UNION CO., N.C. – It was smooth sailing for Union County Public Schools as more than 39,000 students returned to class on Monday. According to Superintendent Andrew Houlihan, there were no major issues across the district’s 52 campuses. Teacher vacancies have dropped to their lowest levels si nce 2019. A dedicated school resource officer is now stationed at every single school. For parents adjusting to the morning rush, the Superintendent offers this advice. Houlihan says, “We always say pack your patience. This is the week, where we’re learning routines, we’re learning procedures, we’re focusing on what needs to happen again to keep students and staff safe.” School leaders say they expect a major turnaround when the state releases its official academic performance data next month. The Board of Education will present the final public rankings during their scheduled September 2nd meeting. ...read more read less