
By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Twelve third graders and another dozen students from the fourth grade at Union City Elementary School were rewarded for exemplary behavior and work ethic with a trip to Discovery Park of America recently.
The chosen group was part of the school’s Discovery Kids program that lauds students for character and classroom efforts. Teachers selected the honorees for the fun-filled day at the end of the first nine weeks of the 2025-26 school year.
Students explored the park’s many exhibits and participated in “Shadow Play” activities, among other things. They created shadow pictures and shadow puppets using flashlights and various items to design their images behind a paper screen.
Those who were rewarded and enjoyed the day’s activities included: (see related group photo)
4th Grade
Anna Denman, Andrea Esteban-Ortiz, Isabella Maldonado, Mia Maldonado, Avery Malone, Austin Nipp, Josh Ramirez, Irbin Medina Recinos, Ambry Riley, Estefany Tinajero, Wendy Trejo-Xol, Killion Wall
3rd Grade
Jakari Beard, Gabriel Becerra, Violet Buckland, Knox Chandler
Amya Eaton, Adler Hussey, Nate Kimble
Aria Lewis, Christopher Sims, Desire Travis
Not Pictured: Danilo Pastor Hernandez and Marcos Pastor Hernandez