Superintendent Hartzler Welcomes All to Union’s 100th Year
Courtesy Union Public Schools
Welcome to the 2019-20 school year! This one will be remarkable for many reasons, but especially because it marks Union’s first 100 years as a district. The historic vote to consolidate four rural school districts – Union, Central, Sunnyside and Alsuma – into the one that we know today as Union Public Schools happened in May 1919. Our plan is to celebrate all year long. We are even producing a special centennial book.
Back to school is always one of my favorite times of the year. We look forward to welcoming your child back to Union Public Schools. Our goal with this “Back to School” guide is to make your child’s transition as seamless as possible. We will also unveil a new, improved website at www.unionps.org in August, as well as the launch of a district phone app.
We were extremely pleased with the public response when parents and teachers were asked to weigh in on the various options. Change is always difficult, but we appreciate your flexibility as we work to ensure all students get to school on time.
These are exciting times to be a part of Union Public Schools. This fall marks the launch of Union Virtual, the district’s first 100 percent online education program for grades 6-12. The 100 students accepted into the pilot program are required to take six hours of instruction per day, and can proceed at their own pace or work ahead. Students have the flexibility to participate in the district’s stellar array of clubs, programs, and activities, which really sets Union Virtual apart.
Preparations for a new stadium and Fine Arts addition are already underway. At the close of the 2019 football season, demolition of the west (home) side of the stadium will begin in December. Given the 40-year history of Union’s Tuttle Stadium and our many memories, it will be a bitter sweet moment, indeed. But, the new facility will most assuredly welcome in a new era of memories and serve our students and community well for many decades to come.
The continued success of your child is our primary focus. We will remain vigilant in our pursuit of the district’s mission: “To graduate 100 percent of students college and career-ready.” This means more emphasis on ensuring we help meet your child’s social-emotional needs, as well as the continued implementation of the district’s 1-to-1 initiative. Beginning fall 2019, all students in grades 9-12 will have access to a laptop or other portable device 24/7.
On behalf of Union’s teachers and administrators, WELCOME BACK!
Sincerely,
Superintendent Dr. Kirk Hartzler
