Hello United South Central Families,
The first semester of the 2024-2025 school year is complete, and it’s hard to believe we’re already halfway through the school year. Over the past 18 weeks, it has been a privilege to work with such an outstanding group of students each day. We’re excited to continue building on this success and are looking forward to an excellent second semester!
Strategic Planning Process - Ten months ago, we embarked on a comprehensive overhaul of our district’s strategic plan. This process has been very beneficial, and we are fortunate to have had so many individuals involved and participating in this process—whether in person, through focus groups, surveys, or as members of our strategic planning team. A huge thank-you goes out to everyone who shared their input and feedback. We’re excited to announce that the School Board has officially approved the new strategic plan! You can find the complete plan on our district website which is linked below. I’d especially like to highlight the four strategic directions and the “key initiatives” section. These elements outline not only our aspirations for what USC can become but correspond to the actionable steps we are undertaking to make these goals a reality for our students. As part of this process, we also refined our district’s mission and vision statements:
Link to Strategic Planning Information
USC’s New Mission Statement: We empower students to reach their full potential through supportive and engaging experiences, inspiring them to be lifelong learners and responsible citizens.
USC’s New Vision Statement: We are united in fostering a forward-thinking learning environment where positive relationships, communication, and technology drive student success and academic achievement. We take pride in continuously improving our robust educational programs, vibrant school community, and facilities.
Facilities Task Force - As we worked through our strategic planning process, one recurring topic was the need to discuss some space challenges created by our growing student enrollment. In December, the School Board approved forming a community-based Facilities Taskforce to analyze these needs and explore potential solutions. We are planning for this process to be truly community-driven. We are starting with no predetermined plans or ideas and will work collaboratively to develop recommendations that reflect our shared goals and support our students. We value your involvement and encourage you to stay informed about the task force’s purpose and progress. A flyer is attached with more details, and updates will also be posted on our district website: USC FacilitiesTaskforce Updates.
2025-2026 Academic Calendar - Even though the 2025-2026 school year is quite a ways off, we are at the point in time where we start looking ahead and making plans. Our calendar for the upcoming school year was approved by our school board in January. If your family is looking to plan for the year ahead as well, our academic calendar for next year is linked here and also attached to this message.
Winter Weather & Virtual Learning - Thank you for your flexibility with Tuesday’s winter weather closure and we appreciate your help as we work to prioritize the safety of all our students on their way to school. We certainly are grateful for the relatively smooth start we have had to our winter season. As we get further into January, please help your student be prepared for the possibility of Virtual Learning with future weather-related closures.
Upcoming Events and Activities at USC -
February 14 & 17, Presidents Day - No School
February 18, School Board Meeting (in Easton) - 5:30 PM
March 3, K-12 Evening Conferences
Thank you for your continued support and we partner together in providing the best education and experience possible to our students. Go Rebels!
Taylor Topinka
United South Central Superintendent