MPCS Sept 2023 Issue 1 Newsletter

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Dear Meridian Families,

Welcome to the 2023-2024 school year! It's hard to believe we are already a few weeks into the new school year. The students and teachers have transitioned back into the swing of things after a restful summer. Our halls are once again filled with the sounds of learning and laughter.

Many great learning opportunities, events, and activities are planned for this school year. Be sure to check the school calendar regularly so you don't miss anything!

Before we know it, we'll be planning for the 2024-2025 school year! Where does the time go? Thank you for entrusting your children's education and growth to us. I look forward to keeping you updated throughout the year.

Educationally,

Mr. McCrea

Our Elementary School students had a fabulous time with their teddy bears (and favorite stuffed animals) in celebration of Teddy Bear Day today, Sept 9th. Here is a glimpse into Teddy Bear Day and our morning Crew sessions where we introduced our teddy bears (and favorite stuffed animals) to the class.

The Family Engagement Team is delighted to announce our first Family Fun Night of the 2023-2024 school year! Join us for an exhilarating night of family fun at our Soccer Social on Thursday, September 28th starting at 5:00 pm. Meridian students will have the opportunity to challenge their families in friendly soccer matches.

Stay tuned for more information and the link to register next week!

The Scholastic Book Fair will be returning to Meridian from September 29th through October 6th. Over the next few weeks, you will receive information including instructions about setting up your online eWallet, grade level schedules, and details about serving as a book fair volunteer!

We are thrilled to announce the return of our #MeridianOnTheMetro giveaway in collaboration with DC Metro and Metro buses. This giveaway will run from Monday, September 11th until October 1st!

We are celebrating the release of our #MeridianOnTheMetro advertisements along DC metro lines and on the back of Metrobuses. Meridian staff and families have the chance to win a special prize by simply spotting an advertisement and sharing it with us on Instagram or Facebook.

How to Enter for the Chance to Win:

1. Take a clear photo or video when you spot Meridian Public Charter advertisements on the DC Metro system or on DC Metrobuses.

2. Tag Meridian on Facebook at @mpcsdcOWLS or on Instagram at @mpcs_dc to ensure your entry is counted.
3. Should you not have social media, please email your photo or video and the location of where you spotted it, to Paige Warner at pwarner@meridian-dc.org.
4. Share your photo or video on Instagram, or Facebook using the hashtag #MeridianOnTheMetro

Prizes:

For Meridian Family Participants: Every Friday during the campaign, we will randomly choose two family winners who will receive an exclusive Meridian prize including a $25 gift card and some Meridian swag! Winners will be notified via direct message on the social media platform used for entry.

For Meridian Staff Participants: Every Friday during the campaign, we will randomly choose two staff winners to be treated to a DoorDash lunch of up to $20. The staff winner will be notified via email about next steps.

Meridian PCS is currently working on improving our Family Center to better support all our families. We greatly value your feedback and would appreciate hearing from you. We kindly request you to spare a few minutes to complete the survey linked below. Your input will be instrumental in enhancing the resources and support we offer through our Family Centers at both the ES and MS campuses.

What are you most excited about for this school year? Whether it's seeing your child's growth, meeting their new teachers, or engaging in our school community, we want to share in your enthusiasm. Don't forget to tag us in your post on Facebook and Instagram and use the hashtag #MeridianOwlsPride. You can find us on Instagram at @mpcs_dc and Facebook at @mpcsdcOWLS.

Let's make this year the best one yet! This message is being shared two weeks into the school year, so we hope you're settling in well and already have some great moments to share.

Do you need a policy refresher? Visit bit.ly/47Ur0rZ to review our Welcome Back packet.

Reflecting back on our few weeks of school, it's incredible to witness the energy, enthusiasm, and excitement that filled our classrooms. Students, both new and returning, embarked on a journey of learning and discovery, equipped with fresh school supplies and open minds. From the first morning CREW meeting to the engaging lessons and activities, it's clear that this year will be one of growth, collaboration, and innovation. Here's a look back at some of our favorite moments!

This year, Meridian and the YMCA Anthony Bowen have continued their partnership to offer after-school youth development from 4-6 p.m. at the Elementary School. The program will be paid for by a parent fee, or in part or in full with the OSSE childcare voucher. Meridian is not covering the cost of the YMCA as in years past.

Total cost for YMCA, per month:

One-time registration fee: $50.00

5 days/week: $354.00

3 days/week: $294.00

Wednesdays-only from 1-6 pm (Members & Non-members): $69.00

The YMCA offers a 10% discount on monthly tuition for the second and subsequent siblings enrolled in the Y Childcare Program.

To register for programming, complete the YMCA application and submit it to Keishona Ferrell at keishona_ferrell@yahoo.com, and Diane Taitt at diane.taitt@ymcadc.org. YMCA applications will be available at the front desk of the school or can be downloaded from bit.ly/YMCA_forms.

Fall 2023 sports registration at Meridian is at capacity.

However, visit Kids' Sports Classes for a detailed list of the best kids' sports programs in the DMV.

Are you a podcast lover? Check out this episode of the Dying to Know podcast from educational consultant, Jenn Curtis. The school year is a natural reset for families and a great time to shake up habits, both in and out of the classroom. Ms. Curtis shares 4 tips to set your kid (and yourself) up for success this school year.

Mindful Beginnings Parent Zoom Series: Attend a free 1-hour Zoom event led by the founder of Mindful Beginnings focused on helping you unlock your child's mental wellness. The next session will take place on September 20th at 10 am. Learn more and register here.

• Kids Ride Free (KRF) Program: This program allows students (ages 5-21) to ride for free on Metrobus, Metrorail, and the DC Circulator while traveling within the District to get to school and school-related activities. To secure a SmarTrip card, please complete a request form at bit.ly/23-24MPCSKRF.

• September is Library Card Sign-up Month: Fill out this link to sign up for a free library card or stop by the closest DC Public Library to get a library card. All ages can get a free book when they sign up for a library card!

• Walker Memorial Baptist Church (WMBC) Grocery Giveaway: On every 1st Wednesday and 3rd Thursday, WMBC partners with the Capital Area Food Bank to help families in the community in need. Please complete registration at wmbcdc.org/grocery-giveaway to receive the groceries.
  

• Visit the new Lego Discovery Center: Let your imagination run wild and play with 2 million bricks, hop on the Imagination Express, get blown away by the 4D cinema, and so much more. Learn more at legodiscoverycenter.com.
• Attend the DC State Fair: The DC State Fair is a free showcase of the District’s agricultural, culinary, and creative talents and a daylong celebration of all things. The 14th Annual DC State Fair will be held on Sunday, September 10 from 10 am-5 pm. Learn more at DC State Fair.
• Visit the Experiential Learning Center! Stop by the National Museum of the United States Army to create crafts and learn more about the U.S. Army. Participation is free and included with a general admission ticket.

Email: information@meridian-dc.org
Website: www.meridian-dc.org
Location: 2120 13th Street Northwest, Washington, DC, USA
Phone: 202-387-9830

Email: information@meridian-dc.org
Website: www.meridian-dc.org
Location: 770 Kenyon Street Northwest, Washington, DC, USA
Phone: 202-793-2667