What’s New at Meridian in 2025

Meridian World School has been around for 13 years and has seen many changes—both good and bad. The year 2025 is no different, especially with several new laws recently passed at the state level.

In this article, we’ll look at the major changes at Meridian this year and the impact they have had on the school’s learning environment.

#1: Cellphone Policy

Probably the most notable change this year is the school’s new policy regarding cellphones and other communication devices. While Meridian has always maintained rules around phone use, a recent Texas law has prompted the school to enforce stricter regulations.

“I completely agree with the policy, since it will help students focus on their studies and not get distracted,” said 10th-grade chemistry teacher Mrs. Ghosh.

According to TexasTribune.org, the law bans the use of all cellphones and similar devices during the school day. Students who violate the policy face disciplinary action. Supporters say the law improves focus, supports mental health, and helps prevent bullying. Critics, however, express concern about the risks of being unable to contact anyone during potential emergencies.

#2: Updated Dress Code

Another change, though less major, is the update to Meridian’s dress code. Previously, most forms of headwear were allowed indoors. The updated policy now bans all hats during the school day.

“I agree with the issue of hats, due to it being a distraction, and most people my age have been taught that it is impolite to wear hats indoors,” said high school embedded substitute Coach Shields.

According to mwschool.org, exceptions are made for religious purposes, such as hijabs for Muslim students and kippahs for Jewish students. The main reason for the ban is that hats can be distracting, which is frowned upon not only at Meridian but also in U.S. schools in general.

#3: Missing Summative Policy

A third change, though minor, is the updated policy for missing summative assignments. Late summative work will no longer be accepted, and teachers will record grades based only on assignments submitted by the due date.

“I think the policy seems reasonable. Teachers at Meridian are pretty good about making sure students have plenty of time to complete their summatives,” said substitute teacher Jodie Fesh.

According to the updated Academic Policy document, late summatives are marked as “M” for missing in Skyward within 24 hours after the due date. However, if another summative in the same course component is completed on time, the “M” is nullified and replaced with the new grade.

Meridian World School is a place where students of all races, nationalities, and religions come together to learn and enjoy one another’s company. With these new policies in place, the impact on the learning environment will depend on how administrators handle the changes. For now, students and staff can only hope that the adjustments will create a better, more productive environment for everyone at Meridian.