🎉 ♥️A Tradition We Love. A Community We Celebrate. ♥️🎉

On Friday, Castleton Elementary School came together for its annual Big Celebration, a beloved end-of-year tradition that recognizes all the amazing accomplishments of our students throughout the year.

The Big Celebration is about so much more than academics. It's an opportunity to celebrate kindness, creativity, perseverance, friendships, teamwork, and the strong sense of community that makes CES such a special place to learn and grow. Students enjoyed a day filled with fun activities, laughter, and time together as a school family while reflecting on another successful year.

One of the highlights of the day was Mrs. Tugas capturing drone footage of students and staff working together to form "CES" on the blacktop.
10 days ago, Slate Valley
A drone photograph shows Castleton Elementary School students and staff standing on the blacktop arranged to spell the letters "CES" with an exclamation point, demonstrating teamwork and school pride.
A young student wearing a white rash guard and red swim shorts smiles while sliding down a soapy slip-and-slide during Castleton Elementary School's Big Celebration.
Two elementary students laugh as they slide together down a large slip-and-slide during an outdoor end-of-year celebration.
Three students pose together in front of a glowing blacklight backdrop that reads "Let's Glow," holding light-up fiber optic wands and smiling for the camera.
A staff member sits in a dunk tank with arms raised while a student prepares to throw a ball at the target during the Big Celebration.
Students participate in an outdoor game on a grassy field while staff members supervise. A pavilion, playground equipment, and other celebration activities are visible in the background.
A young student raises both arms while sliding down a bright red inflatable bounce house slide during the celebration.
A student receives face paint while sitting with friends at a picnic table. One student has a painted mustache design on their face.
Two students smile as they slide down a large blue inflatable slide during the outdoor celebration.
Two students covered in mud and grass smile and flex their arms after participating in messy outdoor activities during the Big Celebration.
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.
10 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic promoting a Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting. The design features the text “Please Join Us Tonight” surrounding a circle of stylized green figures representing community members. Large text reads “Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting.” Inside the center circle, the agenda includes: Consent Agenda, End-of-Year Goal Sharing (Elementary), Legislative Update, Committee Reports, and Finance. The Vermont-themed Slate Valley logo appears on the right side. At the bottom, the graphic lists the meeting details: June 8, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the Orwell Village School Gymnasium. The graphic uses teal, green, and light gray colors on a white background.
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!
13 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic promoting the Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter dated June 5, 2026. The header reads "Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter" with the date displayed below. The center of the graphic features the Slate Valley Vermont logo over a scenic lake and tree-lined background. Surrounding the logo are school emblems representing Fair Haven Grade School (FHGS), Benson Village School (BVS), Fair Haven Union Middle School, Fair Haven Union High School, Orwell Village School (OVS), and Castleton Elementary School (CES). The graphic uses the district's green, blue, gold, red, and gray school colors and includes the slogan "Our School, Your Future."
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.
13 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Focus Friday: Field Trips” featuring a collage of photos from student learning experiences across Slate Valley schools. Images show students touring a manufacturing facility, participating in hands-on activities at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, exploring aquatic ecosystems by collecting samples with nets, visiting the Wonderfeet Kids Museum, attending a music festival and trip to Great Escape, taking part in a historical reenactment at Mount Independence, and conducting a lake ecology activity in shallow water. The Slate Valley Unified Union School District logo appears in the lower right corner. The graphic highlights the variety of off-campus educational opportunities that connect classroom learning with real-world experiences.
🎶🎺 Inspiring the Next Generation of Musicians! 🎺🎶

Today, members of the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band visited Castleton Elementary School to share their love of music with younger students.

Band members introduced a variety of instruments, demonstrated the unique sounds each one makes, and explained what it's like to learn and play an instrument. Students had the opportunity to hear individual instruments perform before experiencing how all the different sections come together to create the full sound of a band.

These annual visits help inspire future musicians and give elementary students a glimpse of the exciting opportunities that await them as they continue their musical journey. Who knows? Some of today’s audience members may be tomorrow’s band members!

A big thank you to our FHUMHS musicians and music educators for sharing their talents and encouraging the next generation of performers. 🎵🎷🥁🎺
14 days ago, Slate Valley
Wide outdoor view of FHUMHS band students arranged in a large semicircle on a paved playground while elementary students and staff sit and stand nearby listening. The presentation takes place on a sunny day beneath a bright blue sky.
A group of FHUMHS band students stand outdoors holding trumpets, trombones, and a tuba. One student plays a trombone while the others listen and prepare to demonstrate their instruments.
Aerial view of Castleton Elementary School students and staff gathered around a large playground area while FHUMHS band students perform and demonstrate instruments from the center. Basketball hoops and groups of seated students are visible around the perimeter of the blacktop.
📚🐦 Kindergarteners at Castleton Elementary School recently took a closer look at how nature works together during library class with Mrs. Rampone!

After reading The Nest That Robin Built by Denise Fleming, students learned how a variety of animals contribute materials that help a robin create a safe and sturdy nest. Inspired by the story, our young learners put their creativity to work by designing and building their own nests using a variety of craft materials.
14 days ago, Slate Valley
A smiling kindergarten student holds up his completed bird nest craft made from a paper plate, blue eggs, and layered paper strips. Another student in the background continues decorating a similar project.
Kindergarten students sit around a classroom table covered with craft supplies, paper plates, crayons, glue sticks, and strips of paper while creating bird nests inspired by The Nest That Robin Built. Several students smile at the camera while working on their projects.
A close-up of a kindergarten student carefully gluing paper strips around a paper plate nest. The nest includes blue crayon-colored eggs in the center and layered paper pieces around the edge.
A teacher assists kindergarten students as they build paper plate bird nests. Students use glue, crayons, and paper strips at a table in the library classroom while working on the hands-on activity.
A kindergarten student wearing a patterned shirt proudly displays his completed bird nest craft featuring blue eggs and crumpled paper materials. Other students work on similar projects in the background.
Kindergarten students work on bird nest crafts at a large table in the school library. One student proudly holds up his paper plate nest while classmates cut, glue, and decorate their own creations among bookshelves and library displays.
A kindergarten student concentrates on gluing strips of brown and black paper onto a paper plate nest while seated at a classroom table covered with art supplies and craft materials.
🏈⚽🏑📣 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.
14 days ago, Slate Valley
Flyer promoting the Slate Valley 2026 Fall Athletics Informational Meeting. The flyer features sports-themed graphics including a football, golf bag, soccer ball, running shoe, field hockey stick and ball, and cheer pom-poms. Text announces the meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 16 at 5:30 PM in the FHUMHS Gym. The meeting is intended for student-athletes and families in grades 7–12 entering the fall 2026 season. Topics include the new Arbiter athlete registration platform, fall start dates and heat acclimatization procedures, summer training opportunities, athletic schedules and sports physicals, ParentSquare communication, the SWAY concussion and injury communication program, and Booster Club support. Contact information for Athletic Director Eric Ramey is provided. The flyer notes that this meeting replaces the traditional August athletic meeting and reminds families that all athletes need an updated sports physical on file at school. The design uses blue, green, red, and black text on a light background.
🐝🌼 Learning Comes to Life at Wonderfeet Kids Museum! 🌼🐝

Our first graders had an exciting day of discovery during their visit to the Wonderfeet Kids Museum! Students had the unique opportunity to explore the museum with the entire space to themselves, diving into hands-on exhibits, imaginative play, and creative adventures.

The learning continued upstairs in the classroom, where students became engineers and scientists for the day. After learning about the important role bees play in pollination, students were challenged to design and build their own hand pollinators using a variety of materials. They then tested their creations while exploring how pollination helps plants grow and thrive.

What a wonderful day of curiosity, creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on learning! 🌻🐝✨
14 days ago, Slate Valley
An adult and a smiling young student pose together inside a colorful pretend credit union exhibit at the Wonderfeet Kids Museum. A play computer keyboard and paper money sit on a nearby counter.
A young student sits in the driver's seat of a large interactive vehicle exhibit, holding a rope control while operating buttons, screens, and a steering wheel. An adult stands behind him.
Several students play together inside a brightly colored diner exhibit, pretending to prepare and serve food while sitting and standing around a pink counter.
A smiling student kneels beside a pretend campfire made of soft rocks and logs in a woodland-themed exhibit area of the museum.
Students interact with a recycling-themed exhibit, rolling balls around a circular table while learning about sorting materials. Other children play in nearby exhibits.
A student sits beside a large train-themed musical exhibit, holding mallets and preparing to strike the instrument.
Three smiling students stand together in the doorway of a train exhibit, posing for a photo inside the museum.
Several first-grade students sit around a table during a pollination activity, examining materials and completing worksheets while building hand pollinators.
Students work collaboratively at a classroom table, recording observations on pollination worksheets and using craft materials for their engineering challenge.
A group of students gathers around a table, designing and testing hand pollinators with various materials while completing a lesson about bees and pollination.
📸🎓 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)
14 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Throwback Thursday” featuring the Slate Valley logo and three black-and-white historical graduation photos from Fair Haven Union High School. The photos are labeled with the years 1976, 1993, and 2006, showing graduates in caps and gowns during commencement ceremonies. A graduation cap graphic appears in the bottom right corner next to the text “FHUHS Graduations.”
🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ 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
15 days ago, Slate Valley
Flyer for the Slate Valley Efts Running Group featuring a cartoon eft (newt) in the background. The flyer invites youth athletes interested in cross country or cross-training for other sports to join. It notes that there is no registration or commitment required and that age-appropriate workouts and group runs are organized by local USATF SafeSport-certified coaches. Meetings take place at the R&H Rail Trail entrance on South Street in Castleton on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00–7:30 p.m. throughout the summer, beginning June 16. The flyer also encourages viewers to follow the Slate Valley Efts Running Group on Facebook.
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.
15 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic for “Where Are They Now? Wednesday” featuring FHUHS Class of 2016 graduate Jeffrey Jr. York. The graphic includes a photo of Jeffrey sitting with his three daughters, one of whom is holding a newborn baby. Text highlights include: played football, participated in the Work Study Program, works as an Inventory Specialist at Brown’s Auto Salvage, proud husband and father of three daughters, inspirational teacher Mr. Blackbird, and favorite quote: “Through every dark night, there’s a bright day after that.” — Tupac Shakur. The Slate Valley logo appears in the top right corner.
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 Brown’s Auto Salvage as an Inventory Specialist, a position he says he truly enjoys.

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.
15 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic for “Where Are They Now? Wednesday” featuring FHUHS Class of 2016 graduate Jeffrey Jr. York. The graphic includes a photo of Jeffrey sitting with his three daughters, one of whom is holding a newborn baby. Text highlights include: played football, participated in the Work Study Program, works as an Inventory Specialist at Brown’s Auto Salvage, proud husband and father of three daughters, inspirational teacher Mr. Blackbird, and favorite quote: “Through every dark night, there’s a bright day after that.” — Tupac Shakur. The Slate Valley logo appears in the top right corner.
🎓 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.
16 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic for “Do You Know? Trivia Tuesday” in teal and green colors featuring overlapping speech bubbles at the top with the words “Do You Know?” and a large “Trivia Tuesday” title. A school building with the Slate Valley logo appears in the center beside silhouettes of a young child holding hands with a graduating student wearing a cap and gown. Text asks: “Approximately how many days does a student spend in school from kindergarten through Grade 12?”
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday: June Spotlight

This month, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on someone who truly represents dedication and commitment within Slate Valley—Ann Pelkey, our Payroll Specialist and the district’s longest-serving employee with an incredible 44 years of service!

For more than four decades, Ann has been an essential part of the Slate Valley family, beginning her career shortly after graduating from Castleton State College with a degree in Business Administration. Forty-four years is a remarkable milestone and a reflection of the care, consistency, and heart she brings to her work every day.

While many people may not realize it, Ann’s role impacts every employee across the district. In fact, if you work in Slate Valley and haven’t yet had the pleasure of meeting Ann personally, you’ve certainly benefited from her hard work behind the scenes. Every time a paycheck arrives accurately and on time, Ann makes that happen — and that’s definitely something worth being thankful for!

Outside of work, Ann enjoys karaoke, reading, mini golf, and spending time with family and friends. She loves going for walks and rides with her loyal and friendly dog, Belle. She is a volunteer at the Fair Haven American Legion, and also serves as secretary of the American Legion Auxiliary Fair Haven Unit 49.

Ann’s favorite saying perfectly reflects her fun spirit and sense of humor: “It’s never late till midnight — it’s early after that.”
When asked to share anything else, Ann simply said, “I so enjoy working and being a part of the Slate Valley family.” After 44 years of dedication, we can confidently say that the feeling is mutual.

Thank you, Ann, for your years of service, your commitment to the district, and for helping keep everything running behind the scenes. Slate Valley is fortunate to have you!
17 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Meet Slate Valley Faculty & Staff Monday” featuring Ann Pelkey, Payroll Specialist at Slate Valley. On the left is a photo of Ann seated at her desk smiling, wearing glasses and a blue patterned blouse in an office setting. On the right, a teal background lists highlights about her career and interests, including being the longest-serving Slate Valley employee with 44 years in the district, graduating from Castleton State College with a Business Administration degree, and enjoying karaoke, reading, mini golf, and spending time with family, friends, and her dog Belle. The graphic also notes her volunteer work with the Fair Haven American Legion and her role as secretary of the American Legion Auxiliary Fair Haven Unit 49. Her favorite saying is included: “It’s never late till midnight — it’s early after that.” The Slate Valley logo appears near the bottom alongside her name and title
20 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic for the Slate Valley Unified Union School District newsletter dated May 29, 2026. The top of the image features the title “Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter” in large dark blue text with the date centered beneath it. The lower portion displays the Slate Valley Unified logo in the center against a blue and green abstract background. Surrounding the district logo are the logos of the district’s schools: Fair Haven Grade School (FHGS), Benson Village School (BVS), Fair Haven Union Middle School (FHU Middle School), Fair Haven Union High School (FHU High School), Orwell Village School (OVS), and Castleton Elementary School (CES). The Vermont Education Quality Standards logo appears in the upper left corner, and the slogan “Our Schools, Your Future” appears in the lower right corner.
Castleton Elementary School was buzzing with excitement tonight during our Celebration of Learning! Families filled the hallways exploring student projects, interactive activities, hands-on displays, creative artwork, STEM challenges, writing projects, and so much more.

From coding games and engineering builds to research presentations and collaborative learning activities, students proudly shared the incredible work they’ve accomplished throughout the year. It was wonderful to see students taking ownership of their learning while families, staff, and community members celebrated their creativity, curiosity, and growth.

Thank you to all of our teachers, staff, students, and families who helped make the evening such a special showcase of learning at CES!
21 days ago, Slate Valley
A teacher and young student kneel on the floor playing an educational matching game featuring colorful alien and spaceship cards during Castleton Elementary School’s Celebration of Learning.
Two elementary students sit on the floor working together on a space-themed matching game with laminated cards featuring cartoon aliens and spaceships.
A staff member and student place toy cars at the top of a large green ramp as part of a hands-on STEM activity in a school hallway.
An elementary student examines a cardboard wagon model and other handmade projects displayed on a table during Castleton Elementary School’s Celebration of Learning.
Two students in baseball uniforms explore a display table filled with creative student-made projects and recycled art during Castleton Elementary School’s Celebration of Learning.
A student in a baseball uniform presents a project display board to two teachers standing behind a table filled with student work during a school showcase event.
A teacher speaks with students and family members in a school hallway filled with visitors attending Castleton Elementary School’s Celebration of Learning.
A parent and young child look at student writing and artwork displayed on a table during the Celebration of Learning event.
A parent and student examine a classroom display board featuring student-created projects and writing assignments mounted on brown paper.
A parent and student examine a classroom display board featuring student-created projects and writing assignments mounted on brown paper.
📣 Community members are invited to attend the next Slate Valley Community Advisory Council (CAC) Meeting!

The Community Advisory Council provides an opportunity for families, staff, and community members to collaborate, share ideas, and engage in meaningful conversations that help support and strengthen our Slate Valley schools.

📅 Tuesday, June 2, 2026
🕔 5:45–7:00 PM
📍 Central Office Conference Room
Fair Haven Union Middle & High School

This meeting will also serve as the final Community Advisory Council meeting of the 2025–26 school year. Thank you to everyone who has participated and shared ideas throughout the year. Your voices, perspectives, and collaboration help make our Slate Valley community stronger.

We hope you’ll join us as we wrap up another great year together!
22 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic for the Slate Valley Community Advisory Council meeting featuring the Slate Valley logo in the center surrounded by stylized figures in blue and green representing community members. Text reads: “Slate Valley Community Advisory Council.” Meeting information at the bottom states: “Next Meeting: June 2, 2026 – 5:45 PM to 7:00 PM, Central Office Conference Room at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School.”
🌿🚣 Celebrating 40 Years of Summer Environmental Projects! 🚣🌿

For four decades, students and community members in Slate Valley have explored, learned, and connected with nature through unforgettable summer environmental programs—from the original East Creek Project, to CARP & CHAMP, and today’s GAP program.

Now it’s time to celebrate this incredible milestone together!

📅 Saturday, May 30
🕙 10:00 a.m.
📍 Glen Lake

Whether you participated years ago, are involved today, or simply enjoy the outdoors, everyone is invited to join us as we celebrate 40 years of environmental learning, stewardship, and memories.

🚣 Need a kayak? Kayaks may be available to borrow! Contact cstantonvt@gmail.com

Come reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the impact these programs have had across generations. 🌲
23 days ago, Slate Valley
Flyer with a light green background celebrating “40 Years of Summer Environmental Projects.” The flyer includes photos of students and community members kayaking on a lake and exploring nature. Text invites the community to join a celebration at Glen Lake on Saturday, May 30 at 10:00 a.m. The flyer explains that the event marks the 40th anniversary of the original East Creek Project and celebrates four decades of environmental programs in Slate Valley, including East Creek Project, CARP & CHAMP, and GAP. A note at the bottom says kayaks may be available to borrow and provides the contact email cstantonvt@gmail.com
27 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic header for the Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter dated May 22, 2026. The design features a Memorial Day theme with patriotic imagery, including American flags, red poppies, a bugler silhouette playing a trumpet, and a military figure saluting. “Memorial Day” appears in the center beneath red, white, and blue banner decorations, with Slate Valley branding elements incorporated into the design.
🇺🇸 Castleton Elementary Honors Memorial Day 🇺🇸

This morning, Castleton Elementary School students, staff, families, and community members gathered for a meaningful Memorial Day assembly to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country.

Led by music director Ms. Tugas, students performed songs representing each branch of the military, paying tribute to the men and women who have served our nation. The Crippen-Fellows Post 50 Color Guard proudly presented the colors, helping to make the ceremony especially meaningful.

Continuing a cherished tradition, Grade 4 students recited In Flanders Fields, with Grade 5 students delivering the powerful response poem. Another highlight of the morning was recognizing student creativity and reflection through the American Legion Women's Auxiliary Post 50 Poppy Poster and Essay Contest awards.

As we head into Memorial Day weekend, we remember that this holiday is not simply a day off, but a time to honor and remember those who gave everything for our freedoms. ❤️🤍💙
27 days ago, Slate Valley
A student dressed in patriotic red, white, and blue clothing and a star-spangled hat stands smiling during Castleton Elementary School’s Memorial Day assembly while placing a hand over their heart.
Members of the Crippen-Fellows Post 50 Color Guard stand in formation holding the American flag and ceremonial flags during the Memorial Day assembly.
Students stand with hands over their hearts during the Memorial Day assembly while teachers and families observe in the background.
Members of the Crippen-Fellows Post 50 Color Guard stand in formation holding the American flag and ceremonial flags during the Memorial Day assembly.
Students stand holding printed song sheets and sing together during Castleton Elementary School’s Memorial Day assembly.
A student stands at a podium receiving recognition during the American Legion Auxiliary contest award presentation while two Auxiliary members smile nearby.
A student proudly holds a poppy-themed poster next to an American Legion Auxiliary member after being recognized during the Memorial Day assembly.
Students stand together singing during the Memorial Day assembly as families and community members watch from the audience.
Students stand on risers and bleachers holding papers while singing together during the school’s Memorial Day program.
Members of the American Legion Auxiliary pose together for a group photo in the school gymnasium during the Memorial Day event.