4th Grade Students Shine at the Kindness Conference
On October 16th, 4th-grade students from Meridian Elementary, along with 5th-12th graders from all around Midland County, gathered for the annual Kindness Conference, an event dedicated to fostering leadership, empathy, and positive change. This day-long experience empowered these young learners to become Kindness Ambassadors—champions of compassion who are equipped to create more inclusive and welcoming school communities.
The Kindness Conference was a dynamic blend of learning, collaboration, and action. Through engaging hands-on activities, teamwork exercises, and interactive planning sessions, the 4th graders dove into the heart of what it means to lead with kindness. The conference was thoughtfully designed to teach students practical skills for recognizing and addressing unkind behavior, fostering empathy, and understanding the perspectives of others. These activities not only sparked meaningful discussions but also encouraged students to reflect on their own actions and the impact they can have on those around them.
Working in teams, the students collaborated on creative projects, brainstorming ways to promote kindness in their schools. From planning anti-bullying campaigns to designing inclusive activities, the 4th graders showed remarkable enthusiasm and creativity as they developed actionable ideas to bring back to their classrooms. These planning sessions were a highlight, giving students the chance to take ownership of their role as leaders and visionaries for positive change.
By the end of the Kindness Conference, the 4th graders left with a plan for World Kindness Week, which is November 10th-14th. As Kindness Ambassadors, these students are now poised to transform their school communities, one thoughtful action at a time, proving that even the youngest leaders can create a ripple effect of compassion and change. #ReachHigher #MeridianMustangs
On October 21, Meridian Early College High School hosted A Night at the Museum: Medieval Times. 🏰✨
Students brought history to life by presenting and discussing fascinating moments from around the globe. From South America to Medieval Europe, our Mustangs showcased their hard work, research, and creativity.
👏 A huge thank you to our students, staff, and families who made this evening a success! Events like these remind us of the power of learning together and celebrating history in engaging ways.
#ReachHigher #MeridianMustangs #MustangsTHRIVE
This month, we’re celebrating our incredible principals, honoring Safe Teen Driving Month, spotlighting the very first recipient of our new Hoofprint Award, and sharing updates that highlight what makes Meridian Public Schools such a special place.
Check it out and see how our Mustangs are learning, growing, and thriving together! 💙🤍
📖 Read the October issue here: https://meridianpsmi.edurooms.com/engage/meridian-public-schools/newsletters/the-mustang-round-up-october-2025
#MeridianMustangs #MustangRoundUp #ReachHigher
Meridian Public Schools is looking for Substitute Teachers, Paraprofessionals, and Secretaries to join our dedicated Mustang family.
✅ Substitute Teachers – Make a difference in the classroom by supporting students and staff. ✅ Paraprofessionals – Provide hands-on support to help every student succeed.
✅ Secretaries – Be the welcoming face of our schools and keep things running smoothly.
💻 Apply today and help us continue to make Meridian a place where every student can thrive!
👉https://edustaff.org/
Come be part of a supportive, student-centered community. Together, we make a difference every day! ✨
#ReachHigher #MeridianMustangs #MustangsTHRIVE
🌟 Introducing the Hoofprint Award 🌟
Tonight at the Meridian Public Schools Board of Education meeting, we proudly presented the first-ever Hoofprint Award to the incredible Gina Lewandowski! 🐴💙
Gina was nominated by a colleague who wrote:
“I don’t know what we would do without Gina. She facilitates student council, runs three levels of art in one class period, advises our seniors, pilots district initiatives—and still finds time to lead with love and hold her students to high expectations. She’s truly amazing.”
💬 MECHS Instructional Coach Emily Sanders and Principal Scott LaFever spoke passionately about Gina’s leadership in her classroom, student council, community events, school dances, the homecoming parade, the art show, and her compassion for students navigating tough times.
🎖Board President Steve Grubaugh presented the award, which honors individuals who leave a lasting mark on our school and community through empowerment, resilience, and fearless leadership. Gina exemplifies every part of what this award stands for.
🦶The Hoofprint Award is more than a recognition—it’s a symbol of Mustang pride, passion, and purpose. Just like a hoofprint marks the ground with strength and determination, recipients of this award leave an indelible mark on all of us.
#ReachHigher #MeridianMustangs #MustangsTHRIVE
No more detours that added 20 minutes and 47 extra four-way stops to your commute.
This is the moment you’ve all been waiting for, Mustang Country—saddle up, the fastest way across town is BACK. 🐎✨
#ReachHigher #MeridianMustangs
Meridian Public Schools is looking for substitute teachers who are ready to make a difference in the lives of our students.
✅ Flexible scheduling
✅ Supportive staff and welcoming school community
✅ A chance to inspire and impact the next generation
Whether you’re a retired educator, a college student, or someone who simply loves working with kids, this is your opportunity to give back to the community.
📩 Apply today through Edustaff: https://edustaff.org/
Be part of something special—be a Mustang! 🐴💙
#ReachHigher #MeridianMustangs
Phone service on campus has been restored from TDS. Thank you for your patience today.
Have a great day
Please note that phone services on campus are down due to a TDS outage in our area. If you need to reach the school offices, you can email them with the address below.
Meridian Early Childhood Center - mecc.office@merps.org
Meridian Elementary School - mes.office@merps.org
Meridian Junior High School - mjhs.office@merps.org
Meridian Early College High School - mechs.office@merps.org
Transportation Office - transportation@merps.org
Thank you.
Reminder: Join Meridian Public Schools TOMORROW, Wednesday, October 1st at 6:00pm in the Meridian Auditorium for an important and engaging event to bring our community together!
Guest Speaker: Alisha Meneely from the Michigan Child Protection Registry will share practical tips and tools for protecting our kids in today’s digital world.
Come learn how to keep your family safe online — then stick around for cider and donuts! RSVP for this event here: https://forms.gle/gfyVEB9qdqBeHZdy5
This event is presented in collaboration with Meridian Public Schools and the Midland Area Wellbeing Coalition as part of the Midland Area Community Foundation’s Neighboring Week. Learn more about Neighboring Week at www.midlandfoundation.org/neighboringweek
We can’t wait to see you there! #ReachHigher #MeridianMustangs #NeighboringWeek @midlandculturalawareness
Meridian Elementary: 11:25AM
Junior High: 11:15AM
High School: 11:20AM
See you at the parade in Downtown Sanford on Friday at 5:00PM and the football game at 7:00PM! #ReachHigher #MeridianMustangs
Donuts & Downloads
Mark your calendars! Join Meridian Public Schools on Wednesday, October 1st at 6:00pm in the Meridian Auditorium for an important and engaging event to bring our community together!
Guest Speaker: Alisha Meneely from the Michigan Child Protection Registry will share practical tips and tools for protecting our kids in today’s digital world.
Come learn how to keep your family safe online — then stick around for cider and donuts! RSVP for this event here: https://forms.gle/gfyVEB9qdqBeHZdy5
This event is presented in collaboration with Meridian Public Schools and the Midland Area Wellbeing Coalition as part of the Midland Area Community Foundation’s Neighboring Week. Learn more about Neighboring Week at www.midlandfoundation.org/neighboringweek
We can’t wait to see you there! #ReachHigher #MeridianMustangs #NeighboringWeek @midlandculturalawareness
You can find the September edition of the Mustang Round Up at the link below: https://meridianpsmi.edurooms.com/engage/meridian-public-schools/newsletters/mustang-round-up
Here’s what’s happening on Friday, September 19th:
✨ Parade Lineup – 4:00pm at Porte Park (limited parking available)
✨ Parade Start – 5:00pm through Downtown Sanford, ending at the Lutheran Church
✨ Football Kickoff – 7:00pm at Meridian
✨ Crowning of Homecoming King & Queen – Halftime of the game
Come out and show your Mustang Pride all day long—let’s make this a Homecoming to remember! 💙💛
#ReachHigher #MeridianMustangs
At Meridian Public Schools, we believe in recognizing those who lead with integrity, inspire others, and leave a lasting impact on our school community.
The Hoofprint Award celebrates staff members—educators, coaches, support staff, directors, and administrators—who embody our district vision:
Mustangs are empowered to be resilient and fearless learners, in order to THRIVE in an ever-changing world.
🏆 Nominees demonstrate leadership, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
📬 Nominations are can be made by staff, students, parents, and community members.
🎉 Award recipients will be honored at our monthly Board of Education meetings.
🔗 Submit your nomination today at: www.merps.org/page/hoofprint
Help us celebrate the Mustangs who make a difference every day!
#ReachHigher #MeridianMustangs #MustangsTHRIVE
