Dear MMS Families,

By the time you’re reading this message Winter Break will have officially begun, and we will keep our message brief.  We do want to express our pride in the collective achievements of our students so far this school year.

Winter Break is a time to unwind and create lasting memories with loved ones. Whether traveling or staying close to home, we hope it brings you joy and reflection on the year that has passed.

As always, let us know if you have any questions or concerns!

GO TROJANS!

-Todd Torgeson, Principal
-Robert Kratzig, Assistant Principal

 
UPCOMING EVENTS

 

Monday, January 1

  • No School – Winter Break

Tuesday, January 2

  • Gold Day

Wednesday, January 3

  • Black Day
  • Video Game Club, 2:45pm in Room 12
  • Boys Basketball at LCMS, 4:00pm

Thursday, January 4

  • Gold Day
  • Fellowship of Christian Athletes, 7:30-7:45 in Small Gym
  • Social Justice League Club, 2:45pm in Room 2

Friday, January 5

  • Black Day
  • Late Arrival – Doors Open at 8:55am, School Begins at 9:05am
COUNSELING CORNER
MMS Families,

As the calendar year comes to a close, let’s take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve had together. It has been a year filled with growth, challenges, and memorable experiences, and we are grateful for the opportunity to support your children on their academic and personal paths.

In this season of reflection, let’s encourage our students to take a moment to celebrate their achievements, both big and small. Whether it’s overcoming a challenging assignment, making new friends, or demonstrating kindness and compassion, each accomplishment contributes to their development and growth as a person.

As we prepare to bid farewell to 2023, let’s also emphasize the importance of gratitude. Encourage your child to express thanks for the support they’ve received from teachers, friends, and family. Gratitude is a powerful force that fosters positive relationships and a sense of belonging.

Looking ahead to the new year, let’s inspire our students to set realistic and meaningful goals. The start of a new year provides a wonderful opportunity for self-reflection and the chance to embrace fresh opportunities for personal and academic growth.

Remember that the school counseling team is here to support your child every step of the way. If there are any concerns or if your child would like to discuss their goals for the upcoming year, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Wishing you all a joyful holiday season and a fantastic start to 2024!

Sincerely,

MMS Counselors

 

GENERAL MMS INFORMATION
MSD Winter Ride Program

The Meridian School District Winter Ride (or Ski Bus) program is starting up for another year.  Please join the Winter Ride team on Wednesday, January 10 at 6:00pm in the MHS Commons for an informational meeting.  Attendance is mandatory at the meeting in order to sign up.  If a family cannot attend, please have them email mhs_winterride@meridian.wednet.edu

Registration will begin after the meeting, and completed forms can be returned to the MMS office along with the $130 transportation payment.
alt_text
alt_text
Attendance Tips 

Taking breaks from school can be a big change, and it can be challenging to make the
transition. Taking care to keep routines consistent while out of school will make it easier to get back in the groove. To make it easier on yourself when school is back in session, you can start setting alarms closer to your normal school day wake-up time. This will help get routines back in action before coming back to school.
MMS Booster Club Update

Want to volunteer with the boosters club? Volunteer opportunities range from helping with projects for the school, staff and students to running concessions during dances and athletic games. You can find out more about the middle school boosters by following our Facebook page and/or emailing us at meridianmiddlebooster@gmail.com.
alt_text
alt_text
Whatcom County Health Department Pediatric Resource

Do you need some assistances deciding if your child is well enough to come to school?  With this time of year comes frequent illness for many students and families.  The Whatcom County Health Department put together this resource to help families better make decisions about their student’s health and ability to attend school.  Check it out!

If you ever have any questions about your student’s health, feel free to reach out to our school nurses Stacy King.

 

COMMUNITY RESOURCES
alt_text
Family Services Center
The Meridian School District Family Resource Center is open daily from 8:30 to 3:30 in portable 400A on the Irene Reither campus.

Students who qualify for free or reduced meals can stop by to get school supplies or sign up for Operation School Bell which provides new school clothes for students enrolled in Meridian School District. We also have the clothing closet available for any Meridian family looking for gently used adult and kid clothing.

Students who can’t make it in to the family center to get school supplies can pop into the middle school office to get the supplies they need.

Questions?  Contact Alicia Roberts (English) at 360-988-1949 or Elvira Trautman (Spanish) at 360-306-2886.
Bellingham Community Toy Store

If you need help providing gifts for your kids (birth to 18) this holiday season, The Bellingham Community Toy Store has a limited number of appointments available for Meridian families who have filled out a free and reduced meal application this school year and qualified. At the Community Toy Store parents/guardians pay cash for gifts, but at a 75-80% discounted rate. If you are interested in signing up (and you have NOT signed up for help with any other organization this season) please call or text the Meridian Family Support Center at 360-988-1949.
alt_text
alt_text
Summer Enrichment Scholarships

The Assistance League of Bellingham (ALB) is thrilled to announce the Enrichment Scholarship Program (ESP) for the 2023-2024 school year. From December 1, 2023, to February 16, 2024, your child can download scholarship application packets from the ALB website. Ensure the letter of recommendation form is submitted with the application. Each student is eligible for one scholarship, even if the full amount isn’t utilized. While the summer program choice isn’t required at the application stage, it should be finalized by March 29, 2024. ALB provides a helpful sample scoring rubric and a checklist to guide students. This year, there’s an impressive $55,000 available for scholarships. Encourage your child to seize this opportunity to broaden their horizons. Visit the ALB website for more details. Don’t let your child miss out on this chance to shine!