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This edition has an array of exciting topics to keep you informed and engaged.

• Board of Education approves its 2025-2026 budget proposal
• Graduation season is in full swing!
• Rea View Elementary wins State Battle of the Books
• Marvin Ridge High student's artwork headed to the U.S. Capitol

Those are only a few of our highlights; enjoy the read and stay connected to the exciting happenings in our district.

At its May 6 meeting, the Union County Board of Education approved its 2025-2026 school year budget proposal. The proposal, which includes a $2,000 annual increase to the local teacher supplement, will now go to the Union County Board of Commissioners for approval. They will have meetings to discuss their budget on June 2 and vote on the final budget on June 16.

Across UCPS, the Class of 2025 is preparing to cross the stage and step into a new chapter next month. From heartfelt ceremonies to family celebrations, graduation season marks a milestone full of pride, reflection and excitement.

The first graduation of the season took place at Union County Early College, where students were recognized for their academic achievements and unique journeys. Some graduates earned both a high school diploma and an associate degree — a hallmark opportunity of the early college experience.

Among this year’s graduates was Jacob Romero, a quiet leader and reflective scholar whose passion for science and service shaped his path. Jacob explored multiple career fields before discovering his calling in medicine, inspired by family and fueled by a curiosity about how the human body works.

“Looking back, it wasn’t just about academics,” Jacob said. “It was about learning to manage my time, stay focused and find balance.”

We are incredibly proud of Rea View Elementary School, whose team recently took first place in the State Elementary Battle of the Books competition.

Teacher Jennifer Lehman shared, “This year was an epic adventure. Our team mixed their love of reading with teamwork, determination and composure under pressure. They learned to ‘lean in’ to hear all voices, add context to their discussions, and trust each other. It was an honor to watch them grow and thrive.”

Congratulations to these dedicated students and their coach for this outstanding achievement!

Congratulations to Johanna Raj, a Marvin Ridge High School senior, whose drawing Thingamacat won first place in the North Carolina District 8 Congressional Art Competition, sponsored by Representative Mark Harris.

As the district winner, Johanna’s artwork will hang in the U.S. Capitol Building for one year beginning in June 2025. She and her family have been invited to Washington, D.C., for the Congressional Art Competition Winner’s Celebration on June 11, including a tour of the Capitol exhibit and a lunch reception.

Honorable mentions from UCPS:

• Sara Mikes, Too Spicy (Graphite), Weddington High, Grade 12
• Claire Perreault, Cat on a Hardwood Floor (Color Pencil), Weddington High, Grade 11

Additional UCPS student participants:

• Amelia Burns, Beau (Color Pencil), Weddington High, Grade 11
• Livia Moore, Evanescent (Mixed Media), Marvin Ridge High, Grade 11
• Zhuo Dong, Baba’s Love Language (Watercolor), CATA, Grade 11
• Ellie Ko, Your World That Exists Within Me (Digital), Marvin Ridge High, Grade 12
• Dulcinea Gunderson, Growth (Charcoal + Acrylic), Marvin Ridge High, Grade 12
• Madalyn Masullo, Flourish Before the Fall (Mixed Media), Porter Ridge High, Grade 12
• Sree Vure, Looking Within (Graphite), Cuthbertson High, Grade 11
• Jaelyn Blackwell, Space Adventure (Digital), CATA, Grade 11
• August Snively, Space Selfie (Digital), CATA, Grade 11

A special reception for all North Carolina District 8 student artists will be held on May 23, hosted by Rep. Harris.

Learn more about the Congressional Art Competition

Union County Public Schools and Wingate University recently honored 12 seniors during the third annual Wayfind Senior Ceremony. These scholars have demonstrated academic excellence, mentorship and perseverance throughout their journey.

All 12 students have committed to four-year colleges or universities, with nine continuing to Wingate University. One student graduated early and is already enrolled. The group boasts an average GPA of 3.71 (unweighted) and 4.12 (weighted) and has collectively earned approximately $2 million in scholarships.

These seniors have also served as mentors to 8th-grade scholars, inspiring the 105 students currently in the program across grades 8–11.

Looking Ahead

Wayfind scholars who attend Wingate will continue to receive support and can mentor high school students through paid work-study.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025 for setting a strong example and leading the way for future Wayfind scholars.

Beginning July 2025, Union County Public Schools will transition to Infinite Campus, a new student information system selected by the North Carolina State Board of Education. Infinite Campus will replace PowerSchool and will be used to access grades, attendance, assignments, and other important school information.

To learn more about this change and what it means, visit our FAQ page.

On May 21, students and staff across Union County Public Schools wore green to recognize Mental Health Action Day. This nationwide event encourages everyone to take action for mental wellness, whether that means reaching out to a friend, practicing self-care or supporting their community.

The effort is part of Mental Health Awareness Month, celebrated each May to raise awareness, break the stigma, and promote the importance of caring for our mental health every day.

Cheers and applause filled the Dowd Theater on May 8 as UCPS hosted its third annual U Awards, celebrating exceptional educators during Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week. The evening featured performances from Cuthbertson High’s Chamber Ensemble and Benton Heights’ cast of Annie Jr., with heartfelt speeches highlighting the power of public education.

Top honors were awarded to:

• Beginning Teacher of the Year: Kaylee Spencer, Rocky River Elementary
• Teacher of the Year: Dylan Chavis, Porter Ridge High
• Assistant Principal of the Year: Alanna Smith, Weddington High
• Principal of the Year: Dr. Brian Patience, Sun Valley Middle

Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan praised the dedication of all honorees, calling them “extraordinary educators and leaders” and emphasizing their impact on students and the future of UCPS.

UCPS Superintendent Dr. Andrew G. Houlihan has been named the 2026 Regional Superintendent of the Year by the Southwest Education Alliance, marking the third time he has earned this honor.

Selected by his peers, Dr. Houlihan will now represent the region in the state-level competition for the A. Craig Phillips State Superintendent of the Year award. His leadership has driven numerous successes, including academic growth, innovative initiatives and strong community partnerships.

Under his guidance, UCPS has earned top rankings in proficiency and graduation rates, launched new academies and implemented a successful school turnaround model.

The Union County Board of Education has honored Xochitl Morales-Rodriguez, a Monroe High senior, with the John H. Crowder Service Award for May.

Xochitl Morales-Rodriguez is a Health Science Academy mentor to ninth grade students, HOSA president, Student Government graphic designer, the band section leader for flutes and the captain of woodwinds.

Outside of school, she has led several community fundraising events for the RedStorm Marching Band. At church, she organized a posada for her youth group to help them learn about the true meaning of the Christmas holiday. Xochitl is also an advocate for special needs students. 

• May 26 - Memorial Day Holiday (Schools and offices are closed).
• June 3 - Board of Education Meeting, 7 p.m.
• June 5 - Wolfe School Graduation, view full schedule
• June 6 - Last day of school for traditional and Wolfe School students

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