Welcome to the 2026–27 School Year, Merlo Wolves!

Dear Merlo Students and Families,

Welcome to another exciting year at the Merlo Institute of Environmental Technology.

Every new school year offers a fresh opportunity, not simply to earn credits or complete assignments, but to discover new strengths, pursue meaningful goals, and prepare for life beyond high school. At Merlo, we believe every student has the potential to graduate ready to succeed in college, career, and community, and our work each day is centered on helping them realize that potential.

This year, we are excited to continue building a school where learning is challenging, relationships are strong, and every student is known. Whether students are designing digital media, engineering solutions to real-world problems, or exploring environmental science in the field, learning at Merlo extends beyond the classroom and connects to the world around us.

One of our greatest priorities this year is the implementation of our Merlo Student Outcomes: W.O.L.V.E.S. These outcomes represent the qualities we hope every graduate carries with them long after they leave our campus. We want our students to become:

• Well-Prepared Learners
• Open-Minded Thinkers
• Leaders and Collaborators
• Versatile Problem Solvers
• Ethical Decision-Makers
• Self-Directed Individuals

These outcomes serve as the compass for our classrooms, advisory program, extracurricular activities, and partnerships with families. While grades and test scores remain important, we also believe that character, leadership, curiosity, collaboration, and service are essential measures of success.

Throughout the year, students will continue engaging in rigorous coursework through our Environmental Resources, Engineering Technology, and Graphic Design pathways while expanding opportunities for dual enrollment, career certifications, internships, leadership, and college preparation. Schoolwide AVID strategies will continue to strengthen writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization, and critical reading so that every student is prepared for the next step after graduation.

Last year demonstrated what is possible when students, families, and staff work together. Our students achieved impressive gains in college and career readiness, participated in state competitions, explored universities throughout California, served their community, and continued to strengthen the culture that makes Merlo such a special place. We are proud of those accomplishments—and even more excited about what lies ahead.

Thank you for entrusting us with your student's education. We value our partnership with every family and encourage you to stay connected throughout the year through ParentSquare, ParentVUE, school events, and regular communication with our staff.

On behalf of the entire Merlo team, welcome back. We look forward to a year filled with growth, discovery, and opportunity.

As we often remind our students, wolves are strongest when they work together. Here's to another year of learning, leading, and leaving a positive mark on our community.

With appreciation,

Justin Moeckli
Principal
Merlo Institute of Environmental Technology