Board Meeting - Tonight - May 4, 2026

You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Castleton Elementary School Cafeteria.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/xcd-vvjm-pvi
Or dial: (US) +1 402-796-1093 PIN: 677 846 861#

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.
14 days ago, Slate Valley
Flyer inviting the public to a Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting on May 4, 2026 at 6:30 PM in the Castleton Elementary School cafeteria. Agenda includes consent agenda, contracts (action), legislative update, and committee reports (finance). Design features green figures around a table and the Vermont logo.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: May 1, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/22d792fab09c/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-1-2026
17 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic header for the Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter dated May 1, 2026. The design features colorful flowers, a butterfly, and a bee surrounding the phrase “Happy May Day” in playful lettering. Slate Valley branding appears in the corners with the message “Our school, your future.”
Submitted by Ms. Irons: This morning, Mr. Hackett's Kindergarteners took their first field trip to the Castleton Free Library. They met Ms. Pam Arel who introduced the students to the Children's area of the library. Ms. Arel read the book "Bats at the Library" written and illustrated by Brian Lies.

After storytime, students were split into three groups to complete different fine motor activities. Students shared Playdough, played with building blocks, made pictures of bats, and added to the ever growing paper chain that will be hung around the Children's area!

They learned about the special events that the library will host over the summer; information is on the library's website. Kindergarteners did a fabulous job using their listening skills from lining up in the classroom to leave, on the bus, and while at the library.
17 days ago, Slate Valley
Students sit and kneel on a colorful rug in a school library, building with large plastic blocks. Bookshelves line the walls, and a cozy reading area with chairs and plants is visible in the background.
A group of young students gathers on a rug in the library, working together with large building blocks. Chairs, bookshelves, and reading displays surround the space.
Students stand around a small blue table in the library, using hands-on materials to explore and create. Bookshelves filled with children’s books stretch along the wall behind them.
Children and two adults sit and stand around a table in the library, creating colorful paper chains and crafts using strips of paper, glue sticks, and crayons.
Three smiling children stand at a table in the library, holding modeling clay and tools while showing their creations to the camera. Bookshelves and activity materials are visible behind them.
A young student sits on a patterned rug in the library, pushing a small wheeled structure made from large building blocks, while other children play nearby and an adult supervises.
A young student kneels on a library rug, carefully stacking large colorful blocks into a tall tower. Other children and bookshelves are visible in the background.
A close-up of the book Bats at the Library displayed on a shelf, with the library space and students blurred in the background.
Two young students at a table proudly hold up colorful paper chain crafts they created, while classmates work together in the background of the library.
Two students sit at a table in the library, shaping and playing with modeling clay using small tools, surrounded by art supplies and bookshelves.
🚗💨 Pinewood Derby Night at Castleton Elementary!

Last night, Castleton Elementary School was buzzing with creativity, excitement, and a little friendly competition during our annual 6th Grade Pinewood Derby! This long-standing tradition challenges each 6th grader to design and build their very own car before racing it in a thrilling three-heat derby.

From bold designs to imaginative themes, our students truly delivered this year—showcasing not only speed, but incredible craftsmanship and creativity.

🏆 Congratulations to our 2026 winners:

🎨 Most Creative: Mia Simpson – Sushi Car
🛠 Best Design: Amos Adamski – “James Pond” Car
🥉 3rd Place Overall: Troy Cambell – Butter Basket Car
🥈 2nd Place: Wyatt Keller – “The Wedge” Car
🥇 1st Place: Evie Hall – “Baby Shark” Car

A huge thank you to our students, families, and staff for making this event such a memorable success. The Pinewood Derby continues to be a highlight of the year, celebrating innovation, perseverance, and school spirit!
18 days ago, Slate Valley
A speaker addresses a seated audience in a school gym during the pinewood derby event, with a table displaying multiple handmade cars.
Smiling student wearing a medal holds a blue pinewood derby car, standing in front of a display board in the gym.
A long table displays numerous handmade pinewood derby cars and decorated boxes lined up in rows.
Student in a navy hoodie and orange hat holds a red pinewood derby car labeled “The Wedge,” wearing a medal.
Adult adjusts two colorful pinewood derby cars positioned on a yellow race track, preparing them for a race.
Student wearing a medal holds a blue pinewood derby car while standing in a gymnasium with event signage behind them.
Three pinewood derby cars sit on a wooden race track, including one with a rainbow design and one shaped like a white animal.
Student wearing a medal holds a decorated pinewood derby car in a school gym, standing in front of a display board and checkered table.
Close-up of two pinewood derby cars on a track, one featuring a small figurine and the other painted with a bold purple and white design.
Student with a medal holds a yellow and black pinewood derby car labeled “James Pond,” posing in front of a gym display.
First grade had a magical time at the pond this morning! 🌿🐸

Students explored, discovered, and learned firsthand as they searched the water and shoreline—shrieked with excitement when they found a giant water bug, salamanders, frogs, spiders, and worms! Moments like these spark curiosity and bring science to life in the best way.

We are so lucky to have amazing outdoor spaces that allow our students to learn, explore, and connect with nature. What a great day of hands-on learning!
19 days ago, Slate Valley
Three young students stand together in a wooded area, smiling and holding a small clear container with a purple lid that contains water and pond creatures they collected during outdoor exploration.
A young student leans over the edge of a pond using a net to scoop water, surrounded by trees and reflections on the water’s surface.
A young student leans over the edge of a pond using a net to scoop water, surrounded by trees and reflections on the water’s surface.
A group of young students gathers along the edge of a wooded pond, looking into the water and exploring together.
Close-up of a net containing leaves and a large dark-colored water bug resting inside.
Several students stand closely together, looking down into a net as they examine something they have just caught.
This is a gentle reminder that we will be gathering this Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 11:00 AM to celebrate the life of Bonnie L. Partridge.

Please join us at Castleton Elementary School in Castleton, Vermont as we come together to honor Bonnie—a beloved member of the Castleton community whose kindness, dedication, and sense of humor touched so many lives.

In her spirit, guests are invited (if they wish) to wear their favorite Adidas clothing or Dallas Cowboys/NASCAR attire.

We hope you can join us as we share memories, celebrate her life, and support one another. 💙
19 days ago, Slate Valley
A soft blue floral-themed flyer announcing a “Celebration of Life” for Bonnie L. Partridge. The flyer includes a photo of Bonnie smiling outdoors on a field, wearing a tie-dye shirt, black skirt, white socks, sneakers, and a lanyard. Text reads: “Please join us as we gather to celebrate the life of Bonnie L. Partridge, a beloved member of the Castleton community whose kindness, dedication, and sense of humor touched so many lives.” Event details: Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Castleton Elementary School in Castleton, Vermont. Additional note invites guests to wear Adidas clothing or Dallas Cowboys/NASCAR attire in her honor. The design features blue watercolor flowers and a calm, respectful layout.
💙 Thank You, Lion’s Club! 💙

We are incredibly grateful to the Lion’s Club for their generous donation to the Slate Valley Unified School District.

This support helps ensure our students have what they need, when they need it most. Funds are often used to provide winter essentials like coats, snowpants, and boots. They also help students attend camp with confidence—providing items such as bathing suits, new outfits, and shoes.

Your kindness makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and families. Thank you for helping us take care of our community! 🦁
20 days ago, Slate Valley
Three adults stand indoors holding a large ceremonial check made out to the Slate Valley Unified School District for $1,500. Two American flags hang on the wall behind them. A table with refreshments is visible to the side.
🌎💚 Happy Earth Day from Slate Valley! 💚🌎

Before heading into Spring Break, FHGS second graders in Ms. Bruno’s class took time to learn about caring for our planet by creating their own Earth Day crafts. We’re always proud to celebrate the ways our learners are thinking about protecting and appreciating the world around them.

Wishing our entire Slate Valley community a joyful and meaningful Earth Day! 🌍💙
26 days ago, Slate Valley
Earth Day graphic with floral and nature-themed background and the words “Earth Day” at the top. In the center, a group of second grade students pose in a classroom holding handmade Earth crafts, with a globe displayed on a screen behind them. A Vermont logo appears at the bottom.
🍎☀️ Free Summer Meals for Kids & Teens!

Slate Valley is proud to offer the 2026 Summer Food Service Program at the Fair Haven Grade School Cafeteria!

All children and teens 18 and under can enjoy free breakfast and lunch this summer—no registration required.

📅 Dates: June 29 – August 14
⏰ Times:
• Breakfast: 8:30–9:30 AM
• Lunch: 11:30 AM–12:30 PM

Please note: Meals must be eaten on-site in the cafeteria.

Help us spread the word so every child has access to healthy, nutritious meals all summer long!

🔎 Find more locations at: https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sitefinder
27 days ago, Slate Valley
Flyer for the 2026 Summer Food Service Program featuring images of school meals on green trays and a stack of pancakes. Text explains that free breakfast and lunch are available for anyone 18 and under at the Fair Haven Grade School Cafeteria from June 29 to August 14, with breakfast served from 8:30–9:30 AM and lunch from 11:30 AM–12:30 PM. It notes meals must be eaten on-site and includes a link to find additional locations.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: April 17, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/8852b597100f/district-newsletter-april-10-13836492
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter header dated April 17, 2026, featuring a central Vermont-themed logo surrounded by a collage of student photos including outdoor learning, graduation, classroom activities, and performances, with the slogan “Our Schools, Your Future.”
First graders took learning to the air as they celebrated the day before April break with paper airplanes! ✈️ Students practiced hand-eye coordination while testing how far their planes could fly—using both their dominant and non-dominant hands. They also added an extra challenge by aiming to send their planes through a hula hoop. A fun, hands-on way to build skills and kick off break!
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
A group of first grade students stands in a cafeteria line holding paper airplanes, preparing to throw them while adults sit on a bench behind them.
A teacher holds a green hula hoop while a student throws a paper airplane toward it, with other students waiting and watching in a cafeteria space.
Students take turns throwing paper airplanes toward a hula hoop held by a staff member, while others watch and hold their own planes.
A student leans forward mid-throw, aiming a paper airplane toward a red hula hoop held by a teacher in a cafeteria with tables in the background.
Young students line up with paper airplanes raised, preparing to throw, with a “Let’s eat!” poster and cafeteria serving area visible behind them.
☕♥️ Spreading Kindness, One Cup at a Time!

Our first graders teamed up with Last Cup Cafe in Rutland to share a little extra joy in the community! After learning about kindness, students created thoughtful messages designed to brighten someone’s day.

They then put their creativity to work, decorating coffee cup sleeves for customers to enjoy—turning an everyday moment into something special.

Our students worked so hard and were so proud to help spread happiness beyond the classroom. Be sure to grab a cup and a smile if you stop by! ♥️✨
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Three young students stand in front of a cloud-themed backdrop, holding decorated coffee sleeve cards with colorful drawings and messages of kindness, including “Smile!”
Two students smile and hold up handmade coffee sleeve cards with cheerful messages, including “You make my day happy,” against a sky-and-cloud background.
Three students stand side by side, proudly displaying a long row of connected, hand-decorated coffee sleeves filled with bright colors, hearts, and patterns.
A student in a yellow dress holds up two small illustrated cards featuring hand-drawn animals and playful designs, smiling in front of a cloud-themed backdrop.
📣 Reminder for Slate Valley Families!

All Slate Valley schools will have an early release day on Friday, April 17, 2026.

This will be followed by Spring Break from Monday, April 20 through Friday, April 24. 🌸

We hope everyone enjoys a safe, relaxing, and well-deserved break!
Classes will resume on Monday, April 27, 2026.
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Graphic with a spring-themed background featuring flowers and leaves. At the top is a Vermont emblem above a red banner that reads “REMINDER.” The text states: “Early Release Day for All Slate Valley Schools, Friday - April 17, 2026.” Below, it reads: “Followed by Spring Break, Monday, April 20 - Friday, April 24.” At the bottom: “Classes Resume Monday, April 27, 2026.”
Our Castleton Elementary School 4th graders recently had the opportunity to participate in the Annual Poppy Poster Contest, thanks to an invitation from Poppy Chairperson Phyllis Blanchard of the Castleton American Legion Auxiliary Unit 50.

Each student thoughtfully created both a draft and final poster, inspired by the story of the Poppy Lady, Moina Belle Michael, and her tribute to veterans. Through their artwork, students explored the powerful symbolism of the poppy:

🔴 Red petals represent the sacrifice and blood shed
⚫🟡 The center reflects the mud and hardship of the battlefield
🌱 The green stem symbolizes the land where so many served and sacrificed
💪 The stem also represents courage and determination
🌸 Together, the poppy stands as a symbol of remembrance and renewal

We are proud to share that our students’ posters have been submitted to the Vermont Department Chairperson for consideration. Great work, CES students!
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Three students stand in front of a brick wall display holding hand-drawn poppy posters honoring veterans.
Four students smile while holding colorful poppy artwork with messages about remembering veterans.
Three students hold detailed poppy posters featuring messages about honoring veterans and those who served.
Three students stand side by side holding poppy drawings with red flowers and handwritten messages of remembrance.
Three students display poppy posters with large red flowers and messages about sacrifice and service.
Three students hold posters with poppy illustrations and messages recognizing fallen soldiers and veterans.
Three students present poppy artwork with bright red flowers and “American Legion Auxiliary” written on the posters.
Four students stand together holding small red poppies, smiling in front of a brick wall display.
Students in third and fourth grade are reading the Red Clover Book When You Find the Right Rock by Mary Lyn Ray in library class. To deepen their learning, students explored how rocks are formed by watching an informational video, then put their creativity to work by painting their own rocks. The results are full of thoughtful details and beautiful designs!
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Larger group of students stand together in a classroom, proudly displaying their colorful painted rocks.
A group of decorated rocks displayed on a table, featuring designs such as rainbows, flowers, a tree, a bird, and a sunset scene.
Student’s hands use a yellow paint marker to create a colorful swirl design on a smooth gray rock, with newspaper protecting the table underneath.
Small painted rock on an orange table featuring a spiral design in pink, blue, green, and purple.
Three students sit at a classroom table painting rocks, with colorful markers, newspapers, and a basket of stones in front of them.
Close-up of a hand holding a painted rock designed as a red and black ladybug.
Student leans over a table painting a rock with a white marker; trays of bright paint markers and a closed laptop sit nearby.
Close-up of a hand holding a painted rock with a smiling purple top and decorative patterns in pink and blue.
Student wearing a cap draws on a rock with a green marker while working over a newspaper-covered table.
Group of elementary students in a classroom hold up their painted rocks, smiling and showing their designs.
Share Your Memories of Bonnie 💙

As we prepare to celebrate the life of Bonnie L. Partridge, we invite all friends, colleagues, and students—past and present—to help us honor her memory.

We are creating a special slideshow to be shared during her Celebration of Life on May 2, 2026, and would love to include your photos and video memories.

How to Submit:

• Complete the form by going to: https://bit.ly/BonniePCelebrationofLife
• Scan the QR code on the flyer
• Email your photo/video directly to Lisa Cacciatore at lcacciatore@svuvt.org

Submission Deadline:
All entries must be received by April 24, 2026

Whether it’s a candid moment, a favorite memory, or a short video message, your contribution will help tell the story of Bonnie’s impact and the many lives she touched.

Thank you for helping us celebrate Bonnie in such a meaningful way. 💙
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Blue floral-themed memorial flyer with soft watercolor flowers and a circular photo of a smiling woman wearing a cap and glasses (Bonnie Partridge). The headline reads “Share Your Memories of Bonnie.” The flyer invites friends, colleagues, and past and present students to submit photos or video memories for a slideshow to be shown at her Celebration of Life. Submission options include a link (bit.ly/BonniePCelebrationofLife), scanning a QR code, or emailing Lisa Cacciatore at lcacciatore@svuvt.org . Deadline for submissions is April 24, 2026. The bottom of the flyer announces the Celebration of Life on May 2, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Castleton Elementary School, with the message: “A beautiful soul who touched many hearts, forever remembered and missed.”
🌱💚 FHUMHS Students Giving Back for Green-Up Day! 💚🌱

On May 1st, students from Fair Haven Union Middle & High School will be out in the community celebrating Green-Up Day—and they’re ready to lend a helping hand!

From spring yard clean-ups to other small outdoor tasks, our students are excited to support members of the Slate Valley community. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, give back, and make a positive impact together.

If you or someone you know could use a little extra help this spring, please fill out the quick form below, or contact Jackie Phillips (email: jphillips@svuvt.org or phone: 802-265-4966). FHUMHS principals and assistant principals will review submissions and follow up directly.

👉 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfHYQ48U-NIH-q2A1cECoC8cBXMl0eQSxBGHs8ZvZqpa98wow/viewform

Thank you for being part of our community—and for helping our students make a difference! 🌎✨
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Flyer for Fair Haven Union High School “Green Up Day” on Friday, May 1, 2026. It invites community members who need help with yardwork or small projects to connect with student volunteers. Services include raking, picking up debris, and general yard cleanup. Contact information is provided for Jackie Phillips (jphillips@svuvt.org , 802-265-4966) or via QR code. The offer is open to residents of Benson, Castleton, Fair Haven, Hubbardton, Orwell, and West Haven. Graphics include leaves, a paintbrush, hammer, rake, and yard tools.
First graders are learning in motion! 🎉
This year, students have been participating in Action Based Learning (ABL), both in the classroom and in the gym. Through hands-on activities, movement, and play, students are building skills while staying active and engaged. From puzzles and pattern building to balance, math games, and collaborative play—learning has never been so fun!
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Two first grade students sit on a colorful classroom rug, creating geometric patterns with small wooden blocks spread around them.
Three young students kneel on the classroom floor, smiling beside a completed ocean-themed jigsaw puzzle.
Three students sit around a large dinosaur puzzle on the floor, working together to complete the scene.
A group of six students sit on a bright rug surrounded by pattern blocks, posing with their collaborative design.
Two students sit on the floor assembling a farm-themed floor puzzle, with puzzle pieces scattered nearby.
Four students sit on a rug building structures with wooden blocks and playing with dinosaur figures.
Two students stand at a wall pointing to letters on large blue posters, practicing letter recognition.
Two students stand at a table moving toy cars along a hand-drawn path of math problems, combining movement with addition practice.
Two students balance and move along a foam beam while navigating a classroom obstacle course.
Four students sit on a colorful rug working together to create a heart-shaped design using pattern blocks.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: April 10, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/5722f5802f0b/district-newsletter-april-10-2026
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Banner reading “Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter” with the date April 10, 2026, featuring the district logo in the center and school mascots on both sides against a blue and green background.
Submitted by 5th Grade Teacher, Mrs. Meredith Simpson: "During Art Club, Mrs. Parrott and I taught the students how to make creations from shrink film, including keychains, earrings, miniature signs, and more. Another project, which was a major hit, was making a tiny laptop with a movable cursor and mouse! Our final project involved wrapping wire and beads around a rock to make a photo holder. We stayed busy and had a blast!"
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Students and teachers in an art classroom create beaded jewelry; students string colorful beads while smiling, and two teachers pose together in the classroom.
Students in an art classroom display handmade projects, including resin jewelry and keychains; one student holds a book while others smile and show their finished pieces, with a close-up of cat-shaped earrings.
Students design and color small paper “laptop” creations with detailed screens and keyboards, showing both the drawing process and completed colorful designs.