The Union City School Board’s meeting on November 14 was full of important updates since they discussed school safety, staff changes, student trips, and sports.
Here’s a look at what’s happening in the Union City Area School District.
- A new agreement with local and state police was approved to improve school security.
- Important job changes and new hires were made to support teaching and administration.
- Former football coach Brian Patten shared his wish to help rebuild the struggling football team after their winless season.
Decisions About School Security and Buildings
At the November 14 meeting, the Union City School Board approved several changes to improve security and facilities.
A new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was finalized between the Union City Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, and the school district.
This agreement, which is now in effect pending required signatures, will help make schools safer for students and staff.
The board also approved a plan for Powell Construction to replace ceiling tiles in the elementary school.
This work is part of a larger renovation project and will be funded through the Elementary Renovation Fund, known as Fund 39.
It will follow prevailing wage requirements, supporting fair labor practices while improving the environment for students.
Updates on Staff and New Hires
Several important staff changes were approved at the meeting.
Taylor Hewitt was reassigned to be the STEM and gifted teacher at the elementary school, starting on November 4.
This move followed the resignation of Michelle Flaherty, who left to take an administrative job in another district.
The board hired Jennifer Moczulski as a secondary special education teacher to replace Hewitt in her old role.
Her job begins on December 3 with a prorated salary of $65,893.
Rachelle Wolf was reassigned to work as a food service clerk, effective November 15, earning $17 per hour.
This change happened because Karin Blakeslee took on a new one-on-one special education aide job.
Amy Smith was also hired as a part-time cafeteria worker at $12 per hour, starting the same day.
The board also added volunteers for the rest of the school year to help with school programs, showing its commitment to including community members in school activities.
Concerns About the Football Program and Extracurricular Activities
One of the most talked-about parts of the meeting was when former football coach and current physical education teacher Brian Patten spoke during the public comment section.
Patten, who has worked for the district since 1995, shared his concerns about the football program.
The Bears varsity football team had a winless season (0-9), and Patten said he wants to return to coaching to improve the program.
The board also handled other sports-related updates.
Jennifer Drayer’s resignation as assistant softball coach was accepted retroactively to October 31.
New athletic volunteers were added for the 2024-25 sports season, including:
- Judah Gardner for wrestling
- Kyle Shreve for basketball
- Kaycee Wooley for swimming
Academic Plans and Student Opportunities
The board approved a field trip for Future Farmers of America (FFA) students to attend the Pennsylvania Farm Show in Harrisburg from January 6 to January 8.
It’s incredible how this trip will allow students to learn more about farming and agriculture.
In other academic updates, the board approved budget transfers for the current school year and adopted 10 updated policies from the Pennsylvania School Boards Association.
Welcoming New School Board Members
The board welcomed three members who were sworn in to serve four-year terms.
Long-time member and current board chair Cathy Waggoner will continue representing Ward 4.
Seth Rhenberg, who represents Ward 2, begins his first full term after being appointed in 2023.
Linda Graham, an administrative assistant in the district for many years, joins as an at-large representative for the first time.
Director of Schools Wes Kennedy praised the board members for their support and commitment to making thoughtful decisions.
Commitment to Growth and Improvement
Ultimately, the Union City School Board’s meeting on November 14 showed its strong focus on improving schools and helping students succeed.
By approving plans for better security, changing staff roles, and upgrading facilities, the board is working hard to create a safe and positive learning environment.
The board also listened to community concerns, like Brian Patten’s wish to help improve the football program, showing that they value input from people who care about the district.
With new members joining the board and plans in place to improve academics, sports, and safety, Union City is focused on making things better for students, staff, and the community.
