On May 21, 2026, Union County Public Schools honored the incredible teachers and staff with an End-of-the-Year Celebration and several special recognitions.

UCPS truly appreciates the hard work, dedication, and commitment shown by each and every employee throughout the school year. All of these efforts help make Union County Schools a success.

A special thank you to Baked by Grace for providing an amazing breakfast for everyone to enjoy!

The 2025-2026 Teacher of the Year awards went to Lucy Freyer, Ashley Queener, Hunter Collins, Leslie Middleton, Laura Harrison, and Sarah Maness. Aileen Beeler was named 2025-2026 Administrator of the Year. 2025-2026 Staff Member of the Year Awards were given to Wanda Keck, Charity Jackson, Alicia Tapp, Delora Long, and Angela Henderlight. Mary Effler and Donna Campbell both began their careers on 08/12/1996 and were recognized for 30 years of outstanding service. Emma Odell, Logan Williams, and Jennifer Semishko received the 2025-2026 Up and Comer of the Year Award.

The 2025-2026 Retiring Teachers and Staff are Lei Faust, Lynda Ruth, Aileen Beeler, Leanne Friebel, Elizabeth Moore, Lucy Freyer, Patsy Kitts, Donna Campbell, and Carrie Edds.

At the Union County Board of Education Meeting on may 14, 2026, Mary Caroline Mandoya, student representative, recognized the UCHS Tennis team for its outstanding athletic and academic success. She also praised the UCHS Band for hosting area band competitions and for the superior rating it achieved. She noted that for the first time in seventeen years, the choir received an excellent rating in area competitions. She congratulated the four students who received an Associates degree from Walter State Community College before they graduated from high school. And she congratulated the exceptional achievements of the 2026 Senior Class.

At the same board meeting, Supervisor Josh Williams recognized Nevada Tipton for being invited to participate in an international competition for respiratory therapists. He also honored the HOSA Sponsors, Stochia Brantley, Leslie Sexton, and Rachel Holmes, with a Making a Difference Award.

Mr. Williams recognized John Fugate, FFA Sponsor, for his excellent service to the FFA program. The following students were awarded the State FFA Degree: Brody Booker, Kallie Buck, Tent Jones, Madison Cole, Hope Kitts, Mila Hickle, Carson Paxton, Ben Woods, and Dakota Smith.

The Board of Education also honored the Central Finance Department for their premier leadership in budget management and stewardship of district wide assets. Missy Brown, Stacy Warwick, Ashley West, Dakota Broyle, Keith Cox, Crystal Flatford, and Sherry Jenkins. comprise the department