Union Public Schools Define a Community
By KELSY LORIN TAYLOR
Web Editor and Feature Writer
ACADEMICE EXCELLENCE: Tom Carson, principal of Darnaby Elementary School, has enjoyed his position in the district and notices the quality of education that is offered there every day.
KELSY LORIN TAYLOR for GTR Newspapers
Teachers and administrators are looking forward to the 2010-2011 academic year and all of the educational opportunities that are in store for students.
The Union Public School District is located in southeast Tulsa and reaches into a portion of northwest Broken Arrow. Unifying a community, the district stands out from most others by not encompassing a particular city.
Community involvement is very important in the district. Effective communication with students, teachers, administrators and patrons has built a foundation for the schools.
There are currently more than 14,000 students enrolled in the district. With every new term comes an increased number of students. Known for academic excellence, Union has grown to be one of the most sought after educational experiences in the area.
Union Public Schools currently boasts 19 instructional sites throughout the community. The sites include Union High School, Union Intermediate High School, Eighth Grade Center, Sixth and Seventh Grade Center and Union Alternative School. Elementary Schools in the district are Anderson, Boevers, Briarglen, Cedar Ridge, Roy Clark, Darnaby, Grove, Jarman, Jefferson, McAuliffe, Moore, Peters and Rosa Parks.
Many different challenging courses are offered in the district to meet the interests of students. An Advanced Placement Program is available at the secondary level for students in grades 10 through 12.
The courses are academically challenging and are often focused on specific areas of study. Analytical and writing skills are reiterated throughout the courses to prepare students for continued education. Students in the Advanced Placement Program have the opportunity to earn credit for college.
Also offered in the district is the Pre-Advanced Placement Program. Available in middle school, these courses prepare students for college level work and help them to succeed in high school.
Students are also given the opportunity to earn college credit through concurrent enrollment. This was made possible by a partnership with Tulsa Community College.
The Union Collegiate Academy began in 2009, which focuses on a variety of topics including leadership skills, professional dress, public relations, college selection, scholarship research and project-based learning.
Many students have enjoyed learning about different areas of study throughout the program and have determined paths that may interest them in college.
Students are encouraged to become involved in the organizations that have been formed through the years at Union Public Schools. Some of these organizations include the Academic Team, National Honor Society, Business Professionals of America, Mock Trial Competition Law Team, Native American Student Association and Student Council.
The organizations at Union Public Schools serve as an extension of the curriculum and offer endless learning opportunities to students. Memberships are voluntary and do not impact classroom grades.
Athletics has become a very important part of the student experience in the district. Coaches focus not only on helping athletes become their best at a sport but also focus on leadership, goal setting, organization, work ethic, self-discipline, communication, determination, cooperation, dependability, honesty, perception and relationships.
Union Public Schools are accredited by the Oklahoma State Department of Education and the North Central Accreditation Association. The accreditation process brings together parents, teachers and administrators of each site and has been utilized by other districts.
For more information about Union Public Schools, call (918) 357-4321.
Updated 08-03-2010
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