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The mission of the Union School District, in harmony with our community, is to educate and empower students to become continuous learners in an environment which ensures that each student gains knowledge and skills, self-motivation and related positive attitudes necessary to compete equitably with peers locally and globally towards meaningful and productive lives.
Dear Union School District Families,
As we begin another school year, we want to thank you for your continued partnership and support of our students and schools. Our shared goal is simple: to give every Union student the opportunity to learn, grow, feel safe, and be successful.
As part of that commitment, we want to share some information about technology use in our schools, including a recent change to our network access policy, the electronic devices provided to our students, and our optional device insurance program.
We know that technology has become an important part of the way our students learn, communicate, and access educational resources. We also recognize that changes to technology procedures can sometimes create questions for families. We hope the information below provides some helpful context.
A Change to Personal Device Network Access
Beginning this school year, students may no longer connect personal devices to the Union School District network through our former Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program.
We recognize that some families have used personal devices for school-related purposes, and we understand that this change may be an adjustment. This decision was made thoughtfully after reviewing our network activity, security needs, and our responsibility to provide a safe and productive learning environment for all students.
There are several important reasons for this change:
Student Safety and Filtering: As a school district, we have responsibilities under the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) to maintain appropriate internet filtering and protections on devices accessing our network. Personal devices made it increasingly difficult to maintain these protections consistently. The use of VPNs and other software also created opportunities for students to bypass district filtering.
A Focused Learning Environment: Our review of network activity showed that a significant amount of traffic from personal devices was unrelated to schoolwork. We want our classrooms to be places where students can focus their attention on learning, their teachers, and one another.
Network Security and Reliability: Personal devices that are not managed by the district can introduce software, security, and compatibility concerns. Moving to a district-managed technology environment allows us to better protect our network and provide reliable access for everyone.
While we understand that not everyone will be excited about this change, we believe it is the best way to support student safety, responsible technology use, and a focused learning environment.
Every Student Receives a District Device at No Cost
One of the ways Union School District supports our students is by providing an electronic device to every student at no cost to the family.
We believe that students should have access to the technology they need to participate fully in today’s educational environment. Families do not pay a fee simply because their child is assigned a district device.
We are proud to provide this resource to our students and families.
At the same time, these devices are district property and are purchased with the expectation that they will serve many students over their useful life. Just as we ask students to care for textbooks, musical instruments, athletic equipment, furniture, and other school property, we ask them to treat their district-issued technology with care and respect.
Device Repairs and Replacement Costs
We want to emphasize that repair and replacement charges are not a routine part of receiving a district device.
In most school years, only a small fraction of our students experience a need for a device repair, and an even smaller number of families experience a financial charge. Most everyday wear and ordinary issues are handled as part of the district’s normal technology program.
A family may, however, be responsible for repair or replacement costs when a device is lost or intentionally damaged, or when damage results from clear abuse or neglect.
Our intent is not to place an unnecessary financial burden on families. Rather, we have a responsibility to protect school district resources so that we can continue providing devices to students year after year.
Why would there be a charge for a lost or intentionally damaged device?
We understand that this may be a question for some families.
When the district purchases a computer, we do so with the expectation that it will serve one student and then, over time, be available to other students. A device that is intentionally damaged or lost cannot fulfill that purpose.
In that respect, an electronic device is no different from a textbook or other district property. If a textbook is intentionally destroyed or lost, the district must replace it so that another student can have the materials necessary to learn.
Importantly, the cost of replacing an electronic device is significantly less than the cumulative cost of purchasing individual sets of traditional textbooks for students over time.
By taking care of our technology, we help ensure that the district can continue making these resources available to students for many years.
Optional Device Insurance – $35 Per Year
We also recognize that accidents happen. For families who would like additional protection, the district offers optional device insurance for $35 per school year.
Participation is completely voluntary. Families who choose not to purchase insurance will still receive a district-issued device at no cost.
The optional insurance is designed to help with common minor technology expenses, such as:
· Replacement of a damaged computer screen
· Replacement of a lost charger
· Other minor repairs covered under the district’s insurance provisions
What About Printed Textbooks?
We also recognize that some students and families may prefer learning with traditional printed textbooks.
Over the years, Union School District has increasingly moved toward digital textbooks because they offer several meaningful advantages. Digital instructional materials generally cost considerably less than traditional textbooks, provide enhanced and interactive features, can offer accessibility tools, and reduce the amount of physical material students need to carry between school and home.
This transition has not been about using technology simply because it is available. It has been about finding ways to provide high-quality instructional resources while being responsible with district resources and taxpayer dollars.
The reduced weight and physical space associated with digital materials also make a meaningful difference for students who would otherwise be carrying multiple textbooks between home and school.
Families who have questions about instructional materials or who would like to discuss whether a printed textbook option is appropriate for their student are encouraged to reach out to their child’s teacher or building administration.
Yondr Pouches and a More Focused School Day
Another change this school year is the introduction of Yondr phone pouches at Union High School, consistent with Pennsylvania’s phone-free schools initiative.
The pouches allow students to keep their phones with them while keeping them securely stored and inaccessible during the school day.
We know that phones are an important part of everyday life, and we also know how challenging it can be for young people to put them aside. Our hope is that this approach will help students spend more time engaged in their classrooms, activities, friendships, teachers, and the experiences that make school meaningful.
We Appreciate Your Partnership
We understand that technology policies can sometimes raise questions, and we appreciate families taking the time to understand the reasons behind these decisions.
At the heart of all of these changes is our commitment to our students.
We want Union schools to be places where students can learn without unnecessary distractions, access the resources they need, feel safe online and in person, and develop the skills they need for their future.
We are grateful for the partnership of our families as we continue working together to make Union School District a welcoming, safe, and engaging place for every child.
Thank you for trusting us with the education and care of your children, and thank you for your continued support of Union School District and our students.
With appreciation,
Dr. John T. Kimmel
Superintendent
Union School District
| File | File size | Last modified |
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 School District Technology.pdf | 666 kB | 08-27-2026 15:04 |
Flyer attached below
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 ESS PA Union Facebook Hiring Event Sept 3 08.26.jpg | 3851 kB | 08-20-2026 12:34 |
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Welcome to the start of another exciting school year at Union High School! I hope your family has enjoyed a safe, relaxing, and rewarding summer. We are eager to welcome our students back and begin the 2026–2027 school year together.
The first day of school for all students in the Union School District is Wednesday, August 26. Student class schedules are available through the FOCUS Parent and Student Portal. If a schedule adjustment is necessary, requests should be made this week using the following form https://forms.gle/Cmpum4hPjpQZD6qF9 or by contacting Mrs. Gallo in the office. Mrs. Gallo will be making arrangements for schedule change appointments (if needed) on August 11 and 12. Mrs. Weckerly, our new school counselor, will also be available to answer any questions regarding scheduling. If you are scheduled for fewer than 6.5 credits, please contact the school so that we can make any necessary scheduling changes for you.
Before classes begin, we invite families to attend our annual orientation and open house on Tuesday, August 25. Sixth-grade students and their parents or guardians are invited to report to the cafeteria for an orientation presentation, which will begin at 2:00 p.m. Doors will open at 1:30 p.m. Families of students in grades 7–12 are also welcome to visit the building, starting at 2:30 p.m., to meet teachers, locate classrooms, and become familiar with the school. The open house will conclude at 3:00 p.m.
Prompt attendance is an important part of student success. Students must be seated in their assigned classroom by 7:43 a.m. each day. Arrivals after that time will be recorded as tardy. Please review the Student Handbook for information regarding the relationship between excessive unexcused tardies and truancy.
Whenever a student is absent, a written excuse must be submitted within three school days of the student's return for the absence to be considered excused. Families may submit excuses through FOCUS, deliver them to the School Police Officer or Attendance Secretary, or email them to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Once a student has accumulated ten parent/guardian excuses, any additional absences must be verified by a healthcare provider to qualify as excused.
To promote a safe learning environment, all students will enter the building through the main entrance each morning. The front loop is reserved exclusively for school buses. Parents who transport their children should use the rear parking lot and drop students off along the sidewalk before reaching the bus loop.
As students enter the building, they will remove items from their backpacks that could activate the security screening equipment before proceeding through the metal detectors. After being cleared by School Police Officers, students who choose to eat breakfast should report directly to the cafeteria. All other students should report to the main gymnasium until the school day begins. Students should not remain in the main lobby during morning arrival.
As announced earlier this summer, Union High School will be implementing a phone-free learning environment through the use of Yondr pouches. Phones and other personal electronic devices should be placed in the Yondr bags before proceeding through the metal detectors. We encourage every family to review the informational letter and Frequently Asked Questions to better understand how this initiative will operate throughout the school year.
Recognizing and celebrating positive choices continues to be an important priority at Union High School. Through our Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program, students will have opportunities each marking period to earn incentives and participate in special activities by consistently demonstrating responsible behavior. Expectations may be adjusted throughout the year based on student data and school needs.
The 2026–2027 Student Handbook is available on the district website for your review. We encourage families to read the handbook together, as it contains important information regarding school procedures, expectations, and student responsibilities. After reviewing the handbook, please complete the electronic acknowledgment through the Parent Portal no later than Friday, September 11, 2026. Maintaining an active Parent Portal account is one of the best ways to stay informed throughout the school year. Families can update emergency contact information, view class schedules, monitor grades, and access report cards through FOCUS.
Please take time to review the High School Disciplinary Matrix included in the Student Handbook. Our goal is to provide a safe, respectful, and productive learning environment for every student. Students are expected to meet the behavioral expectations established by the school, and disciplinary consequences will be applied when those expectations are not met.
All students will be issued a Chromebook in the 2026-27 school year. Students will not be allowed to use the Wifi using personal devices. As a 1:1 Chromebook school, every student is responsible for properly caring for their assigned device. We strongly recommend purchasing a durable backpack or protective case to help prevent accidental damage. Chromebook insurance is available for $35, and we encourage families to take advantage of this protection as repairs can be expensive.
We are excited for another outstanding year of learning, growth, and achievement at Union High School. Thank you for your continued support and partnership in your child's education. We look forward to welcoming everyone back very soon and wish your family all the best as we begin the new school year together.
Sincerely,
Dr. Carlson
High School Principal
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| Parent_Guardian Welcome Letter 26-27.pdf | 199 kB | 08-03-2026 20:10 |
Dear Parents and Guardians,
At Union School District, we’re committed to creating a learning environment where every student can thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally. Over the past several years, cell phones and personal devices have led to increased distractions during the instructional day. Due to the increased distraction and its hindering of student learning, on July 16, 2026, the Union School District Board of Directors approved changes to the student handbook regarding cell phones and personal electronic devices. Additionally, at the time of writing, the Pennsylvania State Legislature is advancing a bill that would require PA schools to go phone-free, mirroring what other states have done nationwide. We feel that our action plan is a proactive approach to meet the requirements of the day and best serve our students.
Beginning the first day of school of the 2026-27 school year, we will launch the Yondr Phone-Free Schools Program—a proven, bell-to-bell approach that supports student focus, well-being, and connection by removing mobile phone distractions during the school day.
For over a decade, Yondr has helped schools across all 50 states and more than 35 countries build healthier, more engaging school cultures. Their pouch-based program, combined with hands-on guidance and dedicated support, has led to powerful results, which include:
- 86% reported improved safety and student wellness
- 84% saw increased engagement in class
- 68% experienced academic gain
- 44% reduced behavioral referrals
How the Program Works
Each student will be assigned a Yondr pouch—a secure, lockable case for storing personal devices. Students are responsible for bringing their pouch to and from school each day and keeping it in good condition. If a student damages their Pouch or is caught on their phone, Administration will collect the phone/Pouch, provide disciplinary consequences, and call home for parent notification.
- Upon arrival, students power off (or switch to airplane mode) their phones, place the devices in the pouch, and lock them. Smartwatches and earbuds should also be placed in the pouch.
- During the day, Students keep the locked pouch in their backpack or locker.
- At dismissal: Students unlock pouches at designated stations to retrieve their devices. Reseal pouches after taking materials out.
This process is quick, simple, and will be supervised by staff as part of our daily routine. If the pouches are damaged, families will incur a $30 replacement fee.
Medical Exceptions
Families requesting a medical exception must submit documentation to the school nurse by August 15, 2026. If you have questions, please contact Andrew Carlson, High School Principal
Staying Connected
With student safety as our top priority, we will follow our standard safety protocols in the event of an emergency. If you need to reach your child during the school day, please contact the High School Office: 814-473-3121. We also encourage parents to maintain email communication with their child as needed.
We know that change takes partnership, and we’re here to support a smooth transition for your family.
Thank you for your continued support as we work together to create a focused, present, and positive school environment for every student.
Yours sincerely,
Dr. Andrew Carlson
High School Principal
Union High School
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| Yondr Parent Letter - Launch.pdf | 258 kB | 07-23-2026 08:17 |
Click the attachment below for more details
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| Dual Enrollment Grant Flyer.pdf | 20439 kB | 06-10-2026 09:39 |
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| 2026-2027 School Calendar.pdf | 44 kB | 02-20-2026 09:18 |
Attached is a tri-fold flyer informing families of the benefits of using Union's Cyber Partnership Program if you are considering Remote Learning.
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| Cyber Union - Enrolling for Future Success.pdf | 397 kB | 08-30-2023 13:55 |
Below is some information from Pennsylvania Association of School Board Officials which investigates the disadvantages of Cyber Charter School enrollments.
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| PASBOCyberCosts.pdf | 461 kB | 08-19-2020 14:36 |
