UC Horizon: Back-to-School Guide | Explore Union County | Unplug and Play

Union County Horizon

August 22, 2025

Community News

Start Smart: Your Guide to a Safe School Year

Back-to-School Resources

Three days until the first day of school

The first day of school for Union County Public Schools is this Monday, Aug. 25! Check out the school district's Back to School webpage.

Here are a few resources to help you prepare:

  1. Get familiar with student handbooks, curriculum guides, program of studies, and kindergarten booklets!
  2. Claim your Infinite Campus account - the state's new student information system that replaces PowerSchool.
  3. Check out the new system for paying school meals: PaySchools Central
  4. Track your student's school bus in real time with the Edulog Parent Portal App.
  5. Take note of bell times for the 2025-2026 school year.
  6. View and save the school district's calendar for the school year.

If parents or community members are interested in volunteering this school year, check out volunteer opportunities and requirements.


Back to School Road Safety

Help keep students safe by looking out for crosswalks and reducing your speed in school zones.

Please watch for school buses and allow extra time in your morning and afternoon commutes.

Refresh your familiarity with the rules of the road for driving near school buses with this information from NCDOT. 


School Fire Prevention

Play The Fire Marshal’s Role: Safeguarding Schools Through Fire Inspections video

As a new school year approaches, the Union County Fire Marshal's Office is committed to ensuring our schools are safe. Regular fire inspections play a crucial role in maintaining safety standards and preventing tragedies. Watch this video featuring Bob, a Union County resident and survivor of a tragic 1958 school fire that reshaped fire prevention in schools nationwide, and learn how these inspections and fire safety standards protect our community.

Adventure Awaits with Explore Passes

Uncover the wonders of Union County with a Library Explore Pass! With your library card, you can reserve free admission to local attractions like the Monroe Science Center or Cane Creek Park, perfect for family fun and hands-on learning.

Passes are limited each day and available on a first-come, first-served basis, so reserve yours online and enjoy a free adventure close to home. 

Kayakers at Cane Creek Park

Last Chance for Summer Fun

Labor Day weekend marks the final weekend for beach access at Cane Creek Park this season. Please note that all beach and water-related activities will be closed during weekdays. Come out and soak up the sun one last time!

County Budget FY26 Recap Video

Play Fiscal Year 2026 Adopted Budget

Watch a short video to find highlights on Union County's Fiscal Year 2026 budget. You will see an easy-to-understand guide that explains how County leaders are prioritizing essential services while practicing fiscal responsibility and keeping the best interest of our residents in mind. Watch the video to learn more.

Healthy Living

Schedule Your Back-to-School Vaccinations

Union County Public Health has an important "homework" assignment for parents and guardians of children entering kindergarten, 7th and 12 grade: Schedule Your Child's Back-to-School Vaccinations!

Extended vaccination clinic hours are open now through Sept. 23, providing ample opportunities to secure an appointment.

Call 704-296-4423 to schedule your appointment or fill out our new online form.

Free Soil Testing: Nurture Your Garden

Unlock the potential of your soil with soil testing. From pH to nutrients, learn how to optimize your garden's health. Collect samples easily and get your results online. Plus, it's free from April to November! Learn how to collect samples and submit results.

Community Events

The Embers at Monroe's Music on Main

Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the timeless sound of beach music by the Embers at Music on Main in downtown Monroe tonight, Friday, Aug. 22 - from 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Music in the Park in Waxhaw

Grab your lawn chairs and your dancing shoes for Music in the Park with Late Night Special, tonight, Friday, Aug. 22, 7-9 p.m., at Downtown Park in Waxhaw. Food trucks will be on site or order food from a local restaurant and bring it to the park.

Food Truck Friday in Lake Park

Enjoy dinner from multiple food trucks and music bingo by a professional DJ at the Village of Lake Park's Food Truck Friday event tonight, Friday, Aug. 22, 6-8 p.m., on Meeting Street in Lake Park.

Unplug and Play: Game Night

Roll the dice, move your piece and make some memories! Join us Friday, Aug. 29, from 4-6 p.m., at Southwest Regional Library for Unplug and Play Game Night, the perfect mix of friendly competition and family fun.