Union Academy is a K-12 public charter school in Monroe, North Carolina, USA.[2] The school operates two facilities -- the main building located at 675 N. M.L.K Blvd, and a Pre-K and Professional Development Center, located at 3282 Old Charlotte Hwy. [3]
The school was founded in 2000, and celebrated its 25th anniversary during the 24-25 school year.
Union Academy won the Gold Collage Preparedness Medal in 2019 and 2020.[4]
Expansion
In 2017, Union Academy invested $4 million into an expansion for the Upper Campus, relocating K-4 from the Lower Campus. The Lower Campus was repurposed as a Pre-K for the school.
Masterplan proposed for Union Academy.
Union Academy plans to add the following additions to the Upper Campus (as noted in the masterplan)[5]:
Canopies for both carpools (South and North)
Preforming Arts Center
Agriculture Center
Additional Classroom Building
New Highschool Dropoff (+canopies)
Circulation Road (used for transport across campus)
Storage Addition (Media Center)
Renovation of Courtyard
Alumni Plaza
Fields Upgraded to Turf
"Welcome Plaza" & Bike Racks (intended for students who walk/bike)
Campus-wide hallway & restroom renovations
HVAC relocation (privacy concerns)
These renovations and more can be found in a slideshow linked to by Union Academy's website.
Criticism
Union Academy has faced criticism numerous times, mostly related to safety concerns.
A report published on May 30, 2025 found that Monroe Police were able to get into the building undercover for approx. 20 minutes.[6]
A student snuck a knife into the school and was able to threaten a student with it.[7]
Basketball coach Barney Harris attempted to rob a stash house related to the Mexican Cartel and was fatally shot.[8]
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