UCS trying to find best way forward against COVID-19

News
UCS Covid-19, Delta Variant, protocols

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – Union County parents will have the choice of keeping their child at home for the next month as COVID-19 continues to spike in the community.

Last Friday, Union County Primary School was forced to close for the week because too many teachers were out due to COVID-19. The numbers in all schools continue to spike as the year progresses. Union County Schools (UCS) are navigating their way through a continually changing situation.

Parents can submit notes upon a child’s return to school and all absences between August 28 and September 24 will be excused. Students must complete assignments at home either through Google Classroom or teacher-approved methods.

It’s a stop-gap solution as the school system works to find a better option for teachers and students. Since school started on August 12, the number of cases has continued to quickly increase.

Superintendent John Hill stated they weren’t ready for “something being so fluid.” Last year, COVID-19 followed a more predictable model and students were largely unaffected. Additionally, virtual learning didn’t come naturally to every student. Some children didn’t participate or weren’t engaged like they would have been in a classroom.

Student online engagement’s an issue the entire country faced last year with some children not meeting reading and math standards as a result.

Hill hoped 2021-2022 would be a normal school year, but “it’s not going well right now.”

Around 70 percent of UCS quarantines who have gotten a COVID-19 test are coming back with positive results.

Since August 12, UCS has implemented eight changes to the COVID-19 mitigation protocol and cases continue to climb. On day one, the district positivity rate was .53 percent.

UCS COVID-19 positives and quarantines through August 27

As of the August 27 meeting, 5.85 percent of UCS students and staff were COVID-19 positive and 28.26 percent were in quarantine. Broken down by school:

  • Primary School: 5.76 percent, 39 students, 10 staff, 145 quarantine
  • Elementary School: 8.07 percent positive, 43 students, 14 staff, 144 quarantine
  • Middle School: 5.87 percent positive, 40 students, 4 staff, 341 quarantine
  • High School: 4.81 percent positive, 46 students, 4 staff, 344 quarantine
  • Woody Gap: 0.00 percent positive, 12 students in quarantine

According to Assistant Superintendent Dr. David Murphy, UCS’s about a week behind the statewide data. The latest report from the Georgia Department of Public Health indicated cases among children are continuing to grow.

Statewide Positivity Rates

  • 0-4: 9.9 percent
  • 5-17: 16.7 percent
  • 18-22: 15.1 percent

All these numbers are up from last week’s report between 1 and 3 percent.

“Things have to change. It’s a fluid situation,” Murphy added. “I would hope that we can continue to make decisions that keep our students and staff safe, provide a quality education, and as Mr. Hill will explain in a moment provide people with options that work best for them and their families.”

Moving Forward

Parents in attendance wanted the school to stay open because a structured environment is potentially safer than potentially being exposed outside elsewhere.

School board member and Union General Hospital (UGH) Chief Nursing Officer Julia Barnett agreed that keeping children in a controlled setting has proven beneficial in the past.

At UGH, they were treating 45 COVID patients between the ages of 23 and 80s. The average age is 58 years old, but the numbers change all the time. 93 percent of the patients at UGH are unvaccinated.

Barnett added that they are seeing more younger people get sick, but for the most part, they are bouncing back more quickly than older patients.

“We could consider not quarantining if they are fully vaccinated. You could consider not quarantining if they have a positive antibody test,” Barnett explained about potentially shrinking the number of quarantined students.

A negative test, however, could allow a potentially positive student or staff member to come back into the system too soon. The initial quarantine for close contacts is five days and depending on the date of the contact, the individual’s viral load might not be detectable by a test yet.

For instance, if the exposure occurred on Friday night and a person was tested on Saturday morning, it’s likely a COVID-19 test wouldn’t register the infection because the viral load is too little. Health officials recommend waiting between three and five days after the exposure to take a COVID-19 test. This way the viral load has a chance to build in one’s system. Symptoms usually develop within three to five as well.

UCS’s also highly recommending masks for its students, but they are not required at this time.

“I don’t think this is going to over real quickly. I hope this spike is,” Hill said. “We’re going to have to be reasonable like Julia said.”

The school’s actively working to determine the best course of action forward. There’s still a chance that at some point every school in Union County could close.

UCS has 165 additional students this year, bringing the total to 3,365. 168 students are COVID-19 positive.

Virtual Learning

A lot of parents have requested an online option for the school year, but as Principal Hussion told the room, “It can’t be what it was before.” Some children didn’t participate at all, and Union County teachers were instructing in person and online students. Not all teachers will be able to pull double duty without a virtual learning day for everyone.

Last year, Union County teachers had a Friday to develop materials for their online learners, but this year students and in-person five days a week.

“What you’ve talked about doing just to make it clear is to have an afterschool, kinda an afternoon option that will not be a burden on the teachers, unless they want to do that,” Barnett stated.

Hill confirmed that is what has been discussed, but nothing’s been finalized.

https://youtu.be/tG6xF-yCIis

Mask or no mask debate erupts during Union board of education meeting

News
mask mandate

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – Union County Schools (UCS) instituted a mask mandate at the beginning of the year to slow the spread of COVID-19. Now some are wondering if it’s time to remove the measure.

After Christmas, UCS experienced a dangerous spike in cases that almost resulted in the school closing, and after starting the mask mandate, numbers came down. Previously, the school just recommended face coverings for students.

Every time UCS went on break, they saw a spike in COVID-19 cases upon returning. At the meeting in January, board member Julia Barnett discussed how schools are a controlled environment, and it’s easier to contract trace when children are in school. The contained environment limits exposure to unknown elements and potential virus carriers.

However, some parents want to end the mandate, even starting a Facebook group on the issue. Superintendent John Hill referred to those criticizing him on social media as his “fan club.” He made it clear he’s there to take care of the students and staff at UCS.

Superintendent John Hill

The majority of UCS leadership supported continuing the mandate because no one can predict the future. The school must consider its immunocompromised faculty and students.

“It’s obvious what we’ve done is working,” High School Principal C.T. Hussion stated. “I know people don’t like to wear them. I don’t…but it works.”

Elementary School Principal Jerry Bavero spoke about watching his staff become sick with the virus.

“One I was really, really concerned about and ended up in the hospital down in Atlanta and thankfully came back still hasn’t made it back full time,” Bavero explained. “If what we all have to deal with for the next 60 odd days is [wearing a mask], I think we’ll all be better for it.”

Woody Gap Principal Carol Knight voiced the immunocompromised faculty’s feelings who feel more comfortable working with a face covering requirement in place. A mask mandate affords those with preexisting conditions increased protection against COVID-19.

According to the data, UCS possessed a relatively flat curve compared to Pioneer RESA and state data; it’s faring better than other school districts. Assistant Superintendent Dr. David Murphy thought Union County was the only school system in Pioneer RESA with a mandate.

Union County’s the yellow line, and it’s significantly lower than the state and Pioneer RESA lines.

“Us compared to other school districts, we’ve made it further than anyone had expected and to see how successful we have been at this point, with no more information that’s out there. I wouldn’t want to change anything now,” Board member Keith Potts commented.

Board member Jana Akins wanted to know how many kids were out of school because of the face covering requirement. Hill explained that they didn’t know. In January, they allowed students to participate in online and in person learning without having to choose. A child could be in person one day and online the next, depending on preference.

Now that the COVID-19 cases are under control, UCS’s returning to an in person or online only policy at the beginning of the next nine weeks. Parents must decide by Friday, February 19 at 7 p.m. They can find the form on the school’s website.

A Different Perspective

One board member played “devil’s advocate” concerning the mandate, Chair Tony Hunter, who views the science as incomplete, and they’re “stumbling through as best [they can].”

He was adamant that immunocompromised teachers have his full support in asking students and others to wear masks in their presence.

Hunter’s hesitant to recommend a mandate with so many unknowns.

“I don’t like being told what I can or can’t do in the land of the free and home of the brave,” Hunter commented.

When discussing why he chooses to wear a mask in public, he explained, “I would hate to know I have a hand in the demise of anyone.”

Board Chair Tony Hunter

Board Chair Tony Hunter

Hunter presented the idea of allowing teachers to decide if they wanted students to wear a mask during classes or not. He added that giving children a choice provides UCS with a chance to teach them compassion.

A bus driver stated the mask issue appeared to come from the parents, not the children. In his experience, the students didn’t complain about wearing a mask and cared about protecting others. He once explained to a little girl why she needed to wear one, and now she wears it every day.

Barnett spoke out, “I wish what Tony [Hunter] was saying could work, but I think it’s very confusing for students.”

Assistant Superintendent Paula Davenport offered that the face covering mandate helps to prepare students for the workplace. Most businesses require employees to wear a mask, and if the school doesn’t, it presents a possible “double standard.”

Everyone agreed upon the difficulty of the issue. Hunter stated, “let’s keep things as is,” but “to mandate things takes freedom away from an American citizen.”

He also asked everyone to call their state representative and inquire about moving teachers and faculty to the frontline worker list. Currently, teachers don’t qualify for Phase 1A+ vaccine distribution. A facility in Elberton lost its vaccine eligibility for providing a teacher with a vaccine. Teachers will be included in the next phase.

At the primary school, the students have mask breaks. School leadership and the board are considering how to incorporate mask-free time at all schools.

Board member Patrick White wanted teachers to check on children with glasses and make sure they can accomplish their work.

At the end of the discussion, Superintendent Hill asked the principals to go back to their teachers and discuss face coverings before making a decision.

https://youtu.be/iLiUBMV8bkw

UCS move to online learning day as temperatures drop

Community

Union County Schools will be utilizing online learning today, Tuesday, February 16, 2021. The air temperatures are below freezing and are predicted to drop throughout the morning. Additionally, the roads are very wet and their surface temperatures have been decreasing throughout the early morning hours; therefore, icy roadways are likely. Keeping student and staff safety in mind, Union County Schools will be utilizing online learning for today. Students, please log in to your Google Classrooms and complete your assignments to be counted present for the day.

At 8 a.m., road problems were yet to be reported but temperatures continue dropping 30 degrees in Blairsville with a 37-degree road temperature. On Neals Gap, the temperature was 28 degrees a road temperature of 32 degrees.

Courthouse offices and state offices are closed until 10 a.m.

All District 2 Health Departments, Environmental Health Offices, Children with Special Needs, and District Office will observe a 2-hour delayed opening.

Offices will open at 10:00 am, including ALL Covid-19 vaccination clinics. Persons with appointments scheduled before 10:00 am tomorrow to receive the Covid-19 vaccination will still be vaccinated tomorrow. People with early appointments (before 10:00 am) should come to the clinic when they feel it is safe for travel to receive their vaccination.

UCS selects construction management firm for CCA building and other projects

Board of Education, News, Panther's Corner
Charles Black Construction construction management firm

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In a called online board meeting on January 28, 2020, Union County School (UCS) board chose Charles Black Construction as the construction management team for upcoming projects.

Five firms responded to the construction professional services RFP with proposals. The construction committee presented Charles Black Construction as the recommended firm. Charles Black Construction previously assisted UCS with the field house renovation.

UCS hired Charles Black with four projects in mind: CCA/CTAE building, vocational building renovation, Union County High School Cafeteria expansion, and flooring replacement. The contract lasts two years. Altogether, the projects equal around $7 million, but some numbers could fluctuate because they don’t have the designs yet.
$3.75 million in grant funds will go toward the CCA/CTAE building, and the remainder would come from ESPLOST 5.

A construction management company writes all the subcontracts from site work to the end and assists the architect with the design.

“We can do some construction management processes, and it will actually save money on the design,” Facilities Manager Mike Patton explained. “We can do some value engineering along with the architect. They keep each other in check basically.”

Facilities Director Mike Patton

Facilities Director Mike Patton explained why they chose Charles Black Construction.

Charles Black would operate within a set budget and ensure the architect does too. The firm’s headquartered in Cleveland, Ga. Patton vouched for their experience and expertise in their field.

Check out the company’s portfolio here.

“They are small. They aren’t hardly as large a company as others that have submitted, but we feel like we get a lot more personal service,” Patton commented.

A site manager would always be on location. Charles Black will help UCS find the best materials for the best prices too.

As for costs, Patton added Charles Black came in on the low end of the proposals with a multiple dollar fee – a preconstruction fee, and a 2.95 percent construction fee. The company also offered a lower rate for new construction and the standard rate for renovations.

Another RFP would be necessary for the primary school renovation, but UCS will apply for more state grant money for the project.

Superintendent John Hill announced September as the hopeful groundbreaking date for the CCA building.

UCS chose the architect in November 2020. 

Feature image: courtesy of Charles Black Construction and an example of the firm’s previous work.

https://youtu.be/-_YcGnGCJQ8

Union County Schools approves 2021 budget

News, Panther's Corner
2021 budget

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – Union County Board of Education approved the fiscal year 2021 operating budget during the September meeting. The approved budget matches the previously presented tentative budget.

“The challenges we faced in this budget is the very large TBE cut for the state of Georgia…and the added cost of mitigation for COVID-19, which is very costly. We’ve spent several hundred thousand dollars thus far in mitigation strategies,” Superintendent John Hill stated.

Some mitigation tactics include cleaning products, masks, plexiglass, air filters, and PPE to ensure students, faculty, and staff’s safety.

UCS didn’t raise taxes, and all current Union County Schools (UCS) employees will receive their same pay rate. No one will see a pay cut.

As for the CTAE Budget and goals for 2021, the program now falls under Perkins Five for the federal government money. Perkins Five money for Union is $27,199, and some of that goes toward professional development. The state cut agriculture grants by 10 percent. However, the state superintendent is using some of the CARES Act funds to address those state cuts.

“We’re developing a five-year plan for the College and Career Academy, which includes the [facilities] grant,” said Director Josh Davis.

CTAE is also working around COVID-19 to keep students active and learning in different programs this year.

Policy Updates

Additionally, the board of education approved updates to four of the school system’s policies: equal education opportunities (JAA), sexual harassment of students (JCAC), equal opportunity employment (GAAA), sexual harassment of employees (GAEB).

The U.S. Department of Education Office of Civil Rights issued new Title Nine regulations regarding sexual harassment. The policies went into effect in August, and UCS needed to update its protocols to comply with federal laws. JAA and GAAA are now 10 page polices. Each one provides detailed and legally binding rules on how the school should manage to sexual harassment claims, promptness of response, and overall handling of the case.

“They obligate us to respond promptly and supportively to the alleged [sexual harassment victim.] What we have doesn’t get near enough to what it’s supposed to be now. We now have more specific definitions, response expectations,” explained Assistant Superintendent David Murphy. He added, “In fact, for students, if you draw a paycheck from the school district, you are now a mandated reporter for sexual harassment for students.”

School leadership also participated in training to better understand all federal requirements for these policy updates.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=68ClNDQZwew

2 positive students and 4 staff COVID-19 cases at UCS

Community, News, Panther's Corner

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – Union County Schools (UCS) released coronavirus, COVID-19 numbers on Friday, August 14. Currently, two students and four staff members have positive cases.

27 students and 17 staff members are currently under quarantine for possible exposure.

Students and faculty return to in-person instruction on August 17, and the students and faculty under quarantine or with positive cases won’t be in attendance. According to school policy, only those who test negative for COVID-19 can attend in-person class.

According to the school’s policy, anyone who tests positive can’t return for “at least 10 days following the onset of COVID-19 symptoms or receiving a positive test result AND be fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication AND have an improvement in respiratory symptoms.”

Quarantined individuals must stay home for at least 14 days even if symptom-free. If they develop symptoms, the quarantine may be extended from symptoms onset. Also, students with a confirmed diagnosis in the home will be quarantined an additional 14-days from when the family’s quarantine time ends.

If hospitalized or severely immunocompromised from the virus, students must stay home “at least 20 days since symptoms first appeared AND be fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications AND have an improvement in respiratory symptoms.”

While quarantining from home, students can participate in the online learning program.

UCS will be providing a weekly COVID-19 update concerning positive cases and possible exposures. These updates aren’t meant to alarm but provide public information.

Face masks are highly recommended for all students and will be available to students and faculty on campus. Students will be required to wear face masks during class changes, school nurse visits, and safety drills.

Each week the school buildings will be deep-cleaned over a three day period.

To review UCS’s reopening plan, follow the link, here.

As for closure, UCS is following Georgia’s Department of Education (GaDOE) District Decision Tree.

L4GA grant brings literacy to all local children

Board of Education, Community, Panther's Corner

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) awarded Union County School System (UCS) $3.2 million over five years to advance literacy efforts.

literacy

Assistant Superintendent Dr. Paula Davenport was instrumental in UCS receiving the L4GA grant.

As a recipient of the Literacy for Learning, Living, and Leading in Georgia (L4GA) grant, UCS will focus on creating plans for children from birth to 12th grade. Additionally, the school will partner with the community to effectively reach all local children.

UCS was at the top of the list to receive the grant, according to Assistant Superintendent Dr. Paula Davenport.

GaDOE considers “the poverty level of a community, the percentage of students reading below grade level, the recent rate of growth in the number of students reading above grade level, and whether a school is identified for support from the Department of Education’s School Improvement team.”

From a GaDOE release on the program:

“Introduced in 2016, L4GA is a unique approach to improving literacy that pairs community-driven action with research-proven instruction. In its first round, funded by a federal Striving Readers grant of $61.5 million, 38 school districts partnered with early learning and care providers as well as community organizations to implement community efforts and improve classroom instruction. By working together, schools, early learning providers and caretakers, and community leaders are moving the needle on literacy – in 2019, third-grade students showed significant gains in English Language Arts and grade-level reading.”

UCS has developed a slogan for the program “literacy is for everyone” or “LIFE” for short. Assistant Superintendent Dr. Davenport explained the school will develop tailored programs to meet each child’s interest from digital books to picture books and graphic novels.

“Whatever it takes to get a child to read,” she added.

Davenport also spoke about how literacy is more than just reading; it’s drawing, listening, and writing. Each area of focus will help children gain a holistic understanding and appreciation of literacy.

The public library, daycare programs, families, and businesses will play an essential role in granting greater access to materials. For instance, parents will be encouraged to read bedtime stories to their children.

With the first planning meeting this week, the initial implementation of the L4GA program will probably be adaptable due to COVID-19. The first year might become more digital to protect the health of everyone involved.

UCS students have scored highly in literacy in the past, but low in writing. Davenport hopes the holistic approach of the L4GA program will lead to an improvement in writing scores as well. Typically, the school uses Milestone test scores to judge students’ abilities, but currently, the most recent data is from 2018-2019. Georgia canceled the Milestone tests for 2019-2020 and could do the same in 2020-2021 because of COVID-19.

L4GA brings together the entire community to support the whole child.

Teams from the Georgia Institute of Technology and Georgia State University will be collecting data from L4GA districts to document positive practices and gauge the overall​ impact of the L4GA Project.

A total of 23 schools received the grant for 2019. The award total was $22,101,554.

L4GA 2019 Grantees: Burke County Schools, Butts County Schools, Charlton County Schools, Clayton County Schools, Cook County Schools, Elbert County Schools, GaDOE State Schools, Glascock County Schools, Grady County Schools, Haralson County Schools, Lanier County Schools, Liberty County Schools, Newton County Schools, Paulding County Schools, Pike County Schools, Pulaski County Schools, Rockdale County Schools, Terrell County Schools, Toombs County Schools, Treutlen County Schools, Troup County Schools, Union County Schools, Vidalia City Schools​.

“School districts selected for the first round of L4GA funding made great strides in student literacy learning,” State School Superintendent Richard Woods said. “I’m eager to see the progress made by our new grant recipients in the coming years. Making sure students are reading on grade-level remains mission-critical, top-priority work for the Georgia Department of Education, and we continue to seek all possible opportunities to support that work at the school and district level.”​

https://youtu.be/wLImaVwmWPM?t=1317

Schools work tirelessly to ensure “success for all” for students

Featured Stories
students

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – Once Union County Schools (UCS) decided to close school buildings to prevent the spread of COVID-19, school leaders knew they needed to quickly find a way to remotely educate students and feed children in need in the community.

On Friday, March 14, UCS applied and received a school nutrition waiver. The waiver allows UCS to provide meals to children from ages one to 18. They don’t have to be UCS students.

Faculty, staff, and administration worked all weekend, March 14-16, to create easy to understand digital learning environments for students. As well as help each other through any technological-related issue.

“No hesitation with our people,” Superintendent Hill said.

The technology department and police department also delivered 100 wi-fi hotspots to children without internet connection. All students also received a Chromebook to access their virtual classrooms.

Wi-fi hot spots were delivered to students without internet access.

Wi-fi can also be accessed at Farmer’s Market, Meeks Park, Reese Farm (next to the store), Union County Public Library parking lot, Burger King parking lot, Chick-fil-A parking lot, McDonald’s parking lot, and Rib Country parking lot.

“Union United and success for all that’s not just our logo, that’s what we do,” declared Hill.

UCS nutrition department, police department, transportation department, and other support staff delivered 2,448 meals on Tuesday, March 17. On Thursday, March 19, they delivered 3,600 meals to the designated pick-up locations across the county. The locations are at the 12 polling stations.

Goodies from the Heart also delivered 500 bags of food to 170 students on the last day of school.

Family Connection Coordinator had the following to say about the program, “Shout out to Audrey Gilliam and the Goodies From the Heart program for packing extra food with just a few hours of notice. Then, Family Connection was able to get that delivered before students went home. Thanks to those who donated food to the pantry. Thanks to Union County Schools Police Department for helping our staff and the school social worker with delivering food to the homes of those without transportation. It’s truly a school-wide and community effort!”

The school delivers two days’ worth of food at a time. Starting on March 23, the pick-up days are Monday, Wednesday, Friday.

Image from UCS Facebook on Monday, March 23 staff were preparing to deliver meals to students.

If parents or guardians would like to be added to the UCS meals program, they can still sign up online.

Counselors are also available online for students to offer social and emotional support while everyone does their best to self-quarantine and social distance.

“I was very proud to be a part of a system with those kinds of teachers,” stated board member Cynthia Odom.

Assistant Superintendent David Murphy, custodial department, and some paraprofessionals and nutrition staff are disinfecting and deep cleaning the UCS campus.

The success of these efforts is all down to the faculty and staff at UCS. Hill read letters from staff members about their pride in UCS and its efforts to come together during this time. These statements can be found in the video.

https://youtu.be/hnraFhYrlE0

“It’s not that they’re being told or made to do something. They’re a part of it. They’re here on Sunday afternoon. It’s a collaborative thing, that’s something that comes from the top and has to flow down,” board member Janna Akins explained. “It almost brings tears to my eyes the way this has come together. A huge project, but even the big guys are willing to do the littlest things.”

Images courtesy of UCS Facebook page.

New Field House Back on Track After Initial Setback

Panther's Corner, Union County High School
field house

Blairsville, Ga – Administration’s hiring a new architect to design the new field house after initial plans came in exponentially over the initial budget.

New field house project once again moving forward after the original architect provided a $2M site plan.

The board advised the project returned to square one and find out where expenses could be cut to better serve the school as a whole.

“We are in the process of hiring an architect,” stated Assistant Superintendent David Murphy, “We think that we can save more money and have a better product by doing a design-build. This is where the architect designs it. We went with the number two finalist in our prior commitment. We were very impressed with their presentation.”

The contract’s currently with the school system’s attorneys for review and to guarantee that they can back out if the architect is negligent in any way.

“How is that any different from the first time? Didn’t we use an architect company for the plan, and then bid out based on that? It sounds like the same thing?” questioned board member Janna Akins.

“This one’s going to have a lot tighter specifications,” stated Murphy, “They’re going in with a cap – that allows us to see the product being built more inclusively.”

Once the hiring is finalized, the board and administration will set specifications and budget cap.

“The architect plans we paid for the first time are they going to be used at all the second time?” asked Akins.

“No, ma’am,” responded Murphy, “That is a very expensive building.”

Expenses spent on the field house original plan also won’t be recouped by the school system due to terms of the previous contract.

The board rejected the flooring bid presented in July meeting after an initial review from a flooring engineer, and new bids expected in September.

State of Schools Reports

With school back in session, four of the five principals delivered their quarterly reports. Woody Gap Principal Carol Knight was absent due to family obligations.

UCPS Principal Millie Owenby stated that the new car rider and pick-up lines were running pretty smoothly with the school currently five minutes off their intended 2:40 p.m. pick-up time. UCPS total enrollment is 700 students.  They are no longer doubling up pick-up lines due to the potential danger of children running between cars to reach their parents. MAP testing has started for the school and will continue for the next two weeks. Owenby plans on hosted a school-wide fundraiser for playground equipment and ESPLOST currently has $65,000 allocated to the primary school for new equipment.

UCES Principal Jerry Bavero reported that the elementary currently has 600 students, which is 30 more than expected, but teachers and administration are adapting. One teacher came forward to host a New Kids on the Block program to partner new students with older and established ones to help them feel at home. The morning pep-rallies continue to be a big hit with students.

UCMS Principal Gwen Stafford said the middle school is at 686 students for the start of the year. Clubs will begin on Friday, August 23. The school is also in the middle of MAP testing to gather information on students’ strengths and weaknesses. Fall sports are up and running – football, cross country, and softball. Traffic also continues to run smoothly.

UCHS Principal C.T. Hussion has 835 students with 62 new teenagers, who need to learn the culture. Overall, the high school’s had a smooth start. The chorus sang the national anthem at a Gwinnett Stingers game. The drama departments conducting an 80s show. Hussion wants to improve homeroom and soft skills using Georgia Best. Student fees program continues to be an asset for the school making $20,000 thus far with $4,000 carrying over from last year. Another $2,000 expected to come in after homecoming and everything left over goes to student council to improve the school how they see fit.

UCHS’ Williams Named District Teacher of the Year

Community, Education
Teacher of the Year

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – 18-year Union County High School (UCHS) educator, Kim Williams, received the Union County Schools District Teacher of the Year Award during the Nov. Board of Education Meeting.

At last month’s meeting, the five schools presented each system’s respect teacher of the year for 2019-2020. Union County High’s Kim Williams, Union County Middle’s Danya Nichols, Union County Elementary’s Jordan Rogers, Union County Primary’s Nicole Schuknecht, and Woody Gap’s Althea Cantrell were each named 2019-2020 Teachers of the Year.

Out of those five, a group of retired teachers came together to choose the educator who truly went above and beyond for their students. After reviewing the paperwork and speaking with each one, the committee selected Williams as UCS Teacher of the Year.

Assistant Superintendent Dr. Paula Davenport spoke on behalf of the selection committee as to why Williams impressed the group.

“One thing that stood out to [the retired teachers] was the why and the integration of real-world events as to why [they’re] learning this. She’s combining chemistry with food. This is what vinegar does and PH,” explained Davenport.

High School Principal C.T. Hussion also spoke highly of Williams’ ability, “For me, it means a lot for you receive this award. She teaches all day long. She never takes a break. It’s a huge accomplishment, and [Williams] is way above average, easy-going, and cares about people.”

Williams thanked the UCS board for deciding to hire her 18 years ago and expressed her appreciation toward everyone in the school district.

“I’ve loved every minute, and I enjoy my kids. I have a passion for teaching. Those kids mean the world to me, and I get up every day; I’m happy to go to work,” stated Williams.
Williams teaches food science and future educators at UCHS.

Blue Ridge Mountain EMC (BRMEMC) Representative Jeremy Nelms was in attendance to give BRMEMC to honor Williams.

“EMC concern for community is one of our core principals, and obviously with all the educators in the community, we certainly share in that commitment, so on behalf of the board and the staff, congratulations,” said Nelms.

UCS Special Education Dept. Recognized for Graduation Rates

Panther's Corner, UC Elementary, UC Middle, UC Primary, Union County High School
Special Education

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.

Special Education

Special Education High School Director Christal Chastain accepted the award.

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 student Noel Hyatt made shirts to raise money for underprivileged student athletes.

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.

UCS Discusses Construction Options with Entitlement Funds

UC Elementary
entitlement

BLAIRSVILLE, GA – Board of Education and Pioneer RESA Facilities Specialist Doug Fields discussed upcoming facility needs for the school system and how to best spend entitlement funds by renovating, modernizing, or building a new structure.

Fields presented options based on full-time equivalency (FTE) and student projections for 2023. The 2017 FTE count for UCS was 2,732, and the state government calculated that by 2023, the schools could have 2,817 students.

He noted that the only two schools with “age” on them are the primary and elementary school, particularly the third-grade building.

“I remember some days in the third-grade building coming to play basketball in that arena, said Fields, “We’re defining adequate and that’s what you’re here for. You as a board have to work with your school system to determine what is adequate for you.”

The total eligible amount for earning entitlement is $4,118,878, but that’s not the total need. The actual cost is approximately upwards of $8M.

Currently, $1.3M is available from the state for Union County Schools (UCS) has $1.3M in entitlement funds from the state to use. It can only go toward eligible needs established by the state.

Union County Elementary School (UCES) quickly became the main focus of the entitlement funding conversation. It’s the oldest system in the system and topic of previous conversation.
The elementary school has $490,000 available in renovation money with $0 in modification due to the 2007 redo of roof and HVAC.

At the elementary school, 52 units are available according to FTE, but only 33 IUs earned from the state government.IUs represent classrooms needed according to the state. This includes the third-grade building as well as fourth and fifth building.

“One thing it doesn’t take into account is the special education students and Pre-K,” said Superintendent John Hill.

There aren’t any classrooms sitting empty. The state FTE projections don’t reflect special needs or grades below K-12.

UCS has three options renovation, total modernization, or close the building. DOE estimates a new building would make UCS eligible for $8M in funding through programs like advance funding.

A renovation would max out at $490,000 and include painting, ceiling tiles, electrical, doors, and windows.

“You basically put a new face on it,” said Fields, “You’re making it look much better. You’re not bringing it up to code, but you’re not changing the infrastructure, the plumping, any of the technology, or a lot of electrical.”

Facilities Director Chris Crow interjected about total modernization of the third-grade building, “We would unless there is a minor hang up, qualify for a total modernization of the third-grade building, and the state would provide approximately $90 per square foot. Now, if that is the right thing to do is another question.”

Only the third-grade building qualifies for total modernization. The fourth and fifth-grade building qualify for renovation. Additionally, they still need to ensure that third grade does meet requirements.

Crow also estimated renovating the two buildings and possibly primary would still be around $8M.

“If we’re already at $8M through entitlement money is it really worth it? Is it better just to take the state money and build new versus renovate?” asked Crow.

“Under the next SPLOST, we would want to look at doing updates to fourth and fifth grade. Its 25 years old now,” commented Crow, “It’s speculation, but you’re going to have a lot of money in it. If the price of labor and material keep doing what it’s doing, that’s when we’re really going to have to sit down and figure out, is it better to let the state pay for half of this new building or renovate it.”

Board Chair Cynthia Odom added, “The plumbing issues that we’ve got it’s not just replacing a toilet. It’s literally busting up concrete and to fix the infrastructure underneath.”

Crow agreed and fears the expense of bringing current plumping up to code.

The renovation takes place over a summer, but total modernization occurs over several years. Towns County’s currently in year three of total modernization. Additionally, the process requires an architect to come in and plan out all the updates to provide to the state.

“Where we’re going to house these kids?” asked Odom.

Fields didn’t believe the structure of the third-grade building would make it easy to move classrooms around.

“You look at the numbers on that 5,700 sq. ft. times $90 is $5.1M. The actual cost at $200 sq. ft., which is $11M,” input Hill.

Board member Keith Potts added, “That’s with us providing the $110, and the state’s only providing $90.”

Keith Potts

Potts noted the expense it would be to the county for total modernization of one building.

Total modernization ties a school system to that building for 20 years. The state won’t provide any entitlement funds until 20 years later.

A new building would house second through fifth grade and half the money would come from a state reimbursement. The state would chip in around $8M for a new building, and it would probably cost around $11M.

“If we build a building that’s only the earned IUs, we’re not going to fit in it. We need to be real honest, just on top of the table right now. We won’t fit in the building,” stated Hill.

Replacing the elementary school would require site approval, and the biggest existing issue is the propane tank. The state would want to mitigate the risk in some way.

The concept floated around would utilize the rubber floor gym and be on the bank behind the bus garage. However, no definite plans or ideas are ready to go for new construction.

Also, the facilities in the area would have to move, such as the bus barn and maintenance building.
Before closing a building, public meetings must be held, and if deciding to close UCES and third-grade building, the board can’t go back.

The closure would bump up entitlement earnings up to approximately $1M a year from $300,000. Students could still attend class in those buildings until the new school opens.

Construction on a new building needs to begin three to five years after closing building.

Fields agreed to come back and answer more questions about facilities and options during a future work session. No decisions were made in this meeting about how to proceed.

FTE AND ENTITLEMENT FUNDS BREAKDOWN

At the primary school, the projection is 585 FTE with 52 available units with 40 earned IUs from the state government.

“I understand that most school systems have a building that has more IUs, which is classrooms than they have actually earned,” stated Fields.

The primary school also had a recent addition of 10 classrooms, which accounts for the extra classrooms.

At the middle school, 688 FTE projected with 43 IUs earned.

The high school FTE projection is 866 with 67 available and 48 IUs earned. The high school also recently built several classrooms on the third floor.

Woody Gap projected 69 students over the next couple of years.

The state guidelines for facilities only allow for needs, not wants to determine the allotment of the $300M in entitlement funding. UCS receives one-tenth of that sum.

The primary school currently qualifies for $588,000 in renovations with the main need being flooring and interior aspects.

The middle school has $504,000 in renovation money, but can’t draw the money until the building reaches 20 years of age. It also has $700,000 in modification funds for things like HVAC.

One school can apply another’s credit for a project but only up to the amount determined to be eligible. The only time one project can draw the entire $1.3M is when building a new structure.

Also, the state program works as a reimbursement program. After completion, the state sends the school system the money.

Renovation amount is calculated by $14,000 per earned IU.

UCS Increases Coaching Stipend and Receives Bump in Revenue

Education, News
UCS

Blairsville, Ga – Union County Schools’ (UCS) coaches to receive Pioneer RESA recommended athletic supplements for the upcoming school year.

Board approved the athletic supplements for coaches and trainers for the 2019 salary budget.

“We did not cut the budget, explained Superintendent John Hill, “In an attempt to compensate our coaches at a more adequate level, we got our supplements aligned with the RESA low average. We’re still on the bottom end of the athletic supplements.”

Overall supplements have gone up around $150 across the board, but to achieve this they absorbed some positions when people left the schools. Now, the coaching supplements are slightly more competitive than before.

Strength and Conditioning coach stipend remains on the pay scale, but no one is receiving it.

“We’ve had it for probably five years and they did it by season. They gave a coach a stipend to work before and after school. They didn’t run it the way I wanted it run. At this moment, no one is receiving that but it is a placeholder if we have someone who can do it correctly,” explained Hill.

UCS is the only system in Pioneer RESA that doesn’t pay coaches extended year salaries. Those changes were made to save money during the recession to help save money.

“It also is helpful to the younger employees because if you’re a brand new employee five days versus a person with a specialist degree and 25 years’ experience, that amount of money is a lot different, stated Hill, “Everyone is paid the same.”

They also added a new supplement for $2,000 for an athletic trainer.

July Financial Report

UCS is one step closer to receiving entitlement funds from the state.

The state released $346,000 of funding, and the district’s waiting on a document from a construction management firm for the state to release the second round of funds.

Assistant Superintendent David Murphy mentioned that he spoke to UCS’s consultant last week, and the consultant stated that all schools in the state of Georgia are waiting on entitlement funds.

Currently, the budget is 86 percent complete for the fiscal year and only 78 percent of the money has been spent.

“I’m looking at these numbers, we’ve taken on a new police department, ran all the way through,” said Councilwoman Janna Akins, “We’ve only spent 78 percent of the money that’s been budgeted, so we’re doing awesome things. I think it’s really impressive.”

UCS Financial Director Karen Bundy commended Police Department Chief Chad Deyton on his frugality and always coming to her before making a purchase.

“This proves that you are also very frugal,” said Chairwoman Cynthia Odom, “It shows that people are working hard to cut, which is wonderful.”

UCBOE Chairwoman Cynthia Odom

“It shows that people are working together, not working in isolation. They’re problem-solving,” said Hill, “They are a high-functioning team. We have the highest-functioning team that I’ve been exposed to.”

Local revenue has increased because of interest earnings, which totaled through June at $153,000. Originally, UCS budgeted only $20,000 for local revenue.

Forestland earnings came in at $57,780.04, and the school doesn’t budget for that because it isn’t guaranteed.

State revenue also significantly increased due to grant money that isn’t budgeted for in the initial balance.

Instructional Services department went over their budget because of unpaid student salaries. EPLOST money has also gone up.

Bids

UCS hired Athens Janitorial to save on custodial expenses. They will visit all the schools in the district, inventory supplies, and order as needed. This should eliminate supply overages that the schools experienced with Supply Works and ordering their own materials.

“Last year we spent around $125,000 – $150,000 with Supply Works just to keep our schools staffed for custodial and we had to do the ordering,” said Murphy.

Athens Janitorial will inventory, order, provide recommendations, and train custodians in OSHA for $76,500 a year. No contract’s involved; it’s paid month to month. It should save UCS around $50,000 a year.

The board also approved an off-bid from BSN on new gym flooring for the middle and high school. The current flooring surrounding – walking track, stairs – the courts are safety hazards for students and faculty.

The bid came in at $90,000 and the school district expected around $180,000 for the project, but labor isn’t included in the current bid.

Samples are coming to see the product before entering into an agreement and ensure quality flooring for both schools. Also, BSN is new in the flooring space but did provide the new goalposts for the football field.

UCHS Receives STEM Certification

News, Panther's Corner

Blairsville, Ga – Union County High School (UCHS) named the fourth STEM certified public school in the state.

State Superintendent Richard Woods visited UCHS a few weeks ago and recognized the school as the 14th STEM certified program in the state and fourth public school to earn the honor.

STEM teaches students computational thinking and using scientific methods to solve real-world problems. It helps children to develop technological skills that they can use to one day find highly-sought after jobs.

At the May Board of Education, Superintendent John Hill presented the STEM certification award to Ms. Alecia Frizzell.

“Ms. Frizzell was extremely dedicated and instrumental in the high school receiving the certification, and it’s going to have a lasting impact on students of our county,” said Hill.

Ms. Frizzell also received the Outstanding High School Chemistry Teacher of the Year 2019.

“I have not met a teacher more dedicated to her students and her profession,” said Hill, “we’re very proud of her.”

“I had no idea I was getting the award. I think I was nominated by Mr. Hussion,” explained Frizzell, “I had a student write a recommendation letter that is framed and on a wall in my house.”

Three Partners in Education were recognized for their significant efforts to improve the schools’ facilities and life of the students.

Woody Gap

Gene Sprayberry donated his greenhouse to Woody Gap in memory of his wife, Louise.

Gene Sprayberry donated a large greenhouse to Woody Gap Schools in memory of his wife, Louise.

“I’m thankful that the school system accepted the schoolhouse in memory of Louise,” said Sprayberry, “She would be so thrilled to see that it was doing some good, and students might take up her passion. She loved it.”

This year the Chamber of Commerce had an entire night dedicated to recognizing Union County Schools’(UCS) students and set up two committees devoted to finding ways to help students.

“Our local chamber has always supported our school system, but this past year they have truly been a partner in education,” said Assistant Superintendent David Murphy.

“We appreciate the opportunity for the chamber to participate in the program,” said Chamber of Commerce President Steve Rowe, “These students are the future of Union County.”

RC&D Council sponsored a number of learning opportunities for the students of UCS and Woody Gap, including sponsoring a steer for middle school agriculture day, a pig for the cafeterias, fire-wise programs, a high-wind tunnel, drone software, wick-whacking device, and a number of the members.

Jason Moore’s recognized for his outstanding service on the middle school governance team.

UCMS, Board of Education

UCMS Principal Gwen Stafford recognized student Jason Moore for his commitment to the School Governance Team.

“Jason Moore has been our representative at the middle school for the past two years, and he has done an outstanding job, said Principal Gwen Stafford, “If he doesn’t know what the students would like, he goes out and sees them. He gets there opinion and comes back and reports to us.”

UCHS FFA Students also received recognition for winning first place in state competitions.

Isaac Hunter placed first at the state level for the ocular estimation event at the junior foresters’ field day.

“Ocular estimation is where I have to stand five feet away from the tree and guess the diameter of it,” said Hunter.  He can’t use any tools to assist with the process, just his best sight guestimation.

UCHS, Board of Education, FFA Awards

Isaac Hunter and Timothy Dye both won first place in the state FFA competition.

Next, Timothy Dye won first place at the state competition for timber cruising for board volume.

“You have to stand 66 feet away from the tree using logger tape, diameter tape, and clinometer. The diameter get the actual diameter of it, and with the clinometer, you get the height of it,” explained Dye.

The Union County Primary School recognized two teachers who achieved perfect attendance for the 2018-2019 school year. Kelsey Miller teaches Pre-K, and Tina Payne is an RTI specialist who teaches Kindergarten, First, and Second Grade students.

UCPS, Board of Education

UCPS Principal Millie Owenby recognized the two primary school teachers Kelsey Miller and Tina Payne for their perfect attendance.

“We all know that as teachers that the more we are there, the better the students perform,” said Principal Millie Owenby, “Sometimes at the primary school that is quite an accomplishment.”

The board also presented Superintendent with an award to commemorate his 15 years of service.

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