The WCPS January 2026 Newsletter is now available for viewing.
You may access the newsletter by clicking the following link:
https://wisecova.edurooms.com/engage/wise-county-public-schools/newsletters/january-2026-newsletter
A message from our Food Services Department:
In anticipation of virtual learning days due to inclement weather, the Food Services Program will be sending home with students two days of meals, including 2 breakfasts and 2 lunches on Wednesday, January 14.
***This does not mean virtual learning is scheduled.
SCHOOL CALENDAR UPDATE: We’ve released an updated school calendar for the 2025-2026 school year. To view the updated calendar, click here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QSxFf9yV71tht4WoMmc7SZf8bL4LHTKv/view?usp=drive_link
Roan says, "Never Give Up!"
The Ascent
Roan is a current sixth grader at Union Middle School. Born with Cerebral Palsy, doctors once told him and his family that he would likely be wheelchair-bound for life, however, Roan and his mother refused to accept that prognosis. Together, they set a goal — he was going to get stronger and learn to walk. Tragically, his mother passed away, and his grandmother became his guardian. Together, Roan and his grandmother continue to honor his mother’s goal in her absence: for him to walk. While he primarily uses a walker for support, Roan now walks independently during gym class and at home, steadily building his strength. His latest milestone is an exciting one — he’s transitioning from tall ankle-foot orthoses (AFO) braces that extend nearly to the knee to shorter supramalleolar orthoses (SMO) braces that reach just above the ankles. This change allows for greater freedom of movement. Even better? He designed his new braces himself — complete with flames!
The Climb Within
When asked about his favorite part of the school day, his answer came easily — “my friends,” he said, smiling from ear to ear. Recently, Dr. Cynthia Kays, a physical therapist who has served over five years with Wise County Public Schools (and over 21 in the state of Virginia), took Roan to Onsight Rock Gym in Knoxville, Tennessee. There, he got to climb with Tyler (pictured), “Mrs. Kays’ son,” scaling more than 25 feet up a 60-foot rock wall. His biggest takeaway? “It was much easier to climb up than to come down!” he laughed.
Then, without any prompting, Roan added, “My thing is never give up.” The words came out strong, confident, and full of heart. He repeated it, again, and smiled.
The Heart of a Teacher
He and Dr. Kays share a remarkable bond. Her commitment to helping him reach his goals is both steadfast and inspiring. As I stepped out of the classroom that day, I overheard her say with warmth and purpose, “Okay, Roan, let’s get on our stretching mat and get to work.” For Dr. Kays, this is more than a job — it’s a calling; and for Roan, her dedication has helped transform what once seemed impossible, into reality. Wise County Public Schools is deeply grateful for professionals like Dr. Kays, who help students reach their goals — one step at a time.
For Roan, the possibilities are endless. With a warm smile, and a committed heart of gold, there’s no doubt he will meet his goal. Dr. Kays, Union Middle School, and Wise County Public Schools will continue to be there cheering him on as he works to make progress in meeting his goals.
We are so proud of you, Roan!
Good evening students, families, faculty and staff:
Welcome back and Happy New Year! We hope the holiday break brought time for rest, reflection, and celebration. As we return refreshed and ready to learn, we look forward to a year filled with new opportunities, goals, and successes. Please be advised that school operations will resume tomorrow, Thursday, January 8th, with an early dismissal schedule for students, both, on Thursday, January 8th and Friday, January 9th at 12:30pm.
Thursday, Jan. 8th: Student Early Dismissal at 12:30pm
Friday, Jan. 9th: Student Early Dismissal at 12:30pm
Teachers are expected to participate in scheduled professional development activities until 3:30pm on both early release dates.
Wishing our students, their families, and our faculty and staff a joyful holiday season, and a restful break filled with peace and happiness!
🚌 52 Years Behind the Wheel!
Help us celebrate Robert Phillips, a Union area legend! Mr. Phillips started driving for Wise County at just 18 years old and has been dedicated to our students for 52 incredible years. He goes on to state, "Wise County has been a good county to work for, or I would have left a long time ago."
For Mr. Phillips, it’s all about the kids. "Getting to know them over the years and seeing those smiles makes the job," he says. While the responsibility of student safety is a heavy task, it’s one he takes immense pride in every single day.
Thank you, Robert Phillips, for over half a century of service and for keeping the Union COMMUNITY moving! 🚍
Wise County Public Schools Achieve Full Accreditation and Statewide Recognition
We are honored to share that every school within the Wise County Public School division has earned full Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) accreditation, reflecting strong academic performance across the division, region, and state with 7 of 11 schools achieving “Distinguished” status, and 4 of 11 schools earning an “On Track” rating. Congratulations to students, staff, and administration on this amazing accomplishment!
Press Release: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1x4bunzJIflmvX16fF3EdPXN3RM6ao6_w/view?usp=sharing
