The district’s Mission Statement is very clear:  The School Board, administration, staff and parents of the Union Gap School District are committed to providing a quality educational experience for all students.  Our vision is Practice, Respect, Integrity and Dedication to Education (PRIDE).I can assure you that you will be treated with respect and dignity upon your arrival to our campus.  We take pride in our educational community's efforts which involves all the stakeholders - students, staff, parents, community patrons and board members.  We instill student pride by stressing that student’s “dress for success” as part of their educational experience.  Hence, we require school uniforms as part of our attendance requirements.

We are a progressive school district that celebrates the positive accomplishments of our area youth.   We truly believe we are an effective school district however effective schools are always changing and evolving as needed.  The seven basic characteristics of an Effective School, as defined by Phi Delta Kappan (adapted), are:

• Clearly stated and focused school (district) mission;
• Safe and orderly climate for learning;
• High expectations for students, staff, and administrators
• Opportunity to learn and student time-on-task;
• Instructional leadership by all administrators and staff members
• Frequent monitoring of student progress; and
• Positive home/school relations.

Please stop for a visit anytime.  My door is open and I sincerely would appreciate your input for improving our school district.  We look forward to working with you as a partner in making your child’s educational experience rewarding and productive.

Kurt H. Hilyard 
District Superintendent