Dear Secondary Parents,

Our plan was to have this week's Lions Share sent already, but there are still a few details to be worked through.

In the meantime, we want you to have the following information:

School Closure Extended: Due to Williamson County's stay-at-home order, Meridian has extended its closure through April 12. While regional health authorities have recommended that all public and private schools remain closed through the rest of the semester, this has yet to be determined. We will continue to update you as the situation unfolds and as we receive more information from our daily calls with local government, health officials, and the Texas Commissioner of Education.

School Funding : Many of you have asked if our teachers and staff will continue to receive pay during the school's closure. We certainly understand and appreciate your concern as we believe our staff is Meridian's first and foremost asset. Please know that while we will be "closed" and delivering instruction remotely, TEA has stated that our funding will continue. This is great news as the vast majority of our staff salaries are covered with these funds. There is a small percentage of staff however, that is paid through self-funding income streams. These staff are no less important to Meridian's success and we are committed to paying all employees through our budget contingency or reserves if necessary.

School Board Meeting:  This regularly scheduled board meeting will take place via Zoom. The public can attend via the call-in number 877 853 5247 US Toll-free OR 888 788 0099 US Toll-free Meeting ID: 257 810 658. Please read the agenda to learn how public comment will be managed. A link to the agenda can be found HERE.

Medication Pickup: Medication pickup has been completed. Should there be a need to contact the nursing staff, please do so at [email protected].

Device Checkout (Deadline: 3/27):   For students without access to a device (computer or tablet), please contact Meridian at  [email protected]  to arrange a time to check out a device from school. Because of the need for our staff to also follow the stay-at-home order, this Friday, March 27 will be the last day to do so. Checkout times fall between 10am-2pm. Again, these arrangements must be made in advance by emailing  [email protected] .

NOTE: As advised by our attorney, parents are permitted to travel in order to pick up education materials. This includes traveling to school for a device.

Thank you for your patience and understanding. Be on the lookout for the next Lions Share, which will have information regarding next week's plans for distance learning.