THERE THEY WERE. 🚌
Two WCPS school buses pulled up in front of the Student Union last week — Bus 36 from Warren County High School and Bus 39 from Skyline High School.
And for us, those buses meant so much more than a drop-off. They represented a new opportunity for our students to get from school to the Student Union and make the SU part of their everyday routine. This is something we have been working toward since we first opened our doors, and seeing those first buses pull in was just amazingly special.
The doors opened. The stop signs came out. And then came the hugs, the smiles, the familiar faces, and a whole group of students ready to spend the afternoon at the SU.
That moment? GOLDEN.
Want your student to ride the bus to the Student Union? Members can download the bus pass and join us everyday after school!
Those buses didn’t just bring students to the Student Union — they signaled the beginning of our Week of Welcome.
MONDAY: LET THE FUN BEGIN! 🎉
After a quick chance to settle in and catch their breath from the school day, our kiddos were off and running!
Some settled in with homework. Others claimed the twirly chair, grabbed a snack, and probably helped themselves to more than a little apple juice. 😂 And, of course, the pool table had its fair share of visitors!
The afternoon was packed with fun! Marshmallow towers, outdoor pickleball with Sammy and Ryder May (Youth Pastor at Skyline Church), and plenty of laughter.
Then came PIZZA! Because fuel feeds the soul, our kiddos dove right into Ledo Pizza!
One of our board members, Sina, learned a new game, sitting to play some Magic The Gathering with a student, and then we wrapped up the afternoon with a good old-fashioned sit-down chat on the carpet. Sometimes the best moments happen when we slow down, sit together, and talk.
Students see who can build the tallest marshallow towers.
TUESDAY: FREE DAY!! 🎉
We hear it all the time: “Kids just want to be on social media.”
Well… NOT AT THE Student Union!
Our students walked through those doors and wanted to go OUTSIDE. They wanted to play tag. They wanted to head to Fantasyland and play.
And when someone suggested a little tag and a sword fight with spaghetti noodles?
LET THE FUN BEGIN. 😂
Who knew a bunch of spaghetti noodles could create that much excitement?
WEDNESDAY: APRONS ON! 👩🍳👨🍳
We pulled out the aprons, and Chef Devin Smith led a one-day intensive culinary workshop!
Our students got hands-on in the kitchen and made their own dinner, from chopping to grilling, with a focus on food safety, kitchen skills, and creating a delicious meal. What was on the menu? ¡Chicken Fajita Quesadillas! 🌮
Nothing quite like learning new skills, getting your hands dirty, and enjoying a meal you made yourself!
Everyone loves a culinary session with Chef Devin.
THURSDAY: LET THE GAMES BEGIN! 😂
We stayed DRY indoors and turned the Student Union into a whole lot of fun!
Potato sack races, egg races, Big Pants, and SO much more!
There was laughter, friendly competition, and plenty of moments that reminded us that sometimes kids just need a place where they can be kids.
FRIDAY: TRIVIA, MUSIC & GOOD VIBES! 🎶
We wound down the week with trivia and music in partnership with Summit Events!
Our kiddos put their music trivia skills to the test, hung out together, and enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon of music, and connection.
What a way to close out Welcome Week!
(Almost) BINGO!
From the moment those buses pulled up on Monday to the music and laughter on Friday, our hearts have been FULL. This is what the Student Union is all about. Creating a space where kids can show up, be themselves, laugh, play, learn, build friendships, discover new skills, and ENJOY BEING KIDS. A place where they are welcomed with open arms, where relationships matter, and where every afternoon holds the possibility of something special.
Our hearts are full, and this is only the beginning! ❤️