Grade Meetings

In addition to our courses and emphasis on community, students meet by grade level once a week to learn and practice relevant academic skills. Grade Meetings introduce and foster many key processes that students encounter at Meridian, like applying to college, peer mentoring, and taking on leadership roles. 

We have seven grade meetings:

Grade 6 - This group’s meetings include Comprehensive Health. Health class focuses on supporting the transition to Meridian's unique learning environment, developing effective study skills, and learning strategies to handle social and academic stress. Activities are designed to encourage self-acceptance and help students learn about the five key factors that are correlated with well-being and success: enough sleep, good nutrition, exercise, relaxation, and social connection and fun.

Grade 7 - In 7th grade meeting, students learn about a wide range of topics going from email etiquette, staying organized, and time management to coping with anxiety and remaining calm under pressure. This is a time for students to express their challenges and successes academically and socially and discuss ways in which to grow as learners and productive members of the community. 

Grade 8 - At this important point of transition between middle and high school, students focus on what it means to be a leader and to take ownership for their community. Additionally, they continue to review organizational skills as well as strategies for dealing with stress, internet safety, and bullying.

Grade 9 - In their first year of high school, students learn new study habits to handle the rigor of new expectations. They do work around time management, organizational skills, stress, and anxiety. They also engage in preliminary conversations with seniors and our college advisor about planning for their high school years and beyond.

Grade 10 - Students become full-fledged mentors who serve as a key resources for new students. They also begin to take on major leadership roles in student committees and school activities. Additionally, all students begin in-house ACT and SAT test preparation.

Grade 11 - Students continue test preparation and begin the college search process. They work with our guidance counselor to identify schools that closely match their interests, aptitudes, and learning styles. 

Grade 12 - Students focus on applying to college or preparing other post-secondary endeavors. They work one-on-one with our guidance counselor to prepare their application packet to reflect their individual strengths and interests. After applying, they forge relationships with outside organizations to begin spring internships.