The Meridian Community Unit School District #15 Board of Education met Tuesday, January 20, for its regular monthly meeting, where members reviewed policy updates, heard administrative reports, and considered several action items impacting district operations and programs.
One of the key items on the agenda was consideration of PRESS Plus Policy Update 120, following recommendations from the district’s policy committee. Board members also reviewed a proposed purchase of a 2019 Ford F-250 to replace an older district vehicle requiring repairs exceeding its value.
Administrative reports highlighted a wide range of district accomplishments. The Athletic Director reported on the success of the annual “Cakes for the Cause” event, which raised more than $16,000 during a conference basketball game against Central A&M. Proceeds were designated to support families in need and a children’s hospital in St. Louis. Meridian also reported hosting responsibilities for several major athletic events, including the CIC Girls Basketball Tournament later in the month and the IESA 7th Grade 2A State Championship at the end of January.
Facility improvements were outlined in the Maintenance Director’s report, which noted the completion of carpet tile installation in the STEM Lab, HVAC filter replacements, and custodial deep cleaning completed over winter break. Ongoing projects included upgrades to the Meridian Elementary School shed and continued maintenance across district buildings.
Curriculum and special education updates detailed continued curriculum alignment work, winter benchmark assessments, and staff wellness professional development. Teacher evaluations were reported to be on track for completion in February.
Building principals shared positive enrollment figures and student achievements. Meridian Elementary School recognized 130 students for perfect attendance, while the middle school honored 70 students earning all A’s during the second quarter. At the high school, more than 200 students qualified for an attendance incentive allowing them to opt out of select final exams, and 176 students earned placement on the first-semester honor roll.
The board entered executive session to discuss personnel matters before returning to open session to consider coaching appointments, which included approving Bill Miller as the high school girls track coach and Ella Woolington as a volunteer assistant girls basketball coach. The board also approved a bonus for Maintenance Director John Enlow for his efforts plowing snow through the night so buildings were ready for school following multiple recent snow storms.
The next regular meeting of the Meridian Board of Education was announced for Feb. 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the Meridian District Office.