The Hive Happenings

Good Things Happening Around Meridian High School! 💛🐝

It’s been another great week at MHS!

🎓 We hosted a successful College Application & FAFSA Night — 12 free college applications were submitted to Texas colleges and universities!

🎶 Our Band of Gold marched their hearts out and earned straight 1’s at their regional competition!

🏈 The Junior High football boys dominated Wortham with a 50–20 win.

🥤 Our teachers earned well-deserved Sonic drinks for helping us hit our survey goal — thank you for always showing up and supporting our campus!

A quick reminder as we keep this momentum going: let’s stay aware of attendance. Every day matters for our students’ success, so let’s make sure we’re all showing up ready to learn, lead, and shine! There’s always something to celebrate at MHS!

Keep crushing it, Yellow Jackets! ✨

**Note: Senior Spotlights will feature 2-3 Seniors per week in the newsletters. Students will be put in the newsletter in the order they are received.**

The journey to graduation is filled with achievements, friendships, and unforgettable moments. Meridian High School is proud to shine a spotlight on this year’s seniors, celebrating their hard work, stories, and the bright futures ahead. Join us in recognizing the Class of 2026 — each week in our newsletter, we’ll share personal highlights and memories from our amazing seniors. Let’s honor their dedication and celebrate the start of their next adventure together!

Stay tuned for inspiring stories and help us cheer on the Class of 2026!

Ulani Davenport

Hi my name is Ulani Sarrae Davenport or “Lani”, and I am a senior at Meridian High School, in Meridian Texas. Over the years here at Meridian ISD, I have been involved in the athletic program, as well as many electives such as AG small animal, yearbook, kinesiology, human growth and development, as well as graphic design. I would say my favorite subject that's not an elective is U.S Government and Economics. I really enjoy learning about our rights, and how important our government really is and the vital role the government plays. I would say my favorite high school memory was during my junior year, so last year when I worked field day and spent the entire day working at the elementary and working stations. It brought back so many memories of when I had field day back then.

My favorite book would be this book. I forgot the name, but it’s where this Jewish man falls in love with a black woman and it’s just a beautiful story. I highly recommend the book once I can remember the name. Now for my favorite movie I would say it would be The Fox and the Hound, or really any old classical Disney movie. I’m not a fan of the new movies or the live-action remakes, and my favorite TV shows are Scandal and Grey’s Anatomy. My favorite artist or artists I would say would be $uicideboy$, because I can relate to a majority of their songs, and my favorite food would either be General Tso’s chicken or the House specialty chicken from China House here in town.

I would say my biggest accomplishments in school would be anytime I got an AB honor roll. I always felt very accomplished when I received that certificate, because I knew my hard work paid off. I would say the best advice I ever received was by my mental health case manager, so a huge shoutout and lots of love to Whitney Johnson is when she told me when I was going through personal problems that this was just a bump in the road, and not to let that bump in the road take me out, and that things do get better, and just her being there for me and still being here for me and giving me advice is just amazing.

My friends who I just asked described me as fair, respectful, attentive, and kind. I would agree I don’t have it in my heart to be a rude or hateful person. The reason I don’t have that in my heart is because you never know what someone is going through, and you could pop off on somebody the full zero to one hundred, and that could’ve been their final breaking point. Now for being attentive, I’m attentive when it comes to serious things or when someone is holding conversation with me, but I will zone out and be in la la land if something isn’t peaking my interest or the conversation is dragging on repeat. Then what makes me proud of my High School Experience is just the memories overall and the shared tears and laughter, just one big family really.

As for looking ahead after high school, I do plan on attending college, hopefully West Texas A&M in Canyon, Texas. I plan on studying and double majoring in Social Work and Psychology, so I can work in various fields of mental health especially child mental health, because I’ve seen it, I done it, and I overcame mental issues myself, and it’s heartbreaking to me knowing that there these innocent babies struggling to get the proper help they need, or too scared to speak up for themselves, and I’m willing and one hundred percent going to do what’s right and help as many people as I can. My personal goal for the future is to have my own mental establishment, not necessarily a hospital, but a safe place for people and children who don’t have anyone to go to, or just need some time to recapitulate while getting the proper care they need. In ten years maybe fifteen or twenty years adding an extra five. I hope I have a good piece of land out in the countryside with a few animals here and there. Maybe settled down with a good man, and have children of my own adopted or naturally given running around like wild bucks. Just me and my little family.

A fun fact about me would be that I have broken both of my arms within a six month time frame, and I am now double jointed because of that. My dream vacation would be to go to Barbados, really anywhere would be a vacation for me as long as it’s far away. A person I would like to meet alive or in history would be the Motley Crue band preferably during the eighties when they first started Vince Neil, Tommy Lee, Nikki Sixx, and Mick Mars the original group and that’s pretty much it, and Elvis Presley because I would want to hear suspicious minds live in person.

Senior Quote: “Even if the finish line is far you have to push the car (push the car) Keep marchin’ on (keep on marchin’on not in service) -$uicideboy$ (The Number You have Dialed is Not In Service)

Madisyn Martinez

My name is Madisyn Martinez, but most people call me Maddy—or Ms. Maddy if you’re one of the Pre-K 4 students. Throughout high school, I found myself not only growing in the classroom but also through every experience, challenge, and friendship along the way.

During my high school years, I was actively involved with my Pre-K 4 and 5th-grade class, and those moments hold a special place in my heart. Among all my classes, the class with Mr. Norman will always stand out as my favorite. Being in class with my friends, laughing and making memories, turned even ordinary days into something I’ll never forget.

In my free time, I loved watching “13 Reasons Why” and listening to “Made for More” by Bethel Music, Jenn Johnson, and Josh Baldwin—a song that reminds me of how God has helped me through everything. And of course, nothing beats enjoying some ice cream after a long day.

My greatest accomplishment in high school wasn’t a single event, but how much I learned and matured, both inside and outside the classroom. The best advice I’ve ever received is, “It’s not about what you want to hear, it’s about what you need to hear.” That wisdom, along with the influence of my hardworking best friend Anahy and my dad, shaped who I am today. My friends would describe me as strong-minded, and I’m proud of the person I’ve become through my experiences with different situations and people.

Looking ahead, I’m excited for the next chapter. My plan is to attend The College of Health Care Professions in Fort Worth to study Diagnostic Medical Sonography. In ten years, I see myself with a successful career, living in a big house, and having built the stability I’ve always dreamed of.

If I could choose anywhere in the world to travel, Italy would be at the top of my list. And if I could meet anyone, it would be NBA YoungBoy. As I move forward, I hold on to words that inspire me: “I can’t cry about having too much on my plate if my goal was to eat,” and “Enjoy the little things before they’re gone too.”

This is my story so far, and I’m excited to see what comes next.

🎶 The Sound of Success: Band of Gold Advances to AREA!

The Meridian High School Band of Gold earned three 1st Division ratings at the Region UIL Marching Contest and will be advancing to AREA! This incredible accomplishment is a reflection of their hard work, discipline, and passion for music.

We are so proud of our band members and directors for their dedication and teamwork. Way to go, Band of Gold — keep making Meridian proud! 💛🖤

A fantastic idea from one of our parents: Meridian High is looking to launch a volunteer program—much like classroom moms but for our whole school! We’d love for parents or family members to help greet students, decorate hallways, make positive phone calls home, and support other school activities. This is a wonderful way to build connections and celebrate our students. Interested in joining the volunteer team or learning more? Let us know by filling out the form.

We will send out a monthly sign up sheet requesting volunteers for events happening at the school. Sign up for one or all. Anyone is welcome! Volunteer forms must be signed in order to participate during school hours.

Hive Heart Volunteer Form

Cindy Denman

A huge thank you to Mrs. Cindy Denman for her incredible dedication and countless volunteer hours at Meridian High School! From working the concession stands to helping out in the press box during football games, Mrs. Denman is always ready to lend a hand wherever she’s needed.

Her positive spirit, reliability, and love for our Yellow Jackets truly make a difference. We are so grateful for everything she does to support our students and school community. 💛🖤

Thank you, Mrs. Denman — you are a true Gold Star! ✨

Rosie Guerrero

A heartfelt thank you to Mrs. Rosie Guerrero for her unwavering generosity and dedication to Meridian High School! Whether she’s working hard in the concession stand or cooking for our students and staff, Mrs. Guerrero continually gives her time and talents to make MHS a better place.

Her kindness, selflessness, and community spirit shine brightly, and we are so grateful for everything she does for our Yellow Jackets. 💛🖤

Thank you, Mrs. Guerrero — you are truly a Gold Star! ✨

LeeAnn Ardeneaux

A big thank you to Mrs. LeeAnn Ardeneaux for always coming in clutch for the Meridian High School staff! From surprising us with Sonic drinks for the entire campus to being one of MHS’s biggest cheerleaders, Mrs. Ardeneaux spreads positivity and kindness wherever she goes.

Her thoughtful gestures and unwavering support make our school an even brighter place to be. 💛🖤

Thank you, Mrs. Ardeneaux — you are a true Gold Star! ✨

The Meridian High School Junior Class is gearing up for their upcoming Golf Scramble and is currently seeking local sponsors and donations to help make the event a success!

Starting Friday during jacket period, students in good standing will be visiting local businesses to request sponsorships. Each group is responsible for contacting at least two businesses.

If you or your business would like to support our students and this exciting event, please reach out to Coach Krueger or a member of the Junior Class.

Thank you for helping our Jackets continue to shine—both on and off the course! 💛🖤

MHS Faculty/Staff/Student Recognition Form

🌟 Gold Stars: Celebrating Our Everyday Heroes

Every week, we’ll shine a little spotlight on moments—big and small—that make our campus stronger, kinder, and more connected. Gold Stars aren’t about titles or checklists; they’re about the heart and hustle we see in each other every day.

💡 Want to nominate someone for a Gold Star? Send me a quick note with their name and what they did. All shout-outs are not just welcome—they’re encouraged!

This week's Gold Star Nominations were (insert drum roll here):

Amanda Spivey

Mrs. Spivey was nominated by someone anonymously. They stated, "Mrs. Spivey has jumped in head first to her new role and is doing a fantastic job!"

Zach Martinez

Mr. Martinez was nominated by Mrs. Edmiston. She stated, "Mr. Martinez has been super supportive as I’ve stepped into the 6th grade math role. He’s shared helpful advice, offered supplies, and even gave up his conference time so OA students could test in his room when they didn’t have headphones. He’s been incredibly kind to both me and our students, and I really appreciate it!"

Shelly Carpenter

Mrs. Carpenter was nominated by someone anonymously. They stated, "Mrs. Carpenter brings joy with her to school every day. She is one that students know they can come to for a listening ear! You are appreciated, Mrs. Carpenter!"

Amanda Spivey

Mrs. Spivey was nominated by Mrs. Edmiston. She stated, "Amanda has been incredibly supportive during my transition into my new teaching position. Whenever I had a question, she either knew the answer or found it quickly. She also generously provided supplies I had forgotten to bring from the elementary school, ensuring I had everything I needed to get started smoothly."

Marco Ramirez

Marco was nominated by someone anonymously. They stated, "I see Marco working hard every day and I'm proud of the growth that I have seen from him this year!"

Ellie Baker

Ellie was nominated by someone anonymously. They stated, "Ellie works hard in class every day and usually has a smile on her face! "