Union Day School
General Information
About (Overview)
Union Day School (UDS) is a tuition-free public charter school located in Weddington, North Carolina, serving students from kindergarten through grade 12. UDS operates with the mission to provide a robust, high-quality, and inclusive education that fosters intellectual growth, character development, and community connection. As a charter institution, Union Day merges the flexibility and innovation of charter schooling with the affordability and accessibility of public education.
Beginning in middle grades, the school implements the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP), preparing students to think globally and pursue the IB Diploma in the upper grades. UDS emphasizes personalized learning, project-based instruction, and student voice and choice to ensure learners are deeply engaged and challenged. The school also highlights a “private school feel without the cost,” focusing on small-community culture, strong relationships between teachers and students, and a sense of belonging for every member of its community. Over time, UDS has grown in reputation for academic rigor, holistic education, and its role in the greater Charlotte area as a compelling public charter option.
Contact Information
Address: 3000 Tilley Morris Road, Weddington, North Carolina 28104
Phone Number: 704-256-1494
Email Address: admissions@uniondayschool.org (approximate public-facing contact)
School Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Public Charter School (K–12) |
| Tuition | Free (charter, public funding) |
| Grades Offered | K–12 |
| Enrollment | ~693 students |
| Student–Teacher Ratio | ~17:1 |
| Charter Region | Union County and parts of Mecklenburg County |
| IB Program | Offers IB Middle Years (MYP) beginning in grade 6, and IB Diploma in upper school |
| Curriculum Highlights | Project-based learning, student voice & choice, Singapore Math, inquiry science |
Union Day School Rankings
| Category | Rank / Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall Niche Grade | B+ |
| Best Charter K–12 Schools in NC (Charlotte area) | #8 |
| GreatSchools Rating | 4/10 |
| Reading & Math Proficiency | ~59% each (based on public test data) |
Union Day School Academics
Union Day School Faculties / Departments
- English / Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- World Languages
- Fine Arts (Art, Music, Theatre)
- Physical Education & Health
- Technology & Computer Science
- IB Curriculum / Diploma Programme
- Student Support (Counseling, Special Education)
Union Day School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Core Academic Tracks: English, math, science, social studies at multiple levels
- IB Programs: Middle Years Programme (grades 6-10), Diploma Programme (grades 11–12)
- Advanced & Honors Courses
- Electives: Visual arts, music, theatre, media, robotics
- Language Offerings: Spanish and other languages as available
- Extracurricular & Enrichment: Clubs, community service, athletics
Online Learning
Union Day School employs blended learning models where digital tools complement face-to-face instruction. Students use online platforms for assignments, research, and collaboration. During disruptions (e.g. weather or crises), UDS transitions to remote learning via its digital infrastructure. The school’s instructional design encourages flexibility, giving students opportunities to engage with coursework online responsibly while maintaining the core in-person school culture.
Average Test Scores
| Test / Metric | Typical Performance / Estimate |
|---|---|
| Reading Proficiency | ~59% of students proficient |
| Math Proficiency | ~59% of students proficient |
| Graduation Rate | Data not publicly confirmed consistently |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Union Day School aims for strong retention through K–12 and high graduation rates in its upper school. While exact statistics fluctuate, the school’s progression through IB Diploma and focus on rigorous support systems suggest consistent promotion of students into graduation.
Union Day School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
As a public charter school, admission to Union Day School is not contingent on minimum GPA or standardized test ranges. Students enroll via lottery for available seats, with priority considerations as determined by the charter policy.
Union Day School Acceptance Rate
| Year | Acceptance / Admission Process |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Lottery-based admission, various seats available |
Union Day School Application Requirements
Applicants complete the charter school lottery application, providing basic registration information, proof of residency (within designated counties), and any optional supporting materials. Because it is tuition-free, the admissions process emphasizes equity and access rather than selective academic thresholds.
Application Process
- Lottery application during open enrollment period
- Submission of residency and registration documents
- Lottery drawing and seat offers
- Enrollment confirmation by families
- Placement into grade-level classes
Union Day School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date / Period |
|---|---|
| Open Enrollment / Lottery Applications | Early Spring annually |
| Lottery Drawing | After application window closes |
| Enrollment Notifications | Shortly following lottery |
| Deadline for Confirming Spot | Late Spring |
Essay Prompt
Not applicable. Union Day School does not require essays as part of its admissions process.
Union Day School Scholarships
Being a public charter school, Union Day School does not charge tuition and thus does not offer scholarships. All eligible students are served tuition-free.
Union Day School Tuition and Fees
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $0 |
| Fees / Materials | Varies by elective or supplies |
Union Day School Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
The student body of Union Day School spans early childhood through high school, with ages from around 5 to 18. Gender distribution is roughly balanced. Racial and ethnic diversity is present, though detailed breakdowns include representation from White, Hispanic/Latino, African American, and multiracial students. This diversity contributes to the dynamic culture of the school and helps cultivate cross-cultural understanding within the student community.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
A small percentage of students qualify for free or reduced lunch programs, reflecting socioeconomic diversity within the charter’s service area. UDS provides support services and inclusion mechanisms for students with disabilities, offering individualized accommodations in alignment with state and federally mandated frameworks.
Student Body
| Category | Number / Estimate |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | ~693 students |
| International Students | Minimal / not publicly specified |
University Diversity
Union Day School prioritizes cultivating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment where students from many backgrounds feel supported. The presence of multiple racial and cultural groups helps foster awareness and respect among learners. UDS encourages curriculum and school programming that address diversity and inclusion—for instance, through community celebrations, inclusive literature, and cross-cultural projects. The IB frameworks adopted at UDS further reinforce global-minded thinking, cultural appreciation, and empathy. The school continues to shape policies and practices that encourage a sense of belonging for all students, acknowledging that diversity is both a strength and a responsibility.
Average Earnings
As a K–12 school, Union Day does not track alumni earnings. However, graduates who pursue higher education or careers benefit from the rigorous IB curriculum, college readiness initiatives, and the holistic educational experience at UDS. These foundations aim to position students for successful postsecondary outcomes and long-term career growth.
Union Day School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Union Day School employs a dedicated faculty of educators across elementary, middle, and high school levels. Teachers are trained in IB methodologies, inquiry-based instruction, and differentiated learning approaches. Support staff include counselors, instructional coaches, special education specialists, and administrative personnel who help maintain the operational strength of the school.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Many UDS educators hold advanced degrees or IB certifications and have experience in innovative educational practices. Faculty actively engage in professional development to maintain alignment with IB and charter best practices. Some have been recognized for excellence in instruction, leadership in curriculum development, and contributions to the charter community network.
Union Day School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Union Day School operates without on-campus boarding—it functions as a day school serving local students. The campus includes classrooms, science and technology labs, arts and music spaces, athletic fields, and collaborative learning zones. Student life includes clubs, athletics, arts performances, service-learning projects, and events that create a sense of community, connection, and student leadership.
Transportation
Transportation to Union Day School is typically provided by families, though some students may utilize district-provided or charter-coordinated transportation where available. Carpooling is common, and organized drop-off/pick-up zones are established to ensure safety. Campus layout facilitates easy movement between campus facilities for students, staff, and visitors.