Superintendent of Schools
From the Superintendent
Read the April 2024 - USD School Bell Newsletter
Dear Union School District Families,
In USD, we are committed to continually infusing the arts within the school day in a wide variety of formats and experiences for our students whether visual, musical, and performing arts. The arts can be a catalyst for students to express themselves freely using critical thinking skills, creativity, adaptability, reflection, and much much more. I hope you take a moment to watch this month’s Superintendent Video as it provides a window into the opportunities our students have with the arts in USD.
This past year, we have been diligently working on the expansion of our music program to create a continuity of music experiences for all students in grades 4th and 5th leading up to middle school (6th-8th grade). I want to extend a heartfelt appreciation to our outstanding middle school music teachers (Mr. Kay and Mr. Pwu) who have provided their insight into developing a continuum of learning for students in music in our schools. It is through one-time state funding that we are able to expand and add two elementary music teachers for 4th/5th grade music instruction that will begin next school year with our students. This is all exciting news as we complement our exemplary middle school music program.
After the Spring Break, in April and May, there will be many music and art shows at the school sites. In addition to numerous concerts and plays, families can come celebrate the visual arts and your student's work at upcoming student art showcases (shared below). Keep a lookout in your school-specific newsletters for additional music and arts events.
Alta Vista: May 31 (5:00-7:30 pm) at Multicultural Night
Carlton: Week of May 13-17 during Spring Book Fair
Dartmouth: Art Vistas Spring Digital Showcase
Guadalupe: May 3 (5-8 pm): Spring Carnival & Art Vistas Showcase
Lietz: May 22 at Open House & Steam Night
Noddin: May 22 at Open House & Steam Night
Oster: May 22 at Open House & Steam Night
Union: April 24 at Open House
Thank you to our USD staff and volunteers who bring the arts to our classrooms, schools, and community for the benefit of our students. USD is a special place where we are united to provide the very best for our students and inspire our future generations.
Kind Regards,
Dr. Carrie Andrews
Superintendent
Community Messages
January 2024 - Video Message from Superintendent Dr. Andrews
December 2023 - Video Message from Superintendent Dr. Andrews
November 2023 - Video Message from Superintendent Dr. Andrews
October 2023 - Video Message from Superintendent Dr. Andrews
September 2023 - Video Message from Superintendent Dr. Andrews
2022-23
End of 2022-23 Video Message from Superintendent Dr. Andrews
March 27, 2023 - Message from Dr. Andrews Regarding Hit-and-Run Incident on Sunday
February 2023 - Video Message from Superintendent Dr. Andrews
November 2022 - Video Message from Superintendent Dr. Andrews
October 2022 - Video Message from Superintendent Dr. Andrews
September 16, 2022 - Message from Dr. Andrews Regarding Oster Student Medical Emergency
September 2022 - Video Message from Superintendent Dr. Andrews
2021-22
Message from Dr. Andrews Regarding the Tragedy in Uvalde, Texas
January 14, 2022 - Message from Dr. Andrews and Health Update
January 6, 2022 - Message from Dr. Andrews and Health Update
October 15, 2021 - Health & Safety Update - Community Testing
September 21, 2021 - Health & Safety Update from Dr. Andrews
About Dr. Carrie Andrews, Ph.D.
Dr. Carrie Andrews joined USD in July 2021 as the new Superintendent of Schools. She was previously with the Cambrian School District since 2013 and served as the Superintendent in Cambrian since 2014. Dr. Andrews received her undergraduate degree in Applied Science from the University of Minnesota Duluth and her Master of Arts and Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Organizations from the University of California Santa Barbara. She began her career instructing students ages 6-10 in New Zealand, before teaching 6th grade Math and English Language Arts in Edina, MN. From there, Dr. Andrews moved to Stockton, CA, where she taught 3rd-5th grade in Stockton, CA and Santa Barbara, CA. She also served as a site administrator in Campbell and Saratoga, CA.
Dr. Andrews is committed to fostering student growth, community involvement, staff collaboration, and supporting teachers. She effectively oversees enrollment, fiscal stewardship, and external community relations. Dr. Andrews encourages transparency and champions every child. She has served as the ACSA Superintendent Council Representative for Santa Clara County, Santa Clara County Superintendents Association Chair and served as Principal of Marshall Lane Elementary School when it was awarded a California Distinguished School. A tireless advocate for public education, Dr. Andrews is an active member of the community and partners with local agencies and businesses to increase educational opportunities.