Summer Newsletter
August 4, 2025
🗒️ A Note from Union Colony
Dear Union Colony Elementary Families,
I’m super excited to welcome your children back, and we've been busy all summer getting ready, including preparing for two rounds of Project-Based Learning, one in fall and one in spring, where families will be invited to watch student presentations. You’ll also notice our main office has been remodeled with safety in mind, and the whole building is clean and ready to go, thanks to our excellent custodial and teaching staff. I hope you enjoy the rest of your summer, and we’ll see you at our Back to School event on August 11.
Dave Warner
Principal, Union Colony Elementary
Dear Union Colony Preparatory School Families,
We’re excited to welcome students back and launch a new school year full of possibilities! Our team has been preparing to support every learner. In middle school, students will build strong academic foundations, develop leadership skills, and grow as part of a close-knit learning community. In high school, we’re excited for students pursuing each of our graduation pathways, whether they’re following the UC Core Pathway, taking part in concurrent enrollment, or working toward an associate degree. With a strong start to the fall athletics season ahead and a continued focus on academic growth and connection, we’re ready for a great year.
Carrie Leffler
Principal, Union Colony Preparatory School
‼️ First Day Essentials: What You Actually Need to Know
When Does School Start?
School starts:
August 11 only 6th grade reports to school
August 12 6th and 7th grade report to school
August 13 1st-12th grades report to school
August 18 Kindergarten start their school year
School Hours
8-3:10 Elementary School
8-3:30 Preparatory School
- Doors open: 7:30 AM (perfect for early birds or nervous energy)
What to bring (and what not to worry about):
Backpack with basic supplies (pencils, notebook, water bottle)
Breakfast and Lunch are free for Elementary and Prep Students!
Any completed summer work
The understanding that forgotten items can be figured out
Elementary Drop-off and Pick-up Procedures
- Follow designated traffic patterns, especially in the parking lot.
- There are arrows and cones to guide you, as well as adult staff to direct traffic.
- Pick up is very busy from 2:45-3:15. Be very cautious of pedestrians and other vehicles.
Preparatory Drop-off and Pick-up Procedures
- Watch for students, pedestrians, other vehicles entering and exiting parking lots.
- Observe all traffic patterns.
- Curbside pickup is in the large parking lot to the west of the school building.
- Student drivers must come to the office to notify if they will be driving and complete the necessary form.
🤝 Meet Some of Our Team
Dave Warner - Elementary Principal
Carrie Leffler - Preparatory Principal
Kristi Dahlstrom - K-12 Counselor
📚 Supply Lists
✏️ What to Expect The First Week
Advisory time and class orientations
Building community
We'll focus on helping students connect with each other and feel like they belong. Expect activities designed to build friendships and create a welcoming environment for everyone.
Fun first-week activities
The goal is to make school feel exciting and positive right from the start. We've planned activities to help students know that learning together is something to look forward to.
☑️ Simple First Day Checklist
The night before, keep it simple:
✅ Backpack packed
✅ Lunch/snack ready
✅ Good night's sleep
✅ Big smile for Day 1
🗓️ Summer Office Hours
Through July 31:
M-Th 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
M-F 7:30 am - 4:00 pm