Dear Mustang Families,

February is a month of celebration and forward thinking in our district. As we recognize Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, we proudly highlight the meaningful opportunities our students have to explore careers, gain hands-on experience, and build skills that prepare them for success after graduation.

Our CTE programs open doors for students through real-world learning, industry certifications, and partnerships with local businesses and organizations. Whether students plan to enter the workforce, attend college, or pursue specialized training, CTE provides valuable pathways that help them discover their passions and develop confidence in their future. We are grateful for the dedicated staff and community partners who make these programs possible and for the families who support students along the way.

At the same time, we are looking ahead to an important opportunity for our district: the upcoming Bond Proposal in May 2026. This proposal represents a long-term investment in our schools focusing on improving facilities, enhancing safety and security, upgrading aging infrastructure, and creating learning environments that support innovative programs like CTE. Our goal is to ensure that our students have access to safe, modern spaces that reflect the high expectations we hold for their success.

In the coming weeks, we will continue sharing information about the bond proposal so that every member of our community can make an informed decision. We encourage you to stay engaged, learn more, and reach out with any questions.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support of our schools. Together, we are creating opportunities for today and building a strong foundation for the future.

With Mustang Pride,

Sarah M. Glann
Superintendent, Meridian Public Schools

January 2026 Hoofprint Award

Our January Hoofprint award winner is Meridian Junior High ELA teacher, Gretchen Lundquist. The Hoofprint Award celebrates individuals who leave an enduring impact on our school and community. Inspired by Meridian’s vision—Mustangs are empowered to be resilient and fearless learners, in order to THRIVE in an ever-changing world—this honor is reserved for those who boldly pave the way for others, leaving behind a lasting trail of inspiration and excellence.

Her impact as an educator is best reflected through the words of her student nominator, Gabrielle McNett.

“She loves to face all sorts of challenges, if it's teaching a 7th and 8th grade class after a day with all 8th grade or having a hard time waking up, she always can do it. She is so confident in herself to teach for many years, like she has been but many more. Mrs. Lundquist is an amazing person to look up to, she probably has a few people who they call her their role model, but specifically I do, she makes me feel loved, confident, and she makes me happy when I'm sad, not a lot of people can do that, but she did. The impact she has made in this school is amazing, having a super awesome Drama class, super amazing students, and amazing helpers, she always has a positive attitude and that is awesome. She deserves this so much.”

A proud Alpena High School graduate from the Class of 1998, Gretchen went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts, double majoring in Education Language Arts and Science from Central Michigan University in 2003. She later completed her Master of Arts in Teaching from Marygrove College in 2007.

Since joining Meridian Public Schools in 2022, Gretchen has pushed students to stretch their thinking beyond basic English concepts, but how to apply them to real-life applications. Gretchen goes above and beyond for her students each day, ensuring they don their absolute best they can each day.

The Mustang Hoofprint Award is a tribute to educators, support staff, directors, administrators, and volunteers who embody the essence of what it means to be a Mustang. They demonstrate courage in facing challenges, resilience in overcoming obstacles, and tenacity in striving for greatness. By fostering curiosity and modeling lifelong learning, recipients like Gretchen exemplify the mission of Meridian Public Schools—to educate and support every student to succeed in their career and life by nurturing curiosity and a love of learning.

Just as a hoofprint marks the ground with strength and determination, Gretchen Lundquist has left her mark on Meridian Public Schools through her compassion, dedication, and excellence in teaching. Her work continues to inspire students and colleagues alike to push boundaries, embrace growth, and thrive in an ever-changing world.

Congratulations, Gretchen, on this well-deserved honor—and thank you for leaving an indelible hoofprint on the heart of our Mustang community.

February 2026 Hoofprint Award

The February Hoofprint award winner is Meridian Elementary School 1st grade teacher, Megan Leddy. The Hoofprint Award celebrates individuals who leave an enduring impact on our school and community. Inspired by Meridian’s vision—Mustangs are empowered to be resilient and fearless learners, in order to THRIVE in an ever-changing world—this honor is reserved for those who boldly pave the way for others, leaving behind a lasting trail of inspiration and excellence.

Megan's nominators, Vaughn & Cameron Lakatos, share their thoughts on Megan's impact as a teacher at Meridian after their child had Mrs. Leddy as a teacher last school year.

From Cameron: "I am writing to enthusiastically nominate Mrs. Megan Leddy for The Hoofprint Award.

I have had the privilege of observing firsthand how Mrs. Leddy fosters a learning environment that not only encourages but ensures the success of ALL her students, both in the classroom and beyond. Her commitment to embracing classroom challenges is truly inspiring. Through her tenacity and innovative teaching methods, Mrs. Leddy has significantly impacted our son's education. She has helped him overcome obstacles that could have otherwise hindered his progress, ensuring that he remains on track and thrives academically.

Mrs. Leddy's dedication to her students' success and her ability to create a supportive and inclusive classroom environment make her an exemplary candidate for this award. Her unwavering support and innovative approach have truly made a difference in our son's life, and I believe she deserves to be recognized for her exceptional efforts.

Thank you for considering my nomination of Mrs. Megan Leddy for The Hoofprint Award."

From Vaughn: "It is with great admiration that I nominate Mrs. Leddy, a first-grade teacher at Meridian Elementary, for this award that honors empowerment, resilience, and fearless leadership.

Mrs. Leddy embodies every quality this recognition represents. She demonstrates courage and resilience daily in her classroom, never shying away from challenges but instead meeting them with creativity, empathy, and determination. Last year, she played a transformative role in our family’s life. Our first-grader faced emotional and behavioral challenges, and while it would have been easy to grow discouraged, Mrs. Leddy never once gave up on him. Instead, she worked tirelessly to find new solutions, adapting her approach with immense creativity and celebrating every small success along the way.

Through her patience and persistence, she not only helped our child grow and thrive but also modeled resilience, compassion, and innovation for her students. She empowers children to see themselves as capable learners, and she fosters curiosity in ways that extend far beyond the classroom. Her leadership is quiet but profound — she leads by example, reminding those around her that true strength comes from empathy, consistency, and the belief that every child can succeed.

Mrs. Leddy is the kind of educator you dream of your child having in their life. She will forever hold a special place in our hearts, not only for the progress our son made under her care but for the joy, confidence, and love of learning she instilled in him. Her legacy is one of empowerment and inspiration, and she represents the very best of what it means to be a Mustang — resilient, fearless, and deeply committed to helping others thrive."

A proud Beaverton High School graduate from the Class of 2010, Megan went on to earn her Bachelors degree in Elementary Education from Saginaw Valley State University in 2022. Since joining Meridian Public Schools in 2022, Megan has encouraged and nourished her students' minds each day by teaching them the skills they need for their everyday life, but also to be the best humans they can be.

The Mustang Hoofprint Award is a tribute to educators, support staff, directors, administrators, and volunteers who embody the essence of what it means to be a Mustang. They demonstrate courage in facing challenges, resilience in overcoming obstacles, and tenacity in striving for greatness. By fostering curiosity and modeling lifelong learning, recipients like Megan exemplify the mission of Meridian Public Schools—to educate and support every student to succeed in their career and life by nurturing curiosity and a love of learning.

Just as a hoofprint marks the ground with strength and determination, Megan Leddy has left her mark on Meridian Public Schools through her compassion, dedication, and excellence in teaching. Her work continues to inspire students and colleagues alike to push boundaries, embrace growth, and thrive in an ever-changing world.

Congratulations, Megan, on this well-deserved honor—and thank you for leaving an indelible hoofprint on the heart of our Mustang community.

Expanding Opportunities, Empowering Futures

At Meridian Early College High School, we are committed to preparing students not only for graduation, but for meaningful futures. Through strong partnerships with Midland County Schools, Greater Midland Construction Academy, Bay Arenac Career Center (BACC), and State Street Academy, our students have access to an exceptional range of Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities.

Meridian is proud to be the only district in Midland County offering programs at both Bay Arenac Career Center and State Street Academy further expanding access to high-demand, high-skill career pathways for our students.

Sixty-one percent or 217 Meridian Early College High School students are currently enrolled in CTE programs.

Students have access to pathways including: Engineering & Biomedical Science, Health Technology & Medical Science, Cybersecurity, Building Trades & Woodworking, Welding & Automotive Technology, Culinary Arts & Agriculture, Marketing & Management, Careers in Education, and the Lineman Program (new this year).

These programs provide hands-on, real-world learning experiences that build both technical expertise and essential professional skills.

Career and Technical Education is not an “extra” at Meridian, it is a strategic priority. We believe students deserve access to rigorous academics, industry credentials, real-world experiences, and clear pathways to both college and career.

Our continued investment in CTE reflects our commitment to innovation, workforce readiness, and expanding opportunity for every student. Whether a student’s path leads to a university, apprenticeship, military service, or direct entry into the workforce, we are intentional about ensuring they graduate with confidence, direction, and competitive skills.

The success of our students is not accidental, it is the result of strong partnerships, dedicated educators, and a district-wide commitment to preparing learners for life beyond our classrooms.

At Meridian Public Schools, we are building futures, one student at a time.

Levi Willette, a senior enrolled in the Cybersecurity program at BACC, is a two-time Congressional App Challenge first-place winner. He has earned industry certifications in Security Pro and Ethical Hacking and is currently pursuing CompTIA A+. Levi plans to attend Michigan Technological University this fall to study Cybersecurity. His experience demonstrates how CTE connects classroom learning to national-level opportunities.

Megan Mock, a senior in the Careers in Education program through Midland County CTE, is gaining hands-on classroom experience right here at Meridian Public Schools. Through lesson design and small-group literacy instruction, Megan discovered her passion for Early Childhood Education. She plans to attend Saginaw Valley State University this fall to continue her journey in education.

Friendly Reminders for On Campus Driving

To help ease congestion and ensure a smooth start to the day, doors at Meridian Junior High School and Meridian Elementary open at 7:30 AM. We encourage families to take advantage of this earlier access to help reduce traffic backups.

General Safe Driving Reminders

Stay focused: Avoid distractions like cell phone use while driving on campus.
Follow traffic flow: Be patient, courteous, and aware of pedestrians at all times.
Use crosswalks: Always yield to crossing students and staff.

Meridian Elementary Drop-Off Guidelines (Curb Lane)

To keep traffic moving efficiently and students safe:

Pull forward as far as possible before stopping. Each vehicle behind should do the same.
Unload anywhere along the sidewalk once traffic has stopped — our goal is for 8–10 vehicles to unload simultaneously.
Be ready: Have backpacks on, hugs given, and goodbyes shared before you reach the sidewalk zone to help keep things flowing.

Important:
If you need to get out of your vehicle to assist your child for any reason — unbuckling a seatbelt, helping with a backpack, walking them to the door — you must park in the designated spaces in the high school parking lot. Then, safely walk your child across to the sidewalk at the end of the elementary building. Do not exit your vehicle in the drop-off lane. This creates delays and safety hazards for others.

Your commitment to these practices plays a vital role in maintaining a safe, welcoming environment for all. Thank you for doing your part to help every Mustang start and end their day safely.

Meridian Junior High School

2025-2026 Calendar

2026-2027 Calendar

To help us continue providing this important service to all students, we are asking every family—regardless of income level—to complete the Education Benefits Form. This form supports our ability to:

Secure continued state and federal funding for free school meals
Fund academic programs and student services
Potentially qualify your family for additional support

Online EBF Form link: https://meridian.familyportal.cloud/

Printable link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12862sN4zTVnN55ub5oKAKch9F0JDNaAd/view

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out:

Taylor Roberts
Food Service Director – Chartwells
📧 foodservice@merps.org | taylor.roberts@merps.org
📞 989-687-3212

Athletic Sports Passes for the 2025–2026 school year are now on sale in the High School Office!

Passes are available for families ($180), individuals ($70), and seniors age 60+ ($10), and they cover admission to regular season junior high and high school athletic events (excluding tournaments). Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit/debit card—pay online https://payments.efundsforschools.com/v3/districts/55802.

Game-day admission is $6 for high school events and $4 for junior high. Pre-K is free, and MECHS students (grades 9–12) receive free admission with student ID again this year!

📅 Check out the full sports schedule at this link. For questions, call 989-687-3302 or email bridget.vandongen@merps.org or mitchell.bohn@merps.org.

Quick Highlights:

🏠 Family Pass: $180 (covers immediate household)
👤 Individual Pass: $70 (non-transferable)
👵 Senior Pass: $10 (age 60+)
🎟 Gate Admission: $6 HS / $4 JH / Free for Pre-K
🎓 Free for MECHS students (grades 9–12) with ID

Enrollment Opportunities

Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP)

A few openings remain for this free preschool program. Children who turn four by December 1, 2025 are eligible to attend Monday–Thursday, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. The program includes breakfast, lunch, and snack each day, transportation within Meridian district lines, and all field trip costs. GSRP runs through mid-May 2026.
👉 Apply at www.preschoolpartnership.org or call Julie Sheets at (989) 687-3460.

Tuition-Based Three-Year-Old Preschool

We also have limited spots available in our three-year-old program. Children who turn three by December 1, 2025 may attend Monday–Thursday, 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. Tuition is $625 per month (for eight months) and includes breakfast, lunch, and engaging learning experiences designed to spark curiosity and joy. The program runs through early May 2026.
👉 Apply at www.preschoolpartnership.org or call Julie Sheets at (989) 687-3460.

A Strong Start Begins Here: 2026/27 FREE 3 year old and 4 year old PRESCHOOL enrollment now OPEN!

Our Meridian Head Start (3-year-old) and GSRP (4-year-old) programs are officially accepting interest forms for the 2026/27 school year! Did you know your child may qualify for high-quality, no-cost early childhood education through NEMCSA Head Start? Our programs go beyond the classroom to support the whole family, focusing on school readiness, social-emotional growth, nutrition, and developmental screenings. Enrollment is ongoing, and because we prioritize accessibility, families may qualify even if they are over the standard income guidelines. 👉 Apply at www.preschoolpartnership.org or call Julie Sheets at (989) 687-3460.