PYP Archive Spring 2025
PYP Pride Archive Spring 2025
Week of January 8, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Happy Wednesday!
Dear Families,
I hope you had a restful and enjoyable break! As we dive into the new nine weeks, I want to share a few important updates.
Report Cards:
Report cards for the last nine weeks will be available to view this Friday. Please see the instructions below for accessing them.
Cooler Weather Reminder:
With the weather changing dramatically, please make sure your child comes to school with a jacket. To help us return any misplaced items, we kindly ask that you label all clothing and personal items with your child's name.
Also next Wednesday, January 15, is National Hat Day! Your student may wear a hat all day in primary!
Thank you for your continued support as we start this new chapter of learning and growth together!
Warm regards,
Melissa Reese,
PYP Principal
Save these dates 👀
5th grade: Transition to 6th grade Information Night Tuesday, January 14
All PYP: Principal’s Coffee January 23 at 8:30 a.m.
Reminder: If you are trying to remember how to report an absence, see here for details
PYP (K–5) Principal’s Coffee
You’re invited to join us on Thursday, January 23, at 8:30 a.m. for the Principal’s Coffee. Special guests this time include our DP Principal, Ms. Holcombe, who will share the benefits of the continuum through the DP programme, as well as our PYP counselors. We look forward to seeing you! RSVP to let us know you are planning to attend. We will also have a virtual option as well. The Google Meet link will be in the next newsletter.
Parking: First, drop your students off using carline; do not walk them in. Please park in the designated visitor parking spots on this map. Doors won’t open until 8:15 a.m. to give us time to clear the lobby for your arrival.
Primary report cards
Primary report cards will be published in Skyward on Friday! You can access the report cards using the following steps. This works best on a computer rather than a phone.
- Login to Skyward
- Under your child’s name, click on the tile called Portfolio.
- Click the download arrow next to 24-25 2nd Quarter Primary Report Card. It should be at the top of the list if your child was here 1st Quarter and should be the only file available if they are new to Meridian.
Festival of Cultures Grade Level Performances
Saturday, March 1
Our primary students have a special opportunity to perform at the Festival of Cultures! We would love for as many students to attend as possible to enjoy the festival and experience performing in a group. If your student would like to participate, please fill out this form (per student) by February 7. Please begin practicing the songs/dance (4th grade) at home. The form includes folder links where the music and lyrics can be found for your student’s grade level. Students are learning the songs during their music class, but they will also need to practice at home.
An opportunity to connect with Meridian Alumni & their parents
Alumni Day: Friday, January 10, 2025
Please RSVP by January 8
Every year, Meridian hosts an Alumni Day where alumni return to campus for visits to the high school classrooms, focus groups with current Meridian parents, and lunch with their former teachers.
Meridian parents/guardians are invited to join us for two dialogue sessions on Alumni Day. 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 parents and our alumni students/parents are always extremely beneficial and enjoyed by all.
Session 1 - 8:30 a.m. - 9:15 a.m.: Meridian Alumni visit with current Meridian parents
Session 2 - 9:15 a.m. -10:00 a.m.: Parents of Alumni visit with current Meridian parents
Waiters Program: late pick up reminder/update
Families participating in the Waiters program should review these updates regarding late pick up and late fees. An email also went out this morning with details.
Week of January 15, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Happy Wednesday!
Dear Families,
If your child is in 3rd, 4th, or 5th grade, we have STAAR interims beginning next week. These assessments are very important for us to see how we can better support your student before the state assessment later in the spring.
Make sure your student is well-rested, has a good breakfast, and has a positive start to the day to set them up for success! Reading is on January 21, Math is on January 30, and Science (5th grade only) is on February 5!
Have a great week and please remember that tardies are taken after 8:05 a.m. every morning. If our students are on time, they start their day in a positive way!
Reminders:
- Next Monday, January 20, there is no school in observance of MLK Day.
- Today, Jan. 15, the parking lot will be closed between 4 - 5 p.m. for the MLK March. Please park on the grass if you need to enter during this time. Triple A pick up will be paused.
Warm regards,
Melissa Reese,
PYP Principal
Founder & CEO Karalei Nunn gives her annual presentation to first graders on the history of Meridian School. The students asked great questions, demonstrating the International Baccalaureate's goal to encourage student curiosity and inquiry!
PYP (K–5) Principal’s Coffee
You’re invited to join us on Thursday, January 23, at 8:30 a.m. for the Principal’s Coffee. Special guests this time include our DP Principal, Ms. Holcombe, who will share the benefits of the continuum through the DP programme, as well as our PYP counselors. We look forward to seeing you! RSVP to let us know you are planning to attend. We will also have a virtual option as well. The Google Meet link will be in the next newsletter.
Parking: First, drop your students off using carline; do not walk them in. Please park in the designated visitor parking spots on this map. Doors won’t open until 8:15 a.m. to give us time to clear the lobby for your arrival.
Reminder: sign up for Festival of Cultures performances
Saturday, March 1
Our primary students have a special opportunity to perform at the Festival of Cultures! If your student would like to participate, please fill out this form (per student) by February 7.
IB Initiative: Learner Profile trait of Risk Taker
Over the next 10 weeks, our IB Initiative each week focuses on one of the learner profile traits.
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled
Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
These traits are part of all IB programs and help us become internationally-minded individuals. On the announcements each week, we will share about the trait and then examine the lives of individuals past and present who exhibit the trait of the week to see what we can learn from their lives about what it looks like to demonstrate that trait.
To be a risk-taker, according to IB, means:
- we approach uncertainty with forethought and determination
- we work independently and cooperatively to explore new ideas and innovative strategies
- we are resourceful and resilient in the face of challenges and change.
What does a risk taker look like? This week, on the announcements, we are looking at the lives of groups of people like explorers, adventurers, and inventors to see what we can learn about what it looks like to be a risk taker. We will also think about how Martin Luther King, Jr showed the trait of risk-taker in his actions as well. We will see that risk takers try new things, new ideas, and new ways of doing things. They see challenges as opportunities and persevere through failures. Risk takers might take risks that seem dangerous but they do it with the knowledge needed to make it safer. They do the right thing even if it’s not the easy thing. All of the risk-takers we will look at wanted to make the world a better place, and they took risks to make it happen.
Find activities and book ideas on Meridian’s website to extend the discussion of what it means to be a risk-taker at home.
You can request consolidated statements by emailing [email protected]. It takes 3-5 days for processing.
Upcoming enrichment activities:
January 7 - 15: MLK - Students learn about the life of MLK Jr. and write speeches to commemorate the day.
January 16 - 22: Chinese New Year - Students learn about the history, traditions, and celebrations of The Chinese New Year.
January 23 - 29: Animal Planet - Students learn about different animals and their habitats.
January 30 - February 5: Black History Moments - Students learn about and celebrate the lives and contributions of African Americans.
We invite you to participate in Triple A's Annual Martin Luther King Jr. March. Together, we'll honor Dr. King's legacy as we march around the parking lot and unite in singing Lift Every Voice and Sing and Happy Birthday.Event Details: 
January 15, 2025
Primary Lobby
4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
*There will be no pickup during this time so please plan accordingly. Students can be picked up prior to the event or after it’s over.
Week of January 22, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Happy Wednesday!
Dear Families,
We hope this message finds you safe and cozy during the recent cold snap! We’re thrilled to share that last week’s MLK March was a huge success. Our students truly shined with their inspiring speeches, and the choir’s performance was absolutely phenomenal!
We’d also love for you to join us tomorrow morning for our PYP Principal’s Coffee. There’s even a virtual option for your convenience—details are below!
Warm regards,
Melissa Reese,
PYP Principal
Students in Triple A made beautiful signs for the MLK March, which was preceded by songs from the Black Culture Choir.
PYP (K–5) Principal’s Coffee tomorrow
Join us tomorrow January 23, at 8:30 a.m. for the Principal’s Coffee. Special guests include our DP Principal, Ms. Holcombe, who will share the benefits of the continuum through the DP programme, as well as our PYP counselors. We look forward to seeing you! RSVP to let us know you are planning to attend. Can't make it in person? Use this link to join the PYP Principal’s Coffee virtually!
Parking: If you plan to attend, please drop your students off using carline; do not walk them in. Then, please park in the designated visitor parking spots on this map. Doors open at 8:15 a.m. to give students time to get settled in class.
6th grade transition presentation and Math Track 2 Overview
Do you have questions about what to expect in Middle School? Did you miss the meeting or want a refresher? Take a look at the presentation from the 6th Grade Transition Information Night.
If your student is interested in pursuing Meridian’s Math Track 2 program, please read the information in the 5th grade Secondary Meridian Math Tracks and CBE Letter. This letter includes important information about registering for the Credit by Exam (CBE), exam dates, and a study guide.
Reminder: sign up for Festival of Cultures performances
Saturday, March 1
Our primary students have a special opportunity to perform at the Festival of Cultures! If your student would like to participate, please fill out this form (per student) by February 7.
Week of January 29, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Happy Wednesday!
Dear Families,
We have some important information and event dates coming up! Please read all the information in the newsletter to see the details. Next Wednesday is the 5th grade Science Interim. Please make sure your student is present, has had a great breakfast, and a good night's sleep. The results of the Interims will help determine what extra support your student needs before the real thing!
Warm regards,
Melissa Reese,
PYP Principal
Students in Mrs. Carreon's kindergarten class enjoyed two collaborative sessions with their book buddies recently, including artwork honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and a Lunar New Year coloring activity.
Update to Late Pick Up policy
We recently updated our policy regarding late pick ups. Please be advised that primary students picked up after 4:05 p.m. (MTTF) and 1:45 p.m. (W) will be considered a late pickup. They will be monitored in the primary front lobby until picked up. Late fees will start accruing in 5-minute increments and will be charged per student picked up late. *Special exceptions will be made at the discretion of the administration.*
|
1 – 5 minutes = $5 6 – 10 minutes = $10 11 – 15 minutes = $15 16 – 20 minutes = $20 |
21 – 25 minutes = $25 26 – 30 minutes = $30 31 – 35 minutes = $35 36 – 40 minutes = $40 |
Late Pick Up Fees will be invoiced/emailed via MySchoolBucks. Fees must be paid within two weeks and should be paid by MySchoolBucks.
If your family includes a secondary sibling, you are encouraged to join our waiters program. Our Triple A program is another option if there is an opening for your student. Both options have a fee.
Parent Child Dance
February 15, 2025
Attention parents of primary lions! Mark your calendars for our annual Parent-Child Dance. Join us for a night of activities like face painting, meet-and-greets with fairytale characters, music, and more! There are two time slots for different grades, so plan accordingly! Pricing will be per family. Buy tickets now.
PYP Principal’s Coffee Slides
Learn more about Social Emotional Development from our counselors (and see this age-by-age social development checklist!) Discover more about the IB Diploma Program from DP Principal Stela Holcombe! Both presented at the Coffee last week.
6th grade transition
Do you have questions about what to expect in Middle School? Take a look at the presentation from our earlier information night.
Math Track 2 Overview
While Meridian’s math program is accelerated by one year (Track 1) and is appropriate for the majority of our students, a two-year acceleration (Trak 2) is also offered for students who love the subject and demonstrate mastery of the concepts. If interested, please read the information in the 5th grade Secondary Meridian Math Tracks and CBE Letter.
Counselor’s Corner
The Region 13 Education Service Center has created a series of mindfulness video topics to help parents talk to their children about different social-emotional topics and recognize when there might be a problem that needs to be addressed with a professional counselor or therapist.
The next video in the series we would like to share is on boundaries.Watch the video to learn why setting boundaries for ourselves and others is so important. If you have any questions, please reach out! Dana Burks (K, 2, 4) or Heather Mossell (1, 3, 5).
IB Initiative: The Learner Trait of Reflective
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled
Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
Our focus this week is the trait of being reflective. According to the IB Organization, reflective people thoughtfully consider the world and their own ideas and experience. They work to understand their strengths and weaknesses in order to support their learning and personal development. As you can tell from this definition, an internal reflection always has an external outcome.
This week is Holocaust Remembrance Week, so we’ve considered on the announcements how becoming knowledgeable about and reflecting on the past can help us do better in the future. Additionally, we are exploring how people like writers, mathematicians, and athletes are reflective in their practices. Friday is the 100th day of school, so we will be reflective about what we’ve accomplished in these 100 days and what we want to do with the remaining 80 days.
Find activities and book ideas on Meridian’s website to extend the discussion of what it means to be reflective at home.
Week of February 5, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Happy Wednesday, Meridian Families!
This week, we are celebrating School Counselor Week, and I want to take a moment to express our heartfelt appreciation for our incredible counselors: Dana Burks, Heather Mossell, and Nathan Tate.
Ms. Burks and Ms. Mossell joined the Meridian family this year and have done an amazing job supporting our students from day one. Mr. Tate, who has been part of our school for several years, continues to bring his dedication and expertise to our counseling team. Their compassion, commitment, and unwavering support for our students have made a meaningful impact, and we are truly grateful to have them. Please take a moment to share your appreciation with them!
Also, be on the lookout for details in your grade-level newsletter about our upcoming Be Sweet to Others Day on February 13. As a reminder, there will be no school for students on February 14 and 17.
Thank you for your continued support!
Melissa Reese,
PYP Principal
5th Grade Musical Instrument Trials
February 5 and 8
Fifth grade families, if you haven’t yet signed up for an instrument trial and would like to attend, please sign up for a Wednesday slot (Feb. 5) or a Saturday slot (Feb. 8).
Parent Child Dance
February 15, 2025
Attention parents of primary lions! Mark your calendars for our annual Parent-Child Dance. Join us for a night of activities like face painting, meet-and-greets with fairytale characters, music, and more! There are two time slots for different grades, so plan accordingly! Pricing will be per family. Buy tickets now.
Upcoming enrichment activities
February 6 - 12: Sustainability and Recycling - Students learn about different ways to live sustainably and ways to recycle responsibly.
February 13 - 19: Better Together - Students explore the meaning of equity and practice ways to understand empowerment and inclusion.
February 20: Discover Your Talents - Students show off their talents within their Triple A groups.
February 21: Talent Show - Students have the opportunity to show off their talents in the Triple A Talent Show. Parents and guardians are invited to this event.
Spots Available for Pro-Skills Sports!
We currently have openings for Pro-Skills Basketball (2nd-5th grade) and Pro-Skills Volleyball (2nd-5th grade). Visit our website for more details and to register today!
Week of February 12, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Happy Wednesday!
Don't forget there is no school for students Friday and Monday.
Tomorrow is Be Sweet to Others Day – A Day of Service and Caring
At Meridian, we celebrate Be Sweet to Others Day as a meaningful way to spread kindness and give back to our community in place of a traditional Valentine’s Day focus. Each grade level participates in a special service project that helps make a difference:
🍎 Kindergarten – Creating items and cards for local Fire and Police Departments
🥫 1st Grade – Hosting a food drive for the Round Rock Serving Center
👕 2nd Grade – Collecting clothing and toys for The Caring Place
💌 3rd Grade – Writing heartfelt letters to loved ones
🐾 4th Grade – Making beds and toys for the Animal Shelter
🚰 5th Grade – Participating in a Walk for Water to raise awareness about water access
This is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn about empathy, generosity, and the impact of small acts of kindness. Thank you for supporting our students in this meaningful initiative! 💙
Melissa Reese,
PYP Principal
Thursday reminders
The Café Crew is offering a special treat tomorrow at lunch - red velvet white chocolate chip cookies! Students purchasing lunch will receive the cookie as part of their meal. Students bringing lunch from home may purchase a cookie for $1.25. Payment can be made in cash or charged to their MySchoolBucks lunch account.
Students can also wear a Valentines or kindness-themed shirt on Thursday as well. If participating, don't forget your Valentine's cards and/or small (nonfood) items like stickers or fidgets to pass out to classmates.
Carline: Blue-to-Yellow lane changes
If you are picking up your kindergarten student, please enter the yellow lane directly by coming southbound on Mays. It's quicker, too! Carline has been backing up with multiple vehicles entering blue lane and then transferring to the yellow lane (and holding up blue lane traffic).
Parent Child Dance
February 15, 2025
Please note updated details on this dance! We invite you and your children to our enchanting Fairytale-themed Parent-Child Dance; a fundraiser for the Class of 2026 and NHS! Drift around through an evening of fun, laughter, and wonderful memories with your little ones surrounded by fairytale characters and fun activities.
Price: $15 per ticket. Buy tickets now. Ticket sales close Thursday. Limited tickets will be available at the door for $25 each, cash only.
IB Initiative: The Learner Trait of Communicator
This quarter, our IB Initiative each week will focus on one of the learner profile traits.
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled
Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
According to IB, communicators express themselves confidently and creatively in more than one language and in many ways. They collaborate effectively, listening carefully to the perspectives of other individuals and groups.
Communicators use communication skills, including taking in information through reading, watching and listening and sharing information through speaking, writing and non-verbal means of communication. This week on the announcements we will continue our exploration of people who demonstrate this trait and tie our learning to Black History Month as well by learning about people like Levar Burton, artists and writers of the Harlem Renaissance, Abraham Lincoln, and Frederick Douglass.
Find activities and book ideas on Meridian’s website to extend the discussion of what it means to be a communicator at home.
Upcoming enrichment activities
February 13 - 19: Better Together - Students explore the meaning of equity and practice ways to understand empowerment and inclusion.
February 20: Discover Your Talents - Students show off their talents within their Triple A groups.
February 21: Talent Show - Students have the opportunity to show off their talents in the Triple A Talent Show. Parents and guardians are invited to this event.
Spots Available for Pro-Skills Sports!
We have openings for Pro-Skills Basketball (2nd-5th grade) and Pro-Skills Volleyball (2nd-5th grade). Register today!
Week of February 19, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
We are thrilled to kick off International Week on Monday and can’t wait to see the creativity on display as our classroom doors come to life with decorations as we come in on Monday! Throughout the week, teachers and students will be working together to decorate their doors and celebrating cultures from around the world. We’re also hoping for perfect weather for our World Parade next Friday!
We also hope to see you on Saturday at the Festival of Cultures on March 1 from 2 - 5 p.m. We are especially excited to watch our primary students perform in the choirs! Don’t forget—if your student attends the festival and gets their festival passport stamped, they can turn it in for a wristband to wear free dress day on Monday, March 3!
Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to celebrating this special week together!
Best,
Melissa Reese
Kindergarten students who won the Teacher Experiences Auction in November visited the local fire department as part of Be Sweet to Others Day. All students had the opportunity to bring in items for gift baskets to the fire station and police department!
Carline: two important safety updates
Blue/Yellow Lane Changes
If you are picking up your kindergarten student, please enter the yellow lane directly by coming southbound on Mays. It's quicker, too! Carline has been backing up with multiple vehicles entering blue lane by turning left on Mays, and then transferring to the yellow lane (and holding up blue lane traffic).
Designated student drop off areas
Please pull past the crosswalks to the designated drop off locations before allowing your student to exit the vehicle. When they leave the vehicle in the middle of the line, it puts them in danger of drivers who may not see them. Please also remind students to then use the crosswalks to get to the buildings. It takes all drivers, students, and staff working together to create a safe carline.
Counselor’s Corner
The Region 13 Education Service Center has created a series of mindfulness video topics to help parents talk to their children about different social-emotional topics and recognize when there might be a problem that needs to be addressed with a professional counselor or therapist.
The next video in the series we would like to share is on Being Mindful: Depression. Watch the video to learn more about recognizing symptoms of depression in children. If you have any questions, please reach out! Dana Burks (K, 2, 4) or Heather Mossell (1, 3, 5).
IB Initiative: The Learner Trait of Principled
This quarter, our IB Initiative each week will focus on one of the learner profile traits.
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled
Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
Ask a child what it means to be principled and they will usually say it means doing the right thing even if no one is looking. This is a great foundation to a deeper understanding.
According to IB, to be principled is to act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness and justice, and with respect for the dignity and rights of people everywhere.
Principled people take responsibility for their actions and their consequences.
This week, our exploration of this trait on the announcements will help us see some key components of being principled:
- Let your principles (your beliefs and values) guide your actions.
- Notice problems in your world and take action to try to solve them.
- Seek justice and respect for all.
- Be willing to stand up for what you believe is right.
Find activities and book ideas on Meridian’s website to extend the discussion of what it means to be principled at home.
Week of February 26, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Dear Families,
We are thrilled to welcome you to our Festival of Cultures this Saturday! I look forward to seeing students who have signed up to participate in their choir performance, as they have been working hard with Ms. Stow in music class to prepare for this special event.
We invite you to stay and enjoy all the festivities—this celebration of cultures is what makes Meridian so special and unique!
🎤 Choir Performance Times:
🎶 Kindergarten – 2:00 PM
🎶 1st Grade – 2:20 PM
🎶 2nd Grade – 2:35 PM
🎶 3rd Grade – 2:50 PM
🎶 4th Grade – 3:05 PM
🎶 5th Grade – 3:25 PM
🎶 Black Culture Choir – 3:40 PM
We can’t wait to see you there!
Best,
Melissa Reese
Dress days Friday, Monday
Students may wear cultural or country wear Friday, February 28 for our World Parade! Monday, March 3 will also be a free dress day for any student attending the Festival of Cultures (make sure you receive a wristband at the Festival!)
Congratulations Spelling Bee Winners!
Kindergarten to 2nd Grade
First Place: Shakti A
Second Place: Ahanyan B
Third Place: Jessi M
3rd to 5th Grade
First Place: Vihaan Y
Second Place: Ananya V
Third Place: Rowan H
Vihaan took the Regional Qualifying test and made it to the Austin Regional Spelling Bee!
Fifth Grade families: three reminders
- YMCA Twin Lakes is Tuesday, March 11. Registration and payment are due next Wednesday
- The Walk for Water is rescheduled for Wednesday, March 12
- The Living Museum Showcase is Thursday, March 13 (parents invited 2 – 2:30 p.m.)
Week of March 5, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Dear Families,
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us on Saturday for our Festival of Cultures! What an incredible celebration of diversity and talent! The Black Culture Choir, Lion Dance, Sitar performance, and Bharatnatyam Dance were absolutely AMAZING! The cultural exhibits and grade-level choirs were equally impressive—everyone did such a fantastic job!
A special shout-out to Sal Stow for her dedication and hard work in preparing all the choirs. Events like this truly make Meridian shine!
As a quick reminder, Rubik’s cubes and Pokémon cards should be left at home, as they are becoming a significant distraction in the classroom. We appreciate your support in keeping our learning environment focused.
Thank you for all you do to support our school community!
Best,
Melissa Reese
Congratulations! Science Fair wins
Congratulations to Megna A and Tanesha N (5th) and Nikhil S and Pranav K (3rd), who participated in the Greater Austin Regional Science and Engineering Fair. Both teams won first place! Thank you to Ms. Doersam for working as their sponsor! While these are not school-sponsored events, we are so proud of our students’ hard work outside of school and want to share their accomplishments.
Spring Picture Day for K-5th Grade
Friday, April 4
Spring picture day is nearly here! At this fun annual event, all primary students get a chance to wear “spring dressy” or “spring casual” wear to school, and will have their photos taken by Lifetouch. There are no retakes or makeups for these photos.
Read on for details. Note: grades 6-12 picture day is March 31.
Reminder: update to late pick up policy
Students picked up after 4:05 p.m. (MTTF) and 1:35 p.m. (W) will be considered a late pickup (this is half an hour after pickup begins). They will be monitored in the primary front lobby until picked up. Late fees accrue in 5-minute increments and will be charged per student. See page 13 of the handbook for details.
Spring Party Day
Friday, March 14 is Spring Party Day. Parent reps have sent out sign-ups for donations and volunteers. Parents in Kindergarten through 3rd grade are invited to attend the spring party. Remember that no students may attend the party of a sibling, so please wait to pick up siblings until after the last party time.
9:45-10:30 - 3rd Grade Party (RSVP)
11:30-12:15 - 1st Grade Party (RSVP)
12:30-1:15 - 2nd Grade Party (RSVP)
1:00-1:45 - 5th Grade Party (Volunteers only)
1:15-2:00 - Kindergarten Party (RSVP)
1:30-2:15 - 4th Grade Party (Volunteers only)
Save the date: Spring Showcases
Mark your calendars for Student Spring Showcases. Check your grade level newsletters for details closer to the events.
Kindergarten: Animal Showcase - Friday, May 16 from 11:30 a.m. – noon
1st Grade: Regions Showcase - Wednesday, April 16 from 11:30 a.m. – noon
2nd Grade: Author’s Tea - Thursday, April 17 from 2–2:45 p.m.
3rd Grade: Solar System Showcase - Friday, April 4 from 2–2:30 p.m.
4th Grade: Passion Project - Tuesday, May 20 from 2:00-2:30
5th Grade: Living Museum - Thursday, March 13 from 2–2:30 p.m. (RSVP)
5th Grade: Exhibition Thursday, May 15
Week of March 12, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Dear Families,
Spring Break is almost here! We hope you have a safe and wonderful time next week, making special memories with your family.
If you're joining us for spring parties on Friday, be sure to stop by the Lost and Found in the front lobby. It's overflowing with jackets and water bottles that are missing their owners! If your child has misplaced something, this is the perfect time to check. Moving forward, we encourage you to label your child’s belongings with their name and teacher’s name so we can return lost items more easily.
Enjoy the break, and we’ll see you back on March 24!
Melissa Reese
Primary Principal
Students represent Meridian at Chess Tournament, First LEGO League
In February and March, several of our primary students competed in chess and FIRST LEGO League Explore competitions. While these are not school-sponsored events, we are so proud of our students’ hard work outside of school and want to share their accomplishments!
Congratulations to Meridian students who participated in the recent 2025 Region VI scholastic chess championship! Several won individual trophies, and our groups placed 2nd in both the K-3 U600 (Bhuvi - 2nd grade, Monisha-1st grade) and U300 tournaments (Elias, 3rd Grade, Kesava, 2nd grade, and Ryan, 1st grade). Fourth grader Ashvik also placed 2nd in the K-5 Elementary Varsity U900 category.
Third grader Sidharth joined a team of students from surrounding schools to participate in FIRST LEGO League Explore, which guides students through STEM exploration. The team won a Challenge Solution Award.
Spring Picture Day for K-5th Grade
Friday, April 4
Spring picture day is nearly here! At this fun annual event, all primary students get a chance to wear “spring dressy” or “spring casual” wear to school, and will have their photos taken by Lifetouch. There are no retakes or makeups for these photos.
Read on for details. Note: grades 6-12 picture day is March 31.
Spring Party Day
Friday, March 14 is Spring Party Day. Parent reps have sent out sign-ups for donations and volunteers. Parents in Kindergarten through 3rd grade are invited to attend the spring party. Remember that no students may attend the party of a sibling, so please wait to pick up siblings until after the last party time.
9:45-10:30 - 3rd Grade Party (RSVP)
11:30-12:15 - 1st Grade Party (RSVP)
12:30-1:15 - 2nd Grade Party (RSVP)
1:00-1:45 - 5th Grade Party (Volunteers only)
1:15-2:00 - Kindergarten Party (RSVP)
1:30-2:15 - 4th Grade Party (Volunteers only)
Save the date: Spring Showcases
Mark your calendars for Student Spring Showcases. Check your grade level newsletters for details closer to the events.
Kindergarten: Animal Showcase - Friday, May 16 from 11:30 a.m. – noon
1st Grade: Regions Showcase - Wednesday, April 16 from 11:30 a.m. – noon
2nd Grade: Author’s Tea - Thursday, April 17 from 2–2:45 p.m.
3rd Grade: Solar System Showcase - Friday, April 4 from 2–2:30 p.m.
4th Grade: Passion Project - Tuesday, May 20 from 2:00-2:30
5th Grade: Living Museum - Thursday, March 13 from 2–2:30 p.m. (RSVP)
5th Grade: Exhibition Thursday, May 15
IB Initiative: The Learner Trait of Balanced
This quarter, our IB Initiative each week will focus on one of the learner profile traits.
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled
Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
According to the IB, balanced people understand the importance of balancing different aspects of our lives—intellectual, physical, and emotional—to achieve well-being for ourselves and others. They recognize their interdependence with other people and with the world in which we live.
This week, on the announcements, we are learning about balance in our government system, finding balance through hobbies, how using both sides of our brain (creative and scientific) helps us stay balanced and the 7 Habits of Happy Kids which, when lived out, can bring balance to our lives.
Find activities and book ideas on Meridian’s website to extend the discussion of what it means to be balanced at home.
Week of March 26, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Dear Families,
I hope you all had a wonderful Spring Break and found some time to rest and recharge before we head into the final nine weeks of school. Can you believe April is just around the corner?
We have a lot coming up this month, including our Principal's Coffee, several exciting grade-level showcases, and STAAR testing for 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades.
Here are the key testing dates to keep in mind:
- Reading STAAR – April 10
- Science STAAR (5th grade only) – April 17
- Math STAAR – April 24
Now is a great time to start having calm, supportive conversations with your students to help ease any testing anxiety. Remind them to take a deep breath, stay confident, and simply do their best. As I always say: “Just show us what you know!”
Wishing you a fantastic week ahead!
Melissa Reese
Primary Principal
PYP (K–5) Principal’s Coffee
Thursday, April 3 at 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. (in-person or virtual)
Join us for our last Principal’s Coffee of the year! We will have an in-person and virtual option. RSVP using this link. If you are planning to attend virtually, you can join using this link.
Spring Picture Day for K-5th Grade
Friday, April 4
Spring picture day is next Friday! At this fun annual event, all primary students get a chance to wear “spring dressy” or “spring casual” wear to school, and will have their photos taken by Lifetouch. There are no retakes or makeups for these photos.
Read on for details. Note: grades 6-12 picture day is on another date.
Counselor’s Corner
Education Service Center 13 has created a series of eight mindfulness video topics to help parents talk to their children about different social-emotional topics and recognize when there might be a problem that needs to be addressed with a professional counselor or therapist.
The 7th video in the series we would like to share is Being Mindful: Self Care. Watch the video to learn more about recognizing symptoms of depression in children. If you have any questions, please email your primary counselor Dana Burks (K, 2, 4) or Heather Mossell (1, 3, 5).
Student Spring Showcases
Check your grade level newsletters for details closer to the date of your showcase.
Kindergarten: Animal Showcase - Friday, May 16 from 11:30 a.m. – noon
1st Grade: Regions Showcase - Wednesday, April 16 from 11:30 a.m. – noon
2nd Grade: Author’s Tea - Thursday, April 17 from 2–2:45 p.m.
3rd Grade: Solar System Showcase - Friday, April 4 from 2–2:30 p.m. (RSVP)
4th Grade: Passion Project - Tuesday, May 20 from 2:00-2:30
5th Grade: Exhibition Thursday, May 15
IB Initiative: The Learner Trait of Thinker
This quarter, our IB Initiative each week will focus on one of the learner profile traits.
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled
Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
To be a thinker, according to IB, means:
- We use critical and creative thinking skills to analyze and take responsible action on complex problems.
- We exercise initiative in making reasoned, ethical decisions.
What does a thinker look like? This week, on the announcements, we are looking at the lives of famous scientists, mathematicians, and inventors. We’ll learn from Isaac Newton about critical thinking and from Albert Einstein about creative thinking. Alexander Graham Bell shows us what is needed to find practical solutions to problems. Finally, Ben Franklin shows us how reflective thinking can make its way to politics, inventing, and publishing.
Find activities and book ideas on Meridian’s website to extend the discussion of what it means to be a thinker at home.
Week of April 2, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Happy Wednesday, Families!
We’re excited to invite you to our final Parent Coffee of the school year tomorrow! You’re welcome to join us in person or virtually—see the details below. We’d love to connect with you one last time!
Here’s what you’ll find in this week’s newsletter:
- Spring Showcase dates for each grade level—don’t miss your child’s moment to shine!
- Individual Spring Pictures this Friday
- Arts and Science Fest this Saturday
- STAAR testing dates and information to help you and your child prepare.
- Field Days are coming soon!
Thank you, as always, for your continued support. We’re looking forward to finishing the year strong—together!
Warmly,
Melissa Reese
Triple A After School Program Openings!
PYP (K–5) Principal’s Coffee
Tomorrow, April 3 at 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. (in-person or virtual)
Join us for our last Principal’s Coffee of the year! We will have an in-person and virtual option. RSVP using this link. If you are planning to attend virtually, you can join using this link.
Spring Picture Day for K-5th Grade
Friday, April 4
Spring picture day is Friday! All students in grades K-5 may wear casual or dressy spring clothing to school. Lifetouch will take photographs of all students.
If you’d like to buy a photo, you can pre-order online and enter Primary (K-5) Picture Day ID number: EVTBWB9SP (please have your child take the printed payment receipt to the camera with them), or you can wait to see photo proofs. There are no re-takes.
STAAR Dates (add to your calendar)
Now is a great time to start having calm, supportive conversations with your students to help ease any testing anxiety. Remind them to take a deep breath, stay confident, and simply do their best. As I always say: “Just show us what you know!” Students do not need to prepare for the tests, but they should get plenty of sleep the night before and eat a healthy breakfast that morning.
- Reading STAAR (3rd-5th) – April 10
- Science STAAR (5th) – April 17
- Math STAAR (3rd-5th) – April 24
Student Spring Showcases
Check your grade level newsletters for details.
Kindergarten: Animal Showcase - Friday, May 16 from 11:30 a.m. – noon
1st Grade: Regions Showcase - Wednesday, April 16 from 11:30 a.m. – noon (RSVP)
2nd Grade: Author’s Tea - Thursday, April 17 from 2–2:45 p.m. (RSVP)
3rd Grade: Solar System Showcase - Friday, April 4 from 2–2:30 p.m. (RSVP closes Thursday)
4th Grade: Passion Project - Tuesday, May 20 from 2:00-2:30
5th Grade: Exhibition Thursday, May 15
Field Days
Each grade level enjoys a fun field day on a Wednesday during April or May! Details will come soon, but we rely on volunteer help to make these happen. This year we ask volunteers to commit to the same station throughout the event (8:20 a.m to 12:30 p.m.), with a 50 minute break in the middle. Any questions can be directed to Coach Colón.
- April 23 - Kindergarten and 1st grade - Sign up to help!
- April 30 - 2nd and 3rd grade - Sign up coming soon
- May 7 - 4th and 5th grade - Sign up coming soon
IB Initiative: Bringing Together the Learner Profile Traits
Over the past 10 weeks, we’ve explored each learner profile trait individually and looked at the lives of people throughout history and around the world who have demonstrated each trait, but these traits don’t live in isolation.
The Learner Profile is modeled by a person who demonstrates ALL of the learner profile traits and considers how, when combined, they lead to greater depth of understanding. For example, we know a risk-taker is willing to try new things, but pair that with other learner profile traits and you have new things to consider. For example, what does it mean to be a knowledgeable risk-taker or a principled risk-taker?
This week on the announcements we are learning about people who have impacted our school, state, nation and world by demonstrating multiple learner profile traits. The learner profile is the easiest piece of IB to bring home for conversations. So, continue to have conversations with your child about how they are being:
Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers • Communicators • Principled
Open-Minded • Caring • Risk-takers • Balanced • Reflective
Week of April 9, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Happy Wednesday, Families!
Thank you to everyone who joined us for last week’s Principal’s Coffee! If you weren’t able to attend, you can check out the slides—we appreciate your continued partnership.
This week is a big one! Our 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students will take the Reading STAAR tomorrow. Please help your child start the day strong with a healthy breakfast and some encouraging words. We know they’re ready to shine and show what they’ve learned!
Be sure to take a few minutes to review the important updates and events happening between now and the end of the school year. This is such a special time for our students, and we want you to be part of it every step of the way.
And this week is Assistant Principals Week, and I personally want to thank our two wonderful assistant principals, Donida Garcia and Brooke Knight! They are so vital to our school, and I wish we could celebrate them every day!
With gratitude,
Melissa Reese
Primary Principal
Note: Bring $2 Thurs/Fri/Monday for Free Dress on Monday, April 14! Benefitting Camp Olympia.
Triple A After School Program Openings!
Carline lane changes
If you are picking up your kindergarten student, please enter the yellow lane directly by coming southbound on Mays. Carline has been backing up with multiple vehicles entering blue lane by turning left on Mays, and then transferring to the yellow lane (and holding up blue lane traffic).
Student Placement Survey 2025-2026
Administration works hard to balance classrooms and create the best learning environment for each of our students. We invite you to fill out this form by May 12 to help us make the best decisions for your child.
STAAR Dates (add to your calendar)
Now is a great time to start having calm, supportive conversations with your students to help ease any testing anxiety. Remind them to take a deep breath, stay confident, and simply do their best. As I always say: “Just show us what you know!” Students do not need to prepare for the tests, but they should get plenty of sleep the night before and eat a healthy breakfast that morning.
- Reading STAAR (3rd-5th) – April 10
- Science STAAR (5th) – April 17
- Math STAAR (3rd-5th) – April 24
Student Spring Showcases
Check your grade level newsletters for details.
Kindergarten: Animal Showcase - Friday, May 16 from 11:30 a.m. – noon
1st Grade: Regions Showcase - Wednesday, April 16 from 11:30 a.m. – noon (RSVP)
2nd Grade: Author’s Tea - Thursday, April 17 from 2–2:45 p.m. (RSVP)
4th Grade: Passion Project - Tuesday, May 20 from 2:00-2:30
5th Grade: Exhibition Thursday, May 15
Field Days
Each grade level enjoys a fun field day on a Wednesday during April or May, and we rely on volunteer help to make these happen. This year we ask volunteers to commit to the same station throughout the event (8:20 a.m to 12:30 p.m.), with a 50 minute break in the middle. Any questions can be directed to Coach Colón.
- April 23 - Kindergarten and 1st grade - Sign up to help!
- April 30 - 2nd and 3rd grade - Sign up to help!
- May 7 - 4th and 5th grade - Sign up coming soon
IB Initiative: The Transdisciplinary Theme of Who We Are
Who We Are • Where We Are in Place and Time • How We Express Ourselves
How the World Works • How We Organize Ourselves • Sharing the Planet
The theme of Who We Are is an inquiry into the nature of the self; beliefs and values; personal, physical, mental, social and spiritual health; human relationships including families, friends, communities, and cultures; rights and responsibilities; what it means to be human.
Children develop their sense of identity through their relationships, their personal experiences, their culture, and their community. As parents, you share your beliefs and values, your culture, and your sense of right and wrong. Children learn about differences in these as they engage with others and eventually develop their own sense of self that incorporates their own unique perspective on the world.
At Meridian, all grades study the theme of Who We Are through the following central ideas:
- Kindergarten - Our relationships impact ourselves and others.
- 1st Grade - Our understanding grows through learning and reflection.
- 2nd Grade - Individuals and experiences can influence our values.
- 3rd Grade - Communities foster well-being
- 4th Grade - Significant events and people help promote growth.
- 5th Grade - Relationships influence identity.
Week of April 16, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
We have a short week ahead—there will be no school for students on Friday, and Monday is a teacher workday, giving our students a four-day break to rest and recharge for the final stretch of the school year.
This Thursday, our fifth graders will take the Science STAAR test. Please encourage them to take their time, stay focused, and do their very best!
We’re also looking forward to some exciting events coming up:
📚 Our Book Fair is just around the corner, featuring a special book signing with our very own in-house author!
🎉 Field Days kick off next week—please check below and your child’s grade-level newsletter for specific details and schedules.
Thank you for your continued support!
With gratitude,
Melissa Reese
Primary Principal
Upcoming Leadership Transitions at Meridian
A Fond Farewell to Crystal Lane
Welcoming Melissa Reese as MYP Principal
Welcoming Brooke Knight as PYP Principal
Quick link: PYP Calendar
BOGO Book Fair & PYP Art Show
Student Placement Survey 2025-2026
Administration works hard to balance classrooms and create the best learning environment for each of our students. We invite you to fill out this form by May 12 to help us make the best decisions for your child.
STAAR Math/Science
There are two more STAAR tests this month! Students should get plenty of sleep the night before and eat a healthy breakfast that morning.
- Science STAAR (5th grade) – April 17
- Math STAAR (3rd-5th Grade) – April 24
Student Spring Showcases
Check your grade level newsletters for details.
Kindergarten: Animal Showcase - Friday, May 16 from 11:30 a.m. – noon
2nd Grade: Author’s Tea - Thursday, April 17 from 2 – 2:45 p.m.
4th Grade: Passion Project - Tuesday, May 20 from 2 – 2:30 p.m.
5th Grade: Exhibition Thursday, May 15 from 5 – 6 p.m.
Field Days
Each grade level enjoys a fun field day on a Wednesday during April or May, and we rely on volunteer help to make these happen. This year we ask volunteers to commit to the same station throughout the event (8:20 a.m to 12:30 p.m.), with a 50 minute break in the middle. Any questions can be directed to Coach Colón.
- April 23 - Kindergarten and 1st grade - Sign up to help!
- April 30 - 2nd and 3rd grade - Sign up to help!
- May 7 - 4th and 5th grade - Sign up to help!
Week of April 23, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
I wanted to share some exciting news if you haven’t heard—starting next year, I’ll be stepping into the role of MYP Principal! While I’m thrilled for this new chapter, I will truly miss my time in the Primary Years Programme. That said, I know our primary community is in wonderful hands with Brooke Knight stepping in as the new PYP Principal.
Change is a natural part of learning and growing, and my heart remains right here at Meridian. There’s no place I’d rather be!
As we wrap up the school year, be sure to check out all the exciting events happening throughout May. We can’t wait to celebrate this season with you and your students.
With appreciation,
Melissa Reese
Quick link: PYP Calendar
BOGO Book Fair & PYP Art Show
School supply kits expand to 8th grade next year!
We’re excited to announce that school supply kits will now be available for ALL students in grades K–8 next year! That means our 6th–8th graders are included too—making back-to-school even easier and affordable for middle school families.
Families who qualify for Free/Reduced Lunch will continue to receive a discounted payment option—and this year you will pay directly through the portal. More details (including how to order) will be shared in the coming weeks.
Student Placement Survey 2025-2026
Administration works hard to balance classrooms and create the best learning environment for each of our students. We invite you to fill out this form by May 12 to help us make the best decisions for your child.
STAAR Math Thursday
It’s time for the final STAAR test, math, for grades 3-5! Students should get plenty of sleep the night before and eat a healthy breakfast. They should bring a bagged lunch or can order one from the cafeteria. Students may read quietly after finishing the test; they can bring a book from home or the library.
Field Days
We kicked off field days with Kindergarten/first grade today, and there are a few more volunteer spots for grades 2-5! Look for a message via Toddle the week of your child's field day for what to bring/wear.
- April 30 - 2nd and 3rd grade - Sign up to help!
- May 7 - 4th and 5th grade - Sign up to help!
IB Initiative:
Who We Are • Where We Are in Place and Time • How We Express Ourselves
How the World Works • How We Organize Ourselves • Sharing the Planet
Sharing the Planet is an inquiry into the rights and responsibilities in the struggle to share finite resources with other people and with other living things; communities and the relationships within and between them; access to equal opportunities; peace and conflict resolution.
This theme is a great connection to Earth Day, which was Tuesday, and Arbor Day which will be Friday. We only have one Earth, so we must learn how to share it well.
At Meridian, all grades except Kindergarten study the theme of Sharing the Planet through the following central ideas:
- 1st Grade - Living things depend on each other and the environment.
- 2nd Grade - Awareness of resource imbalance can lead to action.
- 3rd Grade - Innovators harness energy to impact their community.
- 4th Grade - Values and passions drive human interactions.
- 5th Grade - Interdependence promotes balance in communities.
Week of April 30, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Celebrating Our Young Authors!
Did you know we have two published authors right here in Primary? In honor of Book Fair Week, we’re thrilled to introduce you to our talented young writers: Shakti A, pen name Leora Rivers, (1st grade) and Emmanuel N (5th grade)!
With the support of their families, Shakti and Emmanuel have each written and published their own books — an incredible accomplishment at such a young age. We are so proud of their creativity and determination, and we can’t wait to see how this experience inspires them to continue writing and publishing in the future!
Come visit our BOGO book fair, and PYP movie night is Friday evening!
With appreciation,
Melissa Reese
Quick link: PYP Calendar
BOGO Book Fair & PYP Art Show
Primary (K-5) Movie Night: Friday!
Friday, May 2 at 6:30 p.m.
Join ViP for a spring Primary Movie Night featuring Moana 2 in the Primary Gym. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the movie starts at 6:30 p.m. Enter and exit the building through the blacktop doors. ViP asks for a $5 donation per family, and there will be popcorn and other snacks for sale. Bring your water bottle, blankets and pillows or chairs, and get comfy.
Chess Competition
Congratulations to third graders Matthew W, Nate B, and Laya S, whose combined scores earned Meridian the Second Place trophy in the 2nd/3rd Grade Division at the Chess Wizards Scholastic Chess Tournament last weekend!
Peter Pan tickets on sale now
Second star to the right and straight on to the Primary Gym! The Lion’s Acting Troupe proudly presents Peter Pan! Join our wildly talented 2nd–5th grade cast as they battle pirates, fly with fairies, and prove that growing up is totally overrated.
📅 Shows: May 8 - 9 at 6 p.m.
📍 Location: Primary Gym
🎟️ Tickets: $5 on MySchoolBucks
Prepare to laugh, cheer, and maybe even crow like Peter. It’s going to be magical, mischief-filled, and definitely worth leaving the house for.
Counselor's Corner
The Region 13 Education Service Center has created a series of mindfulness videos to help parents talk to their children about different social-emotional topics and recognize when there might be a problem that needs to be addressed with a professional counselor or therapist.
The final video in the series we would like to share is Being Mindful: Empathy. Watch the video to learn more about encouraging empathy. If you have any questions, please email your primary counselor Dana Burks (K, 2, 4) or Heather Mossell (1, 3, 5).
Student Placement Survey 2025-2026
Administration works hard to balance classrooms and create the best learning environment for each of our students. We invite you to fill out this form by May 12 to help us make the best decisions for your child.
Week of May 7, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Happy Wednesday, Families!
It’s Staff Appreciation Week, and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate the amazing team that makes our school such a special place. From classroom teachers to support staff, every member of our school family plays a vital role in nurturing, guiding, and inspiring our students each day. We hope you’ll join us in showing your appreciation—whether it’s a note of thanks, a small treat, or simply a heartfelt “thank you,” every gesture means the world!
We’re also officially in the countdown to summer! The final weeks of the school year are packed with exciting events, celebrations, and important updates. Please make sure to read your child’s classroom newsletter each week so you don’t miss a thing.
Thank you,
Melissa Reese
Primary Principal
Peter Pan plays Thursday & Friday
Second star to the right and straight on to the Primary Gym! The Lion’s Acting Troupe proudly presents Peter Pan! Join our wildly talented 2nd–5th grade cast as they battle pirates, fly with fairies, and prove that growing up is totally overrated.
📅 Shows: May 8 - 9 at 6 p.m.
📍 Location: Primary Gym
🎟️ Tickets: $5 on MySchoolBucks or at the door
Prepare to laugh, cheer, and maybe even crow like Peter. It’s going to be magical, mischief-filled, and definitely worth leaving the house for.
Triple A registration opens May 15
Looking for a safe, fun and enriching space for your child to spend time after school? Meridian World School offers in-house Triple A programming for grades K-5!
Registration for Triple A in 2025-2026 will begin on May 15 at 10 a.m.
We have options for every day of the week, including full time after school care until 6 p.m. Many spots in our à la Carte classes fill quickly, so set a reminder to register.
Last chance: Student Placement Survey 2025-2026
Administration works hard to balance classrooms and create the best learning environment for each of our students. We invite you to fill out this form by May 12 to help us make the best decisions for your child.
End of Year Parties: volunteers and permissions needed
ViP is hosting exciting End-of-Year parties for primary students on the last day of school, Thursday, May 22, including yard games, popsicles, and bounce houses! (Kindergarten has the chance to enjoy bounce houses during recess because they have a special first year celebration inside the classroom).
Meridian assumes no liability for injuries that may occur in the bounce houses, and therefore:
- Parent permission is required for students to bounce. Those without permission can still enjoy all other activities.
- We need parent volunteers to help supervise the bounce houses to ensure safety (see volunteer opportunities in an email from your room representative).
Grade-level links below include the permission form, RSVP, and a question about pickup plans. Please take a moment to review and submit!
10-10:45 a.m. - 2nd Grade Party
11-11:45 a.m. - 1st Grade Party
12-12:45 p.m. - 3rd Grade Party
12:30-1:15 p.m. - Kindergarten Party in classrooms
1-1:45 p.m. - 5th Grade Party
2-2:45 p.m. - 4th Grade Party
Summer Camp Opportunity: Badgerdog Writing Camp
There are still spots left in the Library Foundation’s Badgerdog Writing Camp, which takes place at Meridian (and other sites) over the summer! The three week camp is open to 3rd-8th graders. See details. The 5th/6th grade class is currently full, but students are welcome to join the other age groups if they feel comfortable.
Student Spring Showcases
The final three spring showcases take place soon!
5th Grade Exhibition - Thursday, May 15 from 5-6 p.m. (no RSVP needed)
Kindergarten Animal Showcase - Friday, May 16 from 11:30 a.m. – noon (RSVP)
4th Grade Passion Project - Tuesday, May 20 from 2-2:30 p.m. (RSVP)
IB Initiative: The Transdisciplinary Theme of How We Express Ourselves
Who We Are • Where We Are in Place and Time • How We Express Ourselves
How the World Works • How We Organize Ourselves • Sharing the Planet
How we express ourselves is an inquiry into the ways in which we discover and express ideas, feelings, nature, culture, beliefs and values; the ways in which we reflect on, extend and enjoy our creativity, and our appreciation of the aesthetic.
Each grade level at Meridian studies the theme of How We Express Ourselves through the following central ideas:
- Kindergarten - Communication builds knowledge and understanding.
- 1st Grade - Exploring cultures helps build respect.
- 2nd Grade - Creative expression helps deepen our understanding of self and others.
- 3rd Grade - Curiosity inspires creativity.
- 4th Grade - Diversity can strengthen community.
- 5th Grade - 5th Grade’s Exhibition falls under this theme and they are exploring opportunities for the future in their Exhibition. This includes things like careers, personal growth goals, and ways to make our world a better place.
Week of May 14, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Can You Believe It? The School Year Ends Next Week!
It’s hard to believe how quickly this year has flown by! As we approach the final days of the school year, we’re filled with pride reflecting on everything your child has accomplished. We have several exciting events planned this week and next week to celebrate our students and close out the year with joy and connection—check your emails and class updates so you don’t miss a thing!
Lost & Found Reminder
Our Lost and Found is overflowing with jackets, water bottles, lunchboxes, and more! Please stop by and take a look before the last day of school—any unclaimed items will be donated after dismissal on the final day. Let’s help those lost items find their way home for the summer!
Thank you for partnering with us throughout the year. We can’t wait to celebrate the finish line together!
Melissa Reese
Primary Principal
Final Week Schedule Reminders
- Wednesday, May 21 is a full school day.
- There is no Triple A the last day of school, Thursday, May 22. Students who normally attend Triple A must be picked up before the end of school or in the carline at 3:35.
- May 22 is also a free dress day. Wear clothes and shoes appropriate for outdoor play.
Medication Pick-up
- If your student has medications on campus, please pick them up by May 22 or they will be discarded.
- If your student plans to have medications on campus next school year, please have their provider fill out and sign a new medication consent form after July 1, 2025.
- If you have any questions or concerns, please email the nurse’s office.
Triple A registration opens May 15
Looking for a safe, fun and enriching space for your child to spend time after school? Meridian World School offers in-house Triple A programming for grades K-5!
Registration for Triple A in 2025-2026 begins Thursday at 10 a.m.
We have options for every day of the week, including full time after school care until 6 p.m. Many spots in our à la Carte classes fill quickly, so set a reminder to register.
Summer Safety Tips
We hope all students and families have a safe and fun summer! Please see FEMA's summer safety tips for kids! Primary counselors Dana Burks (K, 2, 4) or Heather Mossell (1, 3, 5) are available for questions or concerns leading up to summer. Please reach out if you need us!
End of Year Parties: volunteers and permissions needed
ViP hosts exciting End-of-Year parties for primary students on the last day of school, Thursday, May 22, including yard games, popsicles, and bounce houses! (Kindergarten has the chance to enjoy bounce houses during recess because they have a special first year celebration inside the classroom).
Meridian assumes no liability for injuries that may occur in the bounce houses, and therefore:
Links below include the permission form, RSVP, and a question about pickup plans.
10-10:45 a.m. - 2nd Grade Party
11-11:45 a.m. - 1st Grade Party
12-12:45 p.m. - 3rd Grade Party
12:30-1:15 p.m. - Kindergarten Party in classrooms
1-1:45 p.m. - 5th Grade Party
2-2:45 p.m. - 4th Grade Party
Student Spring Showcases
The final three spring showcases take place soon!
5th Grade Exhibition - Thursday, May 15 from 5-6 p.m. (no RSVP needed)
Kindergarten Animal Showcase - Friday, May 16 from 11:30 a.m. – noon (RSVP)
4th Grade Passion Project - Tuesday, May 20 from 2-2:30 p.m. (RSVP)
Congratulations to Monisha for winning 8th in National Chess Tournament!
First grader Monisha secured 8th place in the K-3 Under 600 section at the Super Nationals Chess Tournament held in Orlando, Florida.
With more than 244 participants in her section, Monisha scored 6 out of 7, joining an eight-way tie for 3rd place. Final placements were determined through tie-breaks. Congratulations, Monisha!
IB Initiative: The Transdisciplinary Theme of How The World Works
Who We Are • Where We Are in Place and Time • How We Express Ourselves
How the World Works • How We Organize Ourselves • Sharing the Planet
How The World Works is an inquiry into the natural world and its laws; the interaction between the natural world and human societies, how humans use their understanding of scientific principles; the impact of scientific and technological advances on society and the environment.
Each grade level at Meridian studies the theme of How The World Works through the following central ideas:
- Kindergarten - Recognizing patterns helps us interact with our environment.
- 1st Grade - Humans use what is available to build a lifestyle.
- 2nd Grade - Knowledge of cycles informs decision making.
- 3rd Grade - Living things adapt to an ever-changing environment.
- 4th Grade - The physical and human characteristics of a region influence patterns of behavior.
- 5th Grade - Processes can change society and the environment.
Week of May 21, 2025
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Students can enjoy free dress or spirit wear on the last day of school, which is tomorrow, Thursday!
We are also excited to welcome parents to our class parties. Details for these events were in the grade level newsletters. You may choose to sign your student out after their party. If they stay until the end of the day, they will need to be picked up during carline, which begins at 3:40 p.m. There is no Triple A on the last day of school. For Triple A families, make sure you know which carline your student will be in (green, blue, yellow, purple/fastlane, or waiters) and that the change has been made in Pikmykid.
Have a wonderful, relaxing summer! We will see you in August.
Melissa Reese
Primary Principal
Medication Pick-up
- If your student has medications on campus, please pick them up by May 22 or they will be discarded.
- If your student plans to have medications on campus next school year, please have their provider fill out and sign a new medication consent form after July 1, 2025.
- If you have any questions or concerns, please email the nurse’s office.
Triple A registration closes July 24
Don’t forget to register for Triple A After School Care for next school year! We have options for every day of the week, including full time after school care until 6 p.m. See more.
End of Year Party times
10-10:45 a.m. - 2nd Grade Party
11-11:45 a.m. - 1st Grade Party
12-12:45 p.m. - 3rd Grade Party
12:30-1:15 p.m. - Kindergarten Party in classrooms
1-1:45 p.m. - 5th Grade Party
2-2:45 p.m. - 4th Grade Party