Rocky River Elementary is the 2021 Books and Brackets champion
During the month of March, third, fourth and fifth graders in Union County Public Schools (UCPS) participated in the fifth annual 2021 Books and Brackets reading challenge.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the district was not able to hold its normal celebration at Wingate University with all Elite 8 third-grade students, teachers and special guests. Students, staff and parents watched the abbreviated program via Facebook Live. To view a recap video of the event, click here.
Citizens Advisory Committee presents report to Board of Education
 The Citizens Advisory Committee for Diversity presented its final report and recommendations to the Board of Education at the April 13 meeting.

Comprised of a diverse group of faith leaders, community members, students and employees, the committee was developed by the Board of Education in September 2020. To read the committee’s recommendations, click here.
School Choice application period is open until April 30
Union County Public Schools has announced its schools of choice for the 2021-2022 school year. Families may apply for School Choice until April 30 via Scribbles.

School Choice is explained under Policy 4-13 Student Assignment. Through this option, families may apply for admission through lottery to any elementary, middle or high school within the district whose student population is less than 90% of the capacity as determined by the district. To see the list of schools, click here.
State leaders visit UCPS
Tuesday, March 23, was a special day for Union County Public Schools (UCPS). Staff, Board of Education members and an elected official welcomed senior leaders from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. 

As part of the Southwest Region visit, state educators visited East Elementary and Marvin Ridge High to learn more about instructional practices, academic programs, student engagement, and how students and teachers have adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Click here to read more about the visit.
UCPS teachers renew, receive certification
Over two dozen Union County Public Schools (UCPS) educators have recently received or renewed their national board certification. This prestigious accreditation that is offered by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS), is a way to highlight the skillful teaching that is occurring in classrooms nationwide.

More than 23,000 teachers in North Carolina achieved national board certification. According to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s website, the certification process is based on high and rigorous standards that evaluate teaching practices through performance-based assessments; the ultimate result is improved performance and achievement for North Carolina's...View the list of teachers, click here.
April John H. Crowder Award 
The Board of Education continues to honor students who are making a difference in their school and community with the John H. Crowder Service Award. At the April 13 meeting, the Board recognized a Cuthbertson High School senior, who goes above and beyond in the classroom and on the court.

William Heyward is a caring, personable, and responsible young man who serves as a leader within his school and community. A four-year starter on the varsity basketball team, William earned the respect and admiration of both his teammates and coaches.

To read more about Will's accomplishments, click here.
In case you missed it
CATA senior takes second place at North Carolina poetry competition
Central Academy of Technology & Arts (CATA) senior, Ashline Arnaud is the runner up for the state’s Poetry Out Loud Competition. 

Held virtually in February, Poetry Out Loud is a national contest sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts in which students select, memorize and recite three poems before a panel of judges. The competition begins at the classroom level, advances to a school-wide competition followed by a county-wide competition. From the county level, two contestants can compete at the state level. From all counties across the state of North Carolina, Ashline placed as the runner-up for the state...Learn More!
WSOC-TV helps to highlight new UCPS mental health classes
From peer pressure to self-esteem issues, high school kids are dealing with a lot -- not to mention an ongoing pandemic.

That’s why Anna Warren is teaching a new statewide pilot program on mental health at Forest Hills High School. Monroe High School is the only other Union County school offering the two-part course, which students can take as an elective. Click on the picture above to view the video.
Mark Your Calendar
  • April 30 - School Choice Application Period Closes
  • May 4 - Board of Education Meeting