More than 225 people packed into the Redzone Room at the UMAC this morning as Union Public Schools honored its community partners as a vital part of Union’s mission to graduate 100 percent of its students, college and career ready. Videos below.
Union Superintendent Dr. Kirt Hartzler thanked partners for their help to meet Union’s goal, with a graduation rate currently at about 90 percent.
Thanks to the help of community partners, including businesses, non-profit organizations and faith-based organizations, Union is making positive strides in its Community Schools initiative to seeing all students thrive and succeed – no matter their demographics.
Hartzler asked the room to look out the window facing Union Tuttle Stadium and the new scoreboard, noting there is space for more sponsors. Then, Hartzler announced his vision to solicit $2 million in donations for more sponsors on the scoreboard and naming rights to the field, proceeds which will go back to support Union’s Community Schools initiative.
District Community Schools Coordinator Kulsum Siddiqui, who organized the breakfast, was lauded by Hartzler for coordinating Union’s Community Schools initiative. Union’s Community Schools coordinators were also recognized, as was Teresa Kiger, executive director of Elementary Education. Hartzler said Union’s path toward building Community Schools started with an idea by Kiger more than 20 years ago.
Community liaisons or coordinators for Union include Sara Fitch, Roy Clark; Mindi Bisdee, Boevers; Shiloh Wolff, Grove; Andrea Zambrano and Derek Frey. Ellen Ochoa; Scott McCrary, Jarman & Jefferson; Sidney Webb; Rosa Parks; and Daisy Pokhrel-Duran, McAuliffe.
Senior Daniel Flores was a special guest speaker. Flores is a valedictorian, Distinguished Graduate, an AP Scholar, a Gates Scholar finalist, a National Hispanic Recognition Scholar, and a mechanical engineering intern at the University of Tulsa.
Furthermore, Siddiqui noted, “Daniel is also a QuestBridge Match Scholar, who will be attending Stanford University in the fall with plans to major in political science.
“Daniel is also an involved member of his church, where he leads the youth group, participates in the choir, helps organize food drives, and leads worship services,” Siddiqui said. “Daniel also serves his community and school through his roles as an executive officer for the College and Career Crew, vice-president for Rotary’s Interact Club, and chairman for Impact Tulsa.”
Addressing the large crowd – as his family sat nearby – Flores spoke about how educators and community partners have helped him in his journey and how everyone has helped him foster his success. However, he said, that although he has enjoyed success so far, other students still need help and will continue to need help. He urged everyone in the room to stay involved and continue Union’s mission to ensure that every student graduates.
As partners enjoyed a breakfast catered by Stu B Que, symphony students under the director of teacher Paula Surface provided background music. Partners were also treated to performances by Union Harmony Choir under the direction of teacher Daniel Frerichs. Union’s drumline also welcomed patrons as they walked inside the UMAC.
About Union’s Community Schools Initiative
Union’s Community Schools approach to education seeks to equalize the playing field for all students through a comprehensive, four-pronged approach, providing layered supports for children and families: Expanded Learning Time, Collaborative Learning Practices, Family and Engagement Practices, and Integrated Student Services
Union Public Schools is committed to strengthening children, families, and communities. Eight Full-Service Community Schools at Union serve as hubs for programs that include expanded learning opportunities, family engagement, and a variety of social services. These eight schools offer a robust menu of resources and programs to meet the needs of our students and families including Baby Book Club, After-School Programs, Family Events, Holiday Assistance, School-Based Counseling, etc.
From preschool through graduation, Community Schools support student growth and achievement while also creating strong ties among families, students, schools, and communities. Doing so will help ensure 100 percent of our students graduate college and career ready.
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