Superintendent of Schools

Read the latest USD School Bell (October Edition)

Dear Union School District Families,

We know that caring, compassion, and a commitment to learning are at the core of a thriving school community. In USD, these values are demonstrated every day by our amazing students. I am so proud to share a few highlights from the past month that showcase the dedication and heart of our learners.

Fueling the Mind

We know that there is a direct correlation with nutrition, sleep, physical activity with engagement and learning. I hope you had the opportunity to view our recent Union School District Nutrition video that showcases all the ways USD supports our students. This year, our students have more diverse food options than ever before, thanks to our incredible USD Student Nutrition Department. We have taken our students' feedback from surveys and integrated new recipes to create diverse options. This year we have also added the Discovery Kitchen where students have an opportunity to try a sample of a new menu item. We are so proud of this ongoing work to provide healthy, appealing meals that energize our students for success in the classroom.

Students Leading with Compassion

I also want to share how proud we are of our Dartmouth and Union Middle School students who are actively supporting fellow students in our community through the USD Clothing Closet and Blessing in a Backpack programs. Our students’ leadership and compassion are at the heart of these efforts. Both programs are now in their fourth year, that provide weekend food to students in need with complete confidentiality and new clothes for those in need. 

I am sure some of you saw our Dartmouth and Union Middle School students at back to school night explaining the importance of the program and funding for the program. Thanks to your generosity at our recent Back to School nights, our students have already raised over $3,500 that will go directly to the food for the Blessing in a Backpack. Last year we served approximately 65 students every weekend and I suspect the number will increase as it has every year. Thank you to our students for caring for their peers, being an advocate to continue the program that makes a difference in the lives of others. Thank you to all who have supported the program as well to ensure our students have what they need to thrive in USD.

STEAM Nights & Student Leadership

Our STEAM Nights are a key highlight of our district, providing students and families the opportunity to engage with hands-on activities that promote creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. A unique part of our STEAM Nights is that they are led by students for students, allowing them to step into leadership roles and share their excitement for learning with their peers. Last week’s elementary school events were a wonderful exploration of the science of movement. 

We also want to celebrate a wonderful example of students giving back to our schools as well as the significant impact that our USD Makerspaces, STEAM events and program have had. Earlier this week, former Guadalupe/Dartmouth students Jeanelle and her sister Jadelynn donated two books they authored on Boolean code and basic statistics to each of our school libraries and Makerspaces. 

Jeanelle shared that she was inspired by her experiences in our STEAM activities and Makerspaces at both Guadalupe and Dartmouth Middle School. Jeanelle also volunteered at our STEAM fairs where she said it was great to return to see her former schools.  

It is so wonderful to see our students’ passion for learning come full circle as they return to inspire the next generation.

In Partnership,

Dr. Carrie Andrews
Superintendent

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