It's 'Go Time' At Union City Schools

 
 
By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Union City, Tenn.–It’s ‘go’ time at Union City Schools.
After three days of teacher in-service and a handful of classroom preparation days before that, students in the UC School System registered for 2019-20 classes today at all three campuses.
Another day of teacher prep is on tap for Wednesday, with the first full day of classes for all Union City School System students set for Thursday.
Teachers went through a variety of workshops and informational lectures and were updated on numerous state-mandated laws and regulations during their three-day in-service period.
Director of Schools Wes Kennedy, who treated faculty and staff to a barbecued ribs luncheon on Day 1, deemed his people “excited and ready” for another school year at the conclusion of Monday’s workday.
“I can’t wait to witness the success our students and teachers will have this year,” said Kennedy, who is in his third year as DOS after a successful eight-year stint as high school principal. “We have a staff full of high-quality, good-character people and they’re eager for the return of our students.
“The training and information they’ve received the past few days will be invaluable to them as they instruct and lead their children. I’m looking forward to a tremendous 2019-20 school year.”
Kennedy presented his entire faculty and staff with gifts during a midday break and also provided free daycare to those who needed the assistance during the in-service with the help of the UCHS cheerleaders.
The in-service sessions included computer training, security procedures and protocol, CPR and child restraint training, as well as intervention training with focus on bullying and suicide prevention – among other things.
There were also departmental meetings at all three schools and introduction of new teachers and their positions.
One highlight of the sessions was a motivational/inspirational presentation by Dave Whitley, widely known as the “Iron Tamer.”
Whitley performed several amazing feats of strength during his time as guest speaker, involving several faculty members and Kennedy in his presentation.
“The mind controls the body,” he told the UCSS staff.
He encouraged the group to “remove all doubt and limitations from your mind,” while teaching and leading students.
“We become what we think about,” he said. “Be inspired. Use your imagination. And take action.”
Plans are in the works for Whitley to return to campus this fall to speak to students.
Photo: Director of Schools Wes Kennedy is a brave man during a presentation by Dave Whitley. (Mike Hutchens photo).