The Union Public Schools Board Meeting held on July 14, 2025, focused on several key decisions impacting the upcoming school year, including updates to the daily schedule, school calendar, and partnerships aimed at enhancing student learning.

The meeting commenced with all board members present, except for Dr. McNeil. The board swiftly adopted the agenda and moved to the consent agenda, which included routine items approved in a single vote.

A significant discussion centered on the updated daily schedule for the 2025-2026 school year, necessitated by House Bill 1087, which mandates either an additional school day or extra instructional hours. The board approved a schedule that adds six extra hours of instruction, bringing the total to 1,087.52 hours. A minor adjustment was made to the start time for seventh graders, moving it from 7:45 AM to 7:40 AM to improve bus routing.

The board also approved the school calendar for the upcoming year, which aligns with the new instructional hour requirements. This decision will be communicated to the state’s accreditation standards department.

Another highlight was the approval of a partnership with Reading Partners, which will provide reading tutors to ten elementary schools at a cost of $100,000. This initiative aims to enhance literacy among students, building on a successful pilot program that served over 230 students last year.

In addition, the board approved several software renewals, including a two-year renewal of Renaissance Learning Inc. software for $290,272.36, and Exact Path software for $284,576.54. These tools are essential for student assessments and personalized learning.

The meeting concluded with the appointment of new adjunct teachers and the naming of Tamara Danzi as the assistant principal for the Freshman Academy. Danzi, a long-time educator with notable achievements, was recognized for her contributions to the district.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to enhancing educational quality and compliance with state regulations, while also fostering partnerships that support student success.