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Forest Hills High studentsโ carpentry skills put on display at unveiling of Blessed Beans Mobile Cafรฉ
On March 15, Forest Hills High students put their carpentry skills on display at the unveiling of Blessed Beans Cafรฉ, a mobile coffee cafรฉ that donates its proceeds to charities and nonprofit organizations.
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#UCPSBooksandBrackets: Sixteen schools advance to the next round of the Books and Brackets reading challenge
The minutes are in! Sixteen UCPS elementary schools are now advancing to the Sweet 16 round of this yearโs Books and Brackets reading challenge.
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UCPS announces Beginning Teacher of the Year finalists
The UCPS Beginning Teacher of the Year program recognizes new teachers in their first three years of employment who demonstrate excellence in the classroom.Five Beginning Teacher of the Year finalists have been selected from a pool of nominations that were provided by principals. The winner will be announced at the annual Teacher of the Year banquet on April 16.
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Rocky River Elementary earns Leader in Me Lighthouse Status
Rocky River Elementary has been named a Leader in Me Lighthouse School. The elementary school is one of 417 schools in the world and the second in Union County to earn this prestigious certification.
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Piedmont High students โBreak the Silenceโ on mental health issues
Far too often teens find themselves struggling with feelings of depression and anxiety in silence because of pervasive stigmas and long-held misconceptions attached to mental health issues. That's why Piedmont High senior Micah Fagala decided to create the Break the Silence club, a student -led club that aims to remove stigmas associated with mental health.
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UCPS announces middle and high school choice options for 2019-2020
At the Feb. 27 Policy Committee Meeting, the Board of Education and Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan announced the middle and high choice schools for the 2019-2020 school year.
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Prospect Elementary student leads weekly technology class for his peers
Prospect Elementary fourth grader Mason Johnson has been passionate about technology for as long as he can remember. So after talking with his parents and teachers, Prospect Elementary Principal Dr. Kim Chinnis found the perfect opportunity to pair his growing leadership skills with his love of technology: teaching a tech class to second graders at the school.
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UCPS cancels March 9 School Choice Showcase event
UCPS has cancelled its March 9 School Choice Showcase at Weddington Middle School.
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UCPS Preschool Program workshops help parents and students connect and cooperate
On Feb. 21, dozens of UCPS preschool families gathered at Waxhaw Elementary for a fun-filled afternoon of working on connections and relationships. The family event, made possible courtesy of a Walmart Community Grant, was part of the preschool programโs year-long focus on social and emotional learning.
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Superintendent's Student Art Showcase celebrates UCPS students' artistic talents
On Feb. 26, UCPS hosted its Superintendentโs Student Art Showcase Reception, a longstanding district tradition and celebration of UCPS studentsโ artistic talents.
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Ready, set, read! The Books and Brackets reading challenge is back and bigger than ever!
Itโs that time again! On Feb. 26, UCPS kicked off the 2019 Books and Brackets reading challenge with a pep rally at Rocky River Elementary.
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Civil rights legend Minnijean Brown-Trickey shares Little Rock Nine experiences with CATA students
In the fall of 1957, the world watched as Minnijean Brown-Trickey walked past armed guards and an angry mob into the formerly all-white Little Rock Central High School. At the time, Brown-Trickey didnโt realize that being a member of the Little Rock Nine would spark her decades-long advocacy of civil rights, which most recently brought her to CATA on Feb. 25 where she talked to students about her experiences overcoming racism.
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UCPS opens lottery for 2019-2020 school year with new academic options
On Feb. 8, UCPS opened its lottery process for elementary school choice, dual language immersion, the International Baccalaureate Pathway Program at Marvin Ridge High and Central Academy of Technology & Arts. View this story for brief descriptions of each choice option and information about the application process, deadlines and contact information.
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Spotlight on EmpowerED: Prospect Elementary teacher's classroom environment encourages collaboration and discussion
Each month, UCPS features an EmpowerED classroom to show how teachers are transforming learners into leaders through meaningful connections, collaboration and creation. Check out how Prospect Elementary teacher Raven Casseus introduces her students to collaborative learning activities.
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UCPS and Wingate University partner to provide full scholarships for middle and high school students
Twenty Heath Sciences Academy at Monroe Middle and East Union Middle students made history on Feb. 22 as they were officially inducted into the inaugural class of the Wayfind program. The Wayfind program is a first-of-its-kind partnership between UCPS and Wingate University that pairs middle and high school students with Wingate University mentors to prepare them for college.
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Kensington Elementary earns national 21st Century Learning Exemplar distinction
Congratulations to Kensington Elementary for earning the 21st Century Learning Exemplar distinction from Partnership for 21st Century Learning (P21)! Kensington Elementary was one of only 18 schools in the nation to be recognized for outstanding practices in equipping learners with the necessary skills and knowledge for success in college, career and life.
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UCPS educators and business leaders collaborate to transform STEM culture in schools and the community
Finding ways to integrate STEM culture into UCPS schools was the overarching theme of the districtโs Feb. 19 STEM Leadership Retreat, which was co-hosted by UCPS and Discovery Education. During the half-day retreat, as many as 75 UCPS educators and local business leaders worked side-by-side to discuss STEM education and how it can help shape the larger community.
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UCPS ranks nationally for number of National Board Certified teachers
UCPS recently ranked in the top 30 school districts nationwide for the total number of teachers who have earned their National Board Certification. Congratulations to the 39 UCPS teachers who earned or renewed their certification in 2018.
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UCPS bus driver reflects on 65-year-long career with Transportation Department
In honor of Love the Bus Month, UCPS shows appreciation to all of the transportation department employees who work tirelessly to ensure studentsโ safety riding the bus to and from school. Several of these employees have been a part of #TeamUCPS for years, including February Employee of the Month John Paul Hinson who has been a part of the districtโs transportation team for more than 60 years.
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Union County BOE discusses its legislative priorities with elected officials
On Feb. 8, the Union County Board of Education met with state elected officials to discuss their priorities for the upcoming school year, including school calendar flexibility, school performance grades, a reduction in testing and teacher pay.
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Educators from across the country learn best practices from UCPS Dual Language Immersion schools
On Feb. 6, dozens of educators from across the country traveled to Union County to catch a glimpse of the districtโs successful Dual Language Immersion program in action. As part of the International Conference on Immersion and Dual Language Education, the visitors spent the day visiting Spanish immersion classes at Shiloh, Sun Valley and Unionville elementary schools.
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UCPS announces elementary choice showcases
UCPS will hold events to help families learn more about elementary school choice options for the 2019-2020 school year. School administrators and staff will be available to discuss academic programming, student activities, parent involvement, the application process and more.
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UCPS Communications Team wins 22 state awards for effective school communications and public relations
The UCPS Communications team won 20 Blue Ribbon Awards as well as two coveted Best of the Best awards for Digital Media Engagement and Marketing at the Feb. 1 North Carolina School Public Relations Association's annual awards ceremony.
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UCPS combats youth tech consumption by hosting series of digital citizenship workshops
This school year, UCPS hosted a series of workshops specifically geared to administrators and school leaders, teachers, students and parents. Itโs a comprehensive approach that will help each group assess their own role in establishing tech healthy habits while also reinforcing the importance of digital citizenship, which is the responsible use of technology to learn, create and participate.
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Welcome, Class of 2032: Kindergarten registration is open!
UCPS kindergarten registration is now open for the 2019-20 school year. Kindergarten is an important milestone for children, and UCPS is here to help guide families through the enrollment process.
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Spotlight on EmpowerED: Marshville Elementary teacher encourages collaboration during real-world lesson on budgeting
Each month, UCPS features an EmpowerED classroom to show how teachers are transforming learners into leaders through meaningful connections, collaboration and creation. Watch this video to see how Marshville Elementary teacher Jan Ledderman encourages collaboration in her classroom through an engaging lesson on budgeting.
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Countdown to Kindergarten: UCPS Facebook Live session guides families through the kindergarten registration process
On Jan. 28, UCPS hosted a Connect and Chat Facebook Live event to guide prospective UCPS parents through the kindergarten registration process. In addition to discussing what is needed to register students for kindergarten, UCPS principals and staff discussed curriculum, transportation, the UCPS After School Program, dual language immersion options and more.
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UCPS announces 2019 Teacher of the Year finalists
On Jan. 28, UCPS Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan and Cabinet staff revealed the names of the 10 UCPS Teacher of the Year finalists by visiting the teachers at their schools.
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For UCPS Spelling Bee champion Alexia Vega, great spelling skills run in the family
Sandy Ridge Elementary third grader Alexia Vega is no stranger to spelling bees, having spent most of her life watching older sister Eva dominate in spelling bees at the local, regional and national level. But at the UCPS Spelling Bee on Jan. 24, it was finally Alexiaโs turn to shine.
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UCPS announces elementary school choice options for 2019-2020
Union County Public Schools has announced its elementary schools of choice for the 2019-2020 school year. Families may apply for admission through lottery to any elementary school within the district whose student population is less than 90% of the capacity as determined by the district.
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Countdown to Kindergarten: Get the UCPS kindergarten experience at an upcoming open house
Did you know that UCPS elementary schools are also hosting open houses and/or tours to provide you with an opportunity to experience first-hand all that UCPS kindergarten has to offer?
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Countdown to Kindergarten: UCPS provides well-rounded educational experience for its youngest students
From the first bell in the morning to the last bell of the school day, UCPS kindergartners are fully engaged in developing new skills and a love for learning that will set them up for success in college, career and life.
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In new school club, Wingate Elementary students lead their own learning
Wingate Elementary's new project-based learning club exposes students to in-demand career fields. Semester-long activities are designed to be challenging and complex, and the students often spend weeks researching and working together to complete their projects.
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UCPS receives grant to support safety and security projects
At its Jan. 10 meeting, the Union County Board of Education voted to accept a Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Grant that was awarded to the Waxhaw Police Department. UCPS will receive $349,832 to support safety and security projects, which include video doorbell systems, a social media threat evaluator and crisis management software for administrators and school resource officers.
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Countdown to Kindergarten: Hereโs what you need to register your student
If you plan to enroll your student for the 2019-20 school year, now is the time to start gathering the documents you will need to complete the registration process.
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UCPS students outperform state and national peers on PSAT exam
Last fall, UCPS offered the PSAT National Merit Scholarship Test to 10th and select 11th graders at no cost to their families. Check out this interactive web story to learn more about how our students' average scores surpassed state and national averages for their peer groups.
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Five tips to keep your student engaged during winter break
Here's a few ways you can keep your studentโs skills sharp while theyโre home for the holidays.
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#UCPSGivesBack: UCPS students and staff make a positive impact in their communities
This holiday season, hundreds of Union County Public Schools students and staff spent weeks donating their time, talents and resources to help those in need. View our #UCPSGivesBack video to see the many ways our students and staff gave back in their communities.
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UCPS staff expands and standardizes suicide intervention protocols
Nearly 40 UCPS therapists, counselors, nurses, and translators recently participated in a Suicide Intervention Training workshop as part of the districtโs ongoing efforts to expand social and emotional support for students.
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Spotlight on EmpowerED: Forest Hills High teacher's collaborative class environment leads to effective learning
Watch this EmpowerED video to see how Forest Hills High teacher Katie Lefler encourages collaboration in her classroom and how it ultimately leads to a positive classroom culture and effective learning.
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#UCPSGivesBack: Western Union Elementary students craft for a cause
More than 30 Western Union Elementary students spend their time working on arts and crafts projects after school each week. However, instead of taking their crafts home, they are donated to local nonprofit organizations as a way of teaching students how to give back in their community.
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New BHESA performing arts center puts studentsโ talents on center stage
On Wednesday, Dec. 12, UCPS leaders, Board of Education members, local elected officials, community members and students gathered at Benton Heights Elementary School of the Arts (BHESA) to mark a momentous occasion: the opening of the schoolโs new performing arts center.
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#UCPSGivesBack: Hurricane Florence book drive connects Shiloh Elementary and eastern North Carolina students
As a part of its Read A Palooza community event, Shiloh Elementary hosted a book drive to benefit schools affected by Hurricane Florence. Thanks to an outpouring of support from parents and students, faculty and community members, the school's book drive ultimately collected 3,000 books.
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#UCPSGivesBack: After overcoming rare blood disorder, PRHS sophomore donates gift bags to childrenโs hospital
Three years ago, Porter Ridge High student Caroline Kramb was diagnosed with Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia Purpura (ITP), a rare autoimmune blood disorder. Even though she is now in remission, the experience had such a profound impact on her life that she ultimately became an advocate for ITP and other illnesses.
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UCPS celebrates Computer Science Education Week with creative lessons and activities
During the week of Dec. 3, UCPS celebrated Computer Science Education Week, the annual week that highlights the importance of computer science in education systems.
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With AVID program, East Union Middle students set their sights on college
One of Union County Public Schoolsโ long-term outcomes, as outlined in the districtโs strategic plan, is ensuring all students are equipped to succeed in college, career and life. Itโs a goal that looks past simply getting students to a college and instead places a laser-like focus on ensuring their success long after they arrive to the campus. Itโs also a goal that has paved the way for the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program, which is now being implemented at East Union Middle as well as Marshville and Wingate elementary schools.
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UCPS celebrates Holiday Card Contest finalists and winner at breakfast
On Nov. 30, UCPS hosted a breakfast to celebrate the UCPS Holiday Card Contest winner and finalists. During the breakfast, the students had the opportunity to talk about their artwork before being presented with a certificate that recognized their accomplishments.
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Naviance helps Cuthbertson High senior and her father jumpstart her college search
Researching and applying to colleges can be overwhelming. That's why Cuthbertson High senior Abigail Tuchscherer and her father Justin enlisted the help of Naviance, a comprehensive college and career readiness software that is available to all UCPS middle and high school students.
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#UCPSGivesBack: SVMS students lead pajama drive to provide underprivileged children with a cozy nightโs sleep
Every holiday season, hundreds of UCPS students and staff donate their time, talents and resources to help those in need. At Sun Valley Middle, students in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes club are leading a pajama drive to provide new, warm pajamas to homeless and underprivileged children.
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UCPS and Wingate University cohort helps aspiring teachers achieve their dreams
American Education Week is an opportunity to celebrate educators and show pride in our public schools. This week, UCPS honors all of its employees who are critical to the success of our school district, including teachers Zack Winchester and Valerie Page who have taken advantage of career advancement opportunities to do their part in providing children with a quality education.
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Spotlight on EmpowerED: PRMS teacher uses technology and data to engage students
Each month, UCPS features an EmpowerED classroom to show how we're transforming learners into leaders through meaningful connections, collaboration and creation. See how Porter Ridge Middle teacher Donna Irvin uses technology in her classroom to leverage data and engage students.
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North Carolina First Lady learns about heart dissections from HSA at Monroe Middle students
The Health Sciences Academy at Monroe Middle, which opened only one year ago, has a unique collaboration with Atrium Health and an innovative curriculum that exposes middle school students to the clinical and operational aspects of healthcare. The program has grown so popular that it even caught the attention of North Carolina First Lady Kristin Cooper, who traveled to the middle school from Raleigh to get a glimpse of the students in action.
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UCPS film screening and forum tackle toxic stress and resiliency
On Oct. 24, UCPS and Novant Health hosted a film screening of the movie Resilience, a 1-hour documentary that explored how childhood toxic stress can cause long-term physical and mental health issues. Following the film, a moderated panel of physicians, social workers and therapists discussed our local systemic challenges and opportunities to work together to make a difference.
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UCPS Facebook Live session helps families explore career readiness options
On Nov. 13, UCPS hosted a Connect and Chat Facebook Live event to provide families with helpful information as they plan for their studentsโ high school courses and future careers. In addition to discussing the variety of courses offered through the districtโs Career Readiness program, several teachers and students shared information about their respective programs, answered questions and discussed the benefits of participating in career academies and pathways.
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Porter Ridge Middle student Ashley Cole wins UCPS Holiday Card Contest
Congratulations to Ashley Cole, winner of the UCPS Holiday Card Contest!Ashleyโs artwork will now be featured as the cover of the UCPS Holiday Card along with her name, grade and school. As the districtโs official holiday card, it will be sent to other school districts and community partners next month.
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Marvin Elementary veteran brings lessons learned in the military to schools
As we approach Veterans Day, Union County Public Schools thanks all of the service men and women who have served our country in wartime and in peacetime. Many of these former service members are now part of #TeamUCPS, including Gulf War veteran and Marvin Elementary Assistant Principal Deanna White.
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Record-breaking 18 schools receive state recognition for Positive Behavior Intervention and Support
Eighteen UCPS schools recently received state recognition for their Positive Behavior Intervention and Support (PBIS) systems, the data-driven initiatives that improve social competence and academic achievement for students. The occasion marked the highest number of schools in district history to be recognized by the state for helping to create a positive and safe school wide culture.
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Wingate University's mentoring program helps high school students prepare for the future
On Oct. 13, more than two dozen Forest Hills and Monroe High students participated in a White Coat Ceremony. The ceremony was one of many exciting parts of Wingate University's new mentoring program that helps Forest Hills and Monroe High students plan and prepare for a career in the health sciences industry.
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PDMS students stitch together a powerful legacy of unity and inclusion
In celebration of Unity Day on Oct. 24, Piedmont Middle unveiled their schoolโs Unity Banner, a 25-foot-long fabric banner comprised of more than 1,000 messages encouraging unity, kindness and inclusion. Completed by students, staff, community members and volunteers, the banner is the culmination of a weeks-long initiative that encouraged a spirit of inclusion in the school.
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UCPS teachers awarded LIFT grants to inspire and innovate in classrooms
More than a dozen Union County Public Schools (UCPS) teachers recently received Leadership and Innovation Funding for Teachers (LIFTed) Higher Grants for 15 projects that boost literacy, bridge the achievement gap and spur students on toward careers and college. The grants, which the Union County Education Foundation rewards to eligible teachers each year, range from $500 to $1,500.
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CATA alum, Hamilton performer returns to his high school to prepare students for the big stage
CATA alum Tyler McKenzie has performed in the Broadway Hamilton and Mamma Mia stage productions and the Matilda the Musical national tour as well as the current 20-city national tour of the acclaimed hit Hamilton musical. Now, nearly 10 years after graduating from CATA, Tyler has returned to his alma mater to help guide the school's next generation of aspiring artists.
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New Town Elementary goes full STEAM ahead
In New Town Elementary's new STEAM lab,students in kindergarten through fifth grade are spending their days developing a lifelong love of learning.
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UCPS hosts appreciation luncheon for Hurricane Florence first responders
To express thanks for all of their hard work and leadership during Hurricane Florence and Tropical Storm Michael, UCPS hosted a First Responders Appreciation Luncheon for school district and county staff who played an integral role in the storm's response and recovery efforts.
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UCPS provides update on 2016 bond projects
UCPS would like to provide an update on its bond projects, which includes $54 million in funding for a new transportation facility as well as much-needed construction projects at six schools.
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Spotlight on EmpowerED: Marvin Ridge Middle teacher keeps students engaged while connecting them to real-life experiences
Each month, UCPS features an EmpowerED classroom to show how we're transforming learners into leaders through meaningful connections, collaboration and creation. See how Marvin Ridge Middle teacher Ron Kinyanjui keeps his students engaged in class by incorporating hands-on activities into social studies lessons.
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Video: Make It In Union County provides learning opportunities for students
During the week of Oct. 1, more than 1,000 Union County Public Schools students participated in Make It In Union Countyโs annual celebration of Manufacturing Awareness Week. Make It In Union County is a Union County Chamber program that focuses on increasing awareness of the positive benefits of manufacturing.
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Parkwood High Principal Carole Alley named 2018-19 Principal of the Year
During Union County Public Schoolsโ (UCPS) annual Principal of the Year luncheon, Parkwood High Principal Carole Alley was named the 2018-19 Principal of the Year. The luncheon was held Thursday, Oct. 4 at the school districtโs Professional Development Center.
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UCPS opens free resource center to help families prepare for college
As college application season kicks into high gear, UCPS is providing a new and free resource to help middle and high school families with applications, course planning and information about college board assessments. The UCPS College Readiness Resource Center will open Oct 1, just in time for the start of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application period.
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Read with U instills lifelong love of reading in students
Launched in 2017, Read with U is a community-based initiative aimed at helping students develop a lifelong love of reading. Only one year after its launch, more than 1,500 people have volunteered to serve as reading buddies, cumulatively logging countless hours to help students grow their literacy skills.
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UCPS names 2018 Principal of the Year finalists
Congratulations to the ten UCPS Principal of the Year finalists! The winner will be announced at a Principalโs Meeting luncheon on Oct. 4.
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Rapidly growing UCPS Career Readiness program prepares thousands of students for the workforce
Thousands of students are filling more than 18,000 spots in dozens of Career Readiness courses designed to help them prepare for future careers and gain real-world experience in some of the most in-demand career fields. In fact, demand for Career Readiness courses in automotive, robotics, public safety, drafting and accounting have grown so much each year that additional courses are being added throughout the district to accommodate the increased demand.
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Spotlight on EmpowerED: UCPS Teacher of the Year uses math to engage and connect students to real-life experiences
This summer, UCPS rolled out EmpowerED, its Tier 1 framework for instruction. Each month, UCPS will feature an EmpowerED classroom to show how we're transforming learners into leaders through meaningful connections, collaboration and creation.
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After two decades in the auto industry, first-year PRHS teacher trades in his shop for the classroom
After 21 years in the auto industry, Richard Webb finally made the decision to trade his automotive shop for a Porter Ridge High classroom this school year.
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UCPS preschool program educates, removes barriers for families
This year, UCPS will continue to offer its Families and Schools Together program, a series of workshops designed to support parents of preschool children on developmentally appropriate emotional and social skills for their children. Now, thanks to the recently awarded NoVo Foundation Social Emotional Learning grant, childcare and translation services as well as dinner and a childrenโs book will also be available for families who attend the programโs sessions.
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State Superintendent praises UCPSโ innovative approach to school safety
On Sept. 7, NC Superintendent Mark Johnson visited Indian Trail Elementary to discuss school safety and present the school district with a School Safety Month proclamation.
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UCPS reports nearly 70 percent of schools earned A or B, no F schools in 2017-18 accountability report
UCPS announces historical gains and improved academic measures in 2017-18 accountability report. The results were announced Wednesday, Sept. 5, as the State Board of Education released a report about School Performance Grades, Grade Level Proficiency, State Assessments and School Growth.
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UCPS and Sprint team up to break down digital barriers for students
On Aug. 30, UCPS and Sprint announced their plans to help minimize the digital divide in Union County through Sprintโs 1Million Project Foundation. As part of this partnership, more than 300 Forest Hills High students who previously did not have reliable internet connectivity at home received a free hotspot device as well as 3GB of high-speed LTE data per month for up to four years while they are in high school.
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Video: UCPS welcomes 41,000+ students back to school
On Monday, Aug. 27, more than 41,000 UCPS students returned to the classroom for their first day of school.
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School Choice Update
Union County Public Schools completed its school choice option process for the 2018-19 school year. Through the new addition to the Policy 4-13 Student Assignment, families applied for admission through lottery to any school within the district whose student population is less than 90% of the capacity, as determined by the district.
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UCPS teachers share tips on setting your student up for success this school year
Weโre in the final countdown: the first day of school is Monday, Aug. 27! Check out a few back-to-school tips from our teachers that discuss the importance of establishing routines, encouraging positive attitudes, open communication and more.
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Update: UCEC is back in session for the 2018-19 school year
Welcome back, students! Union County Early College students returned to class on Aug. 2 and schools on the year-round calendar opened their doors on July 23. Check out the photo gallery to see our students, teachers and staff on the first day of school!
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Connect and Chat Facebook Live session helps UCPS families prepare for the new school year
On Aug. 20, UCPS hosted its first ever Connect and Chat Facebook Live event to provide UCPS families with important back-to-school information for the upcoming school year. In addition to highlighting some of the new initiatives parents can expect to see this school year, several UCPS staff members shared information about transportation, after school program options, resources for parents and more.
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1,500+ veteran and beginning teachers prepare for the new school year at annual Teacher Kickoff
More than 1,500 teachers attended the school districtโs annual three-day Teacher Kickoff at Weddington High โ the highest attendance for teacher professional development in district history.
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Join #TeamUCPS and make an impact in your community this school year
A new school year brings new beginnings and new opportunities to make a difference in your community. Help start the 2018-19 school year off right by joining #TeamUCPS and playing a critical role in a young person's life.
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UCPS leadership updates for the 2018-19 school year
UCPS announces an update on new personnel appointments and the districtโs organizational structure.
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UCPS announces social and emotional learning, safety and security initiatives for 2018-19 school year
With traditional schools set to open their doors for students on Aug. 27, UCPS announces a series of new initiatives and programs for the 2018-19 school year that are designed to provide students with equitable access to critical resources while also preparing them for college, careers and life after high school.
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Rising ninth grade gymnast flips and tumbles her way into history at Special Olympics USA
Several years ago, Brielle Mulroy was a Porter Ridge Middle student who made North Carolina history as the first integrated gymnast to compete in an Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) state competition. At the time, the energetic 12-year-old with Down Syndrome was regularly making waves in the local gymnastics community where she repeatedly participated in floor, uneven bars and vaulting competitive events. Now, Brielle flipped and tumbled her way into history again as one of only two gymnasts from North Carolina to participate in the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games, which were held the week of July 2.
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Video: Budding chefs get a taste for global cuisine in culinary summer camp
This week, 20 budding chefs participated in the UCPS Career Readiness culinary summer camp, a weeklong crash course on global cuisine, baking/pastry, kitchen fundamentals and more. Learn more about what the students have been cooking this week and watch them in action.
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Monroe High senior fuels passion for social justice in ACLU summer program
Monroe High senior Charleen Chavez has been passionate about social justice since she was in middle school and even plans to pursue a career in public policy in the future. So it probably wasnโt a surprise to most people when they found out that Charleen not only applied to attend but also earned a full scholarship to this summerโs ACLU Summer Institute in Washington, D.C.
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FHHS student gets a head start on the new school year and college in Upward Bound summer program
During the past few weeks, Forest Hills High junior Isaias Rivera has participated in New Covenant Community Development Centerโs Upward Bound Math and Science Program. Isaias, along with 37 of his peers from Forest Hills and Monroe high schools, spent their time in the program participating in tutoring and mentoring programs, taking intensive math and science classes, visiting colleges, learning more about post-secondary education opportunities, preparing for college entrance exams and more.
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School Choice 2018-19
Union County Public Schools is introducing School Choice under Policy 4-13 Student Assignment. Through School Choice, families may apply for admission through lottery to any school within the district whose student population is less than 90% of the capacity as determined by the district.
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WHS student tackles the sports journalism industry, one microphone at a time
WHS senior Kendall Smith recently participated in the University of South Carolinaโs Carolina Journalism Institute, a summer program devoted to helping high school students enhance their knowledge of cutting-edge journalism techniques and standards. Check out what the โVoice of WHS baseball and basketballโ had to say about her love of sports journalism and her time in the USC summer program.
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UCPS is hiring cafeteria assistants
Union County Public Schools will hold a job fair to fill vacancies in its School Nutrition Services Department. The event will be held July 27, from 10 a.m. โ 7 p.m. at the UCPS Professional Development Center (721 Brewer Drive, Monroe).
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Porter Ridge High math teacher helps students get a new perspective of the world
Every summer, Porter Ridge High math teacher Jennie Yearick tours the world through her participation with EducationFirst Educational Tours. Last month, Jennie took a rising PRHS senior as well as 2017 and 2018 PRHS graduates to Peru, where they spent eight days learning about Peruvian culture in Lima, Cusco and Machu Picchu.
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Atrium Health externship helps Monroe Middle teacher bring lesson plans to life
Throughout the summer, Monroe Middle instructors who teach everything from band to language arts will spend at least 12 hours shadowing Atrium Health Union staff members in a variety of departments that include imaging, emergency, physical therapy, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and more. The ultimate goal of the externships is to help teachers find ways to connect their students to STEM and real-life applications.
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Piedmont High senior spends summer helping to cure illnesses
Piedmont High senior Seth Kodikara is participating in the Young Innovators Program, an eight-week paid summer internship offered through the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy and the Eshelman Institute for Innovation. In this competitive program, Seth will spend his summer working side-by-side with faculty on cutting edge and innovative STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) research in an immersive laboratory environment.
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Summer fun heats up at Marshville Elementary summer camp
Summer break may be in full swing, but the learning hasnโt stopped at Marshville Elementary. During the past two weeks, more than 100 students have participated in science, literacy, math, arts, physical education, STEM, and college and career readiness activities.
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Hundreds of UCPS school leaders explore ways to turn their learners into leaders
This week, more than 200 UCPS leaders attended the annual Summer Leadership Institute, where they attended panel discussions and workshops about EmpowerED, the districtwide cultural shift in teaching and learning that aims to transform learners into leaders. Now, theyโre ready to take what theyโve learned and integrate it into their schoolโs instructional practices and classrooms next year.
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District-wide EmpowerED culture shift connects students to 21st century skills
UCPS principals, assistant principals and school leaders recently attended the school district's annual Summer Leadership Institute. The overarching theme of the conference was EmpowerED, a district-wide culture shift that hinges on four major tenets of highly engaging instruction -- connect, collaborate, create and digital leadership โ to better prepare students for college and future careers.
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UCPS Class of 2018 shatters district record, earns $135 million in scholarships
The UCPS Class of 2018 earned a record $135 million in scholarships this year, marking the eighth consecutive year the amount of scholarships offered to graduating seniors has increased. This amount is $9 million more than the previous record-setting amount earned by the Class of 2017.
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UCPS Mobile Book Bus hits the road
On June 14, UCPS unveiled the new UCPS Mobile Book Bus, a new literacy initiative designed to provide elementary-aged students with books throughout the summer. The UCPS Mobile Book Bus will run from June 14 until Aug. 14. A full schedule is located on the UCPS Mobile Book Bus webpage.
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New Salem Elementary teacher assistant reflects on 24 years of helping students succeed
UCPS recently celebrated its retirees at a luncheon held on June 12. Check out this story about a New Salem Elementary teacher assistant who will retire after 24 years, and click on the link in the story to view pictures from the retiree celebration.
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Celebrating our #UCPSGrads
Congratulations to the UCPS Class of 2018! Check out this photo gallery to see highlights from this year's graduation season.
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#UCPSGrads: CATA senior revs up for a career in the racing industry
CATA senior Sam Jackson will attend the NASCAR Technical Institute this fall. The schoolโs 14-month automotive program will put him one step closer to his dream job of working on a racing team building motors and other mechanical-related work.
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UCPS leadership changes for the 2018-19 school year
UCPS has announced new leadership for the 2018-19 school year.
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UCPS students celebrate the last day of school
School's out! Check out the photo gallery to see how our students, teachers and staff celebrated the end of another great school year.
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#UCPSGrads: With his dad by his side, Piedmont High senior succeeds both on and off the court
This year, Piedmont High senior Hunter Tyson shattered a 38-year county-wide record when he became the all-time leading scorer in Union County boys basketball history. However, even with all of Hunterโs numerous athletic accomplishments, Piedmont High Principal Dr. Jonathan Tyson said he's most proud of the exceptional job his son has done representing their school and family over the years.
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#UCPSGrads: Porter Ridge High senior prepares to make her mark in the medical field
For the past four years, Porter Ridge High senior Dakota Douglas has been laser-focused on taking the necessary steps to reach her dream job: a pediatric oncologist. Now, the outstanding senior is preparing to attend Duke University in the fall, where she will major in biology and minor in global health and Spanish โ a move that she hopes will ultimately put her one step closer to her future career goals.
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#UCPSGrads: Five Marvin Ridge High seniors + Math = Long-lasting friendship
Last month, Marvin Ridge High seniors Andrew Claxton, Jainith Patel, Daniel Haller, Tyler Bolo and George Rateb won $15,000 as the first runner up team in the prestigious M3 Challenge math competition. Now, the graduating seniors and close-knit friends are preparing to go their separate ways as they pursue diverse post-secondary plans at Duke University, Stanford University, NC State University and Georgia Tech.
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Former students celebrate Waxhaw Elementary teacherโs lasting legacy
Several weeks ago, Waxhaw Elementary teacher Maureen Stuka began to wonder if she's had an impact on her students. On May 25, dozens of former students attended a surprise celebration for Stuka, where they showed her just how much of a difference she has made in their lives.
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Rea View Elementary students think critically and creatively in mock medical school
"The Rea View Medical School" graduation was the culmination of a weeks-long focus on body systems and included a unique approach to learning that required the fifth graders to collaborate, think creatively, conduct their own research and fine-tune their presentation skills.
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#UCPSGrads: Graduating seniors celebrated at districtwide Academic Signing Day events
Following the success of last yearโs inaugural Academic Signing Week event, UCPS celebrated the academic achievements of its high school seniors again this year by hosting Academic Signing Days on May 21 and 22. The UCPS Academic Signing Days recognize seniors who have plans to attend community college, trade and vocational school, and two and four-year colleges as well as students who have enlisted in the military, have internships or are prospective public service employees.
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UCPS students win top awards at Student Artist Showcase
The Union County Community Arts Council recently announced the winners of its Student Artsist Showcase, the annual competition that draws hundreds of art entries from UCPS students in categories that include ceramics/pottery, crafts, computer art, digital imagery, black and white drawing, color drawing, mixed media, painting and printmaking.
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A love of language and culture: Marvin Elementary Mandarin immersion student sets her sights on middle school
Six years ago, Marvin Elementary parents Jennifer and Joe Pollino enrolled their daughter Taylor in UCPS' first Mandarin immersion program. Taylor is now a fifth grader who is not only proficient in Mandarin but has also grown to have a love of culture and languages. Next year, she, along with her tight-knit group of Mandarin immersion peers, will be the first students to participate in the school districtโs Mandarin immersion program at Marvin Ridge Middle.
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First group of Spanish immersion students prepare to make history again
In the fall of 2012, a group of kindergartners made history as they walked into the Spanish immersion classes at Shiloh and Sun Valley elementary schools. Those kindergartners are now fifth graders who are preparing to make history again as the first students to participate in the districtโs Spanish immersion program at Sun Valley Middle.
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New South Providence courses help students explore industries and hone new skills
Two years ago, South Providence Principal Willie Howard noticed that many of his students shared a common interest: cars. With the support of school staff, the Union County Sheriff's Office and an outstanding automotive teacher, a small engines course was implemented and has helped pave the way for new course electives at the school.
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May 16 is an Optional Teacher Workday
Union County Public Schools will close for students on Wednesday, May 16 and the day will become an Optional Teacher Workday.
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New UCPS Mobile Book Bus rolls into communities this summer
Next month, UCPS will launch its first UCPS Mobile Book Bus, a new literacy initiative designed to provide elementary-aged students with books throughout the summer. Elementary students will have the opportunity to board the retrofitted bus and check out age-appropriate books at no cost to their family, a move that will ultimately help to improve their literacy skills and ensure all students have access to books.
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New one-of-a-kind recording studio at CATA effortlessly blends arts and technology
CATA's new recording studio is part of the Music Production and Recording Arts academy and effortlessly blends two of the schoolโs major focus areas โ arts and technology. Students have the freedom to write, record and produce professional-quality music.
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Union County Board of Education approves 2018-19 budget
At its May 1 meeting, the Union County Board of Education approved the 2018-19 budget. The budget, which includes operating and capital expenses, is a $6.9 million increase over last yearโs county budget appropriation and includes a focus on school safety and security, investment in human capital and continuous organizational improvement.
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SVHS Extra-Ordinary People Club promotes inclusion and builds lasting friendships
Sun Valley High's new club, The Extra Ordinary People Club, provides an inclusive club for students with and without disabilities, allowing them to build genuine friendships and make a significant social impact in their community. The club hosted a schoolwide celebration of Autism Awareness Week, and encouraged all of their peers to wear blue ribbons or blue shirts to show their support for those who have autism. They also held an informational session for their peers to teach them more about autism and encouraged other students to write and publicly display their handwritten messages to students who have autism.
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Benton Heights Elementary students showcase school pride, talent and leadership skills at inaugural Leadership Day
The inaugural Benton Heights Elementary Leadership Day provided an opportunity for the school to celebrate its accomplishments, show off the progress students have made with their academics as well as showcase their talent and leadership skills. It also allowed community members to see how Leader in Me -- the whole-school transformation process that teaches leadership skills and creates a culture of student empowerment -- drives the culture of the school.
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Western Union Elementary teacher Ashley Erb named 2018-19 UCPS Teacher of the Year
On April 19, Western Union Elementary teacher Ashley Erb was named the 2018-19 UCPS Teacher of the Year. For winning the countywide Teacher of the Year title, Ashley received $500 for her personal use as well as a one-year lease of a 2018 car, courtesy of Union County KIA. The Union County Education Foundation also awarded her $1,000 for her personal use.
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Sandy Ridge Elementary parent volunteer finds her calling
In honor of National Volunteer Month, UCPS celebrates the many volunteers who play an integral role in the success of our schools. From serving as reading buddies to assisting with fundraising activities, thousands of UCPS parents, like Sandy Ridge Elementary parent Kate Wehner, graciously volunteer their time, talent, support and resources in our schools every year.
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Classroom libraries help provide equity and instill love of reading in all UCPS elementary schools
Classroom libraries are now available in every third through fifth grade class, which means every single elementary school classroom in the district now has a fully stocked, quality classroom library. The classroom libraries will ultimately help to ensure all elementary students in the district have access to quality literature and resources.
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Parkwood High aspiring chefs showcase their skills at state cook-off competition
Several months ago, three Parkwood High students submitted a recipe to the inaugural NC Jr. Chef Competition. Their Lemon Pepper Rosemary Chicken dish not only received rave reviews from their peers, but it also earned them one of only eight spots in a statewide cook-off at the April 9 NC Jr. Chef Competition.
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UCPS to hire highly qualified teachers at annual career fair
UCPS will host its annual career fair for prospective teachers from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 14 at Weddington High. Highly qualified candidates have the potential to receive an early hire letter for the 2018-19 school year.
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Piedmont High senior โlearns and earnsโ in UCPS Pre-Apprenticeship Program
The UCPS Pre-Apprenticeship Program is designed to help students develop the necessary technical skills for a successful career in a variety of industries. Trey and his peers, who are part of the inaugural pre-apprenticeship class, are paid for approximately 20 hours of work each week and also have the opportunity to take relevant coursework at SPCC โ at absolutely no cost to them.
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#UCPSBooksandBrackets: Kensington Elementary is the Books and Brackets Champion
During a celebration held at Wingate University, Kensington Elementary was named the winner of the 2018 Books and Brackets reading challenge. This year, UCPS third and fourth graders cumulatively read more than 12 million minutes in this yearโs challenge, which roughly translates to 200,000 hours. This yearโs total is more than double the number of minutes third graders read during last yearโs inaugural Books and Brackets reading challenge.
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Hemby Bridge Elementary student fulfills lifelong dream of meeting NBA superstar
This week, Hemby Bridge Elementary first grader Jonathan Page will experience a life-changing event as he fulfills his dream of meeting Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry.
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Books and Brackets reading challenge has far-reaching benefits for all students
From dance parties to read-a-thons to mystery book scavenger hunts, all 30 UCPS elementary schools have found creative ways to encourage and celebrate their students during the Books and Brackets challenge.
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#UCPSBooksandBrackets: Final Four advance to the next round of Books and Brackets reading challenge
Four UCPS elementary schools are now advancing to the Final Four round of this yearโs Books and Brackets reading challenge.
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Monroe Middle sixth graders share their love of science at inaugural HSA science fair
On March 13, more than a dozen Health Sciences Academy at Monroe Middle students proudly wore lab coats as they patiently stood next to brightly colored trifold poster boards in the schoolโs gymnasium. It was the middle schoolโs science fair, and for an hour, the students expertly fielded questions about their projects from a panel of judges that included City of Monroe Mayor Bobby Kilgore, Union County Board of Commissioners Vice Chairman Richard Helms, Atrium Health Union President Mike Lutes and more.
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#UCPSBooksandBrackets: Elite Eight advance to the next round in Books and Brackets reading challenge
Eight UCPS elementary schools are now advancing to the Elite Eight round of this yearโs Books and Brackets reading challenge.
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UCPS students hone critical thinking and coding skills in cluster-wide coding clubs
Every elementary school in the Porter Ridge cluster now offers coding clubs to its students. The clubs focus on helping students develop their critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and communication skills.
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Board of Education approves realignment plan
At its March 6, 2018 meeting, the Board of Education approved a realignment plan that will go into effect beginning in the 2018-19 school year. The Board of Education adopted the recommendation of the Student Realignment Citizens Advisory Committee with several amendments.
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30 Monroe Middle sixth graders are men in the making
As part of Monroe Middle's 1 Million Men in the Making program, mentors help their mentees develop life skills (i.e., job interview skills, money management, etc.) and personal character attributes (i.e., leadership, responsibility, etc.). The data-driven program will monitor the participantsโ school performance and provide results at the end of the school year.
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UCPS announces 2018 Teacher of the Year finalists
On March 5, UCPS Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan and Cabinet staff revealed the names of the 2018 Teacher of the Year finalists by visiting the teachers at their schools. The winner will be announced at the annual Teacher of the Year banquet on April 19.
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#UCPSBooksandBrackets: Sixteen schools advance to the next round of the Books and Brackets reading challenge
The minutes are in! On March 2, 16 UCPS elementary schools advanced to the Sweet 16 round in the 2018 Books and Brackets reading challenge.
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SVHS career readiness course connects students to in-demand careers
At the UCPS High School Programs Expo on March 3, UCPS middle and high school families will have the opportunity to explore a variety of academic options available to high school students, including Sun Valley Highโs computer-aided drafting and design (CADD) courses that successfully prepare students to enter the workforce. In fact, the SVHS drafting students are so talented that local companies have even started to reach out to Sun Valley High teacher Eddie Mull to hire his students upon graduation.
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Parkwood High students showcase social justice podcasts at state conference
On March 1, Parkwood High teacher Samantha Sherlin and three of her students will travel to the NCTies conference in Raleigh, where they will showcase and discuss their social justice podcasts with attendees.
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Marvin Ridge Middle student edges out competition in regional spelling bee
On Feb. 19, Marvin Ridge Middle student Eva Vega won the 64th annual Charlotte Observer Regional Spelling Bee. As this yearโs winner, Eva will receive an all-expense paid trip for two to the national Spelling Bee Week in Washington, D.C., which will be held May 27 to June 1.
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Rea View Elementary students share the love on Valentineโs Day
On Valentine's Day, Rea View Elementary students decorated and stuffed 250 tote bags with teddy bears, blankets, hygiene supplies, crayons and more. The tote bags, which they call "sweet cases," will be donated to foster children in the greater Charlotte area.
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It's that time again: Books and Brackets is back!
On Feb. 15, UCPS kicked off the 2018 Books and Brackets reading challenge with a pep rally at Indian Trail Elementary. Books and Brackets, which is patterned after the March Madness basketball competition, allows all 30 of the school districtโs elementary schools to compete in a five-week reading challenge.
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PRMS musical emphasizes inclusiveness, both on and off the stage
On Feb. 8, the Porter Ridge Middle (PRMS) musical theatre troupe took to the stage and performed Shrek the Musical Jr. for more than 1,000 UCPS students. With their award-winning acting chops on full display, the actors danced across the stage and belted out songs that emphasized confidence and the importance of simply being yourself.
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Board of Education approves restart applications for three elementary schools
At its Feb. 6 meeting, the Union County Board of Education approved restart applications for Walter Bickett, East and Benton Heights elementary schools. If approved by the State Board of Education, the schools will have the option to have charter-like flexibility for the school calendar, areas of teacher certification and funding.
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MIT students inspire and encourage UCPS middle school girls
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) students Amber VanHemel and Lisa Tang recently spent a week talking to hundreds of UCPS middle school girls about the various career opportunities in STEM-related fields. The students talked about the importance of STEM, broke down gender stereotypes, discussed trailblazing women in STEM-related fields and encouraged the students to consider participating in local STEM programs and summer camps.
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Welcome, Class of 2031: Kindergarten Registration for 2018-19 school year is open
UCPS kindergarten registration for the 2018-19 school year is open! Union County parents of children who will be five years old on or before Aug. 31, 2018 are encouraged to visit the school their child will attend to register their student for kindergarten.
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Marvin Ridge Middle student outperforms 39 competitors in record-breaking UCPS Spelling Bee
After a record-breaking 4.5-hour competition, Marvin Ridge Middle eighth grader Eva Vega won the UCPS Spelling Bee championship on Jan. 30. Weddington Elementary fourth grader Harini Rajakumar, who was also a runner up in the 2017 UCPS Spelling Bee, came in second.
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UCPS Communications Team wins 15 state awards for effective school communications and public relations
The UCPS Communications team won 15 Blue Ribbon Awards as well as the coveted Best of the Best Award for Special Events and Programs at the Jan. 26 North Carolina School Public Relations Associationโs annual awards ceremony. The team placed among the top five school districts in the state for the total number of awards received for their outstanding school communications and public relations efforts in 2017.
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Union Elementary graduates UCPS' inaugural class of the Young Bankers Club
Thirty Union Elementary students recently graduated from the Young Bankers Club, a financial literacy program that teaches the importance of education, finances and personal responsibility. The graduates are the first UCPS students to participate in the program, which will be rolled out in additional UCPS schools next year.
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Countdown to Kindergarten: Get the UCPS kindergarten experience at an upcoming open house
From a Popcorn with the Principal event at Indian Trail Elementary to a Parent Morning Session at Antioch Elementary to guided dual language tours at Walter Bickett and East elementary schools, all 30 UCPS elementary schools are opening their doors to show why they are the best option for your childโs education.
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Countdown to Kindergarten: Tips for preparing your student for kindergarten
Kindergarten is an important moment in time for young students as they begin to develop new skills, independence and confidence. Here are a few ways you can set your child up for success while also encouraging them to develop a love of learning.
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Forest Hills High students share G.I.R.L. power with mentees
Every month, 32 members of Forest Hills High's I'm a G.I.R.L. Club meet with their Marshville Elementary mentees to discuss everything ranging from academics and transitioning to bullying and peer pressure.
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Countdown to Kindergarten: Hereโs what you need to register your student
If you plan to enroll your student for the 2018-19 school year, now is the time to start gathering the documents you will need to complete the registration process.
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Therapy dogs bring calm and comfort to UCPS classrooms
Therapy dogs are widely regarded as an inexpensive way to assist students in focusing on their education while providing a comforting presence. And with administrative guidelines for non-service animals now in place, all UCPS students have the opportunity to gain the physical, social, cognitive, emotional and mental health benefits that therapy dogs provide in a classroom setting.
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Countdown to Kindergarten: UCPS provides well-rounded educational experience for its youngest students
From the first bell in the morning to the last bell of the school day, UCPS kindergarteners are fully engaged in developing new skills and a love for learning that will set them up for success in college, career and life.
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Sun Valley Middle students lead through reading
Every Friday, 80 Sun Valley Middle students participate in the schoolโs Leading with Reading program โ a new reading buddy initiative that pairs seventh and eighth grade students with first graders.
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#UCPSGivesBack: UCPS students and staff give back to their local communities
This holiday season, hundreds of Union County Public Schools students and staff spent weeks donating their time, talents and resources to help those in need.
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#UCPSGivesBack: Marvin Ridge High freshmanโs nonprofit gives back, at home and abroad
This year, Marvin Ridge freshman Simran Bhargava co-founded HelpHygiene, a nonprofit organization that provides hygiene supplies to communities. On Dec. 15, Simran and HelpHygiene co-founder Malika Rawal left for India for one of their largest initiatives to date: HelpHygiene Project India. Their goal is to help at least 1,000 people living in poverty by giving them toiletries and other necessities.
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#UCPSGivesBack: Book donations pour in for Take Home Library Project at Marshville Elementary
UCPS, Unite Union and Huntington Learning Center - Weddington recently created the Take Home Library Project, an initiative that will provide every student in a UCPS Title I elementary school with three books to start their own at-home library. The initiative kicked off on Dec. 13 at Marshville Elementary, where students received books that were donated through book drives at New Town Elementary and Cuthbertson Middle.
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#UCPSGivesBack: Hurricane fundraiser connects survivors and Western Union Elementary students
Western Union and Shiloh elementary schools recently raised $1,465 for Unidos por Puerto Rico. To help Western Union Elementary dual language students make a connection to their fundraising efforts, UCPS staff member Virginia Gutierrez's mother and aunt talked to the students about their experiences in Puerto Rico before, during and after Hurricane Maria.
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Wesley Chapel parent helps students connect coding to everyday life
During the week of Dec. 4, Union County Public Schools celebrated Computer Science Education Week, the annual nationwide celebration that highlights the importance of computer science in education systems. Wesley Chapel Elementary parent David Newell volunteered to spend the week at the elementary school teaching computer science to students in every grade level.
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Unionville Elementary receives state recognition for global education
On Dec. 7, the NC Department of Public Instruction named Unionville Elementary a North Carolina Model Global-Ready School, making the school a leader in its focus on global education. Unionville Elementary is the second school in North Carolina, and the first in Union County, to receive this distinction.
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$40,000 coding grant to fund new courses and training sessions at Porter Ridge Middle and High
The $40,000 Coding and Mobile App Development Grant grant will support Porter Ridge Middle and High robotics and coding programs, expand partnerships with local universities and create opportunities for students and staff to attend trainings, conferences and coding boot camps.
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#UCPSGivesBack: UCEC students get their fashion fix at charitable fashion show
On Nov. 28, the Union County Early College DECA club hosted the Fashion Fix to Fix Childhood Cancer -- the culmination of a two-months long community service project. Proceeds from the ticket sales and donations will be given to the Carolina Kids Research Fund.
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Carolina Panthers and Union Power Cooperative surprise Wingate Elementary teachers with grants
On Nov. 28, Union Power Cooperative surprised Wingate Elementary teachers Joya Wortham and Teresa Higgins with two Bright Ideas grants.
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14 UCPS schools receive grants to promote and support arts education
Fourteen UCPS schools recently received Arts in Schools grants for projects that promote and support arts education and/or instruction for students. Provided by the Union County Community Arts Council, the annual Arts in Schools Grants are designed to serve the cultural needs of students through a wide range of classroom activities, programs and services.
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New Weddington Middle course provides peer support to students with disabilities
Offered for the first time this year at Weddington Middle, the Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) Helpers course provides seventh and eighth grade student leaders with an opportunity to provide modeling assistance to students who have disabilities.
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Former UCPS Teacher Cadet returns to her former classroom. This time, as a teacher.
In honor of American Education Week, UCPS is showing appreciation to staff members who make a difference in ensuring every child receives a quality education. We celebrate our many employees who are dedicated to our students โ some of whom, such as Porter Ridge Elementary teacher Kasey Hayes, have been dedicated to their profession since high school.
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Monroe Middle veteran uses past experiences to connect with students
In honor of Veterans Day, UCPS thanks all of the men and women in uniform who have given so much in service of America. Many of our staff members previously served in the military before coming to UCPS, including Monroe Middle Behavior Modification Specialist Michael Aytes.
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Marvin Ridge High freshman uses technology to make an impact in his community
At only 15 years old, Marvin Ridge High freshman Kaveesh Bhatnagar has already taken the initiative to contribute his technology skills to his community. He recently created a chabot for the Festival of India celebration and is working with a group of friends to create a nonprofit that will help to bridge the digital divide.
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New kilns broaden arts education for UCPS students
Four schools will receive new kilns this school year, courtesy of the Union County Community Arts Council. The kilns, which have been donated to 10 schools during the last two years, help to broaden arts education for UCPS students.
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2017 LIFT Grants help UCPS teachers inspire, create and make an impact in their schools
More than 20 UCPS teachers received LIFT Grants for projects that boost literacy, bridge the achievement gap and spur students toward careers and college. On Oct. 26, UCPS cabinet members, Board of Education Chair Melissa Merrell as well as Union County Education Foundation Executive Director Amy Sperry and Board Chair Fred Edwards presented checks to five teachers who were awarded grants of $750 and up.
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Cuthbertson Middle students make real-world connections at inaugural Career Day
Cuthbertson Middle hosted its inaugural Career Day on Oct. 20. The goal of the Career Day was to help middle school students get prepared for their future by exposing them to various career options.
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UCPS and CHS celebrate new Health Sciences Academy at Monroe Middle
In honor of the new Health Sciences Academy at Monroe Middle, Union County Public Schools (UCPS) and Carolinas HealthCare System (CHS) hosted a celebration on Oct. 17 to highlight their partnership and provide a tour of the new health sciences labs. Students were on hand to discuss what theyโve learned in the academy, and Med Center Air staff was also onsite for an ambulance demonstration with students.
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Indian Trail Elementary students mix it up at lunch to promote kindness and inclusion
Indian Trail Elementary recently held its first Mix It Up at Lunch Day, an international campaign that encourages students to identify, question and cross social boundaries. Students were encouraged to move out of their comfort zones and connect with someone new during lunch.
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New Town Elementary Principal Catherine Perry is named 2017-18 Principal of the Year
During Union County Public Schoolsโ (UCPS) annual Principal of the Year luncheon, New Town Elementary Principal Cathy Perry was named the 2017-18 Principal of the Year. The luncheon was held Thursday, Oct. 12 at the school districtโs Professional Development Center.
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UCPS Advanced Placement participation, Scholars with Distinction increase in 2016-17 school year
Union County Public Schools (UCPS) student participation in Advanced Placement (AP) courses boomed last school year, largely thanks to a districtwide focus on enrolling more students in rigorous courses designed to prepare them for college.
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SVHS teacher uses real-world experience to bring lesson plans to life
Sun Valley High teacher Amanda Hyatt is getting ready to take her lesson plans to the next level: she was recently selected to participate in the Curriculum & Industry Allianceโs teacher externship program.
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UCPS to host technology nights for families
As part of UCPS' focus on preparing students to be college and career ready, Technology Family Nights and FAFSA Information Sessions will be held at four high schools throughout the month of October. This marks the first time UCPS has offered districtwide technology nights and FAFSA sessions for families.
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UCPS names Principal of the Year finalists
Ten UCPS Principal of the Year finalists have been selected from a pool of more than 50 principals. The winner will be announced at a Principalโs Meeting luncheon on Oct. 12 and will represent UCPS in the Wells Fargo Principal of the Year competition in December.
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UCPS awarded $27 million Teacher and School Leader Incentive Grant
UCPS recently received a three-year $27 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education's Teacher and School Leader Incentive Program. The grant will provide funding to support, train and reward excellent teachers and school leaders.
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Parkwood High students use mobile apps to bridge history and technology
This school year, several classes at Parkwood Middle and High schools are piloting a web-based curriculum program that teaches mobile app development. History teacher Vinson Covington said his goal is for students to learn how to create an app so they'll enter college having background knowledge of computer programming.
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Fifteen schools receive state recognition for Positive Behavior Intervention and Support
A record 15 UCPS schools recently received state recognition for their Positive Behavior Intervention and Support systems, and were praised for supporting high student performance while reducing behavioral problems.
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Forest Hills High students โGet Schooledโ in national attendance challenge
As UCPS schools across the county explore ways to encourage student attendance during Attendance Awareness Month, Forest Hills High is ramping up its own year-long student attendance campaign. The high school recently set a goal of raising its average attendance rate from 92 to 95 percent.
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UCPS tutor uses math to build meaningful relationships with students
When Franco McGee heard about the opportunity to work at his local elementary school as a math tutor, he instantly knew that it was perfect for him. So he made the decision to sign up as a math tutor at Benton Heights Elementary because he wanted to be a positive male role model for students in his community.
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East Union Middle agriculture program introduces students to a world of possibilities
East Union Middle's new agriculture program teaches students about the fundamentals of agriculture as well as environmental and natural resources. The program will provide students with the foundation they need if they choose to participate in the popular agriculture program at Forest Hills High.
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UCPS announces accountability results for 2016-17
Highlights of the report show that two schools moved out of low-performing status and 70 percent of schools received either an A+, A or B designation.
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Board of Education approves five-year strategic plan
At its Sept. 7 meeting, the Board of Education approved Strategic Plan 2022, a framework that outlines UCPS' long-term outcomes, strategic themes, initiatives and action items.
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Piedmont High student races his way onto Team USA for the 2018 Duathlon World Championship
Piedmont High student Alex Gaura was recently selected to join Team USA at the 2018 Duathlon World Championship.
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Back to School: Excitement, energy and enthusiasm at start of new school year
On Monday, Aug. 28, tens of thousands of students walked through the doors of 48 Union County schools as the first day of classes began for schools on the traditional calendar.
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Dr. Andrew Houlihan reflects on his first year as Superintendent of UCPS
On Aug. 24, Dr. Andrew Houlihan celebrated his first year as superintendent. Reflecting on the past year, Dr. Houlihan said he attributes all of the district's accomplishments and successes during the past year to the outstanding educators and administrators throughout the district.
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Union County and UCPS team up to provide students with more literacy resources
On Aug. 23, UCPS elaborated on plans to revamp its literacy framework for students by launching a new community-based reading initiative and announcing a partnership with Union County Public Library.
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Back to School: Bus tracking app is now available
This school year, UCPS parents will be able to view the real-time location of their childโs school bus on their smartphones, tablets or computers.
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Back to School: Tips for beginning a new school year
Classes at traditional schools begin in less than two weeks! If you haven't started getting ready, now is the time to start.
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Back to School: UCPS teachers get a jump on the new school year at annual conference
With the start of the traditional school year right around the corner, more than 1,000 UCPS teachers poured into Porter Ridge schools this week to attend the 2017-18 UCPS Kickoff event.
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Back to School: Middle school transition camps set students up for success
This week, as many as 150 rising sixth-graders got a head start on the new school year by attending middle school transition camps at Monroe and East Union middle schools.
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Back to School: Naviance helps students jumpstart college and career readiness
Thanks to Naviance, a college and career readiness software, UCPS students as young as 11 years old will soon be able to get a head start on planning for their future. By having students think about their post-secondary plans as early as sixth grade, the software will ultimately help them identify their strengths, explore career interests and create education plans for high school and beyond.
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Back to School: Mindful techniques help Walter Bickett Elementary students embrace the present
Last year, more than 200 UCPS staff members were trained on the importance of mindfulness and self-care for educators and students. Since then, the therapeutic techniques have been practiced in six schools across the district, including Walter Bickett Elementary, where Principal Dr. Jamie Benfield hopes her students will ultimately learn how to integrate mindfulness into their lives.
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UCPS launches community newsletter
UCPS announces the launch of UCPS Snapshots, an e-newsletter that will provide community members with timely information about district programs, initiatives and more.
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3D Design and Innovation summer camp introduces students to in-demand careers
A dozen UCPS students recently participated in the 3D Design and Innovation summer camp. The students designed models using various software and were able to see their models come to life through 3-D printing.
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UCPS educators have the โexperience of a lifetimeโ during cultural exchange trip to China
UCPS educators recently traveled to China to teach English to students. The annual trip -- which is the result of a partnership among Marvin Ridge High, the High School affiliated to Nanjing Normal University and the Asia Societyโs Confucius Classroom Network --is an opportunity for UCPS staff to increase their global awareness and appreciation for other cultures.
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Year-round schools kick off first day of the new school year
On July 20, approximately 3,000 students flooded the hallways at Shiloh, Walter E. Bickett, Benton Heights and East elementary schools as well as Wolfe School as they returned for the first day of year-round school.
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UCPS Class of 2017 earns record $126 million in scholarships
The UCPS Class of 2017 earned a record $126 million in scholarships this year, marking the seventh consecutive year the amount of scholarships offered to graduating seniors has steadily increased.
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UCPS staff receive awards for outstanding accomplishments
UCPS staff have been recognized during the past few months for their dedication to the school districtโs students as well as their professionalism on the job. Check out some of our outstanding employees who were recently recognized for their achievements.
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UCPS leadership changes for the 2017-18 school year
UCPS has announced new leadership for the 2017-18 school year. Check out the list of UCPS leadership changes at the district and school levels.
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Forest Hills and Monroe clusters explore new approaches to school discipline
School staff from the Monroe and Forest Hills clusters recently attended the Safe & Civil Schools Foundations training, where they discussed managing student behavior through positive reinforcement.
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Wingates team up to produce better readers
Wingate Elementary and Wingate University recently partnered to open the Wingates United Reading Center, a summer program that aims to address literacy needs at the elementary school.
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UCPS students soar to new heights in aerospace summer camp
UCPS students recently participated in a four-day aerospace summer camp. The camp is just one of 14 summer programs offered by the school districtโs Career & Technical Education department.
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Join #TeamUCPS and be a math tutor
Do you excel in math and love to work with kids? Join #TeamUCPS today as a part-time math tutor for fourth- and seventh-grade students.
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UCPS staff collaborates to navigate its way through literacy
Three hundred UCPS principals, assistant principals and curriculum staff flooded Cuthbertson High School this week for the Summer Instructional Leadership Institute, the school districtโs annual three-day professional development conference.
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Rocky River Elementary tackles summer slide with "Reading on the Go"
Every summer, schools across the country grapple with ways to deal with the "summer slide" โ the months-long span during the summer when many children forget some of what theyโve learned during the academic year. But Rocky River Elementary School staff thinks they may have found a solution.
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Poplin Elementary music teacher hangs up her baton after 20 plus years in the classroom
UCPS recently celebrated its retirees at a luncheon held on June 14. Check out this story about a Poplin Elementary teacher who will retire with 34 years of state service, and click on the link in the story to view pictures from the retiree celebration.
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UCPS Grads: Parkwood High School senior takes steps toward lifelong goal of being a surgeon
Thanks to years of focus, determination and hard work, Songia Wynn will attend Duke University this fall on a full scholarship. After she receives her bachelor's degree, she plans to attend Duke University School of Medicine and then pursue a residency while specializing in thoracic surgery.
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UCPS Grads: It's a family affair at Piedmont High School
Many schools boast of a family-like atmosphere where the teachers feel so close to their students that, at times, they can feel like their children. But at Piedmont High School (PHS), several teachers know that the family-like atmosphere doesnโt end as soon as the seniors graduate from high school.
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Photo Gallery: UCPS Graduation 2017
Graduation season is in full swing. We've captured highlights from several graduation ceremonies. Please feel free to tag us on social media with your graduation photos using the hashtag #UCPSGrads.
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Photo Gallery: UCPS students celebrate the last day of school
June 9 marked the last day of school for UCPS students. Check out the photo gallery to see how the students celebrated the end of another great school year!
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UCPS Grads: Monroe High School senior shares personal experiences to inspire classmates
Monroe High School senior Alex Bridges has used his lifeโs challenges to inspire his classmates. Through confidence and a will to succeed, he will leave Monroe High School ready to take his education to the next level.
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UCPS Grads: CATA senior wows both on and off the stage
Onstage, Justin Rivers is a captivating and award-winning actor and singer. Offstage, he is a humble and gracious person who has earned the respect of his teachers and peers, and will attend Point Park University this fall.
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UCPS Grads: PRHS senior prepares for a career in service
This fall, Porter Ridge High School senior Samantha Rankin will attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, an opportunity that allows her to combine her goals of pursuing a college degree and military career.
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Spaces available in UCPS Career and Technical Education Summer Camps
Summer is almost here. Have you registered your student for a Union County Public Schools (UCPS) summer camp? Some UCPS summer camps, which are offered at various locations throughout Union County, are still available for rising eighth or ninth-grade students.
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A lesson in financial literacy opens doors for Monroe High seniors
On May 25, Monroe High School held a Financial Literacy Day featuring workshops about topics that included Taxes 101, Job Applications and Resumes, Investing and more.
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Sun Valley Middle School wins top award for integrating math and science simulator into curriculum
ExploreLearning, the parent company of the interactive math and science simulator Gizmos, recognized Sun Valley Middle School for being the top UCPS middle school to integrate Gizmos into their curriculum during the school year.
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A budding author: Kensington Elementary School student writes book to help other students
Kensington Elementary School first-grader Jaxon Glover recently published the book, The Nice Monster Under My Bed, and donated 30 copies to UCPS media centers.
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Photo Gallery: UCPS honors seniors with inaugural Academic Signing Week
Union County Public Schools is celebrating the academic achievements of its high school seniors by hosting the school districtโs inaugural Academic Signing Week from May 15-19.
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Photo Gallery: Nearly 70 Union County Early College graduates kick off UCPS graduation season
Nearly 70 high school seniors graduated from Union County Early College (UCEC) on Wednesday, May 10, marking the beginning of the Union County Public Schools high school graduation season.
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Sun Valley High School students go the extra mile
An elite group of Sun Valley High School graduating seniors will be walking across the stage as gold medal winners. These gold medallions will be given to graduating seniors who are part of a new initiative called Advanced Placement Academy of Leadership and Success (APALS.)
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New building at Walter Bickett Elementary makes a positive impact on learning
A new building is making a major impact on learning at Walter Bickett Elementary. Third through fifth graders are now occupying a new wing that includes 15 classrooms, six resource rooms and a new curved-style auditorium.
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UCPS and Carolinas HealthCare System partner to expand academic and career options at Monroe Middle
Union County Public Schools (UCPS) and Carolinas HealthCare System (CHS) have announced a partnership to implement a healthcare and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) pathway for Monroe Middle School students.
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Superintendentโs budget addresses improving districtโs academic programming, support for neediest students
At the May 2 Board of Education meeting, Dr. Andrew Houlihan submitted the 2017-18 superintendentโs budget to the Union County Board of Education. Dr. Houlihanโs budget is aligned with the five trends that emerged from his Listening and Learning Tour.
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UCPS launches new literacy framework
Union County Public Schools is revamping its Literacy Framework for elementary schools. The elementary instructional team presented โLiteracy for Uโ at the May 2 Board of Education meeting to explain new strategies, goals and professional development opportunities for staff.
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Porter Ridge Middle students help rebuild home for orphans in Haiti
Two orphaned brothers in Haiti will soon be able to sleep in their own beds thanks to the generosity of staff and students at Porter Ridge Middle School. The middle school students in Theryne Medlinโs language arts class raised $3,000, enough to help rebuild the home of Gary and Jude Pierre, whose home was destroyed by Hurricane Matthew in October 2016.
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Second annual Porter Ridge Earth Day Fair teaches importance of conservation
Porter Ridge High School students came out in droves to show their support for protecting the Earth during the schoolโs second annual Earth Day Fair. The event, coordinated by Regina Snelson, the schoolโs media coordinator, showcases the hard work of Jill Kellerโs Earth/Environmental Science classes.
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Rocky River Elementary students learn today how to be the leaders of tomorrow
When you meet a student from Rocky River Elementary School, donโt be surprised if he extends his hand in greeting, introduces himself with a big smile and confidence in his eyes. Simply put, Rocky River Elementary School is shaping its approximately 750 students to be leaders of tomorrow through the implementation of the Leader in Me program.
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Unionville Elementaryโs dual language program hailed for its success
Dual language, which is instruction taught in both English and a second language, is thriving at Unionville Elementary School. Itโs been so successful, itโs gotten the attention of legislators and the state superintendent. State Rep. Craig Horn and State Superintendent Mark Johnson visited the school after hearing about the success of its dual language program. They both toured the classrooms seeing first-hand the success of the program.
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UCPS Teacher of the Year Amanda Stinchcomb โepitome of great teacher'
This yearโs Union County Public Schools teacher of the year is known for her passion for teaching, her love of her students and considered by her colleagues to be the embodiment of a great teacher. Western Union Elementary teacher Amanda Stinchcomb was chosen as the 2017-18 UCPS Teacher of the Year during Thursday's (April 20, 2017) annual banquet.
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Math 24 challenge adds up to fast-paced excitement for UCPS middle school students
An eighth grader from Porter Ridge Middle School, Dylan Beckham, walked away with the district championship title during the annual Union County Middle School Math 24 competition held at Piedmont Middle School on April 5.
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First UCPS Teacher of the Year reflects on changes in education over the past 42 years
Union County Public Schools will name its 2017 Teacher of the Year Thursday in an annual event that has honored the top educators in the district for the past two decades. Twenty-three years ago, the newly formed Union County Public Schools crowned its very first Teacher of the Year โ Barbara Coleman, a third-grade teacher at Wingate Elementary School. This is her story.
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Morehead-Cain recipient from Piedmont High has heart for service and compassion for others
Four days before her 18th birthday, Piedmont High School senior Kayley Elizabeth Carpenter anxiously awaited news that would change her life forever. โI knew this was either going to be a really sad birthday or a really happy birthday,โ she said.
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28 UCPS students graduate as Men of Valor
โValor: having the strength of mind, spirit or attitude to face any obstacle or challenge with confidence.โ These powerful words are proudly displayed on the backs of T-shirts worn by Men of Valor, comprised of UCPS students who participate in a six-week mentoring program.
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2017-18 UCPS Teacher of the Year down to 10 finalists
The 2017-18 Union County Public Schools Teacher of the Year will be named April 20. The winner will be chosen from the top 10 finalists who are listed in alphabetical order. (See inside)
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SRO of the year known for connecting with students
Donโt look for School Resource Officer (Monroe Police) Lt. David Evatt in the office at his school. He is much more likely to be interacting with students at Central Academy of Technology and Arts. Evatt was named this yearโs SRO of the Year Monday (April 3).
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Marisol Uribe, April Employee of the Month, gives back in variety of ways
The Union County Public Schoolsโ April Employee of the Month, Marisol Uribe, not only does her job of assisting students in the Monroe High Schoolโs ESL program, but she also contributes her talents in other areas of the school, as well.
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Books and Brackets literacy challenge makes the goal
Itโs not unusual to walk into Cuddy Arena at Wingate University and hear the roaring cheers of excitement filling the air, but Friday (March 31, 2017) that high energy came from 800 Union County Public Schools third graders.
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Union Elementary School is the Books and Brackets champion
Union Elementary students were crowned the champions of the first annual Books and Brackets Reading Challenge after having read the most minutes. About 800 UCPS third graders, their teachers, administrators, sponsors, Board of Education members and Wingate athletes celebrated the approximately 26 million minutes read by the systemโs approximately 3,000 third graders since the literacy challenge began Feb. 27.
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UCPS students get college-ready through high-level courses
A group of Porter Ridge High School students in a Pharmacy Tech Class, part of the Career and Technical Educationโs Health Science Program, are a prime example of UCPS graduates being better prepared for college and careers.
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Parkwood Middle Science stars raise the bar
Parkwood Middle Schoolโs Science Olympiad team continued to define excellence this past weekend (March 25) by taking home the first-place trophy at their regional Science Olympiad competition. Pictured at left, are our assistant coaches Rebekah Westneat, at left, and Sylvia Wendling.
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Final 4 schools announced in third round of Books and Brackets literacy countdown
In the third round of the Books and Brackets Reading Challenge, four Union County Public Schools are headed to the finish line. The Final 4 schools are (in no particular order) Union, Indian Trail, Kensington and Rocky River elementary schools.
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Reading can be fun! Just ask a third grader
โI like to read,โ said Union Elementary third-grader Gabriel Williams (not pictured). โSometimes when I read, I learn new stuff about things I didnโt even know about. If you donโt read, you probably wonโt find out stuff, and you wouldnโt know things when somebody asks you something. So you should read to learn new things.โ
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Hundreds of potential employees connect at UCPS spring Career Fair
More than 200 job seekers turned out for the UCPS Spring Career Fair at Weddington High School Saturday, March 18. Principals and assistant principals were on hand from 38 UCPS elementary, middle and high schools, as well as nine UCPS departments.
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Elite Eight schools announced in second round of Books and Brackets literacy countdown
In the second round of the Books and Brackets Reading Challenge, eight Union County Public Schools continue to run toward the finish line.
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Photo Gallery: Superintendent's Student Art Showcase
Young Union County Public Schools artists gathered at Central Services Tuesday (March 14) for the Superintendent's Student Art Showcase. Student artwork will hang through the halls of Central Office, serving as a showcase for the talented elementary, middle and high school students throughout the county.
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High School seniors find their futures through Project Search
โPreparing all students to succeedโ isnโt just Union County Public Schoolsโ motto; itโs a rally call for educators. One example of meeting all studentsโ needs: providing students with significant disabilities the training and skills necessary to enter the workforce after high school graduation. Pictured at left is Alex Rotar.
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PRMS students think Pi Day is โSweet!โ
A very clever Porter Ridge Middle School teacher used an apple pie to help her students calculate PI in math class, in honor of the annual March 14 PI Day. Using delicious foods as part of math equations definitely wasnโt a problem for Tamala Voteโs seventh-grade students.
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Sweet 16 schools announced in first Books and Brackets literacy countdown
The minutes are in! Sixteen Union County Public Schools have taken the lead in the first annual Books and Brackets Reading Challenge.
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43 years of service shines light of distinction on Shirley Bess
Shirley Bessโ 43 years of distinguished service with the public school system in Union County has not only given her the opportunity to serve under seven superintendents, but it has brought her state recognition.
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Robert Nichols finds positive side of any problem
Robert Nicholsโ name is synonymous with the words team, family and selfless service. Nichols, who was chosen as the March recipient of the UCPS Employee of the Month, works as a Desktop Engineer at Central Academy of Technology and Art.
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UCPS is hiring, plan to attend spring career fair
Teachers, bus drivers and administrators are just a few of the career opportunities available within Union County Public Schools. These opportunities can be explored during the Saturday, March 18, UCPS Spring Career Fair, to be held at Weddington High School, located at 4901 Monroe Weddington Road in Matthews. Doors will open at 10 am. The fair will continue until 2 pm.
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UCPS students say, โHappy birthday, Dr. Seuss!โ
Union County Public Schools joined the nationwide effort to get every elementary school student to celebrate reading during a March 2 event called Read Across America, which coincided with the 113th birthday of Dr. Seuss.
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Atrocities of the Nazis recounted by Holocaust survivor
About 400 Piedmont High School students sat in awed silence as Holocaust survivor Simon Berger described the day the Nazis took him, his mother, young brother and three sisters to work camps. It was the last time he ever saw them.
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Photo Gallery: UCPS holds Books and Brackets Reading Challenge kick-off
The first annual Books and Brackets Reading Challenge kickoff was held at Sun Valley Elementary Thursday, Feb. 23, a chance for about 120 third graders to get a first-hand look at the competition.
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Photo Gallery: Centennial celebration brings community to Shiloh Elementary
Shiloh Elementary School held a centennial celebration Saturday, Feb. 18, to commemorate its 100th birthday. Students, staff and the community turned out in droves to enjoy games, good food and show their support of this momentous anniversary.
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Shiloh Elementary School: 100 years of quality education
Shiloh Elementary School will be hitting a milestone that sets them apart from many other schools across America. The school is celebrating its 100th birthday. This award-winning school has been providing a quality education for a century to thousands of Union County children.
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School bus drivers share their love for the job
In recognition of Love the Bus Month (February), messages of school bus safety will resonate across America. This week (Feb. 13-17) is School Bus Drivers Appreciation Week. Schools, students, parents and the community at large will take this opportunity to show their gratitude to the bus drivers in their community.
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โHidden Figuresโ adds up to inspirational experience for UCPS students
Teach by example. Itโs a philosophy thatโs as old as time itself. A group of about 60 UCPS middle and high school students learned some valuable lessons, courtesy of the big screen, by watching the examples set by three courageous African American women who worked for NASA in the 1960s.
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Mary Mical, February Employee of the Month, known for customer service
The Union County Public Schoolsโ February Employee of the Month, Mary Mical, continuously seeks ways to improve her customer service.
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Board of Education honors educators for attaining National Board Certification
Congratulations to 27 educators who have either received or renewed their National Board Certification, bringing the total of number of NBCT in UCPS to 286. One teacher, Catherine Hebert from Monroe High School, (pictured at left) received her national certification.
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UCPS announces Books and Brackets 2017
Thousands of Union County Public Schools third graders are gearing up for March Madness with โBooks and Brackets.โ All 30 elementary schools will participate in a reading challenge Feb. 27 โ March 31. For five weeks, students will record the number of minutes read while at school and at home.
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Piedmont High students use art to create unity
Piedmont High School is doing its part to change the world, one student at a time through its school wide participation in the global project Inside Out. The message: self-acceptance and unity are important.
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Walter Bickett and East elementary schools expand academic options
Walter Bickett and East elementary schools are expanding academic options for students. Rising kindergarteners who attend Walter Bickett and East elementary schools for the 2017-18 school year will have the option to enroll in a Spanish Language Immersion Program.
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Visiting high school students from China experience cultural, educational differences
After attending classes at Marvin Ridge High School for several days and living with Union County host families, a group of visiting Chinese students have gained, not only a lot of memories and new friends, but some new customs to take home as well.
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UCPS 2017 Spelling Bee breaks record with 34 rounds
โCan we just call it a tie?โ asked Antioch Elementary fourth grader Daniel Wei after successfully completing 31 of the 34 total rounds of the 2017 UCPS Spelling Bee championship Tuesday, (Jan. 31).
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UCPS Communications Team awarded 15 Blue Ribbons
The Union County Public Schools Communications Team won 15 Blue Ribbon Awards at Fridayโs (Jan. 27) North Carolina School Public Relations Associationโs annual recognition ceremony in Greensboro.
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History comes alive at Fairview Elementary School
About 100 fourth-grade Fairview Elementary students breathed life into famous historical characters of the Civil War era during the schoolโs Wax Museum held Tuesday, Jan. 24.
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Mentor: One who cares enough to make a difference
โBeing a mentor is about walking beside someone, not standing over them and telling them what to do. A mentor has to listen,โ said Ginger Walle of Heart For Monroe. โBeing that person a student can talk to, call during school, after school or at night, is extremely valuable to students. Everyone needs to know that there is someone that has their back.โ
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Kindergarten sets the stage for life-long learning
Problem-solving, communication skills, independence, decision-making and socialization are just a few of the areas that kindergarten can strengthen in young students. Parents of kindergarten-age children can register their children between Feb. 6 - Feb. 10.
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Helping others is life lesson for Forest Hills High School students
Whether organizing a 5-K color run, holding a food drive or raising money to buy books, students in one Forest Hills High School class are making a difference in Union County. Pictured, from left, are Berenice Galarza, Aniyah Blakeney, and Laura Jordan. Andrei Torres is standing.
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Sun Valley Middle School students give dream performance in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
A small group of Sun Valley Middle school students received a standing ovation Friday, Jan. 13 following a touching performance about the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. โIโm so proud of them,โ said their teacher, Amelia Polk. โThey gave it all they had, and they learned a lot about Dr. King, things they didnโt know.โ
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Photo Gallery: Superintendent's Student Advisory Council meets
Fifty high school students from across the county met with Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2017, sharing their ideas on ways to address the five trends that came from Dr. Houlihanโs Listening and Learning tour.
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Januaryโs UCPS Employee of the Month recognized for exceptional performance
The Union County Public Schoolsโ January Employee of the Month was recognized for her ability to step up and get the job done. Retta Threatt was honored at the Jan. 5 Board of Education meeting.
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Classroom sizes, charter school payments are top issues at BOEโs legislative breakfast
Four North Carolina lawmakers heard first-hand some of the concerns facing Union County Public Schools during a legislative breakfast hosted by the Union County Board of Education Friday, Jan. 6.
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Superintendent Houlihan recognizes three principals for their leadership
Good communication with parents is essential, and students are never too young to think about their futures: two philosophies that resulted in Walter Bickett Elementary principal Dr. Jamie Benfield, Porter Ridge High principal Dr. Bashawn Harris and Sun Valley Middle principal Vicki Merritt being recognized by Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan for their leadership.
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Winter storm warning puts freeze on all school, district activities
A winter storm warning that threatens to bring at least three inches of snow to Union County this weekend has resulted in the cancellation of all weekend school and district activities.
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Charity begins at home for Poplin Elementary
No one would think that a tree with no ornaments would be celebrated, but at Poplin Elementary School, thatโs exactly what happened. The tree had been filled with paper snowflakes, each containing a holiday wish from a Poplin family member in need.
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Second graders make the holidays brighter for American soldiers
Western Union Elementary School second graders have brought smiles and a little bit of home to American soldiers over the holiday season. Men and women in uniform received a very special holiday greeting from students, complete with a self-portrait and a brightly colored holiday letter.
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Marvin Ridge students shoot for global awareness
It may look like any other fun holiday photo booth, but for students at Marvin Ridge High School, the activity has global impact. More than 150 high school students โsaid cheeseโ to help raise money for Walking for Water, a school club that hopes to bring awareness of water shortages around the world.
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Wingate Elementary students wrapped in holiday cheer
It was hard to tell who was more excited, the middle school students who brought the presents or the elementary school students who received them. About 200 new coats were purchased on a voluntary basis by individual Cuthbertson Middle School students, wrapped and then brought to the school Thursday, Dec. 15. This is the second year CMS has partnered with Wingate for this project.
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Photo Gallery: Sun Valley Middle holds annual gingerbread house contest
The annual Sun Valley Middle School Gingerbread House contest had 10 students vying for the first-place title this year. The winners were announced in the schoolโs media center on Friday, Dec. 16.
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Dr. Houlihan leads staff development session to share best practices on use of data
Once a teacher, always a teacher, even when you wear a superintendentโs hat. Union County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan had an opportunity to dust off his classroom teacher skills and offer professional development to a group of about 60 educators during a staff meeting at Sun Valley Elementary School Wednesday, Dec. 14.
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Holidays around the world celebrated at Poplin Elementary
The holidays are a time for traditions, but those traditions differ greatly depending on the culture and the country. Maria Ilona Darrigrande, a kindergarten Spanish immersion teacher at Poplin Elementary, wants her students to understand there are many holiday traditions around the world.
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Hour of Code teaches skills today for jobs of tomorrow
Thousands of Union County Public Schools students joined millions across the world learning and manipulating blocks of computer code during last weekโs Hour of Code, the largest learning event in history.
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Mid-year career fair helps to fill vacancies
Union County Public Schools prides itself on hiring top-notch employees to fill job vacancies in and outside of the classroom. To help meet the growing need for educators and other school staff, UCPS held its first mid year career fair Friday, Dec. 9. At left are Forest Hills High School Principal Dr. Kevin Plue and assistant principal Kelly Blakney talking with a job candidate.
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Community steps up with new shoes for elementary students
Thanks to the generosity of First Presbyterian Church in Monroe and JCPenney, about 100 students from Walter Bickett and East elementary schools will be stepping out in style over the holidays.
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Photo Gallery: Wolfe School holiday celebration
Wolfe School staff and students enjoyed the sights and sounds of the holiday season Friday, Dec. 9, at school's annual celebration given courtesy of the Union County Public Schools Facilities Department. Money is raised for this event each year through the annual Ed Sweeney Memorial Golf tournament.
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Kensingtonโs Randy Hayes always willing to lend helping hand
The second recipient of the Union County Public Schools Employee of the Month award is known for coming to the rescue at his school. Randy Hayes, lead custodian at Kensington Elementary School, was recognized at Tuesdayโs, Dec. 6, Board of Education meeting with the December Employee of the Month (EOM) award.
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Board of Education members sworn in at December meeting
Six Union County Public Schools board members were sworn in during the Dec. 6, 2016, board meeting held at Marvin Ridge High School. Newly elected members Candice Sturdivant (District 1), Matt Helms (District 2), Joseph Morreale (District 5), Kathy Heintel (District 6), Dennis Rape (At Large) and returning board member Christina Helms (At Large) were sworn in by Clerk of Court J.R. Rowell.
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Monroe High teacher embarks on new adventure in Malaysia
Malaysia is a Southeast Asian country known for its beaches and rainforests. Home to about 30 million people, it is ruled by a constitutional monarchy, much like Britain. These facts may not hold much significance to the average Union County resident, but to Tyler Lee, a world history teacher at Monroe High School, they are important.
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Union County Public Schools is hiring teachers
The district will hold a Career Fair on Friday, December 9, from 4 โ 7 p.m. at Central Academy of Technology and Arts (600 Brewer Drive) in Monroe, NC. School administrators and support staff directors will be available to talk to prospective employees about positions in instructional and non-instructional areas.
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CATAโs winning play shares message of solidarity
The clenched fist raised high in the air has historically been a symbol of solidarity, strength and resistance. For a group of theater students at Central Academy of Technology and Arts, it has become a symbol of unity to fight oppression.
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Community leaders wear educatorsโ hats for a day
Business and education leaders joined forces over the past few days for the fifth annual BizEd Week, an opportunity that allows the community to go inside schools and witness first-hand the exciting things happening in Union County Public Schools.
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UCPS staff powderpuff game sure to become tradition
The first day of November was unforgettable for two UCPS high schools. It marked the first annual Union County Public Schools staff powderpuff game, which was held to raise money for the Shriners Hospital for Children. This exciting competition was between Weddington and Marvin Ridge high schools.
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Parents learn valuable lessons at Forest Hills High
About 80 parents, grandparents and other family members spent the morning reliving the high school experience at Forest Hills High School Tuesday, Nov. 15 during Bring Your Parent to School Day.
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Soldier used music to fight for troop morale
When a soldier is deployed, he is armed with the weapons necessary to fight the battles at hand. Soldiers like United States Air Force SSgt. William Harris are armed with musical instruments because they are fighting for troop morale.
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UCPS mock elections offer real-world experience
Students across Union County are learning about the importance of citizens casting their votes to fulfill their civic responsibility. Sun Valley Middle School eighth grade social studies teacher Jenny Kanagy, held a mock election in her classroom Monday (Nov. 7), a lesson that she hopes students will take with them for the future.
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Union County voters approve school bonds
Union County voters approved a $54 million bond referendum for classroom additions, safety repairs, renovations and a new transportation facility. The school bond referendum passed with 70.69 percent of votes. This number is based on voting data (88 percent of precincts reporting) posted on the Union County Board of Elections website as of 9:10 p.m.
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Hopes and dreams soar at East Elementary School
As 700 bright red balloons ascended slowly into the afternoon sky at East Elementary on Friday, Oct. 28, cheers and applause rose from more than 500 very exuberant elementary school students and their equally excited teachers. East Elementary Principal Denny Ferguson addressed the students just prior to the Hopes and Dreams balloon launch, explaining that it was a symbol of the commitment it would take to accomplish academic goals for this school year.
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Quick action by FHHS senior saves the life of middle school student
When Forest Hills High School senior Xavier Huntley decided to forgo baseball practice because he wasnโt feeling well, he couldnโt have known that his decision would be one of the most important choices of his young life.
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Houlihan urges student leaders to create change
Fifty high school students met with Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan to talk about whatโs working and where we can improve during the school yearโs first Superintendentโs Student Advisory Council meeting.
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Three UCPS principals recognized for their leadership
UCPS Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan recognized three outstanding principals during the general principals meeting Thursday, Nov. 3, for their extraordinary leadership skills at their schools. This monthโs recognitions honored Denny Ferguson of East Elementary School, Jennifer Deaton of Union Elementary School and Dr. Kim Andrews of Weddington High School, with a certificate of appreciation and a ball cap embossed with the Team UCPS.
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Shilohโs Fatima Feliz helps her school to shine
The first recipient of the Union County Public Schools Employee of the Month award is credited with helping to make her school an inviting place to visit. Fatima Feliz, who has served as a custodian at Shiloh Elementary School since February, was recognized at Tuesdayโs, Nov. 1, Board of Education meeting with the first EOM award.
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Board of Education approves merit-based bonus plan
At its Nov. 1 meeting, the Board of Education voted to award one-time merit based bonuses to eligible employees in December 2016. The merit-based bonus is pursuant to North Carolina Session Law 2016-94, section 36.1A and in accordance with the districtโs outlined plan.
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History shows Union County citizens support school bonds
Over the past 18 years, Union County voters have stepped up six times to meet the needs of its students. Union County Public Schools, the sixth largest school district in North Carolina, has witnessed enormous growth over the past two decades. To meet that growth, citizens passed six bond referendums totaling $501.7 million.
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Real Men Can Sing
The auditorium at Porter Ridge High School resonated with the sound of about 100 young male voices Wednesday, Oct. 26. The students, who came from 10 UCPS middle and high schools, were participating in a daylong workshop in an annual event called Real Men Can Sing.
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Union Elementary receives National Title I Distinguished Schools Award
Union Elementary has been named a 2016-17 National Title I Distinguished School. The school received the award at the North Carolina Association of Compensatory Educators Conference (NCACE) on Thursday, Oct. 27.
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Dr. Jonathan Tyson is named 2016-17 Principal of the Year
A product of Union County Public Schools, Dr. Tyson was chosen as this yearโs top principal during Thursdayโs (Oct. 13) Principal of the Year Luncheon held at the Professional Development Center on Brewer Drive. Vera Woolard of Marvin Ridge Middle School, was chosen as the 2016-17 Assistant Principal of the Year.
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Capital Improvement funds vs. bond dollars
What is the difference between money that comes from a bond referendum and capital improvement funds? And what determines how projects are funded? The difference is often based on the frequency and size of the project. Piedmont High School, at left, is one of six UCPS schools slated for renovations and additions if the $54 million school bond referendum passes on Nov. 8.
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Four principals recognized with Team UCPS award
Each month, Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan recognizes principals for extraordinary leadership skills. Four Union County Public Schools principals were honored at the October General Principalsโ Meeting held Thursday, October 13, 2016. Dr. Kim Fisenne of Central Academy of Technology and Arts was recognized for CATA being name a National Blue Ribbon School. The school was one of 329 schools nationally to receive the prestigious award.
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UCPS teachers are LIFTed higher by mini grants
Union County Education Foundation (UCEF) has brought smiles to 22 Union County Public Schools teachers by surprising them with LIFT grants. Teachers can apply for the yearly LIFT (Leadership and Innovation Funding for Teachers) Grants, which award from $100 to $500 for technological advancements, classroom enhancements and educational programs.
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Larger cafeterias = fewer lunch periods = more instructional time
If the $54 million bond referendum passes on Nov. 8, it will add 49 new classrooms to six Union County Public Schools, increasing student capacity in brick and mortar buildings, thus reducing the number of students who have classes in mobile units.
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Manufacturing jobs produce workable career options
Union County Public Schools students, teachers and administrators were given a first-hand look at the employment opportunities available in Union County during the 2016 Union County Manufacturing Awareness Week.
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Voting early โ What you need to know before the polls open
Sandra Martin doesnโt vote on Election Day, but she never misses an opportunity to vote. Shorter lines and the convenience of voting on Saturdays have led Martin, a Union County Public Schools administrative assistant, and her husband, Scott, to vote early each year.
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Fuel Up to Play 60 camp pairs Panthers with UCPS students
Students at Stallings Elementary School have a little better understanding of the importance of fitness thanks to the Carolina Panthers. The entire student body benefited from a Fuel Up to Play 60 camp held at the school Tuesday (Oct. 4). Itโs sponsored by the Carolina Panthers in partnership with the Southeast Dairy Association.
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Bond dollars would improve conditions for teachers, students
Eric Miller, a math teacher at Porter Ridge High, is a โfloater.โ He spends a good bit of his time each day pushing a cart, loaded with his teaching materials, from one classroom to another. Miller is one of a number of Union County Public School teachers who โfloatโ from one classroom to another throughout their day as there are not enough classrooms at their school. Pictured at left, Lynn Mitchell, a Sun Valley High School chorus teacher, who is also a "floater."
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Central Academy of Technology and Arts is named National Blue Ribbon School
CATA is one of 329 schools recognized nationally for the 2016 award. Now in its 34th year, the U.S. Department of Education has recognized more than 8,000 schools nationally with this coveted award. Pictured, at left, are students in Sarah Henry's English class after they hear the news.
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Shiloh teacher named EC Teacher of Excellence
Dee Hasty, an exceptional childrenโs teacher at Shiloh Elementary, has been named a 2016 Exceptional Childrenโs Teacher of Excellence. She was informed by EC Director Janie Webb during a staff meeting at her school Wednesday (Sept. 21).
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Marching bands wow crowds with precision, skill
Few things can stir the soul like the rousing tunes of a marching band. Whether itโs the inspiration of patriotic music or the exhilaration of a contemporary song, when itโs performed by the synchronized precision of a high school marching band, magic happens. Pictured, at left, is Todd Ebert, the band director at Cuthbertson High School.
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Photo gallery: Community welcomes Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan during โMeet and Greetโ
Business and community leaders welcomed Union County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan during a โMeet and Greetโ held Wednesday, Sept. 14.
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Shiloh Elementary students salute local heroes
Who runs toward danger while the rest of us run away? Firefighters, law enforcement officers and paramedics. Shiloh Elementary students took time Friday, Sept. 9, to thank these brave men and women for their service by providing lunch during an event called โHeroes Day.โ At left, Monroe Fire Battalion Chief Andy Ross talks with a student.
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Why is this bond needed? 80s-built transportation facility does not meet state standards
The year is 1980. Jimmy Carter is the 39th president of the United States. Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back is released in theaters, while Pink Floyd, David Bowie and KC and The Sunshine Band are all the rage. In Union County, there are five high schools, five middle schools and 10 elementary schools, totaling about 12,000 students. This is also the year the then Union County Schools built the transportation garage.
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Donated school supplies are tools for student success
Starting school without the necessary tools to succeed in the classroom can be a stumbling block for children. Thanks to the efforts of School Tools, a partnership between WSOC-TV, Classroom Central and Communities In Schools, hundreds of Union County Public Schools students, as well as students across 22 counties in North and South Carolina, will have the needed tools to be successful.
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Dr. Houlihan launches Listening and Learning Tour
As part of his 90-day entry plan, Dr. Houlihan is launching a Listening and Learning Tour. Beginning Sept. 21, the Superintendent will hold a series of meetings throughout Union County to meet with employees and community members.
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Attendance is key to academic success
The problem of chronic absences from school has become a national epidemic, affecting one in 10 children in America.
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Two UCPS principals recognized for their leadership
Two Union County Public Schools principals were recognized for their leadership during the first general principals meeting of the new school year, held Thursday (Sept. 8). Pictured, at left, are, Monroe High School Principal Dr. Mike Harvey, New Town Elementary School Principal Catherine Perry and UCPS Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan.
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Support from schools keeps milestones from becoming stumbling blocks
Entering elementary, middle and high schools are milestones in a studentโs life. Moving up into higher grades and a different school, however, can cause anxiety for students and parents.
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UCPS releases accountability measures for 2015-16
The state of North Carolina and Union County Public Schools released several accountability measures for the 2015-16 school year. Union County Public Schools continues to make gains and outperform the state average in reading and math. In 2016, the district earned its second highest four-year graduation cohort rate of 92.8%. The stateโs four-year graduation rate is 85.8 percent.
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Superintendent: โUCPS has phenomenal start to school yearโ
Piedmont Middle School sixth grader Karsyn Callahan sat quietly in her math class, happy that the first day of school had, thus far, gone very smoothly. When the new UCPS Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan, walked into her classroom to introduce himself, however, she admits that at first she was a little anxious about meeting him. Piedmont Middle was one of 10 schools Dr. Houlihan visited on the first day of school.
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Photo Gallery: Welcome back to school!
Today marks the first day of school for students on the traditional calendar. We are excited to welcome staff and students back to school for the 2016-2017 academic year. A photo gallery has been created to capture the first day back in session. Have a great year!
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Educators excited about start to school year
First-year teachers and seasoned educators alike have been working steadily this week making final preparations in their classrooms for the return of students Monday, Aug 29.
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Four houses at East Elementary build sense of belonging
There are no dragons or castle walls at East Elementary, but there are four โhousesโ where students are assigned, very much like the students in Harry Potterโs school, Hogwarts. If youโre a fifth grader at East Elementary, you now belong to one of four โhouses:โ Team Beneficium (Latin for kindness); Team Cognitio (knowledge); Team Fortitudo (courage); or Team Gloria (ambition).
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Photo Gallery: New hire orientation welcomes 250 teachers
About 250 UCPS teachers attended the new hire orientation Wednesday, Aug. 10, hosted by the Human Resources Department. The event was held at CATA and the Professional Development Center, and featured a variety of breakout sessions, including the Beginning Teacher Support Program; Licensure Information; HR/ER Policies and Procedures; and Legal Updates.
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Maintaining schools heats up during summer
While students were enjoying those long summer days, hundreds of Union County Public Schools employees were hard at work preparing for the 2016-2017 school year. Pictured, at left, is maintenance grounds employee Justin Boyd cutting grass at a UCPS high school.
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VIF teachers immerse themselves in American culture
Luis Agudelo and his wife, Monica Naranjo, both teachers in Colombia, South America, decided to take their love of teaching to the United States. Thanks to the Visiting International Faculty (VIF) program, they both arrived in Union County Friday (Aug. 5) with 15 other VIF teachers, all of whom have been assigned to one of 10 UCPS elementary schools.
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Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan outlines his vision for Union County Public Schools
Teamwork: the combined action of a group of people, especially when effective and efficient. UCPS Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan is a firm believer in the concept.
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Marvin Ridge community rallies behind their rakes
Parents, students and educators came in droves to the Marvin Ridge campus early Saturday morning, armed with rakes, shovels and hedge trimmers, to continue a five-year tradition of giving back to the middle and high schools.
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Union County Early College celebrates decade of success
When Union County Early College opened its doors for students Thursday, Aug. 4, the school hit a milestoneโ10 years serving Union County Public Schools students.
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Summer camp turns video game vision into reality
Dylan Hatley, a rising eighth grader at Piedmont Middle School, is designing software that will save the world โ at least in the video game heโs creating. Dylan and about 17 other UCPS students from middle schools across the county spent the week (July 25-July 28) in a summer camp at Central Academy of Technology and Arts, learning software development and game design.
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Photo Gallery: UCPS welcomes our new Superintendent, Dr. Andrew Houlihan
The Board of Education appointed Dr. Andrew Houlihan as superintendent of Union County Public Schools at a board meeting on July 26. UCPS administrators, elected officials, community members and staff attended the meeting and welcomed our new leader. We have provided a photo gallery of pictures from the board meeting and reception.
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Union County Board of Education names Superintendent
The Union County Board of Education is pleased to announce the selection and appointment of Dr. Andrew Houlihan as the next Superintendent of Union County Public Schools. Dr. Houlihan was named at a special-called meeting July 26. His first official day will be Wednesday, Aug. 24.
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Boys and Girls Club builds skills for tomorrowโs leaders
You donโt have to convince Monroe Middle School rising eighth grader Robert Smith that the Salvation Armyโs Boys and Girls Club is a great place to grow and learn. Heโs been coming for three years. He says the benefit of the club is the impact it can have on students who may be choosing the wrong path. โThey teach smart moves and how to make the right choices.โ
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First day of year-round school rings in lots of excitement
The first day of year-round school began Thursday, July 21, an exciting time for educators, parents and the approximately 3,500 students who attend school on the year-round calendar. Teachers and staff at Benton Heights, East, Shiloh, Walter Bickett elementary schools, Walter Bickett Education Center, and Wolfe School, which all operate on the year-round calendar, welcomed students to the 2016-17 school year.
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Summer reading camps create happy endings
Rocky River Elementary third-graders Garrett Stack and Angelle Alsobrooks, (pictured at left) both say they see the value of attending the Union County Public Schools summer reading camp, and it doesnโt hurt that itโs fun, too.
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New UCPS Transportation Director named
Marlon Watson has been named Director of Transportation for Union County Public Schools. He was appointed by the Board of Education in June.
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Governor Pat McCrory comes to UCPS to sign state budget with 4.7 percent pay increase for NC teachers
Walter Bickett Elementary third-grade teacher Madison Gray works two jobs to pay the bills. With the pending 4.7 percent pay increase for teachers signed into law today (July 14, 2016) by Gov. Pat McCrory, that may change. North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory came to Shiloh Elementary School in Union County to sign the stateโs $22.3 billion budget, which brings the average teacher pay in North Carolina to about $50,000, and beginning teacher salary to $35,000.
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Board of Education approves personnel appointments
The Union County Board of Education approved two personnel appointments and two transfers at its July 6 meeting. Jonathan Bowers, principal at Weddington High School, has been named Director of Student Services and Accountability. Tom Childers, principal at Walter Bickett Elementary, has been named principal at Antioch Elementary. Dr. Jamie Benfield, principal at Antioch Elementary, has been named principal at Walter Bickett Elementary.
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CATA graduate takes Broadway competition by storm
How do you compete and win on a national stage on Broadway all the while, keeping stage fright from taking control? Amina Faye, a 2016 gradate of Central Academy of Technology and the Arts, feels her attitude helped keep her nerves at bay, allowing her to give an award-winning performance.
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UCPS projects approved for bond referendum
The Board of County Commissioners approved a request from the Board of Education to place a bond referendum on the November ballot for Union County Public Schools. The BOCC agreed to a $53 million bond referendum for seven projects.
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Monroe High graduate becomes one of โthe few, the proudโ
Ask anyone at Monroe High School and theyโll tell you 2016 graduate Micah Blake is an extraordinary young woman, a leader among her peers, with her sights set on making a career in the United States Marines. What makes this young woman even more remarkable is her ability to overcome lifeโs twists and turns that for the majority of her senior year, left her living on the kindness of friends.
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American dream realized by six Monroe High School 2016 graduates
Coming to a new high school can be difficult for any teenager. When you add to the equation that most of the students in that school donโt speak your language, โdifficultโ is bumped up a notch. Six Monroe High School students faced these challenges head-on after moving to Union County from other countries, and graduated with the Class of 2016. Pictured at left, at right, is Sade Castillo from the Dominican Republic.
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121 UCPS retirees honored for a total of 2,512 years of dedicated service
Retirement is a milestone, something to look forward to after years of service in oneโs chosen career. To celebrate the 121 employees retiring this year from Union County Public Schools, the district held its annual retiree luncheon at South Piedmont Community College. These employees take with them a combined 2,512 years of service, with an average of 20.8 years per employee. Joseph Heath, a math and PE teacher at Piedmont High School, is pictured with his principal, Dr. Jonathan Tyson.
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Parkwood graduating twins have identical bonds
If you had a twin, would you want to be identical or fraternal? Four Parkwood High School graduates, two identical twins and two fraternal twins, walked across the stage Saturday, ending their high school careers and beginning life on a collegiate level. Just prior to graduation, Kendall and Kolin Plyler, 19, (fraternal twins), and Galen and Nick Beaver, 18, (identical twins) discussed the advantages and disadvantages of going through high school as a twin.
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Early College 2016 graduate has sights on US presidency
Tai Huynh, a first-generation American, has very clear goals for his future. At 19, heโs already designing campaign materials for his bid for the presidency in 2036. He will turn 35 that year, which is the minimum age to be a US president.
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New administrators appointed at June 7 Board of Education Meeting
The Union County Board of Education approved two personnel appointments and one transfer at its June 7 meeting. Sarah Starr, (top left) assistant principal at Hemby Bridge Elementary, has been named Principal at Marvin Elementary. Lynn Cole, (top right) principal at Marvin Elementary, was appointed to the position of Early Learning and Intervention Specialist in May. Carole Alley, (bottom left) assistant principal at Monroe High School, has been named principal at Parkwood High School. Dr. Stephanie McManus, (bottom right) principal at Parkwood High School, has been named Principal at the Union County Early College. Joe Delaney will serve as a consultant to the Instructional Technology and Operations departments.
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Leslie Boyd is named Chair of Board of Education
The Union County Board of Education elected new officers at its June 7 meeting. Leslie Boyd was named chair and Michael Guzman was named vice chair of the Board of Education. John Collins, former chair of the Board of Education, resigned in May, creating a vacancy for the position.
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Michele Morris sworn in as interim UCPS superintendent
Michele Morris, Union County Public School general counsel, was sworn in as interim superintendent during the Board of Educationโs regular Tuesday (June 7, 2016) meeting.
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UCPS seniors register today to vote for tomorrow's leaders
Voter apathy continues to be a problem in the United States, an issue that the League of Women Voters hopes to eliminate among students in the Union County Public Schools.
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Poplin student and Cam Newton go all in on new TV show
Caleb Garner, a fifth-grader from Poplin Elementary, might be signing autographs when school starts next year, after staring in an episode on Nickelodeon with Panther quarterback Cam Newton.
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2016 UCPS Graduation Photo Gallery
Graduation season is here! We are capturing moments from various ceremonies across the district. The photo gallery will be updated as graduations take place.
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Jodi Robinson wins the 2016 VIF Global Educator Award
This has been an outstanding year so far for Jodi Robinson, a third-grade teacher at Unionville Elementary School. She is one of only five educators in the world to win the 2016 VIF Global Educator Award. She was also named the 2016 UCPS Teacher of the Year in May.
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Value of teacher assistants recognized at Union County NCATA banquet
The value of teacher assistants in the classroom was a key focus during the 24th annual banquet of the Union County Chapter of the North Carolina Association of Teacher Assistants (NCATA), held May 19 at SPCC. The chapter also awarded Cuthbertson High School 2015 graduates Megan Pounds (Appalachian University) and Kenneth Winslow (NC State) each a $800 scholarship.
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Senior parade returns MHS 2016 graduates to the halls where it all began
The sounds of hundreds of elementary and middle school students cheering and applauding brought smiles and some tears to many of Monroe High Schoolโs 2016 graduating seniors Monday. After they donned their caps and gowns, they walked proudly through the halls where, for many, it all began.
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Indian Trail Elementaryโs Lighthouse status makes them a beacon of leadership
Moments after the fire alarm sounded at Indian Trail Elementary, about 700 children exited the building calmly and orderly walking onto the front lawn, a result of years of fire drills. Once they walked outside, however, students saw something that made them realize that this wasnโt just a run-of-the mill fire drill.
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Steady stream of job hopefuls attend UCPS career fair
More than 300 job seekers poured into the Union County Public Schools Career Fair Wednesday, resumรฉ in hand, hoping to match their skills to a job opening within the school system.
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Healy receives the Administrator to Watch Award
Dr. Laurel Healy has been selected by the North Carolina Middle School Association for the state Central Office Administrator to Watch Award.
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Cathy NeSmith, Dr. Anne Radke named top EOP professionals
Cathy NeSmith, an administrative assistant in Auxiliary Services, has been named Union County Educational Office Professional of the Year, while Dr. Anne Radke, the principal at East Union Middle, has been chosen as the Union County EOP Administrator of the Year.
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Stronger leaders emerge from UCPS Management Academy
โLeaders arenโt born; theyโre made, just like anything else, through hard work.โ Deputy Superintendent Dr. David Clarke relayed these words, spoken by famous football coach Vince Lombardi, to the graduates of the Union County Public Schools inaugural Supervisory Management Academy. Clarke, pictured at left, presents a certificate of completion to UCPS Facilities Manager Maurice Brown.
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Rea View Elementary teacher named Hometown Hero
Congratulations to Kristine Barberio, a fourth-grade teacher at Rea View Elementary, who has been named the Union County Public Schools Hometown Hero for May. Principal Jennifer Hoover, Assistant Principal Emily Culberson and Chris Blettenberg from Charles G. Monnett and Associates surprised Barberio in her classroom on May 6.
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Students salute teachers for lifelong lessons beyond the classroom
Fairview Elementary School fifth-grader Spencer Thomas didnโt understand why she had such difficulty reading. When she looked at the pages of her book, the words simply made no sense. Spencer didnโt want people to know about her problem, but she couldnโt keep the problem from her teacher, Donna Thomas (no relation).
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Two MRHS coaches selected as 2015 Coaches of the Year
Two Marvin Ridge High School coaches have recognized by the National Federation of State High School Associations as the 2015 coaches of the year. Coaches Melissa King-Pierce and Cameron Starr were presented with their awards at a recent North Carolina High School Athletic Associationโs Spring Board of Directors meetings in Chapel Hill.
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Parkwood Middle Science Olympiad Team means business
When Parkwood Middleโs Science Olympiad Team went to its first regional competition, team members thought of it as a learning experience. What it turned out to be, however, was an amazing victory and a chance to move up to the state competition.
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Generous giving by UCPS employees will touch many lives
With the total giving dollars reaching close to $200,000, the United Way recognized Union County Public Schools Thursday (May 5) as the organization with the highest employee donations.
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Some things never change: Stukaโs love of teaching remains constant
Maureen Stuka, a fifth-grade teacher at Waxhaw Elementary, is a ball of energy wrapped in a small, but powerful package. Her high expectations for herself spill over to her students who seem to love her as much as she loves them. She teaches from the heart and soul.
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VIP reading buddies part of the village at East Elementary
โIt takes a whole village to raise a child.โ This African proverb could have been used to describe the scene at East Elementary School Thursday (April 28) as members of the community came forward to help kindergarteners read.
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Whatโs buzzing at Sardis Elementary?
Did you know that honey is the only food that never expires? This interesting fact was part of some hands-on learning at Sardis Elementary School last week, part of Bee Care Educational Outreach offered by Bayer Crop Science in Raleigh.
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Unionville Elementary teacher is 2016-17 UCPS Teacher of the Year
Jodi Robinson, a third-grade teacher at Unionville Elementary, was chosen as the 2016-17 UCPS Teacher of the Year during Thursday's (April 21, 2016) Teacher of the Year Banquet. In addition, she will receive a one-year lease of a car, courtesy of Union County KIA, a Keffer Automotive Company.
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Charlotte Hornets help bring the love of reading to Union Elementary
The air sizzled with excitement as students at Union Elementary clapped and cheered while their teachers danced with Charlotte Hornets arena host Fly-Ty and Hornetโs mascot Hugo. The excitement came when Charlotte Hornets Book Bus rolled up to the school Thursday (April 21).
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UCPS Teacher of the Year selection down to 10 finalists
The 2016-17 Union County Public Schools Teacher of the Year will be named April 21. A five-person district committee individually reviewed and scored portfolios from the 53 school-level teachers of the year, choosing the top 20 candidates as semi-finalists. A different committee then performed individual interviews of those 20 semi-finalists, further narrowing the search to 10 finalists.
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Porter Ridge High teacher is April โHometown Heroโ
As Jennie Yearick moved through a math lesson on April 12, her classroom door opened and Principal Dr. Bashawn Harris entered the room with three guests. With a puzzled look on her face, she soon learned that she had been named the Union County Public Schools Hometown Hero for April.
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Success of UC Virtual linked to one-on-one time with teachers
UC Virtual, Union County Public Schoolsโ online learning program, has just completed its largest enrollment since it began in 2013. The program, with seven full-time teachers and three adjuncts, currently offers 35 courses, which includes everything from honors and advanced placement courses, to Spanish and art appreciation.
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SRO of the year believes building a rapport with students is vital
Visibility, involvement and building a rapport with students seem to be the secrets to being a great school resource officer. Itโs these characteristics that helped Union County Sheriffโs Deputy Yohance Prince become the 2016 UCPS School Resource Officer of the Year. Prince is the SRO at Forest Hills High School.
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Clean Energy Academy powers dreams of a better tomorrow
Dalton Mangum, a 15-year-old sophomore at Parkwood High School, has been interested in the field of alternative energy for as long as he can remember. Dalton and his team are almost finished with their solar panel, a project in his Clean Energy Systems class, the first in a series of classes offered in the schoolโs Clean Energy Technology Academy.
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Photo Gallery: UCPS honors 21 educators for National Board Certification
Congratulations to the 21 Union County Public Schools educators who have either received or renewed their National Board Certification. The Union County Board of Education recognized these outstanding individuals during its April 5 meeting at Porter Ridge Middle.
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Studentsโ enthusiasm drives Weddington Middle School's robotics team
Weddington Middle School seventh-grade teacher Scott Bass has only one problem with the students in his robotics classes. At the end of the day, they donโt want to leave when the bell rings.
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Cuthbertson High teacher wins Hometown Hero Award
Alissa Hammersmith of Cuthbertson High is the Union County Public Schools Hometown Hero for March. Principal Dr. Kim Schroeder, school administrators and Mr. Hammersmith surprised the science teacher with the award March 16.
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Porter Ridge senior takes leadership skills to Merchant Marine Academy
Getting a call on her cell phone from a Washington, DC, area code sent Porter Ridge High School senior Alyssa Stoltzโ heart racing. She had been waiting for weeks to find out if she would receive the coveted appointment to the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point.
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Board of Education names interim, deputy superintendent
The Union County Board of Education met this morning to discuss the Superintendent Search process. The Board voted on a number of items including naming an interim superintendent and interim deputy superintendent.
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UCPS students work toward their futures at job fair
Elizabeth Sanchez wants a career in the military. Danial McAfee wants to work outdoors, possibly in landscaping. Katie Orzehowski hopes to work in some form of counseling. These UCPS seniors came one step closer to those careers yesterday at the Union County Job Fair held this year at the Union County Agriculture Center.
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Photo gallery: Hemby Bridge students bring history to life
Hemby Bridge Elementary fourth graders took a step back in time recently, when they brought historical figures back to life in a grade-level Wax Museum. Rachel Varda, a fourth-grade teacher, said students' only criterion was to choose someone who had positively impacted the world.
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Marvin Ridge High swimmer is named Student Athlete of the Month
Caroline Hauder of Marvin Ridge High is the February Student Athlete of the Month. Through a program sponsored by the Bank of North Carolina, Caroline earned $250 for her schoolโs athletic department.
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Community shelter touched by fourth gradersโ Love Project
Fourth graders at Porter Ridge Elementary are doing more than just studying about poverty and homelessness; theyโre lending a hand to those in need.
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UCPS students splash into summer camp fun
Want to sail down a three-story water slide, go to a planetarium and see a laser show, touch a live shark or pet a giraffe? These are a few of the activities that Union County Public Schools students might enjoy this summer when they attend the UCPS 2016 summer camp.
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Student teachers from China impressed with Kensington's immersion program
Students at Kensington Elementary School became the teachers recently when four student teachers from China came to observe how American students learn. The student teachers were from Zhijiang College within Zhejiang University of Science and Technology in Shaoxing/Hangzhou, China.
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Photo Gallery: Marvin Elementary holds Chinese New Year parade
The halls at Marvin Elementary School were filled with brightly colored lanterns, large paper dragons and beautiful costumes during a recent school-wide global teach-in day that focused on the schoolโs Mandarin Immersion Program.
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Photo Gallery: UCPS students enjoy Read Across America Day 2016
Union County Public Schools participated in the National Education Association's Read Across America Day, an annual motivation and awareness program that asks children to celebrate reading on March 2, which coincides with the birthday of Dr. Seuss. The following photos are from activities at Sun Valley and Antioch Elementary Schools, and Parkwood Middle School. Students from Sun Valley Middle and High School traveled to SVES to read to students.
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Superintendent Dr. Mary Ellis announces retirement
After nearly 38 years of service to public education and Union County Public Schools, Superintendent Dr. Mary B. Ellis has announced plans to retire June 1, 2016. Ellis has served as UCPS superintendent since 2012. โIt has been an honor to serve as Superintendent of Union County Public Schools,โ Ellis said. โThis is an outstanding school system and I am proud to say that I was educated in Union County and have worked as a teacher and administrative leader in this district.โ
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Buster the Bus makes school bus safety lessons fun
Teaching school bus safety isnโt a new concept in public school education, but when a talking mini school bus named Buster rolled into the media center Thursday (Feb. 25) at Indian Trail Elementary School, students sat up and took notice.
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Photo Gallery: NC legislators and candidates spend time in UCPS classrooms
The Union County Board of Education is hosting a Teacher for a Day Program for North Carolina legislators and candidates. Special guests are visiting schools February 15 โ 26, to witness what it is like to be a North Carolina educator. The North Carolina School Boards Association encouraged school districts to invite legislators and those running for office to tour schools and experience life as a teacher.
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Black History Month offers lessons for many students that last a lifetime
โIt doesnโt matter about our skin color. It just matters that we're human beings. โฆ Never judge anybody from the outside.โ Kaleb Jones, (pictured at left) an 11-year-old student at Shiloh Elementary School, was one of about 550 elementary school students who were treated to special guest readers in the schoolโs annual African American Read-in. Obviously, the lessons learned during Black History Month arenโt forgotten.
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Western Union Elementary students share their hearts with wounded veterans
Scissors in hand, second-grader Allen Padgett carefully trims the red paper heart for the very special card heโs making. This isnโt just any Valentineโs Day card. It has to be perfect because itโs going to his big sister in Korea.
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New hand signals improve communication between bus driver and students
Fanonola Sturdivant, a six-year-veteran bus driver in the Monroe cluster, holds her hand up, palm facing the students waiting at their bus stop, warning them to wait before crossing the street.
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Schools, students take time to show bus drivers they โlove the busโ
Have you hugged your bus driver lately? If youโre an elementary student, chances are you have, especially this week, which is designated Love the Bus Week.
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Wesley Chapel Elementary teacher wins January Hometown Hero award
Ms. Michele Rigney had a puzzled look on her face when her principal and assistant principal walked into her classroom unexpectedly the morning of February 1. She had no idea that she was about to be named the Union County Public Schools Hometown Hero for January.
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UCPS Communications Office wins 15 state Blue Ribbon awards
The Union County Public Schools Communications Office took home the gold recently when it received 15 North Carolina School Public Relations Association (NCSPRA) awards of excellence.
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Winter break gives 2016 Spelling Bee winner leg up in competition
Royce Joseph, a seventh grader from Weddington Middle School, credits the days off from school over winter break, the snow day and the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday in helping him prepare for the 2016 Spelling Bee competition. Apparently it paid off as he took home the winning trophy Thursday, (Jan. 28).
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City of Monroe honors โhistoricโ MHS football team
In mid December, the Monroe High School Redhawks brought home a lot more than just a 2AA state football championship. They showed the world that they could โleave no doubt.โ
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What parents need to know about kindergarten registration
Kindergarten registration for Union County Public Schools will run Feb. 8-12. Parents should register their child at the elementary school located in their attendance area. To enroll in kindergarten in North Carolina, eligible children must have reached their fifth birthday on or before Aug. 31 (of the year of entrance).
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Two UCPS educators learn global lessons in Ecuador
Ask Forest Hills Principal Dr. Kevin Plue or his civics and world history teacher Jennifer Whitley, what makes Ecuador unique and be prepared for a global lesson.
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UCPS educators recognized for outstanding work in the classroom
Three Union County Public Schools educators were recognized recently for outstanding work in their respective classrooms. Those educators were Todd Ebert (Cuthbertson High Band Program); Larry Robinson (Theatre Academy at Central Academy of Technology and Arts; and Lisa Schilling (UCPS AIG Teacher of the Year).
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A song is worth $5,000 at Weddington Elementary
A group of elementary school students can boast that theyโve starred in a music video that won their school $5,000. It all began when Girl Scout leader Natasha Patel heard that Michael and Son, a company that specializes in plumbing repair and plumbing appliance installation, held a jingle contest to advertise their company, and they opened the contest to area schools.
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UCPS is recognized for increasing access to AP course work
The College Board honored UCPS for its achievements in Advanced Placement (AP) course work. UCPS was recognized at the State Board of Education meeting for increasing access to AP course work while simultaneously maintaining or increasing the percentage of students earning scores of 3 or higher on AP exams. UCPS was one of two North Carolina school districts to earn a place on the AP District Honor Roll.
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Parkwood tennis player is named Student Athlete of the Month
The Bank of North Carolina Student Athlete of the Month is Meredith Little of Parkwood High. During a presentation in December, Meredith was presented with a $250 check for her schoolโs athletic department. Meredith is a senior with a passion for tennis. She has been a star on the Parkwood tennis team for four years. She has lettered each year as a varsity player in both 3A and 2A conferences.
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Basden named interim Assistant Superintendent of Auxiliary Services
The Union County Board of Education approved a personnel appointment at its January 5 meeting. Sam Basden was named interim Assistant Superintendent of Auxiliary Services effective January 6. Basden has worked in Union County Public Schools since 2007 and has served as Director of Secondary Support Services since 2014.
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Weddington Middle continues long tradition of giving
For as long as school counselor Juliene Cook can remember, Weddington Middle School has held a โloose-change driveโ to collect money to give to those less fortunate.
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Fairview Elementary student recipient of American Doll House
Building dollhouses for deserving children is a work of heart for Piedmont High School Resource Officer David Ludlow. When tragic circumstances brought two young children to Union County, he knew who the next recipients would be.
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Santa's sleigh arrives at Wolfe School
It was hard to tell who was having more fun, the students opening the presents or the approximately 100 men and women from the UCPS Maintenance Department who bought the gifts.
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Wesley Chapel PTO brings holiday cheer to East Elementary
Thanks to the generosity of parents at Wesley Chapel Elementary, hundreds of East Elementary students will have warm hands and ears at the bus stop on cold winter mornings.
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Cuthbertson Middle students make season brighter for two sister schools
Santa hat pulled snugly atop her head, a warm smile on her face, Charlotte Reccardi, a sixth grader from Cuthbertson Middle School, picks up the matching blue gloves that go with the blue winter jacket she has given Noah, a kindergarten student at Wingate Elementary School.
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UCPS students join millions in global Hour of Coding
After dragging and dropping the last block of code into the line of instructions on her ThinkPad, Caroline Souza, a third grader at Wesley Chapel Elementary School, sat holding her breath. Caroline threw her hands above her head in triumph, jumped up from her seat, and announced, โI did it!โ when that code made her animated character do exactly as she asked. This scene was repeated through out the morning in Kim Mayfieldโs third-grade class at Wesley Chapel Elementary during the Hour of Coding.
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Marshville and Shiloh elementary schools win $25,000 for technology
Belk announced the winners of its 2015 Belk Bowl Innovation Lab contest, which gives local schools the opportunity to remodel their current media center to create a welcoming, innovative learning space and improve reading efforts.
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Parkwood High junior is named Student Athlete of the Month
Timothy Leckrone, a junior at Parkwood High, has been named the Bank of North Carolina athlete of the month for November. In honor of Timothyโs recognition, the school received a $250 check for the its athletic department during a short presentation on Nov. 24.
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Making good choices today essential for a successful tomorrow
Inspiration comes in many different forms, shapes and sizes. For students at South Providence, inspiration came from two retired professional wrestlers who shared their personal stories of tragedy and success. Both Lex Luger (wrestler 1986โ2001) and Nikita Koloff (wrestler 1984-1993) faced life-altering challenges, yet overcame them and successfully moved forward in their lives.
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PRMS students take Disney's Lion King Jr. on the road
The Musical Theatre Department at Porter Ridge Middle School will present Disneyโs The Lion King Jr. in the Porter Ridge High School auditorium at 9:30 a.m. and at noon on Dec. 2nd for students at Poplin, Stallings, Hemby Bridge and Porter Ridge Elementary schools. The musical will then be performed for the general public on Dec. 3rd and Dec. 4th at 7:00 p.m. Admission at these evening performances will be $3 for students and $5 for adults.
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Education Foundation brings community into the classroom in variety of ways
The third week of November was abuzz with activities for the Union County Education Foundation, the culmination of a yearlong effort that not only set the stage for the coming year, but also showcased the foundationโs mission of promoting educators.
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Virtual field trip brings social studies alive for Hemby Bridge third graders
With todayโs technology, students can take a virtual field trip, visiting just about anyone they wish. Third-graders at Hemby Bridge Elementary School visited elected officials in Stallings recently, an opportunity for teachers to bring social studies alive.
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Weddington Middle teacher is November โHometown Heroโ
Nicole Schroedel, a math teacher at Weddington Middle has been named the November Hometown Hero for Union County Public Schools. During a surprise presentation with Principal Marcus Leake and administrators on Nov. 9, Schroedel was awarded a certificate and a $250 check for classroom supplies from Charles G. Monett III and Associates.
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Sardis students are getting creative with Makerspaces thanks to LIFT grant
When students walk into the media center at Sardis Elementary, they have the opportunity to let their creative juices flow thanks to a special section of the library called โmakerspaces.โ Blaire Austin, the first recipient of a LIFT grant, said the funding would enhance her schoolโs media center, and help accomplish her goal of providing more science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) experiences at her school.
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UCPS educators recognized as best of the best
Five Union County Public Schools educators have risen to the top as being the best of the best in their respective fields. The following synopses highlight the accomplishments of Lauren Baucom, a math teacher at Forest Hills High; Rebekah Fuerst, an eighth-grade science teacher from Parkwood Middle; Donna Podgorny, the UCPS World Language Instructional Content Facilitator; Larry Robinson, drama teacher at Central Academy of Technology & Arts; and Sherry Robinson (no relation), a school nurse at Weddington High School.
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Former PRHS graduate crowned Miss North Carolina--USA
Many little girls dream about wearing a crown and being chosen as the fairest in the land. That fantasy became a reality for Allie Dunn, a 2013 Porter Ridge High School graduate when she was named Miss North Carolina-USA.
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Students โMix It Upโ to help fight bullying, make new friends
The concept is simple: talk to people you donโt normally talk to. The impact of this simple act, however, can be profound. Approximately 1,400 students at Porter Ridge Middle School participated in a national anti-bullying effort called Mix It Up at Lunch Day Tuesday (Oct. 27).
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Weddington High student is Bank of NC athlete of the month
Weddington senior Keith Duncan has been named the Bank of North Carolina athlete of the month for October. In honor of Keithโs recognition, the school received a $250 check for the its athletic department during a short presentation on Oct. 23.
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Union Elementary Exceptional Childrenโs teacher honored with 2015 Teacher of Excellence award
Sarah Rynne, an Exceptional Childrenโs (EC) teacher at Union Elementary, has earned the 2015 Teacher of Excellence award from the Union County Public Schoolโs Exceptional Childrenโs Department. Rynne serves students with disabilities in a behavior-focused, specialized setting at Union Elementary.
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CHS Rock Band records on the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus
CHS has been chosen as one of six schools nationwide by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) to win in the second annual โWhat Makes Music Education Great in My Schoolโ video contest. Winning got students a two-day residency with the NAMM Foundation and the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus.
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October โHometown Heroโ named at Shiloh Elementary
The look on Terri Brownโs face was priceless when her principal and 9 of her colleagues made an unexpected visit to her classroom on Oct.16. Brown, a second-grade teacher at Shiloh Elementary, was named the October Hometown Hero for Union County Public Schools.
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20 Union Elementary teachers each surprised with $50 gift cards
Thanks to a $50 gift card from the Teacher Rewards program, fifth-grade Union Elementary teacher Mโlissa Cianes can see an idea come to life โ Flashlight Friday. To help offset the estimated $1,000 a year teachers spend out of their own pockets for classroom supplies, Wal-Mart and Samโs Club representatives surprised 20 teachers at Union Elementary with a total of $1,000 in gift cards Wednesday, (Oct, 7).
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Welcome to our new website!
Union County Public Schools is pleased to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website. The school system developed its website with parents, staff, students and community members in mind. UCPS recognizes that communication is a key component to its operation. The district and all school websites have been updated with a modern design and technology to improve communication.
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Manufacturing careers offer solid choice for graduates
A handful of Union County Public Schools guidance counselors and career development coordinators (CDC) spent Thursday touring local manufacturers in an attempt to be better informed and better able to advise students about manufacturing jobs in Union County.
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49 UCPS schools recognized for global education
Union County Public Schools is considered a leader throughout North Carolina for its focus on global education. For the past six years, the UCPS Global Schools Program has encouraged educators to bring global education into the classroom.
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Scott Spencer named Principal of the Year, Brian Davis named Assistant Principal of the Year
Shiloh Elementary Principal Scott Spencer and Parkwood Middle Assistant Principal Brian Davis have been chosen as UCPS' top administrators.
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Piedmont Middle students honor local officers
Piedmont Middle seventh graders decided to show local law enforcement officers that they care and appreciate their hard work. With the help and direction of their teacher, Lesa Goodman, a seventh-grade communication skills teacher at Piedmont Middle, about 325 letters were sent out, written by the entire Piedmont Middle seventh-grade class.
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Porter Ridge High student is Bank of NC athlete of the month
Bank of North Carolina awarded its first student athlete award to Sarah Welch of Porter Ridge High on Friday, Sept. 25. In honor of Sarahโs recognition, the school received a $250 check for its athletic department.
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Piedmont High student receives escort of a lifetime
A sea of yellow shirts, bandanas and face-painted 10th graders and their teachers flooded the sidewalks and entrance at Piedmont High School on Sept. 15, as shouts and cheers greeted the arrival of Greg Floyd, a sophomore battling Leukemia. Greg was brought to school by Union County Sheriff Eddie Cathey, accompanied by a convoy motorcycles driven by volunteers and area law enforcement. This unprecedented and memorable event was made possible by the non-profit organization Hometown Heroes.
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Benton Heights kindergarten students honor 9-11 victims
Benton Heights Elementary School of the Arts kindergarten students got a unique perspective on commemorating the victims of the 9-11 terrorist attack on America today by planting three butterfly bushes in their honor. The commemoration ceremony was organized by Benton Heights kindergarten teachers Beverly Garcia, Brittany Ackerman, Dawn McCourt, Jonica Wortha, Kristen Weaver and Megan McCarver.
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1,500 American flags wave at Sun Valley Middle to honor 9-11
Most of the students at Sun Valley Middle School werenโt even born on Sept. 11, 2001. There were 2,996 people who lost their lives during the attacks when two planes were flown into the twin towers of the World Trade Center, one plane hit the Pentagon, and a fourth plane crashed in a field in Pennsylvania.
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Kensington teacher is first Hometown Hero of new school year
Tammy Rollins of Kensington Elementary was named the September Hometown Hero for Union County Public Schools. She is the first winner for the 2015-16 school year. Rollins, a third-grade teacher, was recognized during a surprise presentation on Sept. 15 in her classroom. She received a $250 check for classroom supplies from Charles G. Monett III and Associates. Her class will also receive a pizza party.
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