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

• East Elementary and Forest Hills High construction progress
• Pre-kindergarten and Kindergarten applications begin Feb. 1
• Parkwood Middle FFA nurtures tradition, drives sustainability
• Family of scholars: The Bernadel siblings' Wayfind program journey

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

UCPS leadership recently toured the construction sites for the new East Elementary and Forest Hills High School again. Both are set to open in fall 2025. With walls, paint, doors, lights and even school colors now in place, the vision for these state-of-the-art schools is truly coming to life. Greenhouses at Forest Hills are going up and the athletic fields are nearly complete.

Pre-Kindergarten

UCPS offers four distinct pre-kindergarten programs to meet the diverse needs of young learners. Whether you’re seeking specialized support or inclusive environments, our guide will help you choose the right fit for your child. Each program has specific eligibility requirements, and applications open in February.

Learn more and view the full guide: Your Guide to Choosing the Right Fit

Parent information sessions

Meet the pre-K staff and learn about our programs:

• Jan. 23: Porter Ridge High, 6 p.m.
• Jan. 30: Sun Valley High, 6 p.m.
• Feb. 6: Monroe High, 6 p.m.

Visit the pre-k scholars webpage for more information about program options.

Kindergarten

Kindergarten marks an exciting milestone for your child and family. UCPS offers an online registration process through Scribbles. Explore our competitive academic programs, including dual language immersion and STEM, while ensuring your child is set up for success in a safe and nurturing learning environment.

For details on how to register, required documents and program offerings, visit the kindergarten registration webpage.

The Future Farmers of America (FFA) program existed at Parkwood Middle School before the Sustainable Energy Academy, but its seamless integration shows how naturally they align. Under the leadership of Analise Ritter, an agricultural education teacher and FFA advisor, the program blends hands-on learning, career exploration and sustainability-focused initiatives, preparing students for future challenges.

Ritter, a 2017 graduate of Cuthbertson High and the University of Mount Olive, where she majored in animal science, brought a wealth of experience to the program. After working on ranches in Montana and Texas, she returned home to address gaps in the agricultural industry. She aims to equip students with practical skills, build their confidence, and ignite a passion for learning.

“I used to be super quiet and shy,” Ritter shared. “FFA helped me become a confident public speaker. I wanted to give students the same opportunities to grow.”

Angeliya Bernadel, a ninth-grader at Sun Valley High, and her twin sisters, Jamiya and Jeaniya, eighth-graders at Sun Valley Middle, are proud Wayfind Scholars. For the Bernadel siblings, this program is opening doors they never thought were possible.

Wayfind, a partnership between UCPS and Wingate University, is a free college-access program designed to help middle and high school students from diverse backgrounds prepare for college. Students are paired with mentors from Wingate University who provide guidance, workshops and support. Those who complete the program, apply to Wingate University, and are accepted can receive a four-year, full-tuition scholarship.

The program is open to eighth-graders at East Union, Sun Valley, Porter Ridge and the Health Science Academy (HSA) at Monroe Middle School. Students continue in Wayfind at Forest Hills, Sun Valley, Porter Ridge and Monroe high schools.

Angeliya vividly recalls how her Wayfind journey began last year. “I applied because I thought it was something else,” she said. “Then I realized it was for a scholarship, and I thought, ‘Why not?’” When she got the news the day before her birthday, her heart raced with disbelief. “It felt like the best birthday surprise ever,” she laughed. Angeliya called her mother, who was overjoyed when she realized the impact of the news. “She couldn’t believe it. She was so happy.”

The excitement doubled this year when her twin sisters, Jamiya and Jeaniya, were accepted into the program. “I thought only one of them might get it,” Angeliya shared. “But when they both got in, it was amazing. Now, all three of us have this incredible opportunity.”

When the twins found out the news, their reactions were different. “I was really happy with the news, but I didn’t want to show it too much,” Jamiya said, her calm demeanor masking her excitement. “I know this program will help me stay focused on my dreams.” 

Jeaniya couldn’t contain her joy. “As soon as they told me, I couldn’t believe it. I was already heading to tell my sister the good news,” she said. “This is just the beginning for all of us. We have so much to look forward to.”

The Board of Education approved the Union County Republican Party's recommendation to fill the District 3 seat during its Jan. 14 meeting. Following the decision, Barry Tucker was officially sworn in. Congratulations Mr. Tucker!

Donate supplies to support UCPS teachers

The Union County Education Foundation will host a one-day school resupply store for UCPS teachers on Tuesday, March 4. Your donations will provide essential supplies for teachers to support their classrooms.

Where to donate:

• Central Services: 400 N Church St, Monroe, NC 28112
• State Farm (Waxhaw): 500 E South Main St, Waxhaw, NC 28173
• American Bank (Wingate): 3806 US-74 E, Wingate, NC 28174
• Huntington Learning Center (Wesley Chapel): 5945 Weddington Rd #104, Matthews, NC 28104

Most needed items:

• Dry-erase markers
• White and colored copy paper
• Glue sticks
• Sticky notes
• Card stock

If you’d like to volunteer the day of the event, please get in touch with the Union County Education Foundation.

Goal Setting and Perseverance



The start of a new year is perfect for talking with your family about setting goals and sticking to them! Goal setting helps children develop focus, motivation and a sense of achievement, while perseverance teaches them the value of effort and resilience when facing challenges.

Here are some simple ways to incorporate these life skills at home:

Set SMART goals together: Help your child create Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Timely goals. Start small, like reading one book a week or improving writing.

Celebrate effort, not just success: Encourage your child to keep trying, even when things get tough. Praise their hard work and determination along the way.

Lead by Example: Share your own goals and discuss the steps you’re taking to achieve them, showing that perseverance is a lifelong skill.

Let’s make 2025 a year of growth and determination! What goals will your family set this month?

• Goal Setting 
• 7 Fun Goal-Setting Activities for Children
• 15 Fun and Inspiring Perseverance Activities for Kids
• How to raise a kid who won't quit
• Learning how to set goals

The Union County Board of Education has honored Leslie Montesdeoca, a senior at Union County Early College, with the John H. Crowder Service Award for January.

Leslie Montesdeoca has dedicated much of her time to serving and leading her community in and outside of school. She has been involved in organizations such as the Monroe Youth Council, Union County Early College Student Council and South Piedmont Community College (SPCC) Student Government. She is currently serving as the president of the Monroe City Youth Council and the secretary of SPCC’s Student Government Association.

Leslie has been a member of the Monroe City Youth Council for four years, volunteering at local events like Halloween Happenings, the Easter Extravaganza, Juneteenth, and the Christmas Tree Lighting. She has also contributed to initiatives such as the Hygiene Initiative, where dozens of kits with basic hygiene products were distributed to those less fortunate, and the Cozy Kids Project, where gently used winter clothing was collected and distributed to those in the community. 

• Jan. 29 - Union County Early College Open House, 6 p.m., SPCC Main Building, Building A in Salon
• Jan. 30 - Sustainable Energy at Parkwood High Open House, 5:30 p.m.
• Jan. 30 - Pre-K Parent Information Session at Sun Valley High School, 6 p.m., Sun Valley High School Auditorium - 5211 Old Charlotte Highway
• Feb. 1 - Pre-K and K applications are open via Scribbles
• Feb. 4 - Board of Education Meeting, 7 p.m.
• Feb. 6 - Pre-K Parent Information Session at Monroe High School Auditorium, 6 p.m., 1 High School Drive
• Feb. 9 - Special Programs lottery closes
• Feb. 13 - Health Sciences at Monroe High Open House, 5:30 PM 
• Feb. 17 - Early College and Traditional Teacher Workday (No school for students)

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