The Hive Happenings

This week at Meridian High School, we’ve been busy celebrating connection, competition, and hands-on learning!

As part of our Capturing Kids’ Hearts initiative—a program designed to strengthen relationships, build trust, and create a positive school culture—teachers were challenged to capture and share photos of moments worth celebrating on campus. From classroom smiles to student successes, it’s been inspiring to see so many examples of the heart of MHS in action.

Our Ag Mech boys represented Meridian proudly at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Trailer Build-Off, showcasing their skills, teamwork, and craftsmanship in a big way.

Meanwhile, our volleyball girls are wrapping up their season this week—what a great run!—and our boys football team took on the tough Mart Panthers under the Friday night lights.

And over in Outdoor Skills, Mr. Prost has been teaching students how to cast a fishing pole in preparation for an exciting upcoming trip to Meridian State Park. We’ve partnered with the park staff to create a day full of fun, hands-on learning experiences that connect our students with the great outdoors.

It’s been a week full of growth, grit, and gratitude at MHS! 💛

"Competed at our first invitational LDE contest of the year! "

"When I get the whole class to come together and accomplish classwork without complaining! This is a reason to celebrate. "

"When the boys get selected to participate in the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo -- that's a reason to celebrate!"

"The Band of Gold was rocking it today at the send-off. Now that's something to celebrate!"

"Twinning during Hoco week...and I taught KK! Love being her teaching neighbor now."

Each month at MHS, we focus on a core “Character Trait of the Month” from our Capturing Kids’ Hearts program—a nationwide initiative designed to build stronger relationships, improve communication, and create a culture of respect and responsibility.

Our value of the month is Responsibility.

At school, we’re talking with students about what it means to be accountable for their actions, keep their commitments, and follow through—even when it’s tough. Responsibility is more than just getting work done; it’s about owning our choices and being someone others can count on.

💬 Parent Challenge:

This week, try a short “Affirmation Round” at home! Before dinner or bedtime, go around the table and have each person share one thing they were responsible for that day—and one thing they appreciate about another family member. It’s a simple way to connect, celebrate growth, and build trust—just like we’re doing here at MHS!

Together, we can model the habits that help our kids succeed not just in school, but in life. 🌟

**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. Reminder that students who do not submit photos will only have their bio posted.**

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!

Domanic “Dom” Da’shawn Allen, a proud member of the Meridian High School Class of 2025, has made his mark through his involvement in Esports and his passion for graphic design. His favorite class is Graphic Design, taught by Ms. Carpenter, who has inspired his creative spirit. One of his favorite high school memories is going to prom for the first time—a moment that stands out as a highlight of his senior journey. Dom’s interests extend to his favorite series, Demon Slayer, and his favorite movie, Scream 1. When it comes to music, he enjoys Come Back Tonight by JT Music and the work of artist Lil Darkie. His go-to meal? Chicken bacon ranch pasta.

Dom is most proud of making it to senior year—an accomplishment that reflects his perseverance. The best advice he’s ever received is, “You’re only as angry as you let yourself be,” a reminder that has helped shape his outlook on life. He credits his parents as the most influential people in his life, and his friends would describe him as funny, hard-headed, and a little unrealistic. When asked what makes him proud about his high school experience, Dom simply says, “Literally making it to the end.”

After graduation, Dom plans to take the summer off before continuing his education in graphic design. His personal goals include collecting one of every type of weapon and, above all, being happy. In ten years, he envisions himself “chillin’ like I always do.” A few fun facts about Dom—he’s excellent at sharpening knives, dreams of vacationing in a cozy cabin during a snowstorm, and if given the chance, he’d meet Jack the Ripper. His senior quote sums up his curious and creative personality perfectly: “When does the learning start?”

Congratulations, Dom! Your humor, creativity, and persistence have made you an unforgettable part of Meridian High School. We can’t wait to see what you create next!

My name is Isaac Lira, and I’m the son of Samantha and Franky Alvarado. Most people at school know me as Bonga. Throughout my time at Meridian High School, I’ve been involved in track, football, basketball, cross country, and band since my freshman year, and I also played baseball during my freshman and sophomore years.

My favorite teacher is Mr. Martinaz, and one of my proudest accomplishments is going to state with the band—an experience I’ll never forget. After graduation, I plan to attend Tarleton State University, where I hope to continue with band and work on my basic courses.

The most influential people in my life have been the seniors who came before me—they set the example and inspired me to keep pushing forward. The best advice I’ve ever received is, “Work hard, but not too hard. You still have the rest of your life to work.”

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.

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! 💛🖤

🌟 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):

Blake Dagley was recommended by Amanda Spivey. Mrs. Spivey said, "Thank you so much to Mr. Dagley for helping with Digital Dialogue. You helped so much with getting all the tech set up in his classroom. Your space is just so creative and it passes on to our students and their digital creativity."

Paxton was nominated by Miss DeBorde. She stated, "Paxton had a great day in Reading today!" Great job Paxton!

Zeke was nominated by Mrs. Hood and Miss Whitmer. They stated, " Zeke went out of his way to clean up a teacher's classroom when students messed it up when a substitute was in there. Thanks for showing great character!"

Zach was nominated by Mrs. Hood and Miss Whitmer. They stated, " Zach was so helpful when Mr. Pittman was out of class. Several students were throwing pencils in the classroom and he stayed after class to clean them up."

---------------------

Remember anyone can nominate a teacher, staff member, or student! Let's help build each other up this year to make this the best school year ever! Go Jackets!!

🔼Attendance by grade level as of October 24, 2025:

6th grade: 97.40% 🔼

7th grade: 97.39% 🔽

8th grade: 98.19%🔼

9th grade: 97.23%🔽

10th grade: 96.50% 🔽

11th grade: 96.73% 🔽

12th grade: 96.67% 🔽

**Note: Letters were sent home last Friday for absences and tardies! Call the front office for more information.

Note: A student may not have any absences or tardies to earn the library lunch.

For field trips, a student can have zero unexcused absences, no more than 2 excused absences, and no more than three tardies.

It will reset every three weeks for the lunch and every six weeks for the field trip!

• 10/27/25 - Major Goat & Lamb Validation
• 10/27/25 - JH Volleyball vs Itasca (Note: Changed to playing at Meridian!)
• 10/28/25 - MES Fall Festival
• 10/29/25 - InWaco Job Fair (Seniors)
• 10/30/25 - ACT School Day
• 10/30/25 - JH Football vs Goldthwaite
• 10/31/25 - Attendance Field Trip @ Meridian State Park
• 10/31/25 - Varsity Football @ Goldthwaite
• 10/31/25 - End of 2nd Six Weeks
• 11/03/25 - UIL State Marching Contest
• 11/03/25 - Student Holiday
• 11/06/25 - JH Football @ Chilton
• 11/06/25 - TRIO Visit
• 11/06/25 - Girl's Basketball vs Kopperyl
• 11/06/25 - Varsity Football vs Chilton
• 11/10/25 - FFA District LDE Contest
• 11/11/25 - Veteran's Day Program
• 11/11/25 - Girls Basketball @ Moody
• 11/12/25 - Spring Major Entry Meet @ MHS Cafeteria
• 11/13/25 - MHS Golden Jacket Awards
• 11/14/25 - JH OAP @ Glen Rose
• 11/14/25 - Girl's Basketball vs Chilton
• 11/17/25 - JH Basketball (Boys & Girls) vs Blum
• 11/18/25 - HS Boys Basketball @ Wortham
• 11/19/25 - Winter Athletic Pictures
• 11/20/25 - Girls Basketball @ Hamilton Tournament
• 11/20/25 - Majors Hog Validation
• 11/21/25 - Girls Basketball @ Hamilton Tournament
• 11/21/25 - HS Boys Basketball vs Hico
• 11/22/25 - Showdown on the Bosque
• 11/24/25 - Girls Basketball @ Axtell
• 11/24/25 - Boys Basketball vs BCH HMS
• 11/25/25 - Girls Basketball vs Western Hills
• 11/25/25 - Boys Basketball vs Oglesby
• 11/24/25 -- 11/28/25 - Thanksgiving Break