Monday Message
September 22, 2025
Calendar
Month 2 Week 3
Tuesday, Sept. 23
- 8- 10:40 Music classes in B-15.
- 12:30 - 1:15 Elementary Art in the MakerSpace
Wednesday, Sept. 24
- 12- 12:30 Junior class meeting with Mr. Rubin, Auditorium
- 12- 1 Farm Stand- in front of school (details below)
- 12:30 - 1:15 Elementary PE, Rm. 12
- 12:30-2:30 Base Camp tutoring -Auditorium
- 1:50- 3:05 Jam Band in B-15.
Thursday, Sept. 25
- 9:30-11:30 Base Camp tutoring - Auditorium
- 12- 12:30 Senior class meeting with Mr. Rubin, Auditorium
- 5-7 pm Family Game Night & Chipotle Fundraiser
Friday, Sept. 26
- 9-11:30 Base Camp Tutoring- Auditorium
Upcoming Events
- Oct 2. Latin Rhythms Workshop
- Oct. 3 - End of Month 2- Work Due
- Oct. 7- 9 Spirit Week
- Oct 9 - Elementary Dance & Middle School Social
- Oct. 13 - School closed
Attention Juniors and Seniors - Meetings this Week!
Please mark your calendars for the Fall Counselor Meetings.
Class of 2026 (12th grade), please join Mr. Rubin in the auditorium this Thursday, 9/25/2025, at lunch (noon) for pizza and information regarding college applications, SAT, financial aid, and much, much more.
Class of 2027(11th grade), your meeting is this Wednesday, 9/24/2025, during lunch (noon) in the auditorium. Topics include SAT, PSAT/NMSQT, the college application process, and other post-secondary options. There will also be pizza for you :)
Both presentations will be made available on the Mt. Everest website after the meetings.
Thanks for Rising to the Occasion & Making MEA's Summit a Success!
It was absolutely WONDERFUL seeing virtually all of the 6th-12th graders together on campus, building community, smiling, and engaging with the guest speaker and one another. Thank you all for attending and making it such a successful event!
Class of 2027 PSAT- Sign Ups End this Week!
MEA will host the PSAT/NMSQT exam at NO COST for all juniors on October 6th.
If you are interested in testing, please fill out this form by this Friday, September 26: https://forms.gle/muBzNNyDwb7Wo1HE6
Final details about exam day will be sent to you by the end of September.
Why take the exam?
Access scholarships
Practice for the real SAT Digital exam - same app used for SAT/AP
It is FREE and hosted during the school day
More details here - https://sites.google.com/sandi.net/advancedstudiestoolboxstudents/advanced-studies/exams-assessments/psatnmsqt
Support Our School
Mt. Everest Academy Spirit Wear💥 Sales Ends Friday!
Are you ready to show your school spirit and snag some incredible merchandise? Now is the perfect time to dive in! Imagine wrapping yourself in warm, cozy hoodie or slipping into the softest pajama pants—there’s truly something for everyone here! And here’s the best part: every purchase you make helps lift our school programs and events, with a remarkable 20% of all sales going right back into our community! Sale extended to this Friday, September 26rd! Shop now to show your spirit!
Charleston Wrap Fundraiser
We need your participation!
Help ASB with a schoolwide fundraising campaign that starts now. Every Mt. Everest student can take part and win prizes! Every purchase gives 30-40% back to ASB. ASB supports school events and activities for all students K-12.
Just register, and help us out by sharing with friends and family—encourage them to shop our fundraising online catalog so we can all succeed together!
Upcoming Events
September Farmstand
The September MEA Farmstand will be at the front of school THIS Wednesday, 9/24 from 12-1.
Our honey vendor, April, will also be setting up her booth. Please join us in shopping fresh and local, and supporting our thriving MEA garden spaces! Many items are offered on a donation basis, and we accept cash and PayPal. April accepts other forms of payment for the honey and bee pollen.
Grab some seasonal items while we have them!
Family Game Night This Thursday- (K-12)
Grab your friends and family this Thursday evening for a game-filled evening! From classic board games and giant Jenga to D&D adventures and Exploding Kittens, there’s something for everyone. Skip cooking and grab Chipotle for dinner. 25% of proceeds will be donated back to MEA. Chipotle flyer here.
K-5 students must attend with a parent/guardian. Students in grades 6-12 need a permission slip if attending unaccompanied.
When: Thursday, September 25th, 5-7 pm
Where: In and around the auditorium
Chipotle Fundraiser - Thursday, Sept. 24
Satisfy your cravings and join friends for dinner on Sept. 24 at Chipotle. 25% of proceeds go toward programs at MEA. Be sure to click the link and show the flyer or ORDER ONLINE FOR PICKUP USING CODE AQQWWVH.
Latin Rhythms Workshop
Join us for an engaging and interactive Latin Rhythms Workshop!
Students will explore Latin American percussion traditions with congas, bongos, maracas, and guiros-then create their own rhythms!
Thursday, October 2nd in the auditorium
Grades K-5: 12:30-1:20pm
Grades 6-12: 1:30-2pm
Sprit Week is Coming Soon!
Join in the fun and show your school spirit all week.
When: Month 3 Spirit week 1.
Tuesday 10/7 (Hat Day) Wear hats
Wednesday 10/8 (Twin Day) Match with someone
Thursday 10/9 (Formal Wear Day) Wear something formal
Sewing Workshop
Are you interested in learning basic sewing life skills?
The MakerSpace will be hosting a sewing orientation workshop for secondary students late September. Learn about sewing machines and make a fun tote bag. Please fill out the google form in the link for scheduling.
Elementary Dance & Middle School Social
K-8 students, get ready for a day of fun, dancing, and laughter at our Fall Ball Dance and Social on Thursday, October 9th.
- Elementary students, join us for a Family Dance from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM. All students must be accompanied by a parent, and siblings are welcome to join in the fun.
- Middle Schoolers can hit the dance floor, socialize with friends, and enjoy some outdoor games at the Fall Social from 3:15 PM to 4:30 PM.
- We'll keep everyone energized with some light refreshments and endless fun.
- All students please complete this RSVP form to reserve your spot. Middle schoolers will also find their permission slips linked inside.
Clubs (Grades 6-12)
Jam Band
Jam Band We are a club that makes various types of music, led by a famous San Diego musician, Mark Fischer. We welcome anyone who is passionate about music, regardless of experience level or instrument.
When: 1:50-3:05 on Wednesdays (except turn-in week)
Where: Room B15
Civil Discourse
When: Wed., Sept. 17 , 12-12:30
Where: Auditorium.
This Week's Discussion: Jimmy Kimmel's cancellation by ABC. What do you think this means for mass media and freedom of speech going forward?
Plein Air Painting
Plein Air Painting is meeting this Friday from 10-11:30! Come and try out the classic genre of outdoor painting! We'll be posting our location in the office! 8th- 12th graders of all skill levels are welcome, and all supplies will be provided.
Contact Henry Holcomb at henry448852@gmail.com with any questions!
Investing Club's 1st Meeting- This Tuesday, Sept. 22
Join us this Tuesday for the Investing Club’s first meeting! We’ll kick things off by introducing the curriculum and hear what topics you’re excited to cover. This year, we’ll explore smart investing strategies and try out a stock market simulation where you can invest virtual money and see how your picks perform.
When: Tuesdays 12:00-12:30 every week except turn in week
Where: Auditorium
Questions: Email Drake at drakehaehnic@gmail.com
Mathcounts Club & Competition
Hey Middle Schoolers (6th–8th grade)!
Love a good challenge? Join us for Mathcounts—a fun math competition with 4 exciting rounds: Sprint, Target, Team, and Countdown!
Our club is all about solving problems, sharpening skills, and having fun while getting ready for competition.
When: Thursdays, 1:20–2:00pm (except turn-in week)
Where: Parent Room
Come be part of the MEA Math Team—let’s problem-solve together!
Enrichment Classes
Ink and Insight Readers (Grades 4-5)
Love reading? 4th and 5th grade students are invited to join our engaging Elementary Reading Program "Ink and Insights".
During our meetings we will discuss grade appropriate Newberry Award winning books.
When: Wednesdays (biweekly) starting 09/17/25 at 12:00-12:30pm
Where: Elementary Playground
Elementary PE (Grades 2-5)
We are thrilled to offer an elementary level physical education class again this year! Whether you are a student eager to stay active with classmates and friends, looking for a safe way to learn a new sport, and/or looking to have some fun, MEA PE is the class for you!
PE Enrichment is not just about physical activity, it's about fostering a lifelong love for movement, teamwork, and healthy living. Our mission is to create an environment where every student can thrive physically, socially, and mentally. For more information and how to sign up see the MEA 2-5 site here.
Music with Mr. Johnson (K-8)
Classes with Mr. Johnson have started! All students K-8 are welcome to join. Please see the new music class schedule here.
SSC and SGT Update
Thank you to all who attended our first SSC meeting of the year on Tuesday 9/17. Please see the latest news from SSC and SGT on the school website, including new committee members, as well as the Parent & Family Engagement Policy and Home School Compact.
All parents and students are invited to attend the School Site Committee (SSC) meeting. The SSC is a shared decision-making body composed of parents, staff, and students. Our Council identifies needs for academic programs and sets budgets to support these programs.
National Honor Society
Students in grades 10-12 are welcome to apply for MEA's Chapter of the National Honor Society. Applicants must have been enrolled for a full semester at MEA prior to the application deadline and have a current GPA of 3.5 or higher. There is no cost to apply, and students who are inducted may gain access to NHS scholarship opportunities.
Please complete the NHS Application by October 24th. (MUST open with your sandi.net account) If you have any question, please see or email Mr. Cate.
Note: Students who've already been accepted into MEA NHS need not reapply.
State Seal of Civic Engagement
In September 2020, California introduced a way for sophomores, juniors and seniors to earn a special recognition called the State Seal of Civic Engagement. If you qualify and complete a civic engagement project, you’ll get a special seal on your diploma that shows your dedication and achievement on applications for colleges and career education programs.
Learn more about how to apply and earn the Seal.
Applications for the Fall Semester are due 12/19/25.
Please reach out to Mr. Cate (acate1@sandi.net) for any questions.
PALS is now BASE Camp!
Our tutoring center/study hall formerly known as PALS has gotten a glow up and a new name! BASE Camp is a great place for:
- students to receive tutoring from older students
- students to work on group/collaborative projects
- students to work on their own or with a friend
BASE Camp will be available in the auditorium:
- Wednesdays 12:30-2:30
- Thursdays 9:30 - 11:30
- Fridays 9-11:30
Parents/Guardians of students in grades K-5 should complete the CHECK-IN form when signing your student in at BASE Camp so tutors can best support your student.
Are you in grade 9-12 and interested in being a tutor and have not been trained? Please see Ms. Starr and let her know or email her at vstarr@sandi.net.
For more information about BASE Camp, check out the BASE Camp website.
Announcements
Last Week to Purchase Yearbooks at a Discount
This year’s yearbook staff is ready to create a great yearbook for you!
Purchase your copy NOW to receive a 10% discount off of the $35.27 cost!
Yearbooks must be purchased by September 30 for the discount.
MEA Blood Drive- Oct. 16
Help save a life! Please consider donating blood at our MEA Blood Drive Event on October 16th from 9am-2:30pm. Parents, families, community members and students 17+ are encouraged to make an appointment. All donors will receive a special gift! See the attached flyer (QR Code) to make an appointment! Please share!
🌱 MEA Wellness Committee – Seeking Parents & Students! 🌱
Join our School Site Wellness Committee to share ideas and help guide our next wellness focus. Past initiatives have earned us America’s Healthiest Schools recognition year after year!
The committee includes teachers, staff, parents, students, and community members, who advise, advocate and take action on our school’s health and wellness initiatives.
We meet just four times a year (schedule TBD).
Your voice can make a difference—come help our community thrive! 🌟
Please email committee chairperson Rachel Finney if you are interested in joining us.
Leader in Me
This school year our school will continue to focus on Leader in Me and the 7 Habits of highly effective kids and teens. Check the Monday Message each month for the monthly focus and what you can do at home to support your child.
During month 2, we are zeroing in on Habit 1, Be Proactive. Student will be able to explain the value of a growth mindset and the importance of focusing on their Circle of Control.
The elementary classes and MS AVID classes are doing lessons with your students in class and assigned at home.
Here is a link to family activities you can incorporate into your home.
Spring Break Trip to Europe (not affiliated with MEA)
We're excited to announce that Mr. Spiegelberg will be leading a group of students on a once‐in‐a‐lifetime educational tour to Switzerland, Bavaria & Austria in the spring of 2026. This trip offers a wealth of opportunities for learning outside the classroom and personal growth. Please go to the following website to see trip information, itinerary details, and to enroll for our trip.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out dspiegelberg@sandi.net
Monday Message Receipt
If you are a student who would like to receive the Monday Message via text, simply fill out the form below, and we’ll add your cell number to our contact list.
📲 Sign up here: https://forms.gle/fDcpVHSHqzJHiRRz7
Pronto Passes
Papa John's Fundraiser (Online through 12/30/25)
Dining for Dollars: Papa John's Restaurant chain has an online fundraising code that will save you money on regular priced items and raise money for MEA. You can use this promo code: MTEVEREST, any time of day in most Papa Johns' locations in San Diego County. See the flyer for details.
Community Events
San Diego Museum of Art "Family Art Adventures"
The San Diego Museum of Art reached out to us to invite us to their "Family Art Adventures" which are dynamic free guided tours specially designed for families with school-aged children ages 5 to 12. Tours are offered the first and third Saturdays of each month at 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Family tour themes change monthly, and each family tour is followed by a hands-on art-making activity. All materials are provided. Free with Museum admission. Please see the SDMA website for more information and to RSVP.
College Fair - Oct. 16
Explore Solutions will be host their annual College Showcase on Th.,Oct. 16. This is a great event for families beginning to explore the many options available in higher ed. Make your visit more meaningful by previewing the list of participating colleges and plan which tables you'll target during your visit. Learn more about making the most of your time at college fairs.
When: Thursday, October 16th, 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Where: Scripps Ranch High School Gym/ 10410 Falcon Way/ San Diego /92131
Participating Colleges: Over 90 institutions, including many UC & CSU campuses, as well as private, small, midsize, and large universities from across California and the United States.
FREE Heart Screenings for Teens- Oct. 5
Did you know that Sudden Cardiac Arrest is the #1 cause of death in school aged children in the US? Heart screenings can help prevent this tragedy!
The Eric Paredes Save a Life Foundation is offering FREE Heart Screenings for young people aged 12-25 at Hoover High School on October 5th. Licensed Cardiologists will offer ECG and potential echocardiogram (if necessary). You must sign up, but the screening is free of charge! (You must make an appointment and bring the permission slip). Check out the website for more details.
Connect and MOVE Bulletin
If you are seeking opportunities to connect, engage, and with other families in the MEA Community, we invite you to explore the private electronic bulletin board. We encourage you to share any local activities or events that you and fellow MEA students and families may enjoy together. Please note that these activities are not sponsored by Mt. Everest Academy.
Please send any information for the Monday Message using the Google form by end of day Thursday for upcoming message.