Union Public Schools Shifts To Distance Learning

Union Public Schools announced that they will shift to distance learning starting Friday, December 4.

District leaders said that this shift is due to a high number of adult positive cases and adults in quarantine. They said students at all school sites will remain in distance learning through December 18 and will not return to in-person class until January 4, 2021.

The district said that this includes students in the Early Childhood Center.

“Please know this has been a very difficult decision to make, but the safety of our students and staff is paramount,” said Superintendent Kirt Hartzler. “I know this transition will be challenging for many. Our teachers, principals and support staff will do their best to provide the support, attention, and care that our students will need as they work to close out the semester. Our Child Nutrition Department will also be working on a plan to ensure our students are provided meals during this time.”

Union said that, as of Wednesday's case counts, the district had 27 staff members positive for COVID-19 and an additional 122 in quarantine due to close contact. The district also said that 48 students have tested positive for COVID-19 and an additional 443 students are in quarantine.