By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Union City, Tenn.–Union City Schools faculty and staff got off to a soaring start in their charge to ‘Rise to the Challenges.’
UCSS Director of Schools Wes Kennedy welcomed personnel numbering more than 220 to Day 1 of professional development Monday, with he and other top-level administrators establishing the framework and criteria for another successful year for all things Purple and Gold.
“Each of you will be faced with many challenges over the next ten months, and I know you’ll do a great job of rising to those challenges,” Kennedy said in his address to conclude the first session of three days’ worth of meetings and training for the 2023-24 group. “I expect each of you to base every decision you make on what’s best for the kids.
“We are all blessed with an incredible school board that values you. If you take care of your kids, we, as administrators and our school board, will take care of you.”
First-day morale got a great boost as the group was informed they’d receive several gifts – perks that have become an annual highlight of Kennedy’s welcome-back activities.
Each teacher was assured of a raise at some point during the coming year. Additionally, every employee received a $150 Wal-Mart gift card, a $100 credit in their school lunch account, and several items of school swag, including a purple camping chair, a UC logo tumbler, and spirit wear.
During a friendly session of games and competitions among faculty members, other prizes were awarded, including four tickets to a University of Tennessee football game, an overnight stay at the Paris Landing Hotel, an iPad, and 20 different gift cards and certificates, generously donated by area businesses and merchants.
Campus principals Allison Palmer, Lance Morgan, and Jacob Cross – along with their top assistants – participated in the activities and offered valuable tips for negotiating through the upcoming school year. They particularly noted physical challenges, teamwork, mental health, and professional health.
Each school leader then introduced first-year teachers, educational assistants, and other personnel in their respective buildings, with that group numbering 20.
School board chairman Cathy Waggoner and Rev. Curtis McLendon both offered encouragement to staff, with Waggoner telling them, “You were chosen to be here,” and “You all will have an impact on our school and our community. I know you’ll do a great job.”
McLendon gave a passionate address, noting life’s challenges but that “God has a hedge around all of us.”
Kennedy noted a pair of critical state law changes – one dealing with paid maternity leave for both mother and spouse, the other focusing on building security.
He also spoke glowingly about the school system’s ability to absorb the majority of insurance premiums for staff members and their families, saying no other system in the state provides more than Union City.
“There’s no challenge we can’t conquer,” Kennedy said before dismissing the group for further training. “I hope you’ve all laughed and smiled this summer, and I hope you continue to laugh and smile over the next 180 days. It’s important for yourselves, your co-workers, and your kids.
“I appreciate all of you. Have faith, stay close to your family and colleagues, and be a good teammate. Help each other out. The rest will take care of itself.”
UC School System personnel will continue with training and workshops Tuesday and Wednesday before welcoming students for registration on Thursday. The first full day of classes is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 7.