Top Lion
Meridian School

Dear High School Students,

Meridian's administration is aware of repulsive images that were posted last weekend by an unknown user on an anonymous Instagram account. Some were racist, while some would be considered otherwise offensive in nature. Several current and former Meridian students reported these to Ms. Holcombe. She, in turn, immediately messaged the anonymous account holder demanding that the images be pulled down. The anonymous user removed the images and the entire account shortly thereafter.

This is a serious offense. Anyone with information is asked to contact administration to assist with the investigation. If preferred, an anonymous message can be sent using this link. Local authorities have been contacted as well. 

Meridian World School's faculty, staff, and student body should not and will not tolerate the abhorrent behavior that was demonstrated in last weekend's social media post. As a community, we work together to create a place where all students feel welcome and safe. None of us will accept the harassment or targeting of any person, for any reason. This includes discrimination due to race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation. 

As an IB student, you know that an important part of Meridian's culture is the IB Learner Profile. Students are asked to place high importance on the ten Learner Profile Traits. These include being principled, open-minded, and caring:
  • Principled: We act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness and justice, and with respect for the dignity and rights of people everywhere. We take responsibility for our actions and their consequences. 
  • Open-minded: We critically appreciate our own cultures and personal histories, as well as the values and traditions of others. We seek and evaluate a range of points of view, and we are willing to grow from the experience. 
  • Caring: We show empathy, compassion and respect. We have a commitment to service, and we act to make a positive difference in the lives of others and in the world around us.
These are not just words to drill or memorize, but rather traits to embody and to expect of others. We should practice them daily and reference them often.

I also take this time to remind our students of the Code of Conduct found on page 39 in Meridian's Parent/Student Handbook and the disciplinary measures that would be taken should a student participate in misconduct such as what was displayed last weekend.

Again, if you have any information regarding this incident, please contact a school administrator or trusted teacher. You may also submit an anonymous tip through our website.

Perhaps now more than ever, we as a society need to come together to spread messages of support and solidarity. I hope you agree and will join me in doing just that.


Sincerely,

Mr. Ryder
High School Principal


Meridian School

2555 North IH-35

 Round Rock, TX 78664

 (512) 660-5230