News

Staying Connected and Informed

Education is more than instruction—it's orientation. At Meridian Charter School, we help students develop the clarity and confidence to navigate an increasingly complex world. Staying informed about school news, student achievements, upcoming events, policy changes, and community opportunities is essential for families, students, staff, and community members to feel connected and engaged with our vibrant school community.

Recent News and Announcements

Our approach combines intellectual rigor with context and reflection. Students don't just absorb information—they learn to question it, connect it, and apply it to the challenges that matter to them and their communities. Recent news highlights demonstrate this philosophy in action as students, faculty, and families contribute to our thriving learning community.

"Staying informed about school news helps me understand how the pieces fit together—how academic programs connect to student activities, how individual achievements reflect our collective values, and how we're all part of something larger." — Parent Council Member, Kim Patterson

Recent Achievements and Recognitions

These achievements reflect our tradition of excellence across academics, arts, athletics, and community service. They demonstrate that our students don't just learn—they apply their learning to real challenges and make meaningful contributions. Read more about our Distinguished Scholars and their accomplishments.

Academic and Program Updates

Our academic programs continuously evolve to serve students effectively. Recent updates include the launch of new courses in data science, environmental policy, and digital media production as outlined in our strategic plan. Our Middle School has expanded project-based learning across all core subjects, while our Upper School now offers additional dual-enrollment courses through partnership with Portland State University.

We've also enhanced support services with the addition of two part-time counselors, an academic interventionist focused on math support, and expanded English language learner services. These investments reflect our commitment to ensuring all students receive the support they need to succeed academically and personally.

In the arts, our music program added a music technology course, and our visual arts program expanded ceramics offerings. The Meridian Art Gallery hosted successful exhibitions of student work, with several pieces purchased by community members. Our athletics program added girls volleyball and expanded outdoor education opportunities.

Facility and Campus Improvements

Recent campus improvements include installation of additional solar panels (increasing our renewable energy generation to 45% of total consumption), renovation of two science labs with updated equipment and safety features, expansion of our library maker space with new 3D printers and design software, and creation of additional outdoor learning areas with native plantings.

These improvements enhance the learning environment while demonstrating our commitment to environmental sustainability and fiscal responsibility. All improvements were funded through careful budgeting, grant funding, and donor support, with approval and oversight from our Board of Trustees.

Community Engagement and Partnerships

"Meridian's partnerships with community organizations create authentic learning opportunities where students see how their education connects to real-world challenges and careers." — Partnership Coordinator, Rachel Kim

We've strengthened partnerships with several Portland organizations. Students are working with OMSI on science communication projects, collaborating with local environmental groups on restoration work, partnering with arts organizations for mentorship and exhibitions, and engaging with Portland State University through dual enrollment, campus visits, and research partnerships.

These partnerships reflect our belief that education happens in community, not isolation. Students benefit from diverse perspectives, real-world context for their learning, mentorship from professionals, and opportunities to contribute meaningfully.

Policy and Governance Updates

Our leadership team and Board have recently approved several policy updates: revised attendance policy offering more flexibility for students managing health challenges, updated technology acceptable use policy addressing AI tools and digital citizenship, enhanced procedures for student participation in school governance, and clarified financial assistance policies for enrichment activities.

All policy changes undergo thorough review with input from stakeholders including students, parents, teachers, and community members. Final policies are approved by the Board of Trustees and published on our website with clear implementation timelines.

Upcoming Events and Important Dates

Stay informed about upcoming events including parent-teacher conferences, student performances, athletic competitions, board meetings, admissions information sessions, and community gatherings. Our calendar is regularly updated online and shared through weekly newsletters.

Meridian serves 400 students in grades 6-12 at our Portland campus. We are a tuition-free public charter school open to all students through an equitable lottery system. Staying connected with school news helps families support their students and participate actively in our community.

How to Stay Informed

Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter, follow us on social media platforms, check our website regularly for updates, attend monthly family forums and board meetings, and join parent committees and volunteer opportunities.

Learn more about our mission and values, explore our history and founding vision, or contact our office with questions. For broader news about charter schools, visit the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools.