insights into various healthcare careers. Each session features distinguished guest speakers who share their experiences, challenges, and the rewards of their respective fields.
Students who attend will receive a completion certificate; attendance will be recorded towards the end of each Med Talk. Please register and do not use your school issued email to register. Questions? Please email [email protected].
Women's Empowerment Club (WEC) volunteers at SAFE Alliance Event
On Saturday, September 30, the Women's Empowerment Club volunteered at the SAFE Alliance's fall event, Touch-A-Truck. The SAFE Alliance provides a pathway to a stable life for victims of domestic and child abuse. Earlier this year, the WEC raised $800.00 to donate to SAFE Alliance. Way to go!
Secondary Scholastic Book Fair
Volleyball Senior Night is Tuesday, October 17!
Photo by David Edrich
Cross Country meets bookend Fall Break with Regionals
Come cheer for our running lions over Fall Break!
Saturday, October 7: Founders Classical Invitational
Saturday, October 14: TCSAAL Central Texas Regional Meet
The Homecoming Tailgate and Volleyball games were a huge success!
A record number of people attended the volleyball games Friday night in recognition of Meridian’s Homecoming. Meridian swept the competition! Roar, lions, ROAR! Keep the spirit going and come to our last home games of the season before playoffs!
Wednesday, October 4: Girls MS Beast & Boys Varsity
Friday, October 6: Girls JV & Girls Varsity
Tuesday, October 17: Girls JV, Girls Varsity & Boys Varsity
Thursday, October 19: Girls MS Beast
Save the date: Volleyball Senior Night is Tuesday, October 17!
Competitive Basketball has seven teams for the season!
Competitive Tennis and Soccer registration opens November 15
2023-24 Lettering Requirements
Secondary Enrichment dates
October 4: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Beast & Boys Varsity
October 6: Home Volleyball games - Girls JV & Girls Varsity
October 7 - 15: Athletics Department and Secondary Enrichment closed for Fall Break
October 7: Cross Country meet - Founders Classical Invitational
October 14: Cross Country meet - TCSAAL Central Texas Regional Meet
October 17: Volleyball Senior Night!
October 17: Home Volleyball games - Girls JV, Girls Varsity & Boys Varsity
October 19: Home Volleyball game - Girls MS Beast
October 28: Cross Country meet - TCSAAL State Meet
Check out more October enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets? Email [email protected].
Week of September 27, 2023
Week of September 27, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
I hope that those of you who were affected by the terrible storm are recovering as well as can be expected. Luckily, we had no damage in the high school. I'm thankful for the DP parents who came out on Monday to help clean up debris that covered the high school entrance area: Cortinas, Cruz, Czajka, Edwards, Hankey, Saipetch, and Toczko. If I forgot to mention anyone please let me know! Mr. Manuszak and I were so happy to have the help!
It's Homecoming Week! The students are enjoying their dress up days this week and the Homecoming Dance is scheduled for this Saturday, September 30! Homecoming Dance Tickets are now on sale on MySchoolBucks for $10 each (the cost is $15 cash only at the door). Also, please sign up to make the dance a success by donating needed food items and/or you can volunteer to help decorate, chaperone the dance or work at the casino tables, volunteers are needed!
Quarter 1 ends on Friday, October 6. This Friday, September 29 will be the last day that student work will be accepted for this grading period. Summatives given at the very end of the quarter are most often planned to count as a grade for Quarter 2 so there is time for a retake if needed. Please reach out if you have questions about our DP grading practices.
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Please note schedule changes for next week. The main purpose of making Friday an AB Day is to recoup lost instructional A Day time that was lost on Monday, Sept 25.
A/B Schedule for the week of October 2-6:
Monday - B Day
Tuesday - A Day
Wednesday - B Day
Thursday - A Day
Friday - AB Day (all 8 periods with NO advisory)
DP Information Night Information from September 21
Thanks to those who were able to join us for the DP Info Nights last week! Below are the Zoom Meeting recordings and the presentation links from each session.
Junior Zoom Meeting Link and Junior Slideshow
Senior Zoom Meeting Link and Senior Slideshow
Class of 2025 Senior Trip Roll-Out Meeting is next week!
Tuesday, October 3 from 6 p.m. - 7 pm via Zoom
Attention Parents/Guardians of juniors! Mark your calendars for this meeting where we will officially roll out the Senior Trip for your class! We will share details about the trip that won your vote and you will learn about how to sign up! Join us on Zoom. Note: This meeting will be recorded for those who cannot attend on this date and time.
Deadline to drop / co-seat courses is October 6
If your student is struggling in a class, please note that the deadline to drop or co-seat a course is the Friday, October 6, before Fall Break. Once a grade posts for Quarter 1, we cannot drop or change a class. Please email high school counselor, Nick Manuszak to request a conference to discuss a schedule adjustment for your student.
Homecoming Week is this week– September 25 - 30. Enjoy dress up days, pep rally, high school dance, tailgate, volleyball games, and more! Read on for details.
High School Semi-Formal Homecoming Dance
Saturday, September 30 from 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Attention High School Parents!
The dance is less than this week and it won't be possible without your support! Our sign up still has a lot of openings. We need Casino Game Dealers, food donations, clean up volunteers, raffle prices, and more. Please sign up to donate food and/or to volunteer on the night of the event. Thank you for your help in making it a success!
Tickets are on sale now!
Purchase your dance tickets now on MySchoolBucks. Discounted ticket sales end September 29 at noon. Tickets may be purchased at the door for an increased price the day of the dance. Read on for more dance details.
Homecoming Spirit Week: Dress up day themes
Thursday, September 28: Character Day
Friday, September 29: Red Out! Everyone wear red! (Pep Rally today - wear mums and garters!)
Homecoming Volleyball Games and Tailgate
Calling all Meridian Lions! K-12 students + families + staff + alumni!
Let’s get that lion spirit roaring with Meridian’s first Homecoming Tailgate! Enjoy yard games and a food truck by Crepe Crazy. Make a spirit poster, and get ready to cheer for our lions!
Sign-Up: Parents/guardians, please sign up for a short slot to help make sure this new tradition stays safe and fun for all!
This year, our Homecoming will celebrate Meridian Volleyball! Meridian Homecoming Volleyball games are Friday, September 29! In addition to three home Volleyball games, the evening will feature an introduction of the Meridian Cross Country teams and a performance by the Meridian Fierce Dance Team!
Homecoming Game Night Admissions:
- Cash only
- Red Out!
- Free admission for students in red or Meridian spirit wear.
- $3 for adults in red or Meridian spirit wear.
- $5 adults or $3 students
- Meridian staff are always admitted for free with a badge.
Increased Consequences for Vaping
In case you missed this info shared in a previous newsletter, I am writing again about the increased consequences for vaping. House Bill 114 requires schools to remove students from campus for all vape offenses, possession, use, and/or being under the influence of THC or non-THC vape, and placing them in the district's District Alternative Education Program (DAEP). Meridian does not have a DAEP, so removal from class would result in long-term placement in-school suspension (ISS) for a minimum of 4 - 6 weeks. This consequence would apply if the offense happens while on campus, within 300 feet of school property, or at a school-related event. Please note that selling or distributing vape, marijuana, or another controlled substance would result in expulsion from Meridian School.
I encourage you to have a conversation with your student about the dangers of vape use and the increased consequences described above. Being absent from class for a 4 - 6 week placement in ISS would have a definite impact on learning.
OctoberMed Talks, hosted by Texas A&M University School of Medicine
Texas A&M University School of Medicine is hosting the OctoberMed Talks, virtual event series for high school students in grades 10-12. Talks happen every Thursday in October at 6 p.m. on Zoom. The OctoberMed Talks are designed to provide aspiring healthcare professionals with valuable insights into various healthcare careers. Each session features distinguished guest speakers who share their experiences, challenges, and the rewards of their respective fields.
Students who attend will receive a completion certificate; attendance will be recorded towards the end of each Med Talk. Please register and do not use your school issued email to register. Questions? Please email [email protected].
Boys High School Cross Country at HOKA-One McNeil Meet on September 22! Photo by David Edrich
Academic Eligibility (No Pass No Play) Reminder
The last day student work will be accepted for this grading period is Friday, September 29. Students should check Skyward for missing assignments and ManageBac for pending past due assignments and turn in all work that is still being accepted by Friday to protect their academic eligibility.
The end of the first grading quarter is quickly approaching! As of 4:10 p.m. on October 20, per state law and Meridian School rules, any student who fails or receives an incomplete in at least one class for the first grading quarter will become ineligible to compete or perform in extracurricular activities such as: Model UN, Theatre, Cross Country, Dance Team, Volleyball, Basketball, etc. Learn how to protect your academic eligibility:
- Academic Eligibility Grading Quarter 1 Slideshow
- 2023-2024 Academic Eligibility Dates
- No Pass No Play for Parents/Guardians and Students
Pre-order your Meridian Theatre spirit wear
Are you a theatre kid? Do you love a theatre kid? Do you love attending live theatre productions?
Show your love of all things Meridian Theatre by pre-ordering your shirt now through September 29. This shirt features fun theatre phrases and includes shoutouts to our after school theatre programs – Lions Acting Troupe (Primary) and Meridian Mechs (Secondary).
The design will be printed on a soft cotton black shirt and will range in price from $10-$13 based on pre-orders. Shirts should arrive by early November. Please check the size chart and preorder today!
Secondary Enrichment dates
September 28: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Bold & Girls JV
September 29: Homecoming Tailgate
September 29: Homecoming Volleyball games - Girls MS Beast, Girls Varsity, Boys Varsity
September 30: Tryouts for Competitive Basketball
October 3: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Bold & Girls JV
October 4: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Beast & Boys Varsity
October 6: Home Volleyball games - Girls JV & Girls Varsity
October 6: Deadline to pre-order Meridian Theatre spirit wear
October 7: Cross Country meet - Founders Classical Invitational
Check out more October enrichment dates on our school calendar of events.
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets? Email [email protected].
Week of September 20, 2023
Week of September 20, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
Is it too soon to get excited about our week-long Fall Break that is coming up in a couple of weeks? I don't think so! Before we get to enjoy Fall Break, however, we have some important and fun things happening!
This Thursday night, September 21, we have our DP Parent Information Sessions (via Zoom-find the meeting link below). Come and learn what your student can expect in DPY1 and DPY2 of the IB Diploma Program at Meridian.
Next week is Homecoming Week! Homecoming Dance Tickets are now on sale on MySchoolBucks for $10 each (the cost is $15 cash only at the door). Also, please sign up to make the dance a success by donating needed food items and/or you can volunteer to help decorate, chaperone the dance or work at the casino tables, volunteers are needed!
Lastly, it was great to see some of our original students and their families at the Founders Day event this past Saturday. I love this photo of Mr. Baker in the dunking booth that was hosted by our Student Council!
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Homecoming Week is next week– September 25 - 30. Enjoy dress up days, pep rally, high school dance, tailgate, volleyball games, and more! Read on for details.
High School Semi-Formal Homecoming Dance
Saturday, September 30 from 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Attention High School Parents!
The dance is less than two weeks away and it won't be possible without your support! Our sign up still has a lot of openings. We need Casino Game Dealers, food donations, clean up volunteers, raffle prices, and more. Please sign up to donate food and/or to volunteer on the night of the event. Thank you for your help in making it a success!
Tickets are on sale now!
Purchase your dance tickets now on MySchoolBucks. Discounted ticket sales end September 29 at noon. Tickets may be purchased at the door for an increased price the day of the dance. Read on for more dance details.
Homecoming Spirit Week: Dress up day themes
Monday, September 25: Pajama / Adam Sandler Day
Tuesday, September 26: Anything but a backpack
Wednesday, September 27: Team Day and College Shirt Day
Thursday, September 28: Character Day
Friday, September 29: Red Out! Everyone wear red! (Pep Rally today - wear mums and garters!)
Homecoming Volleyball Games and Tailgate
Calling all Meridian Lions! K-12 students + families + staff + alumni!
Let’s get that lion spirit roaring with Meridian’s first Homecoming Tailgate! Enjoy yard games and a food truck by Crepe Crazy. Make a spirit poster, and get ready to cheer for our lions!
This year, our Homecoming will celebrate Meridian Volleyball! Meridian Homecoming Volleyball games are Friday, September 29! In addition to three home Volleyball games, the evening will feature an introduction of the Meridian Cross Country teams and a performance by the Meridian Fierce Dance Team!
Homecoming Game Night Admissions:
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Cash only
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Red Out!
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Free admission for students in red or Meridian spirit wear.
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$3 for adults in red or Meridian spirit wear.
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$5 adults or $3 students
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Meridian staff are always admitted for free with a badge.
DP Information Nights are this week!
Thursday, September 21 via Zoom
6 p.m.-7 p.m.: Meeting for Parents/Guardians of Juniors
7 p.m.-8 p.m.: Meeting for Parents/Guardians of Seniors
Our DP Coordinator, Charles Ryder, will share information with parents/guardians about what to expect in the junior and senior years of the IB diploma program at Meridian. The information in this meeting is geared towards families of students who plan to take at least one IB exam in the senior year.
Join our Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID is 889 8370 2039
Passcode is 7Zmbk3.
Senior Ad reservations
Deadline is this coming Monday, September 25!
The deadline to reserve a space in the yearbook for a Senior Ad is Monday, September 25. This RSVP Form was recently emailed directly to senior parents/guardians. Questions about senior ads should be directed to Lacy Vain.
Save the Date: Class of 2025 Senior Trip Roll-Out Meeting
Tuesday, October 3 from 6 p.m. - 7 pm via Zoom
Attention Parents/Guardians of juniors! Mark your calendars for this meeting where we will officially roll out the Senior Trip for your class! We will share details about the trip that won your vote and you will learn about how to sign up! Join us on Zoom. Note: This meeting will be recorded for those who cannot attend on this date and time.
Deadline to drop / co-seat courses is October 6
If your student is struggling in a class, please note that the deadline to drop or co-seat a course is the Friday, October 6, before Fall Break. Once a grade posts for Quarter 1, we cannot drop or change a class. Please email high school counselor, Nick Manuszak to request a conference to discuss a schedule adjustment for your student.
Boys Varsity Volleyball is on fire! The team won the Gold bracket (1st place) at the Aggieland Showdown on September 16! Photo by Arieyani Gunara
Last chance to register for Competitive Basketball!
Calling all 7th-12th grade students who want to play Basketball for the Meridian Lions – registration ends at 9 p.m. on September 20! No late registrations will be accepted!
Six competitive teams are expected to form this year, and the goal is to take Meridian Hoops all the way to the State Championship at Texas State University in February! Students who wish to try out for 2023-24 Competitive Basketball must be registered by 9 p.m. on Wednesday, September 20. Mandatory tryouts are Saturday, September 30.
Pre-order your Meridian Theatre spirit wear
Are you a theatre kid? Do you love a theatre kid? Do you love attending live theatre productions?
Show your love of all things Meridian Theatre: pre-order your shirt through October 6.
The design will be printed on a soft cotton black shirt and ranges from $10-$13. Shirts should arrive by early November. Please pre-order today!
Academic Eligibility (No Pass No Play) Reminder
The end of the first grading quarter is quickly approaching! At 4:10 p.m. on October 20, per state law and Meridian School rules, any student who fails or receives an incomplete in at least one class for Grading Quarter 1 will become ineligible to compete or perform in extracurricular activities such as: Model UN, Theatre, Cross Country, Dance Team, Volleyball, Basketball, etc. Learn how to protect your academic eligibility:
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Academic Eligibility Grading Quarter 1 Slideshow (shown in September 20 announcements)
- No Pass No Play for Parents/Guardians and Students
Secondary Enrichment dates
September 20: Competitive Basketball registration ends at 9 p.m.
September 20: Physical forms for Competitive Basketball are due
September 21: Home Volleyball games - Girls JV & Girls Varsity
September 22 - 23: Cross Country meet - HOKA One McNeil Invite
September 23: Home Volleyball games - Boys Varsity
September 26: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Bold & Girls Varsity
September 28: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Bold & Girls JV
September 29: Homecoming Games Tailgate
September 29: Homecoming Volleyball games - Girls MS Beast, Girls Varsity, Boys Varsity
September 30: Tryouts for Competitive Basketball
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets? Email [email protected].
Week of September 13, 2023
Week of September 13, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
It was great to see some of you first DP Principal Coffee of the year this past Monday. Take a look at the presentation if you didn’t get a chance to come.
If you missed the informational Zoom meeting about RS3 Concession Fundraising that was held last week, I included all the information you need below so keep reading!
Attention Class of 2025 (Juniors): The deadline to vote on the final two Senior Trip choices is this coming Monday, September 18. Vote now, please vote only once per family.
Lastly, I want to urge you to consider purchasing a mum or garter kit, via MySchoolBucks for your student(s) for Homecoming! I'd like to thank parent volunteer Debi Castro for all she has done to bring this tradition to Meridian! Mrs. Castro will sell kits in person on Monday and Tuesday of next week, so send your student with $30 cash/check if you prefer not to order via MySchoolBucks. Homecoming is scheduled for September 25 - 30!
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Skyward Progress Checks
We are halfway into the first quarter! Parents/Guardians are encouraged to login to Skyward and click on the “Grading” tile to check on your student's academic progress. Does your student need some extra help? Check out our DP Course Syllabi and Tutorial Schedule.
Homecoming has moved to the fall this year! It’s September 25 - 30. Enjoy dress up days, a mum and garter making event, pep rally, high school dance, tailgate, volleyball games, and more! Read on for details.
Here are a few important homecoming items to make note of this week.
Homecoming Mum and Garter Kits on Sale Now!
Sales run through September 19 at 11:59 p.m.
Mum and Garter Making Social: September 20 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Secondary students: join this Texas tradition and show your school spirit – purchase your mum or garter by September 19! Read on for details on mums and garters, when students can wear them, and the history behind this Texas-sized tradition.
How do I purchase my mum or garter?
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MySchoolBucks: Sales end Tuesday, September 19 at 11:59 p.m.
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In person: Students may now purchase their mum or garter in person September 18 in the Mays lobby and September 19 in the high school lobby.
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Pay by check: Please complete the pay by check order form. Bring your completed form and a check for the amount listed in the form to either the middle or high school office by September 19.
Mum and garter options:
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DIY kit: You can get a mum or garter kit to make at home using our instructional video.
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Mum and Garter Making Social: Come to the social Wednesday, September 20 after school and make your kit with friends, with assistance from experienced mum/garter makers.
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Preassembled: These will be made for you and ready to wear and delivered to you in advisory by September 25.
High School Semi-Formal Homecoming Dance
Saturday, September 30 from 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Parent support needed for the Homecoming Dance!
Attention High School parents: this event won't be possible without your support. Please sign up to donate food and/or to volunteer on the night of the event. Thank you for your help in making it a success!
Tickets go on sale this Friday, September 15
Dance tickets go on sale this Friday, log in to MySchoolBucks to purchase. Read on for more dance details.
DP Information Nights are next week!
Thursday, September 21 via Zoom
Our DP Coordinator, Charles Ryder, will share information with parents/guardians about what to expect in the junior and senior years of the IB diploma program at Meridian. The link will be shared next week.
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6 p.m.-7 p.m.: Meeting for Parents/Guardians of Juniors
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7 p.m.-8 p.m.: Meeting for Parents/Guardians of Seniors
Senior Ad Reservations
Deadline Monday, September 25
The deadline to reserve a space in the yearbook for a Senior Ad is Monday, September 25. This RSVP Form was recently emailed directly to senior parents/guardians. Questions about senior ads should be directed to Lacy Vain.
ManageBac access for parents/guardians
If you are still not connected with your student’s account on ManageBac, please complete this form. We will add you to the platform and you’ll receive a welcome email from ManageBac. We’ll do our best to get you into the system within two school days. Check your spam in case the email gets rerouted!
Once you receive your welcome email from ManageBac, you may log in through the Meridian ManageBac portal. Please watch this brief informational video on how to access the form, log into ManageBac, and a quick tour of the important ManageBac features.
Having trouble with navigating ManageBac? Email Kimberly Ogo for assistance.
College testing is going digital!
ACT has been offering their college exam in a digital format for several years. This year, the College Board suite of tests (PSAT, SAT, etc) will also phase-in their digital platform. The PSAT/NMSQT will be taken online this fall. By the spring of 2024, the SAT will only be offered online.
Visit the College Board website to learn more about the Digital PSAT/NMSQT. This website shares how the test works, what students will need to take the exam, and ways your student can prepare for the test. Meridian will register students for the PSAT and students will take the PSAT on school-issued devices. Watch a quick video about the College Board test platform updates.
PSAT-NMSQT dates:
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October 3 - 10th grade students, plus 11th grade students who have text-to-speech accommodations
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October 4 - 11th grade students
Increased mandatory disciplinary consequences for vape related offenses
All parents/guardians and students should be aware that HB 114 has increased the minimum consequences for vape related disciplinary offenses effective September 1. The legislation states that a student who “possesses, uses, sells, gives, or delivers to another person an e- cigarette … shall be removed from class and placed in a disciplinary alternative education program."
Meridian does not have a disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP) option, so students who commit vape offenses (THC and non-THC related) would be assigned a minimum consequence of 4 - 6 weeks of suspension. The suspension would likely involve an initial period of out-of-school suspension (3 days) followed by a longer period of in-school suspension (ISS) of 17-27 days.
We recommend families watch this educational video about vape products being made to look like school supplies. If you have questions or concerns about this matter, please reach out to your child's assistant principal or principal.
RS3 fundraising opportunity
If you missed the informational meeting about RS3, read on about how to get plugged into this great fundraising program. To be added to the email list to receive further info about RS3, please email Brian Hankey at: [email protected].
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Recording of RS3 Informational Zoom Meeting from September 7
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RS3 Informational Document: This document has a lot more information than contained in the above presentation. Please read it in full so you understand all that this program entails.
Senior calendar of events and other useful info
Robyn Tester put together this great resource for seniors and parents of seniors. Please note that dates are subject to change (if needed) but this calendar gives you a great overview of the year. Thank you, Robyn!
Boys Varsity Volleyball wins the Gold bracket (1st place) at the Thunder Invitational on September 9! Photo by Arieyani Gunara
Registration is now open for Competitive Basketball!
Calling all 7th-12th grade students who love basketball and want to represent Meridian on our home court and away – it’s time to register! Six competitive teams are expected to form this year, and the goal is to take Meridian Hoops all the way to the State Championship at Texas State University in February! Students who wish to try out for 2023-24 Competitive Basketball must be registered by 9 p.m. on Wednesday, September 20. Mandatory tryouts are Saturday, September 30.
Change to this Saturday’s Cross Country Meet
Meridian Cross Country continues to race hard through the Texas heat and humidity! This Saturday’s meet has been updated to the Bill Bradley Invitational in Gatesville.
Run FAST, Lions!
Girls JV race at St. Andrew’s Invitational on September 9. Photo by David Edrich
Academic Eligibility (No Pass No Play) reminder
Progress reports are now available in Skyward. This is a great opportunity for students and their parents/guardians to see how their students are progressing in each class. Reminder: students must be passing all classes and have no incompletes on their grading quarter 1 report card to remain academically eligible for competitions and performances. Here are some helpful resources:
Secondary Enrichment important dates
September 13: Competitive Basketball registration is now open
September 16: Cross Country meet - Bill Bradley Invitational (meet & location changed)
September 19: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Beast & Girls MS Bold
September 20: Competitive Basketball registration ends at 9 p.m.
September 20: Physical forms for Competitive Basketball are due
September 21: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Bold, Girls JV, Girls Varsity
September 22 - 23: Cross Country meet - HOKA One McNeil Invite
September 23: Home Volleyball games - Boys Varsity
September 26: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Bold & Girls Varsity
September 28: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Bold & Girls JV
September 29: Homecoming Games Tailgate
September 29: Homecoming Volleyball games - Girls MS Beast, Girls Varsity, Boys Varsity
September 30: Tryouts for Competitive Basketball
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets? Email [email protected].
Week of September 6, 2023
Week of September 6, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
Open house nights for both middle and high school are next week. I hope you will join us! Avoid the long line by logging into Skyward and taking a photo of your student's schedule in advance, or ask your student to do this for you.
We are gearing up for Homecoming! Mums and garters are on sale now through September 15 on MySchoolBucks. I hope our juniors and seniors will lead the way in establishing mums and garters as a tradition at Meridian. Read below to learn more about the history of the Texas mum and why it’s been such a long standing tradition.
The first principal coffee of the year is on Monday of next week, September 11. We will meet from 9 a.m.-10 a.m. in the High School Cafeteria (formerly known as the OSC). I hope to see you then!
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Upcoming college fairs
Take a look at upcoming college fairs happening this school year! You can find this list in our DP Resources on the bottom of the newsletter for future reference. It will be updated throughout the year. Below are just a couple on our list that are coming soon:
Central Texas College Fair, Tuesday, September 5, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Round Rock High School. Visit with admission representatives from 130 colleges, universities, and trade schools from around the country and branches of the U.S. armed forces. Registration requested. Add the Central Texas College Fair to your calendar.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) College Fair will be Saturday, October 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at McNeil High School. Meet admission representatives from local and national historically black colleges and universities. Registration requested. Add the HBCU college fair to your calendar
Attention grades 6-12: Homecoming mums and garters on sale!
Why are mums and garters such a big deal in Texas? 
“Around 1930, guys started giving their sweeties a simple chrysanthemum for homecoming. As the story goes, Texas moms got involved in the 1960s when they began teaming up with their daughters to create downright fancy mums … Some clever moms realized they could take their mums to the next level by using artificial flowers and that turned out to be a game changer. They added ribbons, shiny trinkets, lots of bling and even stuffed animals.” - KHOU 11
Did you know …
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1936, the first mum was spotted at Baylor
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The Whatamum - Whataburger made the world’s largest mum, 18 feet long!
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There a Texas tradition, each region in Texas has their own mum style
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Why do students in Texas like mums and garters? Because they’re fun!
Become part of the Texas tradition and purchase your mum or garter on MySchoolBucks or by check until Friday, September 15 at 11:59 p.m. Read on to learn how to order your’s and to see what we have planned for Homecoming week; to include a Mum and Garter Making Social. Students may wear their mum or garter Friday, September 29 and to the High School Homecoming Semi Formal.
DP Principal Coffee (in person)
Monday, September 11 from 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Please save the date for our first DP Principal Coffee of the year! We will meet in the High School Cafeteria, formerly known as the Old Secondary Cafeteria.
Wendy Riley will share/review some information about our grading practices in the Diploma Program. There are no major changes being made; this is simply a review of our current practices. Stela Holcombe will share some general updates and answer any questions you have.
We hope to see you there!
TOK Exhibition
Tuesday, September 12 from 5 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
If you have a senior student who is taking Theory of Knowledge (TOK) this semester, please attend our 2nd annual TOK Exhibition scheduled right before our High School Open House. The exhibition will be held in the common area upstairs in the high school building.
What is the TOK Exhibition? The TOK Exhibition is the internal assessment for Theory of Knowledge. Each student chooses one question from a bank of 35 prompts, all of which explore the nature of knowledge in some way. The Exhibition requires each student to find three objects from the real world that relate to their chosen question. They analyze the object and what it reveals about the prompt. The Exhibition is an opportunity to examine how TOK manifests in the real world.
High School Open House
Tuesday, September 12 from 5:30 - 7 p.m.
Are you curious to meet your student's DP teachers in person? If yes, then mark your calendar for our High School Open House! You will literally "walk" your student's schedule, spending about 7 minutes per class where you will hear a brief presentation from each teacher. Students are invited to attend with their parent/guardian (to help them find their classes), or you can attend without your student. Put on your comfy walking shoes and join us!
Read our tips to learn the evenings schedule, where to park, and how to get your student’s schedule.
RS3 Concession Sales
A Fundraising Opportunity for grades 10-12
Would your family like to raise money to pay for your student's Senior Class Trip (an international trip scheduled for Spring Break of the senior year) and/or for their IB examinations? This fundraising program was popular before COVID hit in 2020 and it's coming back– thanks to Brian and Anne Hankey (Meridian parents)!
How it works: Your family signs up to sell concessions at the Dell Diamond and HEB Center on specific dates. Each family member who "volunteers" makes a minimum of $67.50 per shift (tax-free).
Informational Zoom meeting: An informational meeting will be held via Zoom on this Thursday, September 7 from 6 p.m.-7 p.m. The Zoom link for the meeting is here. Look for a direct email from DP Principal Stela Holcombe with more information coming soon!
Save the Date: DP Information Night
Thursday, September 21 via Zoom
Our DP Coordinator, Charles Ryder, will share information with parents/guardians about what to expect in the junior and senior years of the IB diploma program at Meridian. More info to come next week. Meeting Schedule:
Save the Date: Class of 2025 Senior Trip Roll-Out Meeting
Tuesday, October 3 from 6 p.m. - 7 pm via Zoom
Attention Parents/Guardians of juniors! Mark your calendars for this meeting where we will officially roll out the Senior Trip for your class! Final voting is taking place this week and then we will meet in October with details about this trip and information about how to sign up!
Girls Varsity Volleyball wins the Gold bracket (1st place) at the Meridian Labor Day Classic!
Photo by Dana Anderson
Model UN annual membership registration ends at 9 p.m. Wednesday, September 6!
Model United Nations gives 6th-12th grade students the opportunity to practice research, speech-writing, debate, presentation and diplomacy skills while learning about today's global issues. With conferences in other parts of Texas and the country, Meridian lions have the opportunity to network with students with similar interests. Conference participation could require travel.
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View the slideshow from the parent information meeting or watch video recording of the Zoom webinar.
Complete the annual membership registration (for all new and returning members) before 9 p.m. on Wednesday, September 6. No late registrations will be accepted. Check your registration status.
Meridian’s Volleyball Tournament was a huge success!
The 7th Meridian Labor Day Classic Volleyball Tournament hosted 48 teams and featured wall-to-wall volleyball and excitement! Meridian Girls Varsity won 1st place and the Gold bracket! Boys Varsity finished in 2nd place! Find the results of all the teams.
Cross Country’s next meet is this Saturday, September 9!
Meridian Cross Country is off to a great start! Please come cheer for our running lions this Saturday, September 9 at St. Andrews.
Let’s GO, Running Lions!
Boys Varsity race at San Juan Diego Meet on September 2. Photo by David Edrich
Get ready for 2023-2024 Competitive Basketball
Secondary Enrichment important dates
September 6: Model UN (6-12) annual membership registration ends at 9 p.m.
September 8: Model UN’s first meeting (must be registered)
September 8: Home Volleyball game - Girls MS Beast
September 9: Cross Country meet - St. Andrew’s Invitational
September 12: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Bold, Girls JV, Boys Varsity
September 13: Competitive Basketball registration opens at midnight
September 16: Cross Country meet - Hays CISD Invitational
September 19: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Beast & Girls MS Bold
September 20: Competitive Basketball registration ends at 9 p.m.
September 20: Physical forms for Competitive Basketball are due
September 21: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Bold, Girls JV, Girls Varsity
September 22 - 23: Cross Country meet - HOKA One McNeil Invite
September 23: Home Volleyball games - Boys Varsity
September 26: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Bold & Girls Varsity
September 28: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Bold & Girls JV
September 29: Homecoming Games Tailgate
September 29: Homecoming Volleyball games - Girls MS Beast, Girls Varsity, Boys Varsity
September 30: Tryouts for Competitive Basketball
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets? Email [email protected].
Week of August 30, 2023
Week of August 30, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
We are having spirit wear day tomorrow on Thursday. Don’t forget there is no school for students this Friday, September 1 and Monday, September 4 is Labor Day. Please save the date for our High School Open House scheduled for Tuesday, September 12 from 5:30 - 7 p.m. You will actually "walk" your student's schedule (periods 1-8) and hear a short presentation from each of their teachers. Detailed info about what this event will look like will be shared next week; for now just mark the date in your calendars!
Did you know that Homecoming Week is being moved to the Fall? Mums and garters go on sale this Friday, September 1. Read on for information on how to purchase and for all you need to know about Homecoming 2023. Thank you!
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Morning carline: Thank you for your patience as we work to create solutions for the delays in carline. If you have only secondary students and are able to drop your students off after 8 a.m., please do so. This helps reduce the number of vehicles coming through Primary carline, allowing families who are unable to drop off later to get through faster.
Upcoming college fairs
Take a look at upcoming college fairs happening this school year! You can find this list in our DP Resources on the bottom of the newsletter for future reference. It will be updated throughout the year. Below are just a couple on our list that are coming soon:
Central Texas College Fair, Tuesday, September 5, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Round Rock High School. Visit with admission representatives from 130 colleges, universities, and trade schools from around the country and branches of the U.S. armed forces. Registration requested. Add the Central Texas College Fair to your calendar.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) College Fair will be Saturday, October 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at McNeil High School. Meet admission representatives from local and national historically black colleges and universities. Registration requested. Add the HBCU college fair to your calendar
Homecoming mums and garters on sale!
Don’t miss out! Mums and Garters go on sale Friday, September 1. Supplies are limited, so order now! Read on to learn how to order yours and to see what we have planned for Homecoming week.
DP Principal Coffee (in person)
Monday, September 11 from 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Please save the date for our first DP Principal Coffee of the year! We will meet in the High School Cafeteria, formerly known as the Old Secondary Cafeteria.
Wendy Riley will share/review some information about our grading practices in the Diploma Program. There are no major changes being made; this is simply a review of our current practices. Stela Holcombe will share some general updates and answer any questions you have.
We hope to see you there!
TOK Exhibition
Tuesday, September 12 from 5 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
If you have a senior student who is taking Theory of Knowledge (TOK) this semester, please attend our 2nd annual TOK Exhibition scheduled right before our High School Open House. The exhibition will be held in the common area upstairs in the high school building.
What is the TOK Exhibition? The TOK Exhibition is the internal assessment for Theory of Knowledge. Each student chooses one question from a bank of 35 prompts, all of which explore the nature of knowledge in some way. The Exhibition requires each student to find three objects from the real world that relate to their chosen question. They analyze the object and what it reveals about the prompt. The Exhibition is an opportunity to examine how TOK manifests in the real world.
Save the date! High School Open House
Tuesday, September 12 from 5:30 - 7 p.m.
Are you curious to meet your student's DP teachers in person? If yes, then mark your calendar for our High School Open House! You will literally "walk" your student's schedule, spending about 7 minutes per class where you will hear a brief presentation from each teacher. Students are invited to attend with their parent/guardian (to help them find their classes), or you can attend without your student. Put on your comfy walking shoes and join us!
Save the date: PSAT for juniors
Wednesday, October 4
I have been getting emails with inquiries about the PSAT. All of our juniors will take the PSAT on Wednesday, October 4. Registration and payment will be handled by the school; no action is needed on your part. The 11th grade PSAT is the test that is utilized to qualify students for the National Merit Scholars Program. Note: The 10th graders will take the PSAT on Tuesday, October 3.
Meridian is a Closed Campus
As you know, our school is located in a high traffic area off a major interstate highway. We want to make sure your student is safe and accounted for at all times. For this reason, once students are dropped off at Meridian in the morning, they may not leave campus unless we receive explicit parent/guardian permission and the student must sign out at their respective campus office. This "closed campus" rule is in place for the safety of our students and it applies all day – including during lunch time and after school.
After school, students may leave campus on foot (or via bicycle) unaccompanied by an adult only if we have an official permission/release form on file from the parent/guardian. Please email Stela Holcombe if you would like to fill out this release form. It is a Google Form.
DP Student Spotlight: David Garudo
David Garudo, an original member of the Class of 2024, was selected to participate in an incredible summer internship in Geneva, Switzerland at CERN - the European Council for Nuclear Research. His time at CERN showcased how his International Baccalaureate (IB) education has equipped him for collaborative work, critical thinking, global awareness, and interdisciplinary learning. Read more about David's experience.
Would you like to see your student spotlighted in the DP Lions Share? Email Stela Holcombe.
RS3 Concessions
A Fundraising Opportunity for grades 10-12
Would your family like to raise money to pay for your student's Senior Class Trip, an international trip scheduled for Spring Break of the senior year, and/or for their IB examinations? This fundraising program was popular before COVID hit in 2020 and it's coming back– thanks the Brian and Anne Hankey (Meridian parents)!
How it works: Your family signs up to sell concessions at the Dell Diamond and HEB Center on specific dates. Each family member who "volunteers" makes a minimum of $67.50 per shift (tax-free).
An informational meeting will be held via Zoom on Thursday, September 7. Look for a direct email from DP Principal Stela Holcombe with more info coming soon!
Boys Varsity Volleyball assisted with primary arrival carline on Monday, August 29
The 7th Meridian Labor Day Classic Volleyball Tournament is this weekend!
Labor Day weekend is the perfect time to enjoy Meridian Volleyball! Just across IH35 from Meridian at the Round Rock Sports Center, Meridian lions will come together to watch wall-to-wall volleyball! This year, Boys Varsity teams will fight for a title, too!
Where: Round Rock Sports Center (2400 Chisholm Trail Rd Round Rock, TX 78681)
Friday, September 1 - Meridian Girls Varsity plays at 3 and 5 p.m.
Saturday, September 2 - All five Meridian teams play starting at 8 am
Tickets sold at the door: $10 for a 1- day pass; $18 for a 2-day pass (no Amex)
Learn more about the Meridian Labor Day Classic Volleyball Tournament.
Bump, set, spike - GO LIONS!
Cross Country’s first meet is this Saturday, September 2!
Meridian Cross Country runners have been training in the brutal Texas heat since July! Now it’s time to represent Meridian in the first meet of the season this Saturday, September 2 – The San Juan Diego Invitation!
Let’s GO, Running Lions!
Order Meridian Volleyball spirit wear through August 31
Order your 2023 Meridian Volleyball spirit wear now through 11:59 p.m. on August 31! Every effort is being made to have this shirt delivered in time for Homecoming games so lions can be ready for "Red Out" Homecoming Volleyball games on Friday, Sept 29!This shirt is approved spirit wear for all Fridays and is available in adult sizes starting at $20. Read on for how to order successfully.
Get ready for 2023-2024 Competitive Basketball
Find preliminary information about the season on the Competitive Basketball webpage. The Tentative Practice Schedule and Tryouts Schedule are now published. More details will be available when registration opens on September 13. Please note that physical forms are due when registration closes at 9 p.m. on September 20, and the mandatory tryouts are Saturday, September 30.
Model UN annual membership registration now open!
Open to 6th-12th grade students, Model United Nations gives students the opportunity to practice research, speech-writing, debate, presentation and diplomacy skills while learning about today's global issues. With conferences in other parts of Texas and the country, Meridian lions have the opportunity to network with students with similar interests. Conference participation could require travel.
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Please join the Parent/Guardian information meeting via Zoom on Wednesday, August 30 at 6 p.m.
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Complete the annual membership registration (for all new and returning members) before 9 p.m. on Wednesday, September 6.
Secondary Enrichment important dates
August 30: Model UN (6-12) annual membership registration opens
August 30: Model UN (6-12) information meeting for guardians and students via Zoom at 6 p.m.
August 31: Meridian Volleyball spirit wear order closes at 11:59 p.m.
September 1 – 2: Meridian Labor Day Classic volleyball tournament
September 2: Cross Country meet - San Juan Diego Invitational
September 6: Model UN (6-12) annual membership registration ends at 9 p.m.
September 8: Model UN’s first meeting (must be registered)
September 8: Home Volleyball game - Girls MS Beast
September 9: Cross Country meet - St. Andrew’s Invitational
September 12: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Bold, Girls JV, Boys Varsity
September 13: Competitive Basketball registration opens at midnight
September 16: Cross Country meet - Hays CISD Invitational
September 19: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Beast & Girls MS Bold
September 20: Competitive Basketball registration ends at 9 p.m.
September 20: Physical forms for Competitive Basketball are due
September 21: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Bold, Girls JV, Girls Varsity
September 22 - 23: Cross Country meet - HOKA One McNeil Invite
September 23: Home Volleyball games - Boys Varsity
September 26: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Bold & Girls Varsity
September 28: Home Volleyball games - Girls MS Bold & Girls JV
September 29: Homecoming Games Tailgate
September 29: Homecoming Volleyball games - Girls MS Beast, Girls Varsity, Boys Varsity
September 30: Tryouts for Competitive Basketball
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets? Email [email protected].
Week of August 23, 2023
Week of August 23, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
The seniors had a blast painting their parking spaces this weekend!
I'd like to offer a shout out to parent volunteer Deb Robison for helping organize materials and water for the students, and thanks also to DP Assistant Principal Wendy Riley for supervising this event.
Please save these dates! Our first DP Principal’s Coffee of the year will be on Monday, September 11 and our High School Open House will be on Tuesday, September 12. Both of these events will be in person. See more details below!
Lastly, in case you missed it last week, you can access the tutorial schedule for the entire DP teacher team, as well as the course syllabi for all of our DP courses in this handy document.
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Meet your counselor
Nicholas Manuszak, 11th and 12th grade
Nick Manuszak joined Meridian in 2018 as the College and Career Readiness Teacher and MYP Personal Project Coordinator. He currently serves as the High School Counselor for grades 10-12.
Mr. Manuszak earned his Bachelor of Science from Ball State University and completed his Master of Science in Professional School Counseling from Angelo State University. He has gained teaching certification in Indiana and Texas, and also holds a Texas school counseling certification. Previously, Nick worked as a college counselor in Austin, Texas and he directed high school summer programs at the University of Texas at Austin.
His Maltipoos, Daisy and Doogan, are the unofficial mascots of Meridian and they love visiting school. Aside from counseling, Nick serves as the Student Involvement Committee sponsor and High School Cross Country Head Coach. In his free time he enjoys collecting records and spending time outdoors.
Senior one-on-one conferences with Kathy Gregg
Need help with college applications? Our fabulous College and Career Counselor, Kathy Gregg, will begin her one-on-one meetings with seniors and their parents/guardians regarding college applications and post-secondary planning. Please sign up. Note: When you sign up, please try to schedule this conference during a study hall, lunch, or an elective if at all possible.
Secondary Academic Guide for 2023-2024
The Secondary Academic Guide guide has been updated for the 2023-2024 school year. It includes information about our IB continuum programs, weighted and unweighted GPA information, and an updated Course Selection Guide. Please reach out to your campus principal if you have questions about anything you read in this document.
Transcript requests for seniors
Senior transcripts have been reviewed and are ready to go for college applications. It can take up to 10 school days to process and send a transcript to a college/university, so students need to be aware of their application deadlines and plan ahead! Seniors can request an official transcript using this form: 23-24 Senior Transcript Request Form.
Fall picture day for grades K-11 (optional for seniors)
Thursday, August 24
Fall Picture day is almost here! These are the head and shoulder pictures that will be used in the yearbook for students in Kindergarten - 11th Grade. Students should wear their regular uniform. Questions? Email Sarah Whitley with any questions about Fall Picture Day.
This photo day is optional for seniors; they will take yearbook portraits with a private photographer in dressy attire in early November.
How to Order: Order using the paper order form your student received last week, or you may pre-order online using the below Secondary Picture Day ID. You can also order from a proof later.
Online orders: lifetouch.com
Use this Secondary Picture Day ID: EVTB8MQCT
Flyer: Secondary Fall Picture Day
Extended Essay due Monday, August 28
Monday, August 28
Full IB Diploma seniors have a deadline of this coming Monday, August 28 to turn in a complete rough draft of their Extended Essay. You will be notified if your student does not turn in their paper. Students get just one round of feedback on their EE, so it is important that they give their supervisors a quality rough draft to review. Questions about the EE can be directed to librarian Renée Ramirez.
College shirt day
Wednesday, August 30
The last Wednesday of each month is College Shirt Day, and next Wednesday, August 30 is our first one of the school year. Students may wear a shirt with the logo of their favorite university. Uniform bottoms remain the same.
DP Principal Coffee (in person)
Monday, September 11 from 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Please save the date for our first DP Principal Coffee of the year! We will meet in the High School Cafeteria, formerly known as the Old Secondary Cafeteria.
Wendy Riley will share/review some information about our grading practices in the Diploma Program. There are no major changes being made; this is simply a review of our current practices. Stela Holcombe will share some general updates and answer any questions you have.
We hope to see you there!
TOK Exhibition
Tuesday, September 12 from 5 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
If you have a senior student who is taking Theory of Knowledge (TOK) this semester, please plan on attending our 2nd annual TOK Exhibition that is scheduled right before our High School Open House. The exhibition will be held in the common area upstairs in the high school building.
What is the TOK Exhibition? The TOK Exhibition is the internal assessment for Theory of Knowledge. Each student chooses one question from a bank of 35 “prompts” all of which explore the nature of knowledge in some way. The Exhibition requires each student to find three “objects” from the real world that relate to their chosen question. They analyze the object and what it reveals about the prompt. The Exhibition is an opportunity to examine how TOK manifests in the real world.
Save the date! High School Open House
Tuesday, September 12 from 5:30 - 7 p.m.
Are you curious to meet your student's DP teachers in person? If yes, then mark your calendar for our High School Open House! You will literally "walk" your student's schedule, spending about 7 minutes per class where you will hear a brief presentation from each teacher. Students are invited to attend with their parent/guardian (to help them find their classes), or you can attend without your student. Put on your comfy walking shoes and join us!
Homecoming is coming!
Week of September 25 - 30
Have you heard? Homecoming is being moved to the fall this year!
Stay tuned for more info. Below is a preview of what we have planned so far.
Save the date: PSAT for juniors
Wednesday, October 4
I have been getting emails with inquiries about the PSAT. All of our juniors will take the PSAT on Wednesday, October 4. Registration and payment will be handled by the school; no action is needed on your part. The 11th grade PSAT is the test that is utilized to qualify students for the National Merit Scholars Program. Note: The 10th graders will take the PSAT on Tuesday, October 3.
The 2023 Competitive Volleyball season is in motion!
The season started Tuesday, August 22 with home games for Girls JV and Girls Varsity vs. Round Rock Christian Academy. All high school teams play away this week. (See the Volleyball Game Schedule. ) Then next weekend is the 7th Meridian Labor Day Classic Volleyball Tournament! All five of our teams will participate, and all lions are encouraged to come roar for our teams! Learn more about the Meridian Labor Day Classic Volleyball Tournament. Bump, set, spike - GO LIONS!
Get ready for 2023-2024 Competitive Basketball
Find preliminary information about the season on the Competitive Basketball webpage. Details will be updated when registration opens on September 13. Please note that physical forms are due when registration closes at 9 p.m. on September 20, and the mandatory tryouts are Saturday, September 30.
Learn about 2023-2024 Clubs
Are you a secondary student who would like to start a new club or reactivate one? Read on for how students can start a new club or to reactivate a club from a previous year. Clubs at Meridian are student-led.
What to join a club? Students who wish to join an already activated club should pay attention to the daily announcement slides and check out the 2023-2024 6th-12th Clubs & Students List to learn about club opportunities for this year. Find more information on the 6th-12th Clubs and Student Groups webpage.
Secondary After School Band & Orchestra
Please check the website on Wednesday, August 30 for details about 2023-2024 After School Band and After School Orchestra for 7th and 8th grade students. Registration opens on August 30 and ends at 9 p.m. on September 6. No late registrations will be accepted.
Secondary After School Theatre, The Meridian Mechs
High school students, did you miss the informational meeting on Thursday, August 17? Read on for information about High School play.
Secondary Enrichment important dates
August 24: High School Fall Play crew applications due by 4 p.m. and cast auditions from 4:10 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
August 30: After School Band and After School Orchestra information published on website and registration opens
August 30: Model United Nations (6-12) annual membership registration opens; guardian and student information meeting (The zoom link will be shared next week)
September 1 – 2: Meridian Labor Day Classic volleyball tournament
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets? Email [email protected].
Week of August 16, 2023
Week of August 16, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
The new school year is off to a great start!
We are looking forward to the Senior Parking Space Painting Event this Saturday, August 19 from 7 a.m. to noon. Parents/guardians are invited to join the fun! Read below for more details and sign up to donate needed items.
Graduation Update: It's official! We have moved the date for Graduation 2024 to Friday, May 24 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. so that we can have the ceremony indoors at the Round Rock Sports Center. I'd like to thank Robyn Tester for all the work she did to help find the best possible venue for this important event. Graduation will be here before we know it!
Did you know that juniors and seniors have the option to participate in DP Recess on Fridays during advisory? They love this time to unwind with their peers.
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Meet your DP Assistant Principal
Wendy Riley is the Assistant Principal for the Diploma Program. This year she begins her 21st year in education and 11th year at Meridian School! Before joining the faculty at Meridian, she taught maths at Leander and Burleson ISDs. Ms. Riley is excited about the new year and getting to know our new juniors. She loves building relationships with our students to ensure they feel safe and supported in the IB Diploma Program. This year, Ms. Riley and Lovey will host several student activities including our very popular DP Lock Ins.
DP Course Syllabi and Tutorial Schedule
You can access the tutorial schedule for the entire DP teacher team–as well as the course syllabi for all of our DP courses on this handy document.
Extended Essay Updates
Full IB Diploma seniors are meeting with their EE supervisors today after school to discuss their progress with their Extended Essays. Please note that a complete rough draft of their EE is due on Monday, August 28. Students get just one round of feedback on their EE, so it is important that they give their supervisors a quality rough draft to review. Questions about the EE can be directed to our secondary IB librarian, Renée Ramirez.
Fall Picture Day for Grades K-11 (optional for seniors)
Thursday, August 24
Fall Picture day is almost here! These are the head and shoulder pictures that will be used in the yearbook for students in grades Kindergarten - 11th. Seniors will take yearbook portraits with a private photographer in dressy attire in early November. Questions? Email Sarah Whitley with any questions about Fall Picture Day.
When: Thursday, August 24
Attire: School Uniform
How to Order: Paper pre-order forms will be sent home soon, or you may pre-order online using the below Secondary Picture Day ID. You can also order from a proof later.
Online orders: lifetouch.com
Use this Secondary Picture Day ID: EVTB8MQCT
Flyer: Secondary Fall Picture Day
Transcript Requests for Seniors
Ms. Holcombe met with seniors on Thursday, August 10 to do a close review of their transcripts. Final corrections are being made this week. Information about how to request official transcripts for college applications will be shared with students next week, and will be included in next week’s DP Lions Share for parents.
Top 10% Notification
Top 10% ranking is based on semester grades earned through the end of the junior year. We did a manual calculation to ensure accuracy in the determination of Top 10%. Seniors who achieved Top 10% ranking were notified by Mrs. Gregg via email on Tuesday, August 14. If you have questions about this, please reach out to Ms. Holcombe or Mrs. Gregg.
Senior Parking Space Painting Event is this Saturday!
Saturday, August 19 from 7 a.m. - noon
Our Senior Parking Space Painting Event will be this Saturday, August 19 from 7 a.m. - noon. Here are the documents you need for this activity: Information & Template. Please read all instructions carefully! Seniors who don't drive are invited to come and support friends who are painting their parking spots.
Check out some fun painting ideas and tips and sign up to donate supplies/water/snacks!
Fall Developmental/Pre-Season sports - registration ends at 9 p.m. Wednesday, August 16
Open to 6th–12th grade students. Spots are limited! Check your registration status here.
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Fall Developmental/Pre-Season Basketball - Boys 7-8 is almost full!
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Fall Developmental/Pre-Season Tennis - Now full!
First home volleyball games!
Tuesday, August 22
Girls Varsity and Girls JV Volleyball host Round Rock Christian Academy in the season opener Tuesday, August 22. Let’s pack the gym and ROAR for our Lions!
- 5:30 p.m. - Girls JV
- 6:30 p.m. - Girls Varsity
Home Game Admissions: $5 adults; $3 students; $1 if wearing Meridian spirit wear
Last chance to order Meridian Labor Day Classic spirit wear
Pre-order your Meridian Labor Day Classic Volleyball Tournament shirt by August 16. This shirt is approved Meridian spirit wear! The cost is $20 (a little more for plus sizes). Shirts pre-ordered by the Meridian community are scheduled to be delivered to students and staff on Thursday, August 31. Pre-order your shirt today!
Learn more about the Meridian Labor Day Classic volleyball tournament.
Secondary After School Theatre, The Meridian Mechs
Announcing the fall high school production – MacBeth (The Scottish Play), Lindsey Price’s post-apocalyptic adaptation of Shakespeare’s MacBeth! High school students are encouraged to come to the information meeting in the black box after school on Thursday, August 17 to learn more.
Start and Reactivate Clubs Now
Parents/guardians, please remind your students to pay attention to the daily announcement slides if they are interested in starting or reactivating a club.
Secondary Enrichment important dates
August 16: Fall Developmental/Pre-Season Sports (6-12) registration ends at 9 p.m., or sooner if spots are filled. No late registrations.
August 16: Fall Developmental/Pre-Season Sports (6-12) physical forms due
August 16: Meridian Labor Day Classic spirit wear pre-order closes
August 17: High School (9-12) Fall Play information meeting after school in the black box
August 22: Home Volleyball games starting at 5:30 p.m.
August 24: High School (9-12) Fall Play auditions
August 30: After School Music registration opens
August 30: Model United Nations (6-12) annual membership registration opens; guardian and student information meeting
September 1 – 2: Meridian Labor Day Classic volleyball tournament
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets? Email [email protected].
Week of August 9, 2023
Week of August 9, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Welcome Back for the 2023-2024 school year!
I loved welcoming our students back today! The presentation I made at the DP Community Meeting in the Mays Cafeteria is here for those who were not able to attend Back to School Night last Friday night.
The seniors enjoyed the sunrise at Old Settler's Park this morning to celebrate their "last first day" of school. Thank you to parent volunteers, Deb Robison and Lacy Vain, for coordinating this non-school sponsored activity to kick off the school year.
I visited classes this morning to speak with students personally about our decision to have them put their cell phones away in a pocket organizer during class time this year. This is a practice this is being put in place for grades 6-12. Overall, I feel they understand why we are doing this: it is to improve the quality of the learning environment in our classrooms. I have encouraged the DP teacher team to give students a break either during or at the end of class to check their phones. If you have any questions or concerns about this, reach out to me.
Looking forward to a great year!
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
Meet your DP Principal
Stela Holcombe, DP Principal (11-12)
Stela Holcombe joined the Meridian community as a parent in the school's inaugural year, 2011-2012. She was an active member and one of the original leaders of Volunteers in Partnership (ViP) before becoming employed at Meridian as a teacher (ATL and College Readiness) in 2015. She served as the campus IB Diploma Program Coordinator and the High School Assistant Principal for grades 11-12 for 7 years prior to taking on the DP Principal role in 2022-2023. "I'm so excited to be in my second year as principal; I think I know what I'm doing now." 😉
Mrs. Holcombe is proud to be a native Texan–born and raised near downtown Houston. She earned her B.A. in Sociology at Rice University, and after teaching high school for a few years (in Houston) she earned her principal certification and a Masters in Education Administration, Planning, and Social Policy at Harvard University. Stela brings over 20 years of public school experience serving as a teacher, administrator, and parent support specialist in the Houston, Boston, and Austin areas. She loves her job at Meridian and considers Meridian to be her “forever school”.
Stela's passion is providing caring, individualized support for junior and senior students and their parents/guardians. She believes that the Meridian high school faculty and staff are the finest educators she has ever worked with–inspiring her to be the servant leader that they deserve.
In her free time, Stela enjoys late night trips to Whataburger with her family, playing with her twin bunny rabbits (Josh and Josh), her dogs (Cash and Roxi), and running/biking/hiking her favorite trails in Central Texas.
Schedule Changes
If your student has a concern about their schedule, they should please fill out the Course Change Schedule Form. Please do not email the counselor directly; please use this form.
Transcript Requests for Seniors
Seniors, on the second day of school (Thursday) during advisory, we will meet with you to take a look at your transcript. You will have the opportunity to inform us if anything looks "off" before we process them for your college applications.
Attention student drivers!
Parking registration for the first quarter is now closed. If you did not get a chance to register for first quarter parking you may try again in the second quarter.
As you come back to school you will notice that almost all of the parking spots in our lots have been numbered for staff and students. If you are not registered to park on campus and your vehicle is found on school property you receive a disciplinary referral and a consequence. For safety, we must have a record of everyone who parks on campus.
If you did not get your parking sticker at Back to School Night and you are registered you will be allowed to park in your assigned spot and get your sticker and packet from Ms. Riley.
Arrival and Dismissal the first week. Student drivers, we highly recommend that student drivers arrive after 8:15 a.m. on the first few days of school in order to avoid heavy traffic from the primary carline.
Important: student drivers in spots 1-22
Students who park along Blue Lane in spots 1-22: please do not arrive until 8:10 a.m. and do not leave until 4:20 p.m. every day, not just the first week. This helps secondary carline move quickly and benefits our student drivers and our families. Backing out into secondary carline traffic can be dangerous and it backs the carline up into Mays. We appreciate your cooperation. Please email Wendy Riley if you have a conflict.
Secondary School-Issued Chromebook Survey
Please fill out the Chromebook Device Need/Agreement form if your student is unable to participate in the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program and needs a school Chromebook assigned to them for the 2023-24 school year. Read on for more information about BYOD.
Save the Date: Senior Parking Space Painting Event
Saturday, August 19 from 7 a.m. - noon
Our Senior Parking Space Painting Event will be Saturday, August 19 from 7 a.m. - noon. Here are the documents you need for this activity: Information & Template. Please read all instructions carefully! Seniors who don't drive are invited to come and support friends who are painting their parking spots.
Check out some fun painting ideas and tips and sign up to donate supplies/water/snacks!
Arrival Times and Procedures
Secondary Arrival window: 7:30 a.m. - 8:25 a.m.
Please do not arrive before the school doors open at 7:30 a.m. Secondary students’ day begins at 8:25 a.m. in Secondary. Please plan your arrival early enough so that your student can get to their classroom on time.
Student Drivers: We highly recommend that student drivers arrive after 8:15 a.m. on the first few days of school in order to avoid heavy traffic from the primary carline.
We ask that 11th and 12th grades take the shortest lane of any color. Please review the Arrival Carline Map.
Please exit in the same line and do not merge to another line to leave the school once you drop off. This helps with safety when students are exiting cars from different car doors throughout the entire carline.
Please use caution around crosswalks and watch for direction from our staff.
Dismissal Times and Procedures
Secondary Dismissal times: 4:10 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Wednesday 1:35 p.m. - 2 p.m.)
Do not arrive at carline before 3:55 p.m. (1:25 p.m. Wednesdays). You will be asked to exit the carline to drive around again at 3:50/1:25. Primary Carline does not officially end until 3:55 p.m.
New: Orange Lane is now middle school plus waiters and Blue Lane is only middle school students. Please review the Secondary After School Dismissal Map.
🟠 Orange Lane | Middle School (PLUS Waiters)
🟢 Green Lane | High School (PLUS Waiters and Middle School siblings)
🔵 Blue Lane | Middle School Students
Can’t make it until after 4:30 p.m.? Register for After School 6-12!
Fall Developmental/Pre-Season sports - registration now open!
Registration is now open for Fall Developmental/Pre-Season sports. These sports experiences are open to 6th–12th grade students. Spots are limited! Register early!
Fall Developmental/Pre-Season Basketball
Fall Developmental/Pre-Season Soccer
Fall Developmental/Pre-Season Tennis
Meridian Labor Day Classic spirit wear
Pre-order your Meridian Labor Day Classic Volleyball Tournament shirt before August 16. This shirt is approved Meridian spirit wear! The cost is $20 (a little more for plus sizes). Shirts pre-ordered by the Meridian community are scheduled to be delivered to students and staff on Thursday, August 31. Pre-order your shirt today!
Learn more about the Meridian Labor Day Classic volleyball tournament.
Secondary After School Theatre, The Meridian Mechs
Announcing the fall high school production – The Scottish Play, Lindsey Price’s post-apocalyptic adaptation of Shakespeare’s MacBeth! High school students are encouraged to come to the information meeting in the black box after school on Thursday, August 17 to learn more.
Coming soon – a new process for starting and reactivating clubs
Please stay tuned for more information.
Secondary Enrichment important dates
August 9: Volleyball tryouts (must be registered and eligible)
August 9: Fall Developmental/Pre-Season Sports registration opens (limited spots)
August 16: Fall Developmental/Pre-Season Sports (6-12) registration ends at 9 p.m. (or sooner if spots are filled). No late registrations.
August 16: Fall Developmental/Pre-Season Sports (6-12) physical forms due
August 16: Meridian Labor Day Classic spirit wear pre-order closes
August 17: High School Fall Play information meeting after school in the black box (9-12)
August 24: High School Fall Play auditions (9-12)
August 30: After School Music registration opens
August 30: Model United Nations (6-12) annual membership registration opens; guardian and student information meeting
September 1–2: Meridian Labor Day Classic volleyball tournament
Questions about secondary extracurricular activities, eligibility, or letter jackets? Email [email protected].
Week of August 2, 2023
Week of August 2, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
I was so excited to welcome all of our teachers back yesterday, and I can't wait to welcome our students back to school one week from today! Don't forget, our High school Back to School Night is this Friday, August 4 from 5 p.m. -7 p.m.
We have four great new hires on the DP Team; you will meet them in person if you come to the DP Community Meeting during Back to School Night in the Mays Cafeteria from 6 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. After Back to School Night, there is a non-school sponsored social event at Austin's Park for seniors.
Seniors, don't forget we have a College Application Work Day tomorrow, Thursday, August 3 with Mrs. Kathy Gregg. Come get a jump start on those college apps!
Lastly, if you are having difficulty logging into Skyward please email [email protected]. Please do not attempt to create a new Skyward account.
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
College Application Work Day for Seniors
Thursday, August 3 from 10 a.m. - noon and/or 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Seniors are invited to come work on their Common Application and/or Apply Texas College applications with Mrs. Gregg. Students may come to one or both sessions on August 3 from 10 a.m. - noon and/or 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Bring your own device! We will be working in the Chem Lab downstairs in high school. Note: You can bring your lunch and eat on campus in between sessions if you like!
Schedule Preview
Students in grades 11 and 12 can log into Skyward to see their schedules by this Friday morning at 10 a.m. Please take time to review your schedule carefully to make sure that your course selections are complete and correct. Note that your schedule might be rearranged a bit as we work to balance class sizes.
Action Requested: If you see an error on your schedule, please fill out the Course Change Schedule Form. Please do not email the counselor directly; please use this form.
Transcript Requests for Seniors
Seniors, on the 2nd day of school during advisory, we will meet so you take a look at your transcript. You will have the opportunity to inform us if anything looks "off" before we process them for your college applications. In the meantime, please be patient as we (admin and counselors) finalize our own review process of senior transcripts this week.
Attention student drivers!
As you come back to school you will notice that almost all of the parking spots in our lots have been numbered for staff and students. If you are not registered to park on campus and your vehicle is found on school property you receive a disciplinary referral and a consequence. For safety, we must have a record of everyone who parks on campus.
Registration: Seniors have priority for parking spaces. Juniors are assigned spaces based on their lottery position. Please complete the Student Parking Registration to register to park on campus (all student drivers must register). You will must be (1) licensed, (2) fully insured, and (3) have access to a vehicle by the first day of school. As she verifies your registration, Ms. Riley will email you and your parent/guardian, your parking spot number and next steps.
Want to park on the first day? You must submit your registration by Tuesday, August 8 at 10 a.m.
Student parking stickers distribution: Parking stickers and parking packets will be distributed on Friday, August 4 during Back to School Night from 5 - 7 p.m. (there is a DP Community meeting from 6 - 6:30 p.m., so come early to get parking taken care of so you can attend the meeting). If you do not plan on attending the Back to School night, keep in mind that all registered drivers will be allowed to park in their assigned spots and get their sticker and packet from Ms. Riley on the first day of school.
High School (9-12) Back to School Night
Friday, August 4 from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. (with a meeting for 11th-12th Grade Students and Parents from 6 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. in the Mays Cafe)
Parents are encouraged to attend with their students! Here is the schedule for High School Back to School Night. We hope you can make it!
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5 p.m. - 6 p.m.: Check in at the high school lobby. Pick up schedules, visit teachers in classrooms, reconnect with friends, pick up car tags, student parking tags, etc. You can also purchase spiritwear from RockSports and pick up your letter jacket if you ordered one in May. Jackets that have not arrived yet should be delivered within the first couple of weeks of school.
Attention all secondary students: Schedules for 23-24 cannot be released if immunizations are not cleared with the nurse. -
6 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.: In-Person "DP Community Meeting" for all 11th and 12th grade students and their families in the Mays Cafeteria. I will introduce our new faculty and staff and share some general information about the new school year. If you can't make it, or if you don't feel comfortable gathering in a large group, don't worry! I will share the presentation in the next edition of the DP Lions Share.
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6:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.: You will have 30 minutes after the general assembly to finish things on the Back to School Night Checklist (checklist subject to change).
Park anywhere you like, but plan to enter the building via the High School Lobby. If you have bought school supplies, please bring Kleenex and reams of paper to Back to School Night or on the first day of school. You can also drop off medications with the nurse on this night.
Note: 9th and 10th graders will attend Back to School Night on this same evening, but the in-person meeting scheduled for 6 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. is only for grades 11-12.
Save the Date: Senior Parking Space Painting Event
Saturday, August 19 from 7 a.m. - noon
Our Senior Parking Space Painting Event will be Saturday, August 19 from 7 a.m. - noon. Here are the documents you need for this activity: Information & Template. Please read all instructions carefully! Seniors who don't drive are invited to come and support friends who are painting their parking spots.
Check out some fun painting ideas and tips and sign up to donate supplies/water/snacks!
Senior Class Social at Austin's Park
Friday, August 4 from 7:30 p.m. - 11 p.m.
The seniors have voted and the decision was made to celebrate the start of their last year at Meridian together at Austin's Park. Please note that closed toe shoes are required and that this is a non-school sponsored event.
What: Back to School Senior Bash for Meridian Class of 2024
Who: Seniors and their parents/guardians
When: After Back to School Night, Friday, August 4 from 7:30 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Where: Austin's Park, 16231 IH-35, Pflugerville, TX 78660. Participants responsible for providing or arranging their own transportation.
Cost: Each participant is responsible for paying for their own entry, food, and entertainment. Read on for Austin’s Park prices, food, and activities. If you pay online, you will need to bring the credit card used and a photo ID with you.
Food/Drinks: The Bar and Grill will be open till close (buffet will be closed).
Questions? Please email Mrs. Tester.
Back to School checklist
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School Supplies: Check your school supply list
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Uniforms: Please review the Uniform Guide
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Get your polo embroidered for use on Mondays. (RockSports or GTX Awards) 9th-10th grades: Black polos may be worn only if they are embroidered
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Bring Your Own Device (Chromebook/Laptop): Grades 11th-12th should bring their own.
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Nurse: Update immunization records with the nurse, ([email protected])
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ViP: Complete the volunteer survey
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MySchoolBucks: Set up your MySchoolBucks account for breakfast and lunch purchases
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Student Schedules: Check Skyward anytime after 10 a.m. on Friday, August 4 to make sure your schedule is complete and correct. If you see an error on your schedule, please fill out the Course Change Schedule Form.
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Carline to dos:
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Car tags: If you did not get your car tag at Back to School Night, you can pick it up between 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. at your campus office before the first day of school. If you cannot pick up before school starts, your student can pick up from the office on the first day of school.
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Pikmykid: If your student will be going to After School 6-12 please install Pikmykid for pickup.
Arrival Times and Procedures
New Secondary Arrival times:, 7:30 a.m. - 8:25 a.m.
Student Drivers: We highly recommend that student drivers arrive after 8:15 a.m. on the first few days of school in order to avoid heavy traffic from the primary carline.
We ask that 11th and 12th grades take the shortest lane of any color. Please review the Arrival Carline Map.
Please exit in the same line and do not merge to another line to leave the school once you drop off. This helps with safety when students are exiting cars from different car doors throughout the entire carline.
Please use caution around crosswalks and watch for direction from our staff.
Dismissal Times and Procedures
New Secondary Dismissal times: 4:10 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Wednesday 1:35 p.m. - 2 p.m.)
New: Orange Lane is now middle school plus waiters and Blue Lane is only middle school students. Please review the Secondary After School Dismissal Map.
🟠 Orange Lane | Middle School (PLUS Waiters)
🟢 Green Lane | High School (PLUS Waiters and Middle School siblings)
🔵 Blue Lane | Middle School Students
Can’t make it until after 4:30 p.m.? Register for After School 6-12!
Fall Developmental/Pre-Season sports
Registration opens on August 9 and ends at 9 p.m. on August 16 for Fall Developmental/Pre-Season sports. These sports experiences will be open to 6th–12th grade students. Spots are limited so register early! Details will be solidified by the time registration opens.
For now, check out what is being planned for these sports experiences:
Meridian Labor Day Classic spirit wear - now accepting pre-orders!
The 7th annual Meridian Labor Day Classic volleyball tournament is just around the corner! Pre-order your shirt before August 16 to ensure you get the size(s) needed. A limited number of extra shirts will be sold at the tournament.
This shirt is approved Meridian spirit wear! The cost is $20 (a little more for plus sizes). Shirts pre-ordered by the Meridian community are scheduled to be delivered to students and staff on Thursday, August 31. Pre-order your shirt today!
Learn more about the Meridian Labor Day Classic volleyball tournament.
Secondary After School Theatre, The Meridian Mechs
Performances for 2023-2024 include a fall high school play and an all-secondary (6-12) musical! See Meridian Mechs.
Announcing the fall high school production – The Scottish Play, Lindsey Price’s post-apocalyptic adaptation of Shakespeare’s MacBeth! High school students are encouraged to come to the information meeting in the black box after school on Thursday, August 17 to learn more.
Secondary Enrichment important dates
August 2: Meridian Labor Day Classic spirit wear pre-order opens
August 4: Most letter jackets available for pick-up during High School Back to School Night
August 8-9: Volleyball tryouts (must be registered and eligible)
August 9: Fall Developmental/Pre-Season Sports registration opens (limited spots).
August 16: Fall Developmental/Pre-Season Sports registration ends at 9 p.m. (or sooner if spots are filled). (No late registrations.)
August 16: Fall Developmental/Pre-Season Sports physical forms due
August 16: Meridian Labor Day Classic spirit wear pre-order closes
August 17: High school fall play information meeting after school in the black box
August 24: High school fall play auditions
August 30: After School Music registration opens
August 30: Model United Nations (6-12) annual membership registration opens
September 1-2: Meridian Labor Day Classic volleyball tournamentWeek of July 26, 2023
Week of July 26, 2023
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello DP Families,
Welcome to the first edition of the DP Lions Share! The DP Lions Share (for grades 11–12) typically goes out Wednesdays in the school's Weekly Campus News email. This is a weekly newsletter for families and students to keep you informed about what is happening in grades 11-12. You can find all District and Campus newsletters on our site.
Please look for and read this weekly publication to stay informed regarding upcoming events, announcements, important dates and links, and more! I will strive to be the best IB Communicator I can be in my role as DP Principal!
We can't wait to see everyone at Back to School Night on Friday, August 4. Please join us for a meeting from 6-6:30 p.m. that night in the Mays Cafeteria.
We look forward to receiving our students on the First Day of School on Wednesday, August 9. This will be an “A” day and early release day, ending at 1:35 p.m. I look forward to a great school year!
Stela Holcombe
DP Principal
In this week's issue of Lion's Roar
Don't miss these articles in the District Newsletter this week. Read here now.
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2023-2024 School Calendar: Note arrival/dismissals times
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New families resources
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Important District Contacts
High School (9-12) Back to School Night
Friday, August 4 from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. (with a meeting for 11th-12th Grade Students/Parents from 6 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. @Mays Cafe)
Parents are encouraged to attend with their students! Here is the schedule for High School Back to School Night. We hope you can make it!
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5 p.m. - 6 p.m.: Check in at the high school lobby. Pick up schedules, visit teachers in classrooms, reconnect with friends, pick up car tags, student parking tags, etc. RockSports will be on campus to sell Meridian spirit wear! Attention all secondary students: Schedules for 23-24 cannot be released if immunizations are not cleared with the nurse.
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6 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.: In-Person General Assembly for all 11th and 12th grade students and their families in the Mays Cafeteria. I will introduce our new faculty and staff and share some general information about the new school year. If you can't make it, or if you don't feel comfortable gathering in a large group, don't worry! I will share the slide show presentation in the next edition of the DP Lions Share.
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6:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.: You will have 30 minutes after the general assembly to finish things on the Back to School Night Checklist (checklist subject to change).
Park anywhere you like, but plan to enter the building via the High School Lobby. If you have bought school supplies, please bring Kleenex and reams of paper to Back to School Night or on the first day of school. You can also drop off medications with the nurse on this night.
Note: 9th and 10th graders will attend Back to School Night on this same evening, but the in-person general assembly scheduled for 6 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. is only for grades 11-12.
School Supplies and Uniforms
School Supplies
Don’t forget to purchase school supplies and get your polo shirts embroidered for Mondays. We will not utilize the lockers this year – please keep this in mind as you shop. Check out student supply lists for grades 11-12.
We highly encourage students to label all their items. Mabel's Labels makes it easy and they give 20% back to our school if you search and select Meridian School before shopping.
Uniforms
Review the Uniform Guide before shopping. Don't forget to get a few polos (red or black polos) embroidered with the Lion Logo to wear on Mondays (and the rest of the week if desired). New: blue jeans are allowed Monday – Friday! Questions about the Uniform Guide? Email Wendy Riley.
Uniform Exchange: If you wish to shop at the Uniform exchange, it will take place on Saturday, July 29 from 10 a.m. - noon.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
As a reminder, beginning on the first day of school, students in grades 8-12 are asked to bring their own device to school daily, fully charged and ready to go. Questions about BYOD can be directed to DP Assistant Principal, Wendy Riley. Read more about BYOD here.
Spring EOC 2023 STAAR Results
The spring 2023 End-of-Course (EOC) State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR®) results have been posted to Skyward. To see your students results log into Skyward and click on the Texas Assessments tile. There will be a link, Texas Assessments Results Website, that will take you directly to your student’s results.
EOC STAARs include:
Algebra 1: 8th grade and some 9th grade
Biology: 9th grade
English 1: 9th grade
English 2: 10th grade
US History: 11th grade
Attention Student Drivers
Ms. Riley will send an update by Monday, July 31 regarding student parking registration and parking space assignments. Student parking tags can be picked up at Back to School Night on Friday, August 4. We highly recommend that student drivers arrive after 8:15 a.m. on the first few days of school in order to avoid heavy traffic from the primary carline.
Save the Date: Senior Parking Space Painting Event
Saturday, August 19 from 7 a.m. - noon
Our Senior Parking Space Painting Event will be Saturday, August 19 from 7 a.m. - noon. Here are the documents you need for this activity: Information & Template. Please read all instructions carefully! Seniors who don't drive are invited to come and support friends who are painting their parking spots.
Austin Area College Boot Camp
August 2 at Round Rock High School
Exciting news! The Austin Regional College Admissions Counselor group is hosting a college application workshop on Wednesday, August 2 at 2 p.m. at Round Rock High School. See presentations on college application tips and tricks and a guide to essay writing. Please register using the QR Code on this flyer.
The following colleges will have representatives at the mini-fair:
University of Rochester
Purdue University
Texas A&M University
Texas Lutheran University
St. Edward's University
Stephen F. Austin State University
Texas State Technical College
The University of Alabama
Texas Tech University
Sam Houston State University
Tarleton State University
Southwestern University
The University of the Incarnate Word
The University of Texas at San Antonio
College Application Work Day
Thursday, August 3 from 10 a.m. - noon and/or 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Seniors are invited to come work on their Common Application and/or Apply Texas College applications with Mrs. Gregg. Students may come to one or both sessions on August 3 from 10 a.m. - noon and/or 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Bring your own device! We will be working in the Chem Lab downstairs at high school.
Graduation 2024 Update: Possible Date Change
Please note that we are working on securing a local venue that will allow us to have our 2024 Graduation indoors. This will be a welcome change away from an outdoor venue where we are dependent on weather conditions and subjected to the Texas heat. This may possibly change the date of Graduation to Friday, May 24. A follow up communication will be sent regarding this date change in the very near future. In the meantime, please reach out to DP Principal, Stela Holcombe, with any questions.
Fall Developmental Sports for Grades 6-12
Fall developmental sports are chances for students to train and gain experience in a sport (non-competitive). These opportunities are open to all students in grades 6-12, but spots are limited!
Registration opens August 9 and closes at 9 p.m. on August 16 for:
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Fall Developmental Basketball
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Fall Developmental Soccer
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Fall Developmental Tennis
Look for details in future newsletters and put the date on your calendar now!
After School Music
These programs are currently being developed for the 2023-2024 school year. Details will be published on the school website and in the school newsletters in late August. Registration will open on August 30 and will end at 9 p.m. on September 6. No late registrations will be accepted. Rehearsals are expected to begin the week of September 11.
Model United Nations (MUN) for Grades 6-12
Save the Date: annual membership registration to this competitive organization opens August 30 and ends at 9 p.m. on September 6. Annual registration is required for new and returning members, including officers. No late registrations will be accepted.
Secondary After School Theatre, The Meridian Mechs
Performances for the 2023-2024 school year include a fall high school play and an all-secondary (6-12) musical! Look for information in future newsletters. Questions? Contact Amy Crowl.
Secondary Enrichment important dates
August 1: Volleyball physical forms due for tryouts
August 8 - August 9: Volleyball tryouts (must be registered and eligible)
August 9: Fall Developmental Sports registration opens (limited spots).
August 16: Fall Developmental Sports registration ends at 9 p.m. (or sooner if spots are filled. No late registrations.)
August 16: Fall Developmental Sports physical forms due
August 30: After School Music registration opens
August 30: Model United Nations (6-12) annual membership registration opens
September 1 – September 2: Meridian Labor Day Classic Volleyball Tournament