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In this edition, we have an array of exciting topics to keep you informed and engaged.

• 2022 bond update
• A lesson in sustainability: students take on a water challenge
• Parent education series: suicide awareness and vaping
• UCPS Career Fair
• Inspirational acts of innovation and service

That's only a few of our highlights, enjoy the read and stay connected to the exciting happenings in our district.

We're excited to keep you updated on the latest developments regarding the 2022 school bond projects. These projects signify a significant investment in our community's future, aiming to enhance educational facilities for our students and educators. View time-lapse construction updates at East Elementary and Forest Hills High.

East Elementary

The work at East Elementary has had significant progress, relocating utilities and installing stormwater pipes under West Park Drive. The foundational work for a new section of the school has been completed. A new parking area exclusively for teachers has replaced the old one. Safety measures have been enhanced by installing exterior lighting and security features near the new parking facility.

Forest Hills High

At Forest Hills High, the construction team is dedicated to finalizing the installation of a geothermal system to enhance heating and cooling efficiency. Progress is visible across various areas. In one section, construction has advanced with the completion of wall structures up to the roof level, and the focus has shifted to installing mechanical systems. Plumbing, electrical work, and stone placement are completed in another area.



Currently, attention is directed towards erecting steel structures and laying decking. Plumbing, electrical work, and stone placement have also been completed in a different section. Work in another zone is centered on plumbing and electrical systems. Substantial progress is evident in two other areas, where concrete foundation work is nearing completion and construction of masonry foundations has commenced.

At Waxhaw Elementary, where sustainability takes center stage through its Sustainable Energy Academy, students in grades three through five recently participated in an engaging activity—the "Water Footprint Detective Challenge." This hands-on project prompted students to track their daily water usage for a week, examining everything from shower times to beverage choices.

"One of the more interesting findings was that showers were the activity with the highest water consumption," said Elizabeth Miles, the sustainable energy teacher.

Using their gathered data, students met in the sustainable energy lab to discuss their findings and brainstorm practical ways to reduce water consumption. From shorter showers to switching to reusable water bottles, the focus was on simple yet effective actions. The challenge educated students and their families on water conservation's importance and sparked interest in eco-friendly practices. 

"I know our parents are on board because every day after carpool, I have treasures at my door. I have egg cartons and other recyclable donations because the kids know it shouldn't end up in landfills," said Miles. "They are retaining the information and it's amazing. They are 100 percent committed."

Activities in the classroom

Students were diving deeper into leaves and the process they take during the fall.

Students learned about solar energy and had to design posters for a contest that informed the school about different elements of solar energy. 

A new partnership with Founders Federal Credit Union honors student-athletes for their athletic and academic accomplisments. The inaugural UCPS Athlete of the Month Award was given to Aria Wegh, a senior track and field athlete at Marvin Ridge High.

Aria is committed to Wake Forest University for Women's Track and Field, she earned the title of 2023 North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) Indoor Track and Field State Meet Most Valuable Player and holds State Champion and Runner-up titles in various events. Aria has also been named SCC Conference Track and Field Athlete of the Year multiple times.

Beyond sports, she's a distinguished scholar, honored as an NCHSAA Scholar-Athlete and a member of the National Honor Society. Aria's leadership shines through her involvement in her school's Student-Athlete Leadership Council, where she helped organize the 2023 Coaches vs. Cancer Suits and Sneakers basketball game. Her dedication and exceptional character make her a role model for student-athletes.

Founders Federal Credit Union is also generously giving the school's Athletic Department $500 in honor of this award.

Union County Public Schools recently welcomed representatives from the U.S. Department of State to observe the impact of the Dual Language Immersion (DLI) programs on thousands of students through their partnership with Participate Learning. These programs, offering immersion in Spanish or Mandarin, signify a concerted effort by the district to embrace global education. 

From its inception in 2012, the partnership between UCPS and Participate Learning has steadily developed and expanded, demonstrating ongoing growth and collaboration. It was a significant visit because it was the first time the U.S. Department of State requested to conduct one.

"We want to make sure the teachers and the programs are getting strong cultural exchange experiences. I understand that Participate Learning is one of the best in terms of making that happen, helping to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the teachers. We are here to see it," said Rebecca Pasini, deputy assistant secretary, private sector exchange, U.S. Department of State. 

Join our Facebook Live Parenting Series! Discover essential insights covering suicide awareness and vaping. Led by experts, these sessions offer practical tips and facts.

March 25 at 6 p.m.

Suicide Awareness

Presenters: Belle Walker and Susan Slattery-Rogers, UCPS Student Support Staff

Parents will learn about terminology related to suicidal activity, prevalence, risk factors, characteristics and warning signs. They will also receive information about community resources.

April 10 at 6 p.m.

Vaping

Presenters: Carolyn Ford and Erica High, Community Engagement Specialist, Community Support and Outreach, Union County Government

Parents will learn about e-cigarettes (e-cigs, vapes) and how to identify the different shapes and sizes. The presenters will also discuss the epidemic use of e-cigs in teens and the harmful effects. In addition, parents will receive resources to prevent the use of e-cigs and where to get help for teens who are using e-cigs.

If you missed the first one of the series, Social Media Dangers, you can watch it at UCPSNC.

The UCPS Portrait of a Graduate is a roadmap for students. It highlights five essential skills they will need in school and life. The focus areas are innovative leader, a resilient problem-solver, a key contributor, an effective communicator and a skilled collaborator. It prepares students for their next steps, whether it’s college, military service or employment. We are continuing our video series highlighting the five characteristics each student should have upon graduation. Next up is effective communicator.

Watch Parkwood Middle School's Lillian Boese explain why communication is so important within the Student Lighthouse Team, the Superintendent's Advisory Council and her drama class.

Watch Monroe High School's Ashton Stevens explain why being an effective communicator is so important when volunteering as a mentor to Benton Heights Elementary School of the Arts students.

UCPS is holding a Career Fair to hire elementary and secondary teachers, various licensed support staff (counselors, instructional coaches, nurses), teacher assistants, tutors, Exceptional Children teachers and support staff, mechanics, plumbers and many more.

Saturday, March 16

9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Weddington High School,

4901 Monroe Weddington Rd.,

Matthews, NC 28104

Attendees will have a chance to engage with our team, ask questions and apply for positions on the spot. Principals, district administrators, managers, and our human resources team will all be in attendance, offering onsite interviews and application support.

UCPS values its employees and offers a comprehensive benefits package. Full-time staff enjoy perks such as health, life, and dental insurance, as well as access to an employee assistance program. For aspiring educators, we're proud to offer the Next Stop: TeachUCPS program, designed to support teacher assistants in launching their teaching careers without financial worry.

Pre-register for the career fair at http://tinyurl.com/39v46xvm, and explore available positions at www.ucps.k12.nc.us/careers. Join us in making a difference in the lives of our students and community!

Zoe Lee is a fifth-grade student at Poplin Elementary, where they use The Ron Clark House System to build community and teamwork. She is part of the House of Isibindi. Like her classmates, she enjoys the friendly competitions and activities they plan and participate in. 

When she learned about the House of Reveur's plan to host a Penny War fundraiser for the Make-a-Wish Foundation, Zoe saw an opportunity to open up to her peers about her journey. Her family had recently received a call from the organization, exploring the chance to fulfill her wish. Zoe knew that her experience with the foundation would resonate with students and encourage their participation in the upcoming Penny War fundraiser.

"I had to have three heart surgeries when I was a baby because my heart was underdeveloped. I'm doing good now, but it was scary," said Zoe. "My wish is to go to Disney World. They have to check with my doctors to make sure I can travel. My backup wish is a shopping spree," said Zoe. 

Thanks to everyone's participation, the school raised $1,855.49.

• March 5 - Optional Teacher Workday, Traditional (No school for students)
• March 7 - Optional Teacher Workday, Early College (No school for students)
• March 8 - Optional Teacher Workday, Early College (No school for students)
• March 8 - Early Release, Wolfe School
• March 10 - Special Programs Schools Lottery Application closes
• March 11 - Dual Language Immersion Lottery Application Window Opens
• March 12 - Board of Education Meeting, 7 p.m

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