Slate Valley District Newsletter: March 6, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/36c096fa758c/slate-valley-district-newsletter
https://mailchi.mp/36c096fa758c/slate-valley-district-newsletter
Thank you to Senator Ruth Hardy for taking the time to meet with community members this morning for Coffee and Conversation at the Orwell Free Library. We appreciate your willingness to share updates from the current legislative session and discuss Act 73 with those who attended.
A special thank you as well to the community members who joined us for a thoughtful and engaging discussion. Opportunities like these help strengthen the connection between our schools, our community, and our state leaders.
The event was held Friday, March 6, 2026, at the Orwell Free Library, and was offered in partnership with Slate Valley Unified School District and the Orwell Town Library.
We appreciate everyone who took the time to come, listen, ask questions, and share perspectives.
A special thank you as well to the community members who joined us for a thoughtful and engaging discussion. Opportunities like these help strengthen the connection between our schools, our community, and our state leaders.
The event was held Friday, March 6, 2026, at the Orwell Free Library, and was offered in partnership with Slate Valley Unified School District and the Orwell Town Library.
We appreciate everyone who took the time to come, listen, ask questions, and share perspectives.
Friday Focus – March Spotlight: Work Based Learning at FHUHS
This month’s Friday Focus highlights the Work Based Learning (WBL) Program at Fair Haven Union High School, led by Ms. Eliza LeBrun. The program connects classroom learning with real-world experience by placing students in local businesses and organizations while they continue their academic studies.
Two students currently gaining valuable experience through the program are senior Kaidyn Runnells and junior Katie Bouzianis, both working with the Town of Fair Haven.
Kaidyn begins his day at 6:00 a.m. with Fair Haven Public Works, where he has become a paid member of the team. From plowing sidewalks to maintaining equipment, he is building hands-on skills and learning the responsibility that comes with serving the community.
Katie is exploring a future in law enforcement, spending her afternoons at the Fair Haven Police Department after completing her morning classes. She assists with administrative tasks, documentation, and court preparation while also gaining insight into the day-to-day operations of a police department.
Recently, Town Manager Joseph Gunter even placed an impromptu call to Superintendent Brooke Olsen-Farrell to share how impressed the town has been with both students and the program—recognizing their work ethic and the positive impact they are making.
A big thank you to the Town of Fair Haven and our community partners who help make opportunities like this possible.
Local businesses interested in mentoring a student through Work Based Learning are encouraged to reach out to Principal Ben Worthing (bworthing@svuvt.org) or Ms. Eliza LeBrun (elebrun@svuvt.org) at 802-265-4966.
Through the leadership of Ms. LeBrun and the support of community partners, students like Kaidyn and Katie are not only learning about careers—they are stepping into them.
Today, Friday, March 6, 2026, all Slate Valley schools are on a 2 hour delay due to the weather.
Reminder: Coffee & Conversation with Senator Ruth Hardy Tomorrow Morning ☕
Community members are invited to join Senator Ruth Hardy tomorrow for a casual Coffee and Conversation gathering.
Orwell residents are especially encouraged to attend, and all Slate Valley community members are warmly welcome.
📅 Friday, March 6, 2026
🕘 9:00–10:00 AM
📍 Orwell Free Library
Senator Hardy will share updates from the current legislative session and discuss Act 73, with time for questions and conversation with community members.
This is a great opportunity to stay informed, share your perspectives, and connect with your local senator.
Offered in partnership with Slate Valley Unified USD and the Orwell Town Library.
We hope to see you tomorrow morning!
Community members are invited to join Senator Ruth Hardy tomorrow for a casual Coffee and Conversation gathering.
Orwell residents are especially encouraged to attend, and all Slate Valley community members are warmly welcome.
📅 Friday, March 6, 2026
🕘 9:00–10:00 AM
📍 Orwell Free Library
Senator Hardy will share updates from the current legislative session and discuss Act 73, with time for questions and conversation with community members.
This is a great opportunity to stay informed, share your perspectives, and connect with your local senator.
Offered in partnership with Slate Valley Unified USD and the Orwell Town Library.
We hope to see you tomorrow morning!
Throwback Thursday 🕰️📚
Let’s rewind about 50 years to a very different classroom! In 1976, tools like pull-down maps, film projectors, card catalogs, and manual typewriters were everyday staples for students and teachers. Many of these once-essential items have now been replaced by today’s digital technology.
How many of these classroom classics did you recognize? 👀
Drop in the comments other “old school” classroom items you remember seeing that are no longer used today!
Let’s rewind about 50 years to a very different classroom! In 1976, tools like pull-down maps, film projectors, card catalogs, and manual typewriters were everyday staples for students and teachers. Many of these once-essential items have now been replaced by today’s digital technology.
How many of these classroom classics did you recognize? 👀
Drop in the comments other “old school” classroom items you remember seeing that are no longer used today!
Where Are They Now Wednesday – March Spotlight
Cassandra Murphy – FHUHS Class of 2010
March’s Where Are They Now Wednesday spotlight shines on Fair Haven Union High School alumna Cassandra Murphy, a 2010 graduate whose journey reflects determination, leadership, and pride in her roots.
After graduating from FHUHS, Cassandra continued her education at Castleton University, earning her bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems in 2016. During her college years, she also made the decision to serve her country. In 2011, she enlisted in the Vermont Army National Guard, where she served for eight years as a mechanic. It was during her time in the Guard that she met her husband, building both a career path and a lifelong partnership.
Cassandra credits two FHUHS educators for having a meaningful impact on her life. Mr. Bruce encouraged her to always be unapologetically herself—advice that continues to guide her personally and professionally. Mr. Wilson, her math teacher and soccer coach, instilled in her the importance of pushing beyond limits, working hard, and pursuing goals with determination. Those lessons carried far beyond the classroom and the field.
While at FHUHS, Cassandra was a three-sport varsity athlete, competing in soccer as well as indoor and outdoor track. She was part of an exceptional outdoor track team that earned four consecutive state championships from her freshman through senior year—a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to teamwork and dedication.
Today, Cassandra serves as a Senior Buyer at C&S Wholesale Grocers in Keene, New Hampshire—the largest wholesale grocery supply company in the United States. She plans to continue growing within the company and advancing her career.
Family remains at the heart of Cassandra’s life. She and her husband, whom she met in the National Guard in 2014, are raising their five-year-old daughter in New Hampshire. Together, they enjoy camping and frequently return to the Fair Haven area to spend time outdoors with family and friends.
When asked what advice she would offer today’s Slate Valley students, Cassandra shares a heartfelt reminder: enjoy every moment of high school. “These are truly the best years of your life,” she says. “They go by in the blink of an eye.”
From championship athlete to military service member to corporate leadership, Cassandra Murphy’s journey is a proud example of where dedication and hard work can lead.
Cassandra Murphy – FHUHS Class of 2010
March’s Where Are They Now Wednesday spotlight shines on Fair Haven Union High School alumna Cassandra Murphy, a 2010 graduate whose journey reflects determination, leadership, and pride in her roots.
After graduating from FHUHS, Cassandra continued her education at Castleton University, earning her bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems in 2016. During her college years, she also made the decision to serve her country. In 2011, she enlisted in the Vermont Army National Guard, where she served for eight years as a mechanic. It was during her time in the Guard that she met her husband, building both a career path and a lifelong partnership.
Cassandra credits two FHUHS educators for having a meaningful impact on her life. Mr. Bruce encouraged her to always be unapologetically herself—advice that continues to guide her personally and professionally. Mr. Wilson, her math teacher and soccer coach, instilled in her the importance of pushing beyond limits, working hard, and pursuing goals with determination. Those lessons carried far beyond the classroom and the field.
While at FHUHS, Cassandra was a three-sport varsity athlete, competing in soccer as well as indoor and outdoor track. She was part of an exceptional outdoor track team that earned four consecutive state championships from her freshman through senior year—a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to teamwork and dedication.
Today, Cassandra serves as a Senior Buyer at C&S Wholesale Grocers in Keene, New Hampshire—the largest wholesale grocery supply company in the United States. She plans to continue growing within the company and advancing her career.
Family remains at the heart of Cassandra’s life. She and her husband, whom she met in the National Guard in 2014, are raising their five-year-old daughter in New Hampshire. Together, they enjoy camping and frequently return to the Fair Haven area to spend time outdoors with family and friends.
When asked what advice she would offer today’s Slate Valley students, Cassandra shares a heartfelt reminder: enjoy every moment of high school. “These are truly the best years of your life,” she says. “They go by in the blink of an eye.”
From championship athlete to military service member to corporate leadership, Cassandra Murphy’s journey is a proud example of where dedication and hard work can lead.
Dear Slate Valley,
I am writing to share the results of the recent school budget vote. The proposed budget was not approved, with 952 votes in favor and 1125 opposed. The separate article to transfer funds into a reserve account was approved.
We recognize that this outcome is challenging. The budget was developed to largely maintain existing programs and services, while also responding to declining enrollment. As part of that adjustment, the plan included a reduction of 13 positions across the district. We understand that community members carefully weighed educational needs alongside the financial pressures facing taxpayers.
Although this was not the result we had hoped for, our commitment to our students and staff remains steady. We are now focused on identifying a responsible path forward. One that reflects community input while continuing to support high-quality teaching and learning within the constraints of state and federal policies and legislation.
The Board will meet in the coming weeks to review options, gather feedback, and determine next steps. We encourage community members to attend, ask questions, and stay engaged. Clear communication and collaborative problem-solving will be critical as we move forward together.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support of our schools.
Regards,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
I am writing to share the results of the recent school budget vote. The proposed budget was not approved, with 952 votes in favor and 1125 opposed. The separate article to transfer funds into a reserve account was approved.
We recognize that this outcome is challenging. The budget was developed to largely maintain existing programs and services, while also responding to declining enrollment. As part of that adjustment, the plan included a reduction of 13 positions across the district. We understand that community members carefully weighed educational needs alongside the financial pressures facing taxpayers.
Although this was not the result we had hoped for, our commitment to our students and staff remains steady. We are now focused on identifying a responsible path forward. One that reflects community input while continuing to support high-quality teaching and learning within the constraints of state and federal policies and legislation.
The Board will meet in the coming weeks to review options, gather feedback, and determine next steps. We encourage community members to attend, ask questions, and stay engaged. Clear communication and collaborative problem-solving will be critical as we move forward together.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support of our schools.
Regards,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
📣 Town Meeting Day is today — make your voice heard!
As you head to the polls and review the proposed FY27 school budget, here are a few key highlights:
✅ Spending per pupil remains below the state average — $11,565 in Slate Valley compared to $13,947 statewide.
✅ Staffing has been reduced by more than 45 positions over the past eight years, including 3 administrators, demonstrating long-term cost control.
✅ The proposed budget reflects a 2.8% increase, just slightly above the current rate of inflation.
📊 Learn more about the FY27 budget at https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Slate Valley schools.
As you head to the polls and review the proposed FY27 school budget, here are a few key highlights:
✅ Spending per pupil remains below the state average — $11,565 in Slate Valley compared to $13,947 statewide.
✅ Staffing has been reduced by more than 45 positions over the past eight years, including 3 administrators, demonstrating long-term cost control.
✅ The proposed budget reflects a 2.8% increase, just slightly above the current rate of inflation.
📊 Learn more about the FY27 budget at https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Slate Valley schools.
Trivia Tuesday – Do You Know?
When and where was the first Vermont Town Meeting held?
💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments!
🗳️ Today is Town Meeting Day! Don’t forget to exercise your right to vote. Polls are open at the following locations and times:
• Benson: 10 am – 7 pm, Benson Community Hall
• Castleton: 8 am – 7 pm, Castleton Fire Station
• Fair Haven: 10 am – 7 pm, American Legion Post #49
• Hubbardton: 10 am – 7 pm, Hubbardton Town Hall
• Orwell: 10 am – 7 pm, Orwell Town Hall
• West Haven: 10 am – 7 pm, West Haven Town Hall
Every vote matters!
📖 Find the trivia answer here:
https://outside.vermont.gov/dept/sos/Elections_Division/election_info_resources/town_meeting_local_elections/citizens_guide_vermont_town_meeting_2008.pdf
When and where was the first Vermont Town Meeting held?
💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments!
🗳️ Today is Town Meeting Day! Don’t forget to exercise your right to vote. Polls are open at the following locations and times:
• Benson: 10 am – 7 pm, Benson Community Hall
• Castleton: 8 am – 7 pm, Castleton Fire Station
• Fair Haven: 10 am – 7 pm, American Legion Post #49
• Hubbardton: 10 am – 7 pm, Hubbardton Town Hall
• Orwell: 10 am – 7 pm, Orwell Town Hall
• West Haven: 10 am – 7 pm, West Haven Town Hall
Every vote matters!
📖 Find the trivia answer here:
https://outside.vermont.gov/dept/sos/Elections_Division/election_info_resources/town_meeting_local_elections/citizens_guide_vermont_town_meeting_2008.pdf
🎳 STATE CHAMPIONS AGAIN! 🏆
Congratulations to our Slater Bowling Team on capturing their second straight Team State Championship on Saturday, February 28!
This incredible victory marks the program’s 5th state title overall and their third championship in the last five years — a true testament to the team’s hard work, focus, and Slater pride.
We are so proud of our student-athletes and coaches for continuing this championship tradition. Way to roll, Slaters! 💙🤍
Congratulations to our Slater Bowling Team on capturing their second straight Team State Championship on Saturday, February 28!
This incredible victory marks the program’s 5th state title overall and their third championship in the last five years — a true testament to the team’s hard work, focus, and Slater pride.
We are so proud of our student-athletes and coaches for continuing this championship tradition. Way to roll, Slaters! 💙🤍
Slate Valley FY27 Budget: Fiscal Responsibility in Action
As you consider the FY27 budget, here are a few key highlights:
✅ Spending per pupil remains below the state average — $11,565 in Slate Valley compared to $13,947 statewide.
✅ The proposed budget represents a 2.8% increase, just slightly above the current rate of inflation.
✅ Staffing has been reduced by over 45 positions in the past eight years, including 3 administrators, demonstrating long-term cost control.
📊 Learn more about the FY27 budget at https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
As you consider the FY27 budget, here are a few key highlights:
✅ Spending per pupil remains below the state average — $11,565 in Slate Valley compared to $13,947 statewide.
✅ The proposed budget represents a 2.8% increase, just slightly above the current rate of inflation.
✅ Staffing has been reduced by over 45 positions in the past eight years, including 3 administrators, demonstrating long-term cost control.
📊 Learn more about the FY27 budget at https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday — March Spotlight
This month, we’re excited to feature Alicia Bouzianis, a valued member of the Slate Valley team!
Alicia has been part of Slate Valley for eight years. Prior to her current role, she worked with the ABBY Group through Slate Valley, continuing her commitment to supporting students in our schools.
Outside of work, Alicia enjoys spending time outdoors — especially taking long walks and hikes through the woods. She also loves long car rides filled with country music (and isn’t afraid to sing along like she’s headed for the big stage!). Most of all, she enjoys being around kids and making meaningful connections.
A quote that inspires her is:
“Saddle your dreams before you ride them.” — a wise man told me
Beyond the school day, Alicia dedicates significant time to the Boys & Girls Club, working after school and throughout the summer. She shares that seeing the kids’ faces and creating fun experiences with them truly makes her heart full.
Alicia says she truly loves being part of Slate Valley, and we’re grateful for the care, energy, and positivity she brings to our students each day.
This month, we’re excited to feature Alicia Bouzianis, a valued member of the Slate Valley team!
Alicia has been part of Slate Valley for eight years. Prior to her current role, she worked with the ABBY Group through Slate Valley, continuing her commitment to supporting students in our schools.
Outside of work, Alicia enjoys spending time outdoors — especially taking long walks and hikes through the woods. She also loves long car rides filled with country music (and isn’t afraid to sing along like she’s headed for the big stage!). Most of all, she enjoys being around kids and making meaningful connections.
A quote that inspires her is:
“Saddle your dreams before you ride them.” — a wise man told me
Beyond the school day, Alicia dedicates significant time to the Boys & Girls Club, working after school and throughout the summer. She shares that seeing the kids’ faces and creating fun experiences with them truly makes her heart full.
Alicia says she truly loves being part of Slate Valley, and we’re grateful for the care, energy, and positivity she brings to our students each day.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: February 27, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/dbb66208584e/slate-valley-district-newsletter-january-30-13836170
https://mailchi.mp/dbb66208584e/slate-valley-district-newsletter-january-30-13836170
Please join us for Coffee and Conversation with Senator Ruth Hardy!
Orwell residents are especially encouraged to attend, and all Slate Valley community members are warmly welcome to join Senator Ruth Hardy for a casual breakfast conversation.
📅 Friday, March 6, 2026
🕘 9:00–10:00 AM
📍 Orwell Free Library
Come hear updates from the current legislative session and learn more about Act 73, with time for questions and discussion. This is a great opportunity to stay informed, share perspectives, and connect with your local senator.
Offered in partnership with Slate Valley Unified USD and the Orwell Town Library.
We hope to see you there!
Orwell residents are especially encouraged to attend, and all Slate Valley community members are warmly welcome to join Senator Ruth Hardy for a casual breakfast conversation.
📅 Friday, March 6, 2026
🕘 9:00–10:00 AM
📍 Orwell Free Library
Come hear updates from the current legislative session and learn more about Act 73, with time for questions and discussion. This is a great opportunity to stay informed, share perspectives, and connect with your local senator.
Offered in partnership with Slate Valley Unified USD and the Orwell Town Library.
We hope to see you there!
We Are Slate Valley highlights the heart of our district—our students. In this video, Slate Valley students chose words they believe best describe who we are as a district, sharing their voices and perspectives. Together, their reflections celebrate the opportunities, growth, and strong sense of belonging that define Slate Valley. From classrooms to activities, see how our schools support every learner and help students discover who they are and who they can become. See the video at: https://youtu.be/jGoplAjolPU
Slate Valley District Newsletter: February 20, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/7cc4725364fd/slate-valley-district-newsletter
https://mailchi.mp/7cc4725364fd/slate-valley-district-newsletter
🚨 Tonight — SVUUSD Annual Meeting 🚨
Join the Slate Valley Unified Union School District for the Annual Meeting on the FY27 school budget. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the proposed budget, hear important updates, and ask questions about how it supports our students, staff, and schools.
🗓 Tonight — Thursday, February 19, 2026
📍 Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room
🕡 6:30 PM
Can’t attend in person? Join virtually:
🎥 Video call link: https://meet.google.com/oiu-geoi-eaj
📞 Or dial (US): +1 816-425-1778
PIN: 657 919 832#
We hope you can join us and be part of the conversation. Your voice matters!
Join the Slate Valley Unified Union School District for the Annual Meeting on the FY27 school budget. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the proposed budget, hear important updates, and ask questions about how it supports our students, staff, and schools.
🗓 Tonight — Thursday, February 19, 2026
📍 Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room
🕡 6:30 PM
Can’t attend in person? Join virtually:
🎥 Video call link: https://meet.google.com/oiu-geoi-eaj
📞 Or dial (US): +1 816-425-1778
PIN: 657 919 832#
We hope you can join us and be part of the conversation. Your voice matters!
Join us for the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Annual Meeting on the FY27 School Budget 📘
🗓 Thursday, February 19, 2026
⏰ 6:30 PM
📍 Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room
Community members are encouraged to attend to learn more about the proposed budget, ask questions, and better understand how it supports our students and schools. Your participation matters, and we hope to see you there.
For full details and budget information, visit:
https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
🗓 Thursday, February 19, 2026
⏰ 6:30 PM
📍 Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room
Community members are encouraged to attend to learn more about the proposed budget, ask questions, and better understand how it supports our students and schools. Your participation matters, and we hope to see you there.
For full details and budget information, visit:
https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
On Friday, February 13, Slate Valley students proudly represented our district at the Green Mountain Music District V Festival. 🎶 Students from multiple schools participated in chorus, band, and jazz, showcasing their talent, preparation, and dedication to music. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and the way they represented their schools.
Festival Participants were:
Middle School Chorus
Castleton Elementary School (CES): Madelyn Stygles, Amos Adamski, Erin Taylor, Anital Crowley
Fair Haven Grade School (FHGS): Neva Randell
Fair Haven Union Middle & High School (FHUMHS): Laila New, Azalea Rehm, Grant Parrott, Emerson Robles (selected), Avery Zeitler, Ember Bentley, Izabella West, Hannah Brink
High School Band — FHUMHS
Maya Volpe, Avery Audent, Shira Hertzberg, Hannah Allard, Elaina Allard, Abigail Young, Henry Young, Libby Rockwell, Ollie Benson, Averie Parrott
Middle School Jazz
Orwell Village School (OVS): Will Scarpulla
Congratulations to all of our student musicians for this outstanding accomplishment! 👏🎼
Festival Participants were:
Middle School Chorus
Castleton Elementary School (CES): Madelyn Stygles, Amos Adamski, Erin Taylor, Anital Crowley
Fair Haven Grade School (FHGS): Neva Randell
Fair Haven Union Middle & High School (FHUMHS): Laila New, Azalea Rehm, Grant Parrott, Emerson Robles (selected), Avery Zeitler, Ember Bentley, Izabella West, Hannah Brink
High School Band — FHUMHS
Maya Volpe, Avery Audent, Shira Hertzberg, Hannah Allard, Elaina Allard, Abigail Young, Henry Young, Libby Rockwell, Ollie Benson, Averie Parrott
Middle School Jazz
Orwell Village School (OVS): Will Scarpulla
Congratulations to all of our student musicians for this outstanding accomplishment! 👏🎼
