UHS is so excited to welcome three new teachers to our family.
Jessica Tongate, 1st Grade Teacher
I am so excited to be the new first-grade teacher. I attended K-8 at UHS, graduated from Smith County High School, and received my Bachelor of Science from TTU. I started my career outside of teaching but always wanted to teach, so I returned and obtained my master’s in education from TSU. My desire to teach comes from wanting to positively impact children's lives and make them feel safe and loved in the classroom while furthering their education and preparing them for future. I am so excited to meet each student and give them the best first-grade experience.
Olivia Wills, 7th/8th Grade ELA and Social Studies
I am the new 7th/8th grade ELA and Social Studies teacher at UHS! A little bit about me, I attended high school right here in Smith County at SCHS, then went on to join the United States Air Force as security forces (military police). During my service, I chose to continue my education by attending The Community College of the Air Force where I received my associate's degree in criminal justice. Next, I earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from American Military University. I then added a master’s degree from American Military University. While I was finishing my degrees, I worked as the full-time substitute at UHS, where I fell in love with the kids and the community. The feeling I had as I watched the children I had built a relationship with all school year grow into young adults and walk across that stage, was a feeling unlike any I had ever had before. That is why I decided to go back to school to obtain my teaching license, so that I can finally start my dream job. I am beyond excited to start the school year and meet you all!
Bobby Taylor, 7th/8th Grade Math and Science Teacher
I am a 2004 graduate from Smith County High School and a 2008 graduate from Tennessee Tech University. I decided to become a teacher to work more closely with the kids in my community and help prepare them for the world ahead. I am excited to learn and build relationships with the faculty, staff, and student body of Union Heights School. Go Redcoats!
Welcome to UHS!