Finch Ln
Vale, NC 28168

Union Elementary is unlike any school I have ever even heard of simply due to the fact that the staff, administration, parents, and students all work together for common goals seemlessly. Many teachers and administrators have children that attend Union so they have a unique vested interest in the success of the students that is not only professional, but personal as well. Our family moved here a few years ago from out of state. We enrolled our child in kindergarten really not knowing what to expect. Every year I am amazed at the level of dedication from the entire staff and administration. They are happy to have parent involvement and encourage parents to take an active role in their children's educations. In the times we live in today, with many changes like common core and all the various testing, parent involvement is crucial to the success of the students. At Union, as a parent, your voice is heard and that is very comforting.

This school has great students and some great teachers, but most of the administration is power-hungry and unconcerned about the feelings of students, despite what they try to tell you. The worst offenders are both assistant principals and one of three guidance counselors. The worst teacher has to be the American History teacher. He's more concerned about chatting up the students than the actual subject matter he's attempting to teach. Overall, I would say this school is incredibly lacking in many regards. Also, don't go here if you're on the autism spectrum. I'm a level 1 autistic and the majority of the staff still doesn't understand why I get so easily overwhelmed. The admins WILL try to dismiss your feelings instead of giving each individual what they need to calm down. As I said, I'm level 1 autistic, which is the highest functioning level. God forbid a level 2 or 3 autistic kid has a meltdown. Another complaint I have about this school is they treat discrimination like it's nothing. I have heard a countless amount of white students using the n-word, mocking transgender students, and insulting gay & lesbian students. Of course, we do have teachers who do care (props to Mrs. Poulsen and Mrs. Simpson in particular. They don't tolerate that mess at all.), but I feel like every one of the teachers should say something when they witness racism, ableism, homophobia, and the like. Behavior of that sort is unacceptable. One thing the school is good at, however, is telling families every single thing that is happening through phone calls. It's good for parents to be up to date on their children's schoolwork and events. Overall, I do not recommend this school.

more homework and no more bullying and help students who are struggling with their classwork and homework and need teachers who have a very good attitude to teach our kids and info parents when their kids are failing in a phone call or a letter because some of us do not have internet