We shared with you last week that we are fortunate there is no need for a reduction-in-force (RIF) process. This is possible due to our ability to adapt by transitioning staff into new roles that suit their strengths. As a result, we have two leadership updates to share with you. 

Meridian High School

Robert KratzigMeridian Middle School Assistant Principal Robert Kratzig will transition roles to become the assistant principal at Meridian High School beginning July 1. 

Mr. Kratzig has been at Meridian Middle School since fall 2022. During his time there he has been instrumental in implementing the Meridian Mindset geared toward improving behavior expectations and school culture. 

Prior to Meridian, Mr. Kratzig served as the dean of students at Lynden Middle School for two years and taught for eight years at Surprise Lake Middle School in Milton, Washington. He received his administrator credentials from Western Washington University in 2022. He has a master’s degree in teaching, secondary education and a bachelor’s degree in history and social studies from Western Washington University. He is also a graduate of Meridian High School and part of a five generation Meridian family.

Mr. Kratzig champions a student-centric approach that creates a school environment rooted in strong interpersonal connections. He is committed to engaging with families and working collaboratively with staff. He is also intentional about developing efficient systems and processes that ensure the best possible outcomes for students and families. He looks forward to using these skills to benefit the Meridian High School community next year.


Meridian Middle School

Jill HammackBeginning July 1, Jill Hammack who currently serves as the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) Coordinator and administrator designee at Irene Reither Elementary, will step into the role of assistant principal at Meridian Middle School.

This past year Ms. Hammack has been the administrator designee, and for the past two years she has served as the MTSS coordinator. She began teaching at Irene Reither Elementary in 2017. Previously she taught third grade at Franklin Academy in Bellingham.

Ms. Hammack will earn her administrative credentials from the University of Washington’s Danforth Educational Leadership Program in June 2024. She has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Corban University and a master’s in education degree in teacher leadership from the American College of Education. 

She is known for her dynamic leadership which is a blend of joyful enthusiasm, energetic drive and grounded humility. She tackles challenges head-on, champions collaborative efforts and is dedicated to elevating her team while maintaining a focus on tangible results. Her leadership is marked by a dedication to her colleagues’ success, and cultivating a positive and empowering school culture.

The continuity of leadership provided by Mr. Kratzig and Ms. Hammack will be an advantage for our students. Their well established relationships with students at each of these schools will promise a smooth transition. This helps to ensure that our students will continue to receive the support they need to thrive. 

Please join us in welcoming Mr. Kratzig and Ms. Hammack into their new roles!