for Meridian

Thoughts from the School Board Chairman:

Hello Meridian Community Members,

As the 2008-2009 academic school year comes to an end, we are naturally focused on celebrating the accomplishments of the graduates of the class of 2009. In addition we should also celebrate the many accomplishments of the District as a whole and in particular the leadership of Superintendent Yeomans. Dr. Yeomans is winding up his second year at Meridian and the list of improvements (to curriculum, instruction, professional development, extra-curricular activities, facilities, technology, transportation and administration) is impressive.

But Tim's expertise in the area of finance may be the Districts' biggest benefit of all.

K-12 public education in the State of Washington has been dealt its share of budget reductions from the recent legislative sessions. Meridian is no exception. However, due to the excellent financial leadership of Superintendent Yeomans, Meridian School District is on solid financial ground as we come to the close of the 2008-2009 academic year. Many school districts in our county and around the state are cutting programs and reducing staff as a result of the current economic climate. Dr. Yeomans' insight, forethought and meticulous review of our financial position over the last two years has allowed Meridian to avoid the unfortunate choices many other school districts have had to face. Not only are we not cutting back but next year Meridian will have more academic course offerings and a full program of extra-curricular activities.

As we head into next school year, not a single teacher or staff person has been "let go". Classroom sizes will remain essentially the same. A new class schedule at the Middle and High Schools has increased efficiency, increased course offerings and gives students more options. The math program has been aligned and restructured. The facilities are being repaired and upgraded. Nine new school buses are transporting students and saving the district money everyday. The barn is up and running at the High school. The baseball and sofball fields are being upgraded. The list goes on and on. I encourage you to introduce yourself to Tim and learn more about the exciting things happening at Meridian.

As the parent of two former Meridian graduates I am grateful for the enhancements that have been made to the district. As a community member I'm proud of where Meridian is heading. As School Board chairman I would like to say thank-you to Dr. Yeomans for leading Meridian to the solid ground we stand on.

Meridian is a great place to be.

Brian Evans
Meridian School Board Chairman