Family Newsletter 3/21/25

Dear MMS Families,

Earlier this year, we invited students to apply for the MMS Student Advisory, a group that meets with Ms. Hammack every 4-6 weeks to discuss our school’s core commitments: belonging, communication, support, wellness, and learning. These meetings have been a great way to hear directly from students about their experiences and gather feedback on what’s working well—and where we can improve.

Student input has already helped shape and refine some of our school systems, ensuring that MMS continues to be a supportive and engaging place to learn. We’re grateful for their voices and ideas!

We also want to extend a big thank you to all the families who participated in the CEE survey. Your feedback is just as valuable in guiding our ongoing efforts to strengthen our school community.

Thank you for your continued support!

-Todd Torgeson, Principal

– Jill Hammack, Assistant Principal

One question we’ve received is regarding the cost of building a new Meridian Middle School. The estimated cost includes various factors such as site development, demolition, construction cost escalation, taxes and more. A detailed breakdown of the costs is available on our website.

While fundraising can support smaller projects, constructing a new school exceeds the district’s annual budget. The way school districts can fund the construction of new schools is through bonds, which require a 60% supermajority vote to pass. The Meridian Middle School project will cost an estimated $70.9 million. This includes $16.2 million in state-match funds, which are only available if the bond passes. Learn more about the costs and financial impact in the videos below or on our website.

During a recent visit to Ms. Drake’s ELA classroom, she introduced a text to students using key pre-reading strategies. Before they began reading, she engaged them by activating their prior knowledge on the topic, clarifying important vocabulary, and setting a clear purpose for the reading.

These strategies help students interact with the text more deeply and improve comprehension. By priming their brains in this way, students can focus on meaning rather than using their “mental calories” with unfamiliar words or unclear expectations. Their minds are already engaged, making connections and processing information more efficiently.

Thank you, Ms. Drake, for fostering strong pre-reading strategies to support our students!

Vaping and marijuana use have become widely normalized among teens due to social media, peer influence, and the perception that these substances are harmless. Many adolescents see vaping and weed as socially acceptable, with even their peers portraying them as stress relievers or trendy habits. This normalization can make it harder for teens to recognize the risks, especially when marketing tactics and misinformation downplay the negative effects. A trending reason adolescents and teens give for smoking weed and vaping is that it helps them with depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. However, usage during this stage of development can actually increase the risk of anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairments. THC, the psychoactive component in marijuana, alters brain chemistry, disrupting emotional regulation and increasing anxiety over time. In adolescents, regular use can interfere with brain development, leading to memory problems, cognitive decline, and a reduced ability to handle stress naturally. Regular use of vapes and nicotine addiction can lead to dependency, reduced motivation, and withdrawal symptoms, interfering with school performance and daily responsibilities.

Parents can support their teens by creating a safe, judgment-free space to discuss vaping, marijuana, and mental health, making it easier for them to open up without fear of criticism or punishment. Clearly communicating expectations while providing accurate information about the risks—such as addiction and its impact on mental health—can help counteract the misinformation teens encounter online or from peers. Many adolescents hesitate to be honest at home due to fear of judgment or consequences, so balancing clear boundaries with empathy and validation can foster trust. By acknowledging their struggles and offering support instead of harsh reactions, parents can encourage open and honest conversations that lead to healthier choices.

As we strive to ensure the safety and well-being of all students, we want to remind you of our policies regarding medications at school.

All medications, whether prescription or over-the-counter, must be accompanied by a completed Medication Authorization Form signed by both the parent/guardian and the prescribing healthcare provider. Medications must be delivered to the school in their original packaging, clearly labeled with the student’s name, dosage and administration instructions.

Medications that are classified as controlled substances (e.g., certain ADHD medications, pain relievers) must be securely locked up in the school nurse’s office. These medications will only be administered by the school nurse or a designated staff member to ensure proper handling and compliance with state law.

Students are not permitted to carry medications with them during school hours, with the exception of emergency medications such as inhalers or EpiPens, which require prior approval.

We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe and healthy environment for all students. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact school nurse Stacy King at sking@meridian.wednet.edu or 360-318-2289.

Thank you for your help and cooperation.

The MHS softball team is hosting a softball camp in April. See the flyer below with additional information and stop by the front office to pick up a sign-up form if you’re interested!

We encourage families to complete the Free and Reduced Meals Application for your children. By submitting this form, you can ensure your child receives nutritious meals at school and you may be eligible for other benefits.

Completing the application is quick, confidential and can make a significant difference in your child’s school experience. Forms are available in English and Spanish on our website.

Please take a moment to fill out the form and return it to your school. Paper applications are also available in school offices.

As your student prepares for high school, you may be wondering about opportunities to get a head start on college and career pathways. At Meridian High School, dual credit programs allow students to earn both high school and college credit at the same time—often at little or no cost. These courses can help students explore interests, build confidence, and prepare for the future. Check out this letter to learn more about dual credit options at MHS and how your student can take advantage of these opportunities!

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