By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Union City, Tenn.–Day 1 was a good one for students and staff at Union City Schools.
More than 1,600 students began the 2021-22 school year with in-person classes Monday on three separate UC Schools campuses.
And from drop-off to pick-up time at Union City Elementary and UC Middle School to the traffic flow at UCHS, all went well from start to finish… and in between.
“I’m never surprised by our people and their willingness to go the extra mile for their students,” Director of Schools Wes Kennedy said. “The first day of school each year comes with a unique set of challenges, but once again, our teachers and staff went above and beyond to help students.”
Faculty and school personnel welcomed students at every level, getting them acclimated to new surroundings, pointing them in the right direction, and easing any and all anxieties that regularly come with Day 1 of a new school year.
Principals at all three campuses reported a smooth first day in every area.
“Our atmosphere at the middle school was very positive, and it was great to see a lot of smiling faces everywhere,” UCMS Principal Lance Morgan said.
“Everyone got to where they needed to be in a timely fashion, and I believe the students and our staff are looking forward to being back in routine and a normal school year.”
UC High School Principal Jacob Cross saw the same in his building.
“The students and staff were especially enthusiastic today. Everyone was excited to have a traditional first day after all the challenges of last year. We got off to a great start,” Cross claimed.
David Byars and his elementary school staff welcomed back returning and new students with smiles and encouragement.
“We were thrilled to see our kids,” Byars said. “We’ve missed them, and it was fantastic to see their smiling faces. It’s going to be a great school year!
UC students will be in classes five days a week until the Sept. 6 Labor Day holiday.