College & Career Buzz

There is a lot happening in our college and career programs right now! I’m working hard to submit Meridian ISD’s P-TECH application. This is an exciting step as we plan for more opportunities for students to explore a career pathway, gain hands-on experience, and work toward credentials while they are still in high school. I look forward to sharing more as the application process moves forward.

Midterm exams are also coming up for all students. This is a great time for students to check their grades, look over upcoming assignments, and make a plan for studying. A little preparation now can make exam week feel much more manageable. If your student is struggling in a class, please encourage them to talk with their teacher and ask for help before exams arrive.

Our CTE classes have started this new six weeks with a strong focus on the skills and practice it takes to earn industry-based certifications, or IBCs. These certifications give students a way to show what they know and what they can do. We have already celebrated students earning AWS welding certifications, and I’m looking forward to recognizing many more Yellow Jackets as they reach their goals.

Finally, senior students and families, please join us for FAFSA and College Application Night on October 14 at 5:30 p.m. We hope to see all senior parents there. Whether your student has a college picked out or is still exploring options, this evening is a chance to sit down, ask questions, and take the next step together.

Our Meridian High School welders are putting their skills to work and earning American Welding Society (AWS) Industry-Based Certifications! Each certification represents hours of practice, attention to safety, and the ability to meet an industry standard.

We’re proud to recognize every student who earns an AWS certification. This section will grow throughout the year as more Yellow Jackets reach this milestone!

(In order by date of completion)

Casey Jones · AWS D9.1 Sheet Metal Welding Certification

Mark Pittman AWS D9.1 Sheet Metal Welding Certification

Joshua Nunez AWS D9.1 Sheet Metal Welding Certification

Walyn Sheppard AWS D9.1 Sheet Metal Welding Certification

Roman Garcia AWS D9.1 Sheet Metal Welding Certification

Guillermo Ortiz AWS D9.1 Sheet Metal Welding Certification

Congratulations to our certified welders and to Mr. Pittman for helping them build skills they can carry beyond high school!

The sparks are flying in Mr. Pittman’s shop! Students are building their welding skills through hands-on practice, and several have already earned their AWS D9.1 Sheet Metal Welding certifications. We’re proud of the hard work and attention to detail they’ve put into reaching this milestone. Keep an eye on our Welding Certification Spotlight as we celebrate each student who earns a certification!

Exam week is coming up for our Tarleton dual credit students! College Statistics Unit 2 exams are September 30 and October 1, and Anatomy and Physiology Exam 2 is October 1.

Students, take a little time each day to review your notes and check Canvas for any study materials or updates from your instructors. You’ve been working hard—finish this unit strong, Yellow Jackets!

10/01/26 - Construction & Manufacturing Careers Showcase from 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. for juniors and seniors

10/22/26 - CTE Industry Tour to Walker Partners for Engineering from 9:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

10/29/26 - CTE Industry Tour to KWTX-TV News Channel 10 from 9:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

10/30/26 - CTE Industry Tour to L3Harris from 9:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

11/04/26 - Tarleton Future Global Leaders Summit from 9:00 a.m. - 2 p.m.

11/05/26 -- Tarleton STEM Day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

11/05/26 - CTE Industry Tour to Caterpillar Waco Distribution Center from 9:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

11/05/26 - CTE Industry Tour to Waco Family Medicine from 9:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

11/12/26 - CTE Industry Tour to Premier ER from 9:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

11/13/26 - CTE Industry Tour to KidStrong Waco from 9:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

03/02/27 - Health Careers Showcase from 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. for juniors and seniors