Blairsville, Ga – Board of Education and the State of Georgia recognizes Union County Schools (UCS) Special Education Department for exceptional graduation rates.

Currently, UCS has a graduation rate of 95.5% for special needs students, one of the highest in the state.

“Our Special Ed department is not just good. They’re really famous, to be honest with you. The level of service that they provide our students with disabilities is truly second to none,” commended Superintendent John Hill.

Families have moved in from California and all over the country to attend UCS because of the entire system’s dedication to helping special needs students achieve.

62 new students moved here and several have IEPs.

“They come here because the data is out there on how well our department serves students with disabilities,” stated Hill, “That 95.5% graduation rate would not happen if folks at pre-k, kindergarten, first through eighth were not doing their job.”

The State of Georgia Board of Education has chosen UCS to serve as a model system for special needs practices. They will share ideas and innovative practices with schools across Georgia to help other districts achieve success.

High School Special Education Department Chair Christal Chastain received the award and said, “It is Union United. It takes everybody for this, not just the high school.”

Extra Mile Award

Middle school student Noel Hyatt received the extra mile award for her efforts to raise funds for underprivileged athletes in Union and Towns County Schools.

Hyatt created t-shirts and communicated with sponsors to raise $1,300 and plans to split the total in half between Union and Towns Counties.

Middle School Principle Gwen Stafford commented, “She got sponsorships, sold the t-shirts and raised money…that is above and beyond going the extra mile in my opinion. Going out and talking to adult and businesses and doing it on her own that is just exceptional.”

2019 State of Hope Site

Katy Jones, Head of Family Connection, received recognition for her State of Hope grant from Georgia to continue the school’s food bank and mentor program.

“We do appreciate Katy and her efforts. It’s not all about achievement. Sometimes, it’s about keeping kids warm and providing tennis shoes, and we do appreciate that,” said Assistant Superintendent Doctor Paula Davenport.

Coach Hussion recognized Arthur McCann for his Ranger Hall of Fame award and praised his consistency in supporting school efforts.

Additionally, Backpack 2 School Bash, United Community Bank, First Baptist Church, Bank OZK, and Union General Hospital were recognized for their dedication to UCS from pre- to post-planning.