🥪☀️ Free Summer Meal Box Program Notification! ☀️🥪
Slate Valley families can pick up FREE multi-day meal boxes for children 18 and under this summer!
Each box includes:
🍎 7 breakfasts
🥪 7 lunches
📍 Pickup Location: Fair Haven Grade School parking lot
🗓️ Pickup Day: Every Tuesday during the summer
⏰ Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
📅 First Pickup: Tuesday, June 30
📅 Last Pickup: Tuesday, August 18
Eligibility Requirements:
✔️ Meals are for children 18 and under
✔️ The child is not receiving meals from another Free Summer Meal Program
✔️ The person picking up the meal box is the child’s parent or guardian
Help us spread the word so every child in our community has access to nutritious meals throughout the summer! 💚
Slate Valley families can pick up FREE multi-day meal boxes for children 18 and under this summer!
Each box includes:
🍎 7 breakfasts
🥪 7 lunches
📍 Pickup Location: Fair Haven Grade School parking lot
🗓️ Pickup Day: Every Tuesday during the summer
⏰ Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
📅 First Pickup: Tuesday, June 30
📅 Last Pickup: Tuesday, August 18
Eligibility Requirements:
✔️ Meals are for children 18 and under
✔️ The child is not receiving meals from another Free Summer Meal Program
✔️ The person picking up the meal box is the child’s parent or guardian
Help us spread the word so every child in our community has access to nutritious meals throughout the summer! 💚
🌸🎉 Congratulations, Joann Higgins, on Your Retirement! 🎉🌸
Please join us in celebrating Joann Higgins as she retires after five years of dedicated service to Slate Valley Unified Union School District.
As an Instructional Assistant at Fair Haven Grade School, Joann has made a lasting impact on the students, staff, and families she has worked alongside. Through her patience, kindness, encouragement, and commitment to helping students succeed, she has helped create a positive and supportive learning environment for countless children.
The relationships she built and the care she showed every day have made a difference that extends far beyond the classroom. We are grateful for the time, energy, and heart she brought to her role and to the Fair Haven Grade School community.
Thank you, Joann, for your years of service and dedication. We wish you a retirement filled with happiness, relaxation, new adventures, and many wonderful moments with family and friends.
Congratulations and best wishes on this exciting new chapter!
Please join us in celebrating Joann Higgins as she retires after five years of dedicated service to Slate Valley Unified Union School District.
As an Instructional Assistant at Fair Haven Grade School, Joann has made a lasting impact on the students, staff, and families she has worked alongside. Through her patience, kindness, encouragement, and commitment to helping students succeed, she has helped create a positive and supportive learning environment for countless children.
The relationships she built and the care she showed every day have made a difference that extends far beyond the classroom. We are grateful for the time, energy, and heart she brought to her role and to the Fair Haven Grade School community.
Thank you, Joann, for your years of service and dedication. We wish you a retirement filled with happiness, relaxation, new adventures, and many wonderful moments with family and friends.
Congratulations and best wishes on this exciting new chapter!
🔧🎉 Congratulations, Tony Greene, on Your Retirement! 🎉🔧
After 10 years of dedicated service to Slate Valley Unified Union School District, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Tony Greene as he begins his retirement.
As a Maintenance Technician at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School, Tony has played an important role in keeping our buildings safe, functional, and welcoming for students, staff, and visitors. While much of his work happened behind the scenes, its impact was felt every day by everyone who walked through our doors.
Tony’s commitment, reliability, and willingness to lend a hand have been greatly appreciated throughout his time with the district. We are grateful for the care and expertise he brought to his work and for the many contributions he made over the past decade.
Please join us in thanking Tony for his years of service and wishing him all the best in this exciting new chapter. May your retirement be filled with happiness, relaxation, and plenty of time to enjoy the things you love most!
Congratulations, Tony!
After 10 years of dedicated service to Slate Valley Unified Union School District, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Tony Greene as he begins his retirement.
As a Maintenance Technician at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School, Tony has played an important role in keeping our buildings safe, functional, and welcoming for students, staff, and visitors. While much of his work happened behind the scenes, its impact was felt every day by everyone who walked through our doors.
Tony’s commitment, reliability, and willingness to lend a hand have been greatly appreciated throughout his time with the district. We are grateful for the care and expertise he brought to his work and for the many contributions he made over the past decade.
Please join us in thanking Tony for his years of service and wishing him all the best in this exciting new chapter. May your retirement be filled with happiness, relaxation, and plenty of time to enjoy the things you love most!
Congratulations, Tony!
🏛️ FREE Vermont Historic Sites Pass for 4th Graders! 🏛️
Explore Vermont History Where It Happened!
Attention Vermont 4th Grade Families!
The Vermont Division for Historic Preservation is offering a FREE Historic Sites Pass for all Vermont students who have completed 4th grade during the 2025–2026 school year.
With this special pass, students and one accompanying adult receive free admission to all Vermont state-owned historic sites throughout the 2026 season (through October 2026).
🌟 Visit These Historic Vermont Destinations
📍 Bennington Battle Monument State Historic Site
📍 Chimney Point State Historic Site
📍 Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Site
📍 Mount Independence State Historic Site
📍 President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site
📍 President Chester A. Arthur State Historic Site
🎟️ How It Works
✅ Print the 4th Grade Pass Letter
✅ Bring the letter to any participating historic site
✅ Present it to site staff for free admission
No registration required!
🌐 Learn More
For site information, hours, and directions, visit:
HistoricSites.Vermont.gov
❓Questions?
Joshua Bell
Director of State Historic Sites
📞 802-505-8592
📧 Joshua.Bell@vermont.gov
Explore Vermont History Where It Happened!
Attention Vermont 4th Grade Families!
The Vermont Division for Historic Preservation is offering a FREE Historic Sites Pass for all Vermont students who have completed 4th grade during the 2025–2026 school year.
With this special pass, students and one accompanying adult receive free admission to all Vermont state-owned historic sites throughout the 2026 season (through October 2026).
🌟 Visit These Historic Vermont Destinations
📍 Bennington Battle Monument State Historic Site
📍 Chimney Point State Historic Site
📍 Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Site
📍 Mount Independence State Historic Site
📍 President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site
📍 President Chester A. Arthur State Historic Site
🎟️ How It Works
✅ Print the 4th Grade Pass Letter
✅ Bring the letter to any participating historic site
✅ Present it to site staff for free admission
No registration required!
🌐 Learn More
For site information, hours, and directions, visit:
HistoricSites.Vermont.gov
❓Questions?
Joshua Bell
Director of State Historic Sites
📞 802-505-8592
📧 Joshua.Bell@vermont.gov
📚🎉 Happy Retirement, Tina Rampone! 🎉📚
After 16 years of dedicated service to the students, staff, and families of Slate Valley, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to Castleton Elementary School and Orwell Village School librarian, Tina Rampone, on her retirement.
For more than a decade and a half, Tina has inspired a love of reading, learning, and curiosity in countless students. Through story times, library lessons, book recommendations, special projects, tech. integration, and her welcoming presence, she helped make the library a place where every child could discover new worlds, ideas, and possibilities.
Tina's passion for literacy, commitment to students, and support of both schools have left a lasting impact that will be felt for years to come. The thousands of young readers she has encouraged and the memories she has helped create are a testament to the difference one dedicated educator can make.
Thank you, Tina, for 16 years of service, kindness, and unwavering dedication to our school communities. We wish you all the happiness, relaxation, adventures, knitting and good books that retirement has to offer.
Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement! 🧶📖✨
After 16 years of dedicated service to the students, staff, and families of Slate Valley, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to Castleton Elementary School and Orwell Village School librarian, Tina Rampone, on her retirement.
For more than a decade and a half, Tina has inspired a love of reading, learning, and curiosity in countless students. Through story times, library lessons, book recommendations, special projects, tech. integration, and her welcoming presence, she helped make the library a place where every child could discover new worlds, ideas, and possibilities.
Tina's passion for literacy, commitment to students, and support of both schools have left a lasting impact that will be felt for years to come. The thousands of young readers she has encouraged and the memories she has helped create are a testament to the difference one dedicated educator can make.
Thank you, Tina, for 16 years of service, kindness, and unwavering dedication to our school communities. We wish you all the happiness, relaxation, adventures, knitting and good books that retirement has to offer.
Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement! 🧶📖✨
🎓💙 Fair Haven Union High School Celebrates the Class of 2026 💙🎓
Last night, June 12, family members, friends, faculty, staff, and community members gathered at the Spartan Arena in Rutland to celebrate the Fair Haven Union High School Class of 2026.
The evening was filled with pride, reflection, and excitement as graduates were recognized for their achievements and officially turned the tassel toward their future. Student speakers shared heartfelt messages, families cheered from the stands, and graduates crossed the stage to receive their diplomas surrounded by the support of those who helped them along the way.
As the Class of 2026 embarks on new journeys—whether college, careers, military service, apprenticeships, or other exciting opportunities—we congratulate them on this milestone and wish them every success in the years ahead.
Once a Slater, always a Slater. Congratulations, Class of 2026! 🎓💙
Last night, June 12, family members, friends, faculty, staff, and community members gathered at the Spartan Arena in Rutland to celebrate the Fair Haven Union High School Class of 2026.
The evening was filled with pride, reflection, and excitement as graduates were recognized for their achievements and officially turned the tassel toward their future. Student speakers shared heartfelt messages, families cheered from the stands, and graduates crossed the stage to receive their diplomas surrounded by the support of those who helped them along the way.
As the Class of 2026 embarks on new journeys—whether college, careers, military service, apprenticeships, or other exciting opportunities—we congratulate them on this milestone and wish them every success in the years ahead.
Once a Slater, always a Slater. Congratulations, Class of 2026! 🎓💙
Read important information about the future of Slate Valley in this issue of the SVUUSD Newsletter - June 12, 2026: https://mailchi.mp/f9c5248ac253/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-15-13836886
🎓✨ Full circle moment! ✨🎓
Yesterday, the FHU Class of 2026 returned to the schools where it all began for one last walk through the halls. ❤️
Cheered on by students, staff, and former teachers, our seniors took a trip down memory lane before taking their next big step into graduation tomorrow night.
From kindergarten classrooms to graduation caps and gowns... look how far they've come! 🎉
Yesterday, the FHU Class of 2026 returned to the schools where it all began for one last walk through the halls. ❤️
Cheered on by students, staff, and former teachers, our seniors took a trip down memory lane before taking their next big step into graduation tomorrow night.
From kindergarten classrooms to graduation caps and gowns... look how far they've come! 🎉
Fair Haven Union High School Graduation Ceremony's Latest Update
Dear Families, Graduates, and Community Members,
We would like to share an important update regarding the Fair Haven Union High School Class of 2026 Graduation Ceremony.
First, we want to clarify that the original decision to move graduation from the outdoor tent was not based solely on the forecasted heat. After consultation with the National Weather Service, we were advised that the threat of severe thunderstorms on Friday evening makes it unsafe to hold an event outdoors under a tent.
After initially planning to move the ceremony inside Fair Haven Union High School, we recognized concerns about space limitations and wanted to ensure that all family members, friends, and community supporters could comfortably attend this important celebration. For that reason, the graduation ceremony has been relocated to the Spartan Arena in Rutland, Vermont, which offers ample seating for all guests.
Therefore: The Class of 2026 Graduation Ceremony will be held on Friday, June 12, beginning at 6:00 PM at Spartan Arena.
With the move to Spartan Arena, our graduation ceremony will return to its original, traditional format, and there will be no ticket requirement, as seating will be plentiful for all who wish to attend.
We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Rutland High School for their support in helping make this transition possible. We would also like to thank Celebration Rentals and Atomic Sound for their assistance with the seating and audio changes, and finally, a special thank you to Spartan Arena for graciously hosting our graduates and their families.
All seniors are required to report to Spartan Arena at 12:00 PM on Friday for the final graduation rehearsal.
All seniors are to be at Spartan Arena by 5:15PM before the start of the ceremony,
We appreciate and value the input we received from parents who shared concerns about holding graduation in the high school gymnasium and offered alternative suggestions. At the time those conversations were taking place, we were already working with the Rutland Area Superintendent to explore other options. Because of the costs, logistics, and short turnaround time involved, we could not guarantee that an alternative venue would be available. We are grateful that those efforts were successful and that Spartan Arena can now host the ceremony with ample seating for all who wish to attend.
If you have any questions, please contact the Fair Haven Union High School office at 802-265-4966.
Dear Families, Graduates, and Community Members,
We would like to share an important update regarding the Fair Haven Union High School Class of 2026 Graduation Ceremony.
First, we want to clarify that the original decision to move graduation from the outdoor tent was not based solely on the forecasted heat. After consultation with the National Weather Service, we were advised that the threat of severe thunderstorms on Friday evening makes it unsafe to hold an event outdoors under a tent.
After initially planning to move the ceremony inside Fair Haven Union High School, we recognized concerns about space limitations and wanted to ensure that all family members, friends, and community supporters could comfortably attend this important celebration. For that reason, the graduation ceremony has been relocated to the Spartan Arena in Rutland, Vermont, which offers ample seating for all guests.
Therefore: The Class of 2026 Graduation Ceremony will be held on Friday, June 12, beginning at 6:00 PM at Spartan Arena.
With the move to Spartan Arena, our graduation ceremony will return to its original, traditional format, and there will be no ticket requirement, as seating will be plentiful for all who wish to attend.
We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Rutland High School for their support in helping make this transition possible. We would also like to thank Celebration Rentals and Atomic Sound for their assistance with the seating and audio changes, and finally, a special thank you to Spartan Arena for graciously hosting our graduates and their families.
All seniors are required to report to Spartan Arena at 12:00 PM on Friday for the final graduation rehearsal.
All seniors are to be at Spartan Arena by 5:15PM before the start of the ceremony,
We appreciate and value the input we received from parents who shared concerns about holding graduation in the high school gymnasium and offered alternative suggestions. At the time those conversations were taking place, we were already working with the Rutland Area Superintendent to explore other options. Because of the costs, logistics, and short turnaround time involved, we could not guarantee that an alternative venue would be available. We are grateful that those efforts were successful and that Spartan Arena can now host the ceremony with ample seating for all who wish to attend.
If you have any questions, please contact the Fair Haven Union High School office at 802-265-4966.
🎓 FHUHS Graduation Ceremony Update
Friday, June 12
⏰ New Start Time: 6:00 PM
(Moved up from 7:00 PM due to the forecast for thunderstorms and lightning.)
🎓 Seniors: Please arrive by 5:15 PM and report directly to the gymnasium.
☀️ Heat Advisory
With temperatures expected to feel near 100°F, the ceremony schedule has been adjusted for guest comfort.
Updated Ceremony Order:
Welcome Address
Presentation of Diplomas
Brief 5-Minute Intermission
Student Speeches
Senior Recognitions
Musical Performances
Closing Remarks
We are so proud of our seniors and look forward to celebrating them on Friday night. If you have questions, please contact the school office at (802)265-4966.
Thank you!
Friday, June 12
⏰ New Start Time: 6:00 PM
(Moved up from 7:00 PM due to the forecast for thunderstorms and lightning.)
🎓 Seniors: Please arrive by 5:15 PM and report directly to the gymnasium.
☀️ Heat Advisory
With temperatures expected to feel near 100°F, the ceremony schedule has been adjusted for guest comfort.
Updated Ceremony Order:
Welcome Address
Presentation of Diplomas
Brief 5-Minute Intermission
Student Speeches
Senior Recognitions
Musical Performances
Closing Remarks
We are so proud of our seniors and look forward to celebrating them on Friday night. If you have questions, please contact the school office at (802)265-4966.
Thank you!
Special Board Meeting - June 8, 2026 -
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Orwell Village School Gymnasium.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/vsx-qjxt-kye
Or dial: (US) +1 234-719-4117 PIN: 856 473 497#
Please note: To participate in conversation virtually and/or ask a question virtually, please use the “raise hand” icon in Google Meet. Typing responses or questions in chat is not an option.
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Orwell Village School Gymnasium.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/vsx-qjxt-kye
Or dial: (US) +1 234-719-4117 PIN: 856 473 497#
Please note: To participate in conversation virtually and/or ask a question virtually, please use the “raise hand” icon in Google Meet. Typing responses or questions in chat is not an option.
PLEASE check out the latest Slate Valley District Newsletter! https://mailchi.mp/0936e2d3fb42/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-15-13836831
Each week, we share student achievements, classroom highlights, upcoming events, staff and alumni spotlights, and important district news from across Slate Valley. It's also where Superintendent Brooke Olsen-Farrell regularly shares updates on educational initiatives and state-level developments that may impact our schools.
We encourage families and community members to take a few minutes to open the newsletter and scroll through. You might discover a student success story, learn about an upcoming event, or gain insight into the work happening throughout our district.
Thank you for helping us celebrate, support, and stay connected to the Slate Valley community!
Each week, we share student achievements, classroom highlights, upcoming events, staff and alumni spotlights, and important district news from across Slate Valley. It's also where Superintendent Brooke Olsen-Farrell regularly shares updates on educational initiatives and state-level developments that may impact our schools.
We encourage families and community members to take a few minutes to open the newsletter and scroll through. You might discover a student success story, learn about an upcoming event, or gain insight into the work happening throughout our district.
Thank you for helping us celebrate, support, and stay connected to the Slate Valley community!
Friday Focus: Field Trips - Learning Beyond the Classroom
As the school year begins to wind down, students across Slate Valley have been taking their learning on the road through a variety of engaging field trips and off-site educational experiences. These opportunities provide valuable hands-on learning, real-world connections, and memories that often last long after the school year ends.
Field trips allow students to explore concepts beyond textbooks and classroom walls while building curiosity, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of the world around them. Whether visiting museums, historical sites, local businesses, or participating in special events, students gain experiences that enrich and extend classroom learning.
Over the past several weeks, students throughout the district have been busy exploring:
- Benson Village School and Orwell Village School students spent a day at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, learning about Vermont's rich maritime history and the importance of Lake Champlain.
- Castleton Elementary School first graders visited the Wonderfeet Kids' Museum, where they enjoyed hands-on exploration and participated in an engineering activity focused on the importance of bees and pollination.
- Fair Haven Union Middle School students and Castleton Elementary fourth graders attended Patriots on the Mount at Mount Independence, a special event commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and bringing history to life through immersive experiences.
- Fair Haven Grade School Band and Chorus students showcased their talents at the High Notes Music Festival in Lake George before celebrating their hard work with a visit to The Great Escape.
- Fair Haven Union High School Career Exploration students toured Telescope Casual Furniture in Granville, gaining firsthand insight into manufacturing careers and the many opportunities available within our local workforce.
These experiences require significant planning, coordination, and teamwork behind the scenes. As we celebrate the learning that takes place beyond the classroom, we also want to extend our sincere thanks to our teachers, support staff, administrators, community partners, families, and transportation teams who help make these opportunities possible.
As the school year begins to wind down, students across Slate Valley have been taking their learning on the road through a variety of engaging field trips and off-site educational experiences. These opportunities provide valuable hands-on learning, real-world connections, and memories that often last long after the school year ends.
Field trips allow students to explore concepts beyond textbooks and classroom walls while building curiosity, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of the world around them. Whether visiting museums, historical sites, local businesses, or participating in special events, students gain experiences that enrich and extend classroom learning.
Over the past several weeks, students throughout the district have been busy exploring:
- Benson Village School and Orwell Village School students spent a day at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, learning about Vermont's rich maritime history and the importance of Lake Champlain.
- Castleton Elementary School first graders visited the Wonderfeet Kids' Museum, where they enjoyed hands-on exploration and participated in an engineering activity focused on the importance of bees and pollination.
- Fair Haven Union Middle School students and Castleton Elementary fourth graders attended Patriots on the Mount at Mount Independence, a special event commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and bringing history to life through immersive experiences.
- Fair Haven Grade School Band and Chorus students showcased their talents at the High Notes Music Festival in Lake George before celebrating their hard work with a visit to The Great Escape.
- Fair Haven Union High School Career Exploration students toured Telescope Casual Furniture in Granville, gaining firsthand insight into manufacturing careers and the many opportunities available within our local workforce.
These experiences require significant planning, coordination, and teamwork behind the scenes. As we celebrate the learning that takes place beyond the classroom, we also want to extend our sincere thanks to our teachers, support staff, administrators, community partners, families, and transportation teams who help make these opportunities possible.
🏈⚽🏑📣 Attention Slate Valley student-athletes and families! 📣🏑⚽🏈
Planning to participate in a fall sport during the 2026 season? Join us for the Slate Valley Fall Athletics Informational Meeting on Tuesday, June 16 at 5:30 PM in the FHUMHS Gym.
This meeting is for students entering grades 7–12 and their families and will cover important information including:
✅ Athlete registration updates
✅ Fall start dates and heat acclimatization requirements
✅ Summer training opportunities
✅ Athletic schedules and sports physicals
✅ ParentSquare communication tools
✅ Concussion and injury communication protocols
✅ Booster Club support
📌 Please note: This meeting replaces the traditional August athletic meeting.
🏃♀️🏈⚽ All athletes must have an updated sports physical on file at school.
Questions? Contact Athletic Director Eric Ramey at eramey@svuvt.org.
Planning to participate in a fall sport during the 2026 season? Join us for the Slate Valley Fall Athletics Informational Meeting on Tuesday, June 16 at 5:30 PM in the FHUMHS Gym.
This meeting is for students entering grades 7–12 and their families and will cover important information including:
✅ Athlete registration updates
✅ Fall start dates and heat acclimatization requirements
✅ Summer training opportunities
✅ Athletic schedules and sports physicals
✅ ParentSquare communication tools
✅ Concussion and injury communication protocols
✅ Booster Club support
📌 Please note: This meeting replaces the traditional August athletic meeting.
🏃♀️🏈⚽ All athletes must have an updated sports physical on file at school.
Questions? Contact Athletic Director Eric Ramey at eramey@svuvt.org.
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Serena Wasilesky ✨🎓
📸🎓 Throwback Thursday: FHUHS Graduations Through the Years! 🎓📸
From 1976 to 1993 to 2006 — a lot may have changed at Fair Haven Union High School over the years… but some things never do: the excitement of graduation day, proud families in the crowd, and Slater pride shining through.
What differences do you notice between these graduation photos from the last 50 years? 👀
What feels exactly the same?
Do you recognize anyone in these throwback snapshots? Tag them in the comments or share a favorite graduation memory from your time at FHUHS!
And Slater Alumni — 🎓⬇️ Drop the year you graduated from FHUHS in the comments and see who else from your class is here!
(Photos courtesy of The Rutland Herald Archives)
From 1976 to 1993 to 2006 — a lot may have changed at Fair Haven Union High School over the years… but some things never do: the excitement of graduation day, proud families in the crowd, and Slater pride shining through.
What differences do you notice between these graduation photos from the last 50 years? 👀
What feels exactly the same?
Do you recognize anyone in these throwback snapshots? Tag them in the comments or share a favorite graduation memory from your time at FHUHS!
And Slater Alumni — 🎓⬇️ Drop the year you graduated from FHUHS in the comments and see who else from your class is here!
(Photos courtesy of The Rutland Herald Archives)
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Asher Oberkirch ✨🎓
🏃♀️🏃♂️ Looking for a fun way to stay active this summer?
The Slate Valley Efts Running Group is welcoming youth athletes interested in cross country or cross-training for other sports! No registration, no commitment—just drop in when you can.
Join local USATF SafeSport-certified coaches for age-appropriate workouts and group runs every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00–7:30 p.m., beginning June 16, at the R&H Rail Trail entrance on South Street in Castleton.
Whether you're training for a sport or simply enjoy running, come check it out!
Questions? Contact Dan Verrington at dan.verrington@svuvt.org
The Slate Valley Efts Running Group is welcoming youth athletes interested in cross country or cross-training for other sports! No registration, no commitment—just drop in when you can.
Join local USATF SafeSport-certified coaches for age-appropriate workouts and group runs every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00–7:30 p.m., beginning June 16, at the R&H Rail Trail entrance on South Street in Castleton.
Whether you're training for a sport or simply enjoy running, come check it out!
Questions? Contact Dan Verrington at dan.verrington@svuvt.org
Where Are They Now Wednesday: June Alumni Feature - Jeffrey Jr. York, FHUHS Class of 2016
From the football field at Fair Haven Union High School to building a career and family-centered life, this month’s alumni spotlight features Jeffrey Jr. York, a proud member of the Class of 2016 whose journey highlights hard work, perseverance, and dedication.
During his time at FHUHS, Jeffrey participated in football and was also involved in the school’s work study program, an experience that helped prepare him for life beyond graduation. Looking back, those experiences helped provide practical skills and a foundation that carried into adulthood.
After graduating Jeffrey entered the workforce and gained experience across several professions. Shortly after high school, he and his family welcomed their first daughter, Piper, while he worked in construction and explored different career opportunities.
Today, Jeffrey works at Doran brothers, and is enrolled in classes earning his CDL. Reflecting on the teachers who made a difference in his life, Jeffrey shared that choosing just one was difficult, but he credits Mr. Blackbird as someone who had a meaningful impact on him.
"He never treated anyone differently no matter the reason and always kept it straight with us no matter the situation. He also showed me that no matter what stands in your way, you can achieve what you want."
Outside of work, Jeffrey says his greatest joy comes from being a husband, father, and provider for his family. He is the proud father of three daughters and hopes they will one day enjoy the same experiences and memories at FHUHS that he did.
When asked for a favorite quote, Jeffrey shared words from Tupac Shakur that continue to inspire him:
"Through every dark night, there's a bright day after that. So no matter how hard it gets, stick your chest out, keep your head up... and handle it."
Jeffrey’s advice for today’s Slate Valley students is simple but meaningful:
"Focus — high school isn’t forever. Enjoy your time while you're there and absorb as much knowledge as possible. You’ll be surprised by how much you carry with you into the real world and how much the decisions you make now can impact your future."
We thank Jeffrey for sharing his story and wish him continued success in his career, family life, and future endeavors.
From the football field at Fair Haven Union High School to building a career and family-centered life, this month’s alumni spotlight features Jeffrey Jr. York, a proud member of the Class of 2016 whose journey highlights hard work, perseverance, and dedication.
During his time at FHUHS, Jeffrey participated in football and was also involved in the school’s work study program, an experience that helped prepare him for life beyond graduation. Looking back, those experiences helped provide practical skills and a foundation that carried into adulthood.
After graduating Jeffrey entered the workforce and gained experience across several professions. Shortly after high school, he and his family welcomed their first daughter, Piper, while he worked in construction and explored different career opportunities.
Today, Jeffrey works at Doran brothers, and is enrolled in classes earning his CDL. Reflecting on the teachers who made a difference in his life, Jeffrey shared that choosing just one was difficult, but he credits Mr. Blackbird as someone who had a meaningful impact on him.
"He never treated anyone differently no matter the reason and always kept it straight with us no matter the situation. He also showed me that no matter what stands in your way, you can achieve what you want."
Outside of work, Jeffrey says his greatest joy comes from being a husband, father, and provider for his family. He is the proud father of three daughters and hopes they will one day enjoy the same experiences and memories at FHUHS that he did.
When asked for a favorite quote, Jeffrey shared words from Tupac Shakur that continue to inspire him:
"Through every dark night, there's a bright day after that. So no matter how hard it gets, stick your chest out, keep your head up... and handle it."
Jeffrey’s advice for today’s Slate Valley students is simple but meaningful:
"Focus — high school isn’t forever. Enjoy your time while you're there and absorb as much knowledge as possible. You’ll be surprised by how much you carry with you into the real world and how much the decisions you make now can impact your future."
We thank Jeffrey for sharing his story and wish him continued success in his career, family life, and future endeavors.
🎓 Trivia Tuesday – June Edition! 🎓
School is winding down, graduation celebrations are approaching, and we have an end of year question to test your knowledge!
Do you know?
Approximately how many days does a student spend in school from kindergarten through Grade 12?
Drop your guess in the comments below.
School is winding down, graduation celebrations are approaching, and we have an end of year question to test your knowledge!
Do you know?
Approximately how many days does a student spend in school from kindergarten through Grade 12?
Drop your guess in the comments below.
