|
New year, new look! We're excited to kick off 2024 with a fresh start and a vibrant new look for Snapshots. In this edition, we have an array of exciting topics to keep you informed and engaged.
- Apply for Special Program Schools for the 2024-2025 school year
- Learn about Pre-K program options and parent information sessions
- Review information about kindergarten enrollment
- Save the date for our spring Parent Education Series
- Celebrate the success of CATA Esports
That's only a few of our highlights, enjoy the read and stay connected to the exciting happenings in our district.
| |
Learn about Special Programs for the
2024-2025 school year
| |
|
Beginning Monday, Feb. 12, families can apply for Special Programs for the 2024-2025 school year. UCPS offers a wide range of academic programs to students, including special programs. These provide them with the opportunity to explore a variety of disciplines and learn in different settings. Some of the offerings include health sciences, agrotechnology, performing arts, pre-engineering, information systems and classes on a college campus with an opportunity to earn an associate’s degree.
The following schools are included in the lottery:
The open houses for particular programs are listed below.
Sustainable Energy at Parkwood High
Feb. 8 at 6:30 p.m.
Health Sciences at Monroe High
Feb. 15 from 5-6:30 p.m.
Central Academy of Technology and Arts
Feb.20 at 6:30 p.m. for East Union Middle, Marvin Ridge Middle, Monroe Middle, Parkwood Middle, Sun Valley Middle
Feb. 22 at 6:30 p.m. for Cuthbertson Middle, Piedmont Middle, Porter Ridge Middle, Weddington Middle
AgTech at Forest Hills High
Feb. 29 from 6-8 p.m.
| |
Pre-Kindergarten information sessions begin Jan. 30 | | |
|
|
As part of its commitment to providing exceptional early education experiences, Union County Public Schools is offering a series of Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) Parent Information Sessions. These sessions are designed to guide families through the four distinct Pre-K programs offered by UCPS, helping them make informed decisions about their child's education.
More detailed information about the options can be found at www.ucps.k12.nc.us/prek. The application period begins on Feb. 1 and families must apply through Scribbles, our online portal. If you need assistance, please contact Dr. Elenia Daniels, Director of Federal Programs or call 704-296-0823, ext. 4030.
| |
| Jan. 30
6 p.m.
Sun Valley High School
5211 Old Charlotte Highway
Monroe, NC 28110 | Feb. 1
6 p.m.
Forest Hills High School
100 Forest Hills School Road
Marshville, NC 28103 | | Feb. 6
6 p.m.
Weddington High School
4901 Monroe-Weddington Road
Matthews, NC 28104 | Feb. 8
6 p.m.
Monroe High School
1 High School Drive
Monroe, NC 28112 | | |
Ready, set, learn: Register your child for Kindergarten starting Feb. 1 | |
|
Kindergarten is an important milestone for your child and family. Union County parents who wish to enroll their student in kindergarten must enroll through Scribbles, our online enrollment portal, and complete the online registration process, starting Feb. 1. For additional questions, please contact the school that your child will attend.
UCPS elementary schools have many competitive academic offerings, ranging from dual language immersion programs to STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) initiatives. Our highly qualified teachers will empower your child to think critically while also nurturing their creativity in a safe learning environment. And our schools provide educational experiences that will prepare your student to be a leader as well as a responsible, caring and service-oriented citizen.
| |
Let's talk about
digital safety, mental health and vaping
| |
|
Join our Facebook Live Parenting Series! Discover essential insights covering social media dangers, suicide awareness and vaping. Led by experts, these sessions offer practical tips and facts.
Feb. 8 at 6 p.m.
Social Media Dangers
Presenter: Eric Traceski, Senior Special Agent, U.S. Secret Service
This presentation is for parents and guardians of children ages 5-17. Parents will learn facts about online risks, statistics, videos and other resources. Traceski will also share tips for keeping children safer online.
March 20 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.
| |
PBS Charlotte features Read with U | |
It's not too late to volunteer as a Read with U buddy! Join us in sharing the love of reading with first- or second-grade students. Your commitment can make a lasting impact on students' reading passion and confidence. | |
Game on: CATA's Esports Teams play to win | |
|
CATA proudly hosts the only registered scholastic Esports Team in Union County. In the recent fall season, 40 dedicated students, practicing daily like traditional sports teams, achieved remarkable success. One team emerged as the Mid-Atlantic Splatoon 3 Champion, while another secured the Mario Cart Runner-Up position in the Eastern region.
Scott Bryan, the Coach and Sponsor, played a pivotal role in achieving these triumphs. Beyond that, he has actively supported other schools in initiating their Esports programs. The team participated through PlayVS, which recently partnered with Varsity Esports League (VESL) for the upcoming spring season. This collaboration aims to bring state-sponsored scholastic Esports to all North Carolina high schools.
Registration for the spring season is currently open on PlayVS, and there is no participation cost. If you need assistance in establishing your club, don't hesitate to contact Scott Bryan at scott.bryan@ucps.k12.nc.us.
| |
|
Splatoon 3 Midatlantic Champions
Pictured left to right are Coach Scott Bryan, Jaelyn Blackwell, Jordan Torrence, Robby Rigsbee, Dale Parliman, Jake Mahaffey and Sam Snively. Not pictured are Robert Castrejon and Anna Elliot.
| |
|
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Eastern Runner-up
Pictured left to right are Alex Whitmire, Ian Retamal, Nekoda York, Gavin Cusumano, Knight Perez, Coach Scott Bryan, Kyler York, Ani Ala and Chase Lee. Not pictured are Michael Bernas and Oliver Theunisse.
| |
Cuthbertson High hits the right notes | |
The Cuthbertson Blue Note Winds Band recently earned a special recognition tying for third place in The American Prize National Nonprofit Competitions in the Performing Arts. The American Prize, led by David Katz, celebrates amazing performers, directors, ensembles, and composers across the United States, from pros to high school talents. | |
Forest Hills Coach Jammie Deese: Top 10 in Positive Coaching Excellence | |
|
Jammie Deese, the football coach at Forest Hills High, was recognized as one of the Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) Regional Coaches of the Year. Out of 500 nominees, he emerged as one of the top 42 candidates and is now one of the 10 national award winners.
Each winner will receive $5,00 for their school or program, recognition on PCA's website and social channels, TeamSnap swag and will be in consideration to be named their coach of the year. Congratulations to Coach Jammie Deese on this well-deserved honor!
| |
Sports camp opportunity for sixth and seventh graders | |
|
Union Power is thrilled to invite rising sixth- and seventh-graders to a Touchstone Energy Sports Camp at two North Carolina universities this summer. Students will enhance their basketball skills, have one-on-one training, and experience living on a college campus.
Students can apply through union-power.com/sportscampscholarships
by March 31. A judging committee outside of Union Power will select two students, one boy to attend the Carolina Basketball School at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and one girl to play at Wolfpack Women’s Basketball camp at North Carolina State University.
| |
|
Unleash potential, ingnite possibilities | |
|
UCPS is hosting a Career Fair with openings in transportation, facilities, school nutrition, maintenance, custodial, after school programs, tech services, substitute teaching, and teaching positions.
Saturday, Jan. 27
9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Weddington High School, 4901 Monroe Weddington Rd., Matthews, NC 28104.
Attendees can ask questions, connect with team members, and apply for roles that match their interests and skills. Onsite interviews and application support will be provided.
| | | | |
