Castleton Elementary School

❄️🏀 Winter Sports Registration Is Now Open! 🏒❄️

It’s time to register for Slate Valley’s Winter Sports season! Our athletic programs are organized into three levels:

Grades 5–6 Sports

Middle School Sports (Grades 7–8)

High School Sports (Grades 9–12)

Be sure your child is registered on FormReLeaf for their chosen sport (use the link below) and has an up-to-date sports physical on file at their school.

https://formreleaf.com/

16 days ago, Slate Valley

Graphic flyer with a red, blue, and beige color scheme that reads: “Time to register for winter sports! Go to: formreleaf.com. Visit the link above or click on the ‘Registration’ link on the athletics webpage and choose your sport of choice. All athletes need an updated sports physical on file at school.”

In today's Rutland Herald!

16 days ago, Slate Valley

Slate Valley Unified School District “Our School, Your Future” poster featuring principals from all district schools, their goals for student success, and images of students engaged in learning and activities.

This morning, Phyllis Blanchard—retired CES teacher and proud member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Crippen-Fellows American Legion Post 50—brought a touch of magic to our 4th grade classrooms with some very special gifts!

Each student received an American Legion Auxiliary “Have a Safe Halloween” Coloring Book, while teachers and staff were surprised with handcrafted, Harry Potter–themed teddy bears lovingly made by Mrs. Blanchard herself.

While visiting, Mrs. Blanchard even took a turn with the Harry Potter Sorting Hat—adding a bit of extra fun and laughter!

These special bears will now join the 4th graders on their many adventures at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

We’re so thankful for Mrs. Blanchard’s creativity, kindness, and community spirit!

17 days ago, Slate Valley

Five women dressed in plaid pajamas stand smiling in front of a brick-patterned backdrop with a “Platform 9¾” sign and a white owl decoration, each holding a handmade teddy bear.

Two women stand beside a seated older woman wearing a “Slaters Basketball” sweatshirt and the Sorting Hat from Harry Potter, participating in a themed classroom activity.

Today, Chef Tony stopped by Castleton Elementary School to serve up his famous hot honey chicken sandwiches—and they were a huge hit! Students couldn’t stop talking about how delicious everything was, and the lunchroom was filled with smiles.

A highlight of the visit? Chef Tony playfully tossed pickles and cheese slices into the mouths of our 5th and 6th graders—adding laughter to an already tasty day!

Thank you, Chef Tony, for sharing your time (and your talent) with us—we can’t wait to have you back!

17 days ago, Slate Valley

Chef Tony, wearing a white chef’s coat and black cap, talks with two elementary students dressed in colorful outfits at the lunch counter, with bowls of sandwich toppings in front of him.

A Honeyfire Kitchen display featuring a sign that reads “Chef Tony will be making you a Honey fire chicken sandwich with your favorite toppings,” surrounded by fall-themed decorations, a small red toy truck, and chicken figurines.

Chef Tony prepares sandwiches behind the counter while a group of students eagerly waits, watching him assemble their lunches.

Chef Tony playfully tosses a slice of cheese toward a laughing student while others in line smile and cheer, creating a lively, fun cafeteria moment.

Two students sit at a cafeteria table enjoying their sandwiches and smiling, with pink trays of lunch food including vegetables and tater tots in front of them.

Be the Hero of the Day — Substitute with Slate Valley!

Slate Valley Unified Union School District is looking for substitute teachers! We’re seeking caring, flexible individuals who enjoy working with students and supporting learning across our elementary, middle, and high schools. If you’re ready to make a difference and be part of a supportive school community, we’d love to have you on our team! Interested? Apply at slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/career-opportunities

18 days ago, Slate Valley

Last Friday, Castleton Elementary School students, faculty, and staff brought their favorite stories to life during the annual Book Character Parade! From classic storybook heroes to imaginative new favorites, the parade route was filled with color, creativity, and plenty of smiles.

This beloved tradition celebrates a love of reading—and as always, our CES community showed off amazing costumes and even bigger school spirit!

A special thank you to Ms. Tugas who always captures the day with the best photos!

18 days ago, Slate Valley

Two adults dressed as Arthur characters hold Arthur’s New Puppy and Arthur Writes a Story. They smile and walk with children dressed as superheroes and storybook characters.

A group of young students parade outdoors in colorful costumes. One girl dressed as a bee waves while holding Make Way for Butterfly, followed by classmates as adults watch and guide them.

Two children dressed as witches in black hats and capes pretend to fly on broomsticks during the parade. Autumn leaves fill the background under bright sunlight.

Two girls smile and pose during the parade — one dressed as a cowgirl tipping her hat, and the other as a pirate holding a Magic Tree House book. Other costumed students walk behind them.

A woman wearing cat ears and glasses walks with children in costume, holding the book “Bad Kitty: Tasty Treats.” Kids are dressed as a police officer, a football player, and other characters, parading past families.

A smiling woman dressed in orange holds a “Charlotte’s Web” book and a handmade sign reading “Some Pig.” She wears a spider headband, walking in a parade with children in costumes behind her.

Three children in costumes walk in the parade. One dressed as “Where’s Waldo” holds the matching book, while others hold The Nightmare Before Christmas and Baseball GOAT.

A man dressed as author Orville Wright holds a prop sign reading “Fly, fly, fly!” while walking beside a large inflatable Garfield costume. Other participants in creative outfits follow behind.

A young girl dressed as a bee smiles while holding the book Honeybee: The Busy Life of Apis Mellifera. She wears a yellow-and-black costume with wings and large honeycomb-patterned glasses.

A teacher dressed as a "Bad Seed" and carrying the book leads her students who are dressed in various book character costumes, including Disney's Stitch, a Mermaid, Captain America and a Panda Bear.

Slate Valley District Newsletter: October 24, 2025
https://mailchi.mp/6e5e2878b6d7/slate-valley-district-newsletter-october-24-2025

21 days ago, Slate Valley

During library class, students in grades K–4 recently read the Red Clover book Whalesong: The True Story of the Musician Who Talked to Orcas by Zachariah OHora. The story introduced students to musician Paul Horn, who once played his flute for Haida the orca—and was amazed when Haida responded with clicks, squeaks, and bubbles!

Inspired by the story, our young readers used 3D pens and 3Doodlers to build their own orcas.

22 days ago, Slate Valley

Student using a 3D pen to fill in an orca whale outline at a classroom table.

Student concentrating while using a turquoise 3D pen to design an orca whale.

Student working carefully with a 3D pen to create a black orca whale design.

Student wearing a cap using a black 3D pen to trace an orca whale template.

Three students using 3D pens at a classroom table filled with cords and supplies.

Smiling student holding up a completed black orca whale 3D creation.

TOMORROW... with the option to participate in person or virtually!
Public Hearing Notice: Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force

The Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force invites community members to attend one of its public hearings to share perspectives and priorities that will help shape proposals for Vermont’s future school district boundaries. The hearing closest to us is:

Wednesday, October 22 | 6:00–8:00 PM at Rutland High School, in Rutland.

These hearings are a chance to learn about the Task Force’s purpose and process, share your ideas and concerns, and offer public testimony (2 minutes per speaker; written comments welcome if time runs short).

Your voice matters—help guide the future of Vermont’s schools!

To Participate Virtually Go To: https://bit.ly/vtredistrictingpublichearing

Meeting ID: 288 958 397 374 5 Passcode: Be2vw7j5

24 days ago, Slate Valley

Graphic showing two speakers at a podium before an audience with red curtains. Text reads: “Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force Hearing – Wednesday, October 22nd, 6:00 to 8:00 PM, Rutland High School, Rutland, VT.

Big news from Benson! 🎥 WPTZ NBC 5 is bringing "Weather at Your School" to Benson Village School this Friday, October 24th!
Tune in between 5–8 AM to catch live weather broadcasts featuring our amazing faculty, staff, and—of course—students!

25 days ago, Slate Valley

Graphic announcing NBC5 First Warning Weather’s ‘Weather at Your School’ live broadcast at Benson Village School on Friday, October 24th. The design features clouds, sun, and weather icons around the border with the word ‘LIVE’ highlighted in red

Board Meeting - October 20, 2025
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/omx-yjby-qea
Or dial: (US) +1 636-888-0147 PIN: 204 052 260#

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.

25 days ago, Slate Valley

Graphic announcing the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting on October 20, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School band room. Agenda includes a Pre-K presentation, Act 73 discussion, and committee reports.

Reminder: This Wednesday...
Public Hearing Notice: Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force

The Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force invites community members to attend one of its public hearings to share perspectives and priorities that will help shape proposals for Vermont’s future school district boundaries. The hearing closest to us is:

Wednesday, October 22 | 6:00–8:00 PM at Rutland High School, in Rutland.

These hearings are a chance to learn about the Task Force’s purpose and process, share your ideas and concerns, and offer public testimony (2 minutes per speaker; written comments welcome if time runs short).

Your voice matters—help guide the future of Vermont’s schools!

25 days ago, Slate Valley

Slate Valley District Newsletter: October 17, 2025
https://mailchi.mp/d574ac7a76a0/slate-valley-district-newsletter-october-17-2025

28 days ago, Slate Valley

The Caring Canines have made a few visits so far this year, and our students are loving their time reading to these furry friends—maybe just as much as the dogs love the attention (and the stories)!

This heartwarming program will continue throughout the school year, giving students more chances to build reading confidence and share cuddles and smiles with our four-legged listeners.

29 days ago, Slate Valley

A child in a red hoodie sits beside a golden retriever therapy dog wearing a pumpkin-patterned bandana in the school library.

A young student kneels on the floor reading a book to a therapy dog named Murfee, who is lying beside her wearing a red service vest.

A student sits on the floor reading aloud from a book to a therapy dog resting nearby with its handler seated behind them.

On Wednesday, October 15th, Slate Valley UUSD had the great honor of hosting the Vermont State Board of Education Meeting — a first for our district!

Among those in attendance were Secretary of Education Zoie Saunders, State Board Attorney and Slater alum Sarah Buxton, Esq., and Board Member Lyle Jepson, who many will remember as the FHUHS Principal in the 1990s.

The day began with a tour of Fair Haven Union Middle and High School, led by building administrators, followed by a presentation from Superintendent Brooke Olsen-Farrell and faculty members who showcased the innovative and unique classes offered throughout Slate Valley.

It was a busy, exciting, and truly proud day for our district—highlighting the incredible learning, collaboration, and community that define Slate Valley.

29 days ago, Slate Valley

Administrators and visitors walk down a hallway lined with lockers during a school tour.

School administrators and visitors stand at the front of a classroom speaking with students during a visit.

A principal leads a group of visitors through a school hallway, discussing programs and facilities.

Visitors observe equipment in a classroom featuring 3D printers and safety gear on display.

Two students work on a science experiment while a visitor smiles and engages with them.

Attendees sit in rows facing a presentation area during a Vermont State of Education school board meeting.

A presentation titled “Our School, Your Future – Slate Valley Style” is projected behind panelists at a district meeting.

Two presenters at a school board meeting share updates while smiling, with instruments in the background.

Presenters speak at a meeting table with FHU Slaters banners while attendees and equipment are visible behind them.

Three presenters sit at a table with microphones and laptops at a meeting marked with FHU Slaters logos.

On Wednesday, Castleton Elementary School’s fourth graders visited the Granger House in Castleton for an unforgettable hands-on learning experience. Students became “real-life” archaeologists, guided by Vermont State University–Castleton archaeology students and Ellen Moriarty, Outreach Director of Castleton Hidden History and Adjunct Faculty member.

Throughout the day, students rotated through four exciting experiences:
-Touring the historic Granger House and exploring its architecture and artifacts
-Sorting, counting, and weighing coal—the home’s primary colonial-era heat source
-Digging and sifting soil from the property to uncover artifacts
-Listening to Chief Roger Longtoe Sheehan of the Abenaki/Wampanoag tribe, who shared songs, stories, and artifacts from his people

The quote of the day came from Madeleine Smart in Mrs. Lucci’s class, who perfectly summed up the experience:

“Even the smallest thing we find can tell us a big story.”

It was an incredible day of discovery, culture, and curiosity. We are so grateful for our continued partnership with Vermont State University at Castleton for bringing history to life for our students!

29 days ago, Slate Valley

Students sift dirt through a wooden screen during an outdoor archaeology activity on a tarp-covered area.

Close-up of students examining soil and small rocks on a mesh sifter during an excavation project.

Students stand at an outdoor table using green trays and scales to analyze soil samples.

Students and a teacher dig and explore an excavation site surrounded by autumn leaves and old buildings.

A group of children listen to a guide explaining artifacts inside a historic building.

A group of students view historical artifacts displayed in a glass case inside a museum-like room.

A presenter sits at a table displaying traditional hand tools and crafts, speaking to nearby students.

A large group of students sit on the floor listening to a guest speaker presenting cultural tools and items.

Notice: Today's 5/6 Boys Soccer game vs Brandon Rec scheduled for 4:30 @ FHGS has been CANCELED.

about 1 month ago, Slate Valley

graphic with a soccer ball announcing Today's 5/6 Boys Soccer game vs Brandon Rec scheduled for 4:30 @ FHGS has been canceled.

Slate Valley District Newsletter: October 10, 2025
https://mailchi.mp/412ddc0cb9f9/slate-valley-district-newsletter-october-10-2025

about 1 month ago, Slate Valley

Public Hearing Notice: Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force

The Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force invites community members to attend one of its public hearings to share perspectives and priorities that will help shape proposals for Vermont’s future school district boundaries. The hearing closest to us is:

Wednesday, October 22 | 6:00–8:00 PM at Rutland High School, in Rutland.

These hearings are a chance to learn about the Task Force’s purpose and process, share your ideas and concerns, and offer public testimony (2 minutes per speaker; written comments welcome if time runs short).

Your voice matters—help guide the future of Vermont’s schools!

about 1 month ago, Slate Valley

☕🌸 Staff Wellness Spotlight: A Tea-riffic Treat at CES! 🌸☕

Yesterday, the Castleton Elementary School Staff Wellness Team hosted a lovely tea party for all staff members!

The cozy setup featured bite-sized sandwiches, pastries, jams, jellies, and of course—a variety of teas to sample and enjoy. It was a perfect way to pause, connect, and celebrate the amazing CES team.

A big thank-you to our Wellness Team for bringing joy (and tea!) to the end of a busy week!

about 1 month ago, Slate Valley

A table set up for a staff tea party with pink tablecloths, teacups, pastries, sandwiches, and framed decorations in a school break room.