The celebration of America’s 250th birthday continues in fourth grade! 🇺🇸
Students recently participated in the Bookmark Design Challenge hosted by the National Endowment for the Arts. As part of the project, students reflected on what America means to them and brought those ideas to life through original bookmark designs—highlighting themes such as history, heritage, important people and moments, cultural traditions, unity, democracy, and hopes for the future.
Three national winners—one from each grade band (K–2, 3–5, 6–8)—will be selected, with winning designs featured on the NEA website and printed for distribution at the Great American State Fair and other national events. Winners will also be invited, along with a parent or guardian, on an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. to take part in a special literacy celebration.
We are so proud of our fourth graders’ creativity and thoughtful work—and we’ll be cheering them on as we hope to see one of our own students’ designs represent our country in this incredible, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Students recently participated in the Bookmark Design Challenge hosted by the National Endowment for the Arts. As part of the project, students reflected on what America means to them and brought those ideas to life through original bookmark designs—highlighting themes such as history, heritage, important people and moments, cultural traditions, unity, democracy, and hopes for the future.
Three national winners—one from each grade band (K–2, 3–5, 6–8)—will be selected, with winning designs featured on the NEA website and printed for distribution at the Great American State Fair and other national events. Winners will also be invited, along with a parent or guardian, on an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. to take part in a special literacy celebration.
We are so proud of our fourth graders’ creativity and thoughtful work—and we’ll be cheering them on as we hope to see one of our own students’ designs represent our country in this incredible, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Board Meeting - April 6, 2026
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Benson Village School Gym.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: link: https://meet.google.com/tbg-nhei-qjq
Or dial: (US) +1 484-321-6815 PIN: 473 638 758#
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 Benson Village School Gym.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: link: https://meet.google.com/tbg-nhei-qjq
Or dial: (US) +1 484-321-6815 PIN: 473 638 758#
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.
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday — April Spotlight
This month, we’re excited to highlight Becky Hughes, who has been a dedicated Instructional Assistant at CES for the past 5 years!
Becky brings nearly 20 years of experience in education, and her journey began in a meaningful and unexpected way. During a conference for her youngest child, a pre-K teacher encouraged her to consider substitute teaching—and that conversation sparked a career. Within six months, Becky transitioned from subbing to a full-time teaching assistant.
She spent 12 years at Saratoga County Head Start, followed by three years as a paraeducator in an autism classroom at Rutland Intermediate School. Wanting to be closer to home, Becky joined Slate Valley—and we’re so glad she did!
When she’s not at school, Becky enjoys spending time with her family and going camping whenever she can. She also keeps busy working a second job—and has a fun and unique hobby… she collects cows!
Becky lives by a message that reflects both her work and her heart:
“It’s okay to be different, and be kind to others.”
Thank you, Becky, for the care, compassion, and positivity you bring to CES each day!
This month, we’re excited to highlight Becky Hughes, who has been a dedicated Instructional Assistant at CES for the past 5 years!
Becky brings nearly 20 years of experience in education, and her journey began in a meaningful and unexpected way. During a conference for her youngest child, a pre-K teacher encouraged her to consider substitute teaching—and that conversation sparked a career. Within six months, Becky transitioned from subbing to a full-time teaching assistant.
She spent 12 years at Saratoga County Head Start, followed by three years as a paraeducator in an autism classroom at Rutland Intermediate School. Wanting to be closer to home, Becky joined Slate Valley—and we’re so glad she did!
When she’s not at school, Becky enjoys spending time with her family and going camping whenever she can. She also keeps busy working a second job—and has a fun and unique hobby… she collects cows!
Becky lives by a message that reflects both her work and her heart:
“It’s okay to be different, and be kind to others.”
Thank you, Becky, for the care, compassion, and positivity you bring to CES each day!
🪨 Learning That Rocks! 📚
During library class, our K–4 students are diving into the book "When You Find the Right Rock" by Mary Lyn Ray, exploring how rocks—like people—are all unique and special in their own way.
In first grade, students took their learning a step further by sorting rocks based on color, size, and texture, building observation skills while making meaningful connections to the story.
During library class, our K–4 students are diving into the book "When You Find the Right Rock" by Mary Lyn Ray, exploring how rocks—like people—are all unique and special in their own way.
In first grade, students took their learning a step further by sorting rocks based on color, size, and texture, building observation skills while making meaningful connections to the story.
🎣 Hands-On Learning with COAP!
Yesterday, our COAP students had a fantastic opportunity to learn the basics of fly fishing with guest instructor Liz Orr as they prepare for their upcoming April expedition.
Students were fully engaged, eager to learn, and demonstrated outstanding behavior throughout the experience. We are incredibly proud of the way they represented themselves and our school community!
A big thank you to Liz Orr for sharing her expertise, and to our staff for supporting these meaningful, real-world learning opportunities.
We’re looking forward to next week’s adventure—whether it’s hiking or biking, the learning continues!
Yesterday, our COAP students had a fantastic opportunity to learn the basics of fly fishing with guest instructor Liz Orr as they prepare for their upcoming April expedition.
Students were fully engaged, eager to learn, and demonstrated outstanding behavior throughout the experience. We are incredibly proud of the way they represented themselves and our school community!
A big thank you to Liz Orr for sharing her expertise, and to our staff for supporting these meaningful, real-world learning opportunities.
We’re looking forward to next week’s adventure—whether it’s hiking or biking, the learning continues!
Dear Slate Valley,
Thank you for your support in approving the school budget on the revote. I recognize the time, thought, and consideration that went into this decision, particularly in the context of the broader challenges facing education funding.
Your support ensures that we can continue to provide strong learning opportunities, essential services, and stability for our students and staff. It allows us to maintain the core of what we offer while continuing to move our work forward.
We are deeply appreciative of your commitment to our students and our school community. Your support makes a meaningful difference.
With sincere appreciation,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
Thank you for your support in approving the school budget on the revote. I recognize the time, thought, and consideration that went into this decision, particularly in the context of the broader challenges facing education funding.
Your support ensures that we can continue to provide strong learning opportunities, essential services, and stability for our students and staff. It allows us to maintain the core of what we offer while continuing to move our work forward.
We are deeply appreciative of your commitment to our students and our school community. Your support makes a meaningful difference.
With sincere appreciation,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
CES fourth graders have some good news to share regarding their Snowflake Bentley art projects for the Vermont 250th Art Exhibition!
All twenty-eight pieces submitted by the students were chosen to be included and displayed at the art exhibition, titled Unfinished Revolutions held in our State House in Montpelier. The display was open for public viewing from March 4th through March 27th. There was a closing reception on March 26th in which several fourth graders and their families attended. Participants were able to tour the State House, view artwork from around the state, share in an ice cream social, and attend a press conference in the beautiful Cedar Creek reception Room.
Four pieces of art were selected for permanent inclusion into the Vermont State Art Collection. While the artwork from our fourth graders was not selected for this honor, their work will once again be showcased, but this time at Chimney Point in Addison, Vermont for the rest of the 2026 season.
Click the link to see a video from WCAX: https://www.wcax.com/2026/03/29/representing-vermonts-past-present-future-through-art/?outputType=amp
All twenty-eight pieces submitted by the students were chosen to be included and displayed at the art exhibition, titled Unfinished Revolutions held in our State House in Montpelier. The display was open for public viewing from March 4th through March 27th. There was a closing reception on March 26th in which several fourth graders and their families attended. Participants were able to tour the State House, view artwork from around the state, share in an ice cream social, and attend a press conference in the beautiful Cedar Creek reception Room.
Four pieces of art were selected for permanent inclusion into the Vermont State Art Collection. While the artwork from our fourth graders was not selected for this honor, their work will once again be showcased, but this time at Chimney Point in Addison, Vermont for the rest of the 2026 season.
Click the link to see a video from WCAX: https://www.wcax.com/2026/03/29/representing-vermonts-past-present-future-through-art/?outputType=amp
Looking for a space to share your thoughts, ask questions, and be part of the conversation in a more relaxed setting?
Join us at the next Slate Valley Community Advisory Council (CAC) meeting—an opportunity to connect directly with district leadership and help shape the future of our schools.
💬 Whether you have ideas, feedback, or simply want to stay informed, your voice matters here. This is a welcoming, less formal environment where open dialogue is encouraged and valued.
🗓 Next Meeting: April 7, 2026
🕔 Time: 5:45 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Central Office Conference Room
Fair Haven Union Middle & High School
We hope you’ll join the conversation—because strong schools start with strong community connections.
Join us at the next Slate Valley Community Advisory Council (CAC) meeting—an opportunity to connect directly with district leadership and help shape the future of our schools.
💬 Whether you have ideas, feedback, or simply want to stay informed, your voice matters here. This is a welcoming, less formal environment where open dialogue is encouraged and valued.
🗓 Next Meeting: April 7, 2026
🕔 Time: 5:45 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Central Office Conference Room
Fair Haven Union Middle & High School
We hope you’ll join the conversation—because strong schools start with strong community connections.
Today’s the day! 🗳️Please take a few minutes to cast your vote!
Slate Valley community members are encouraged to vote on the Revised FY27 Budget Proposal today, March 31st. Your voice matters in shaping the future of our schools and supporting students across the district.
📍 Polling Locations & Hours:
• Benson: 10 AM – 7 PM, Benson Community Hall
• Castleton: 8 AM – 7 PM, Castleton Fire Station
• Fair Haven: 10 AM – 7 PM, American Legion Post #49
• Hubbardton: 10 AM – 7 PM, Hubbardton Town Hall
• Orwell: 10 AM – 7 PM, Orwell Town Office
• West Haven: 10 AM – 7 PM, West Haven Town Hall
Slate Valley community members are encouraged to vote on the Revised FY27 Budget Proposal today, March 31st. Your voice matters in shaping the future of our schools and supporting students across the district.
📍 Polling Locations & Hours:
• Benson: 10 AM – 7 PM, Benson Community Hall
• Castleton: 8 AM – 7 PM, Castleton Fire Station
• Fair Haven: 10 AM – 7 PM, American Legion Post #49
• Hubbardton: 10 AM – 7 PM, Hubbardton Town Hall
• Orwell: 10 AM – 7 PM, Orwell Town Office
• West Haven: 10 AM – 7 PM, West Haven Town Hall
🇺🇸 Learning Across America! (Photo Batch 3)
🇺🇸 Learning Across America! (Photo Batch 2)
🇺🇸 Learning Across America! (Photo Batch 1)
Our 4th graders are continuing their exciting study in celebration of America’s upcoming 250th birthday—and their latest project is one to see!
Students each selected a favorite state and dove into researching important and interesting facts. They brought their learning to life by designing and illustrating their own posters, then confidently presenting their work to classmates while answering thoughtful questions from Mr. Canty.
To deepen the experience, students explored real-world connections through Mr. Canty’s personal collection of state quarters and rare coins, along with a 50-state license plate collection available right in their classroom.
🖼️ If you’re visiting CES, be sure to stop by the hallway leading to the gym to check out their impressive work on display!
Great job to our 4th graders for their creativity, curiosity, and presentation skills! 👏
Our 4th graders are continuing their exciting study in celebration of America’s upcoming 250th birthday—and their latest project is one to see!
Students each selected a favorite state and dove into researching important and interesting facts. They brought their learning to life by designing and illustrating their own posters, then confidently presenting their work to classmates while answering thoughtful questions from Mr. Canty.
To deepen the experience, students explored real-world connections through Mr. Canty’s personal collection of state quarters and rare coins, along with a 50-state license plate collection available right in their classroom.
🖼️ If you’re visiting CES, be sure to stop by the hallway leading to the gym to check out their impressive work on display!
Great job to our 4th graders for their creativity, curiosity, and presentation skills! 👏
📣 Reminder: Budget Information Meeting TONIGHT & Vote TOMORROW
Join us this evening to learn more and get your questions answered ahead of tomorrow’s vote:
🗓 Tonight – Monday, March 30, 2026
⏰ 6:30 PM
📍 FHUMHS School Band Room
💻 Virtual option available: https://meet.google.com/bic-zkty-xmx
📞 Or dial: (US) +1 240-812-1886 PIN: 193 973 799#
🗳 Vote Tomorrow – March 31st
Polling Locations & Hours:
• Benson: 10 AM – 7 PM, Benson Community Hall
• Castleton: 8 AM – 7 PM, Castleton Fire Station
• Fair Haven: 10 AM – 7 PM, American Legion Post #49
• Hubbardton: 10 AM – 7 PM, Hubbardton Town Hall
• Orwell: 10 AM – 7 PM, Orwell Town Office
• West Haven: 10 AM – 7 PM, West Haven Town Hall
For more details, visit: www.slatevalleyunified.org
Your voice matters—stay informed and be sure to vote!
Join us this evening to learn more and get your questions answered ahead of tomorrow’s vote:
🗓 Tonight – Monday, March 30, 2026
⏰ 6:30 PM
📍 FHUMHS School Band Room
💻 Virtual option available: https://meet.google.com/bic-zkty-xmx
📞 Or dial: (US) +1 240-812-1886 PIN: 193 973 799#
🗳 Vote Tomorrow – March 31st
Polling Locations & Hours:
• Benson: 10 AM – 7 PM, Benson Community Hall
• Castleton: 8 AM – 7 PM, Castleton Fire Station
• Fair Haven: 10 AM – 7 PM, American Legion Post #49
• Hubbardton: 10 AM – 7 PM, Hubbardton Town Hall
• Orwell: 10 AM – 7 PM, Orwell Town Office
• West Haven: 10 AM – 7 PM, West Haven Town Hall
For more details, visit: www.slatevalleyunified.org
Your voice matters—stay informed and be sure to vote!
Slate Valley District Newsletter: March 27, 2026 https://mailchi.mp/6c2b1eb06ee9/slate-valley-district-newsletter-32726
🌱💚 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. FHUMHS principals and assistant principals will review submissions and follow up directly.
👉 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfHYQ48U-NIH-q2A1cECoC8cBXMl0eQSxBGHs8ZvZqpa98wow/viewform?usp=dialog
Thank you for being part of our community—and for helping our students make a difference! 🌎✨
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. FHUMHS principals and assistant principals will review submissions and follow up directly.
👉 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfHYQ48U-NIH-q2A1cECoC8cBXMl0eQSxBGHs8ZvZqpa98wow/viewform?usp=dialog
Thank you for being part of our community—and for helping our students make a difference! 🌎✨
🎉 Congratulations, Anna Daly! 🎉
We are proud to celebrate Anna Daly, a special education teacher here at Castleton Elementary School, for being named one of WOKO/Hannaford’s 20 Outstanding Women of 2026! Anna was honored at last night’s awards ceremony on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, in Burlington, Vermont.
Anna’s impact reaches far beyond the classroom. As a dedicated educator, community advocate, and founder of Lizzie’s Lasting Light, she continues to uplift others through compassion, service, and unwavering commitment. After the tragic loss of her sister, Elizabeth, Anna turned her grief into purpose—raising awareness around addiction, supporting those affected, and giving back through scholarships in her community.
“Anna is also a loving mother, partner, daughter, and sister, honoring her sister’s legacy through action, service, and compassion. She is driven not by accolades, but by a genuine desire to uplift others and create meaningful change.” – Sara Spear
From volunteering in under-resourced communities across the country to supporting local organizations like the Turning Point Center in Rutland, Anna exemplifies what it means to lead with heart.
To hear Anna's radio interview visit https://www.woko.com/2026/02/17/anna-daly/
Thank you, Anna, for the difference you make every day—for your students, your colleagues, and your entire community.
We are proud to celebrate Anna Daly, a special education teacher here at Castleton Elementary School, for being named one of WOKO/Hannaford’s 20 Outstanding Women of 2026! Anna was honored at last night’s awards ceremony on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, in Burlington, Vermont.
Anna’s impact reaches far beyond the classroom. As a dedicated educator, community advocate, and founder of Lizzie’s Lasting Light, she continues to uplift others through compassion, service, and unwavering commitment. After the tragic loss of her sister, Elizabeth, Anna turned her grief into purpose—raising awareness around addiction, supporting those affected, and giving back through scholarships in her community.
“Anna is also a loving mother, partner, daughter, and sister, honoring her sister’s legacy through action, service, and compassion. She is driven not by accolades, but by a genuine desire to uplift others and create meaningful change.” – Sara Spear
From volunteering in under-resourced communities across the country to supporting local organizations like the Turning Point Center in Rutland, Anna exemplifies what it means to lead with heart.
To hear Anna's radio interview visit https://www.woko.com/2026/02/17/anna-daly/
Thank you, Anna, for the difference you make every day—for your students, your colleagues, and your entire community.
Slate Valley Estimated Tax Rates Remain Stable - Decreases Expected in Largest Towns
As we approach the FY27 budget revote on March 31, 2026, here are a few key highlights:
• Education spending (budget less local revenue) increase: just 0.86%
• Per-pupil increase (2.7%) is due to declining enrollment—not new spending
• No estimated tax rate increases at or above 7%
• Estimated decreases in our largest towns:
Castleton: –3.44% | Fair Haven: –0.56%
By the numbers:
• $32M budget supports all five schools
• Among the lowest per-pupil spending in Vermont
• Estimated equalized tax rate: $1.2955 (down 5¢ from last year)
What this means:
• 62% of taxpayers pay based on income sensitivity—many may pay less than property-based estimates
• Local tax trends continue to differ from statewide headlines
📍 Informational Meeting: March 30 | 6:30 PM | FHUMHS Band Room
🗳 Budget Revote: March 31, 2026
For even more detailed information, visit www.slatevalleyunified.org
As we approach the FY27 budget revote on March 31, 2026, here are a few key highlights:
• Education spending (budget less local revenue) increase: just 0.86%
• Per-pupil increase (2.7%) is due to declining enrollment—not new spending
• No estimated tax rate increases at or above 7%
• Estimated decreases in our largest towns:
Castleton: –3.44% | Fair Haven: –0.56%
By the numbers:
• $32M budget supports all five schools
• Among the lowest per-pupil spending in Vermont
• Estimated equalized tax rate: $1.2955 (down 5¢ from last year)
What this means:
• 62% of taxpayers pay based on income sensitivity—many may pay less than property-based estimates
• Local tax trends continue to differ from statewide headlines
📍 Informational Meeting: March 30 | 6:30 PM | FHUMHS Band Room
🗳 Budget Revote: March 31, 2026
For even more detailed information, visit www.slatevalleyunified.org
🏀 Slate Valley Celtics 5/6 Boys – Tournament Success! 🏀
On Friday, March 20, our Slate Valley Celtics 5/6 Boys team earned an impressive 2nd place finish at the Glodzik Tournament in West Rutland! 👏
Team members included:
Brody Kendall, Sire Beayon, Grant Bixby, Frankie McKeighan, Waylon Hutchins, Griffith Bowen, Logan Vadnais, and Maverick Pope.
A special congratulations to Brody Kendall (FHGS) and Frankie McKeighan (BVS) for being named to the All-Tournament Team—an honor recognizing standout players from across all teams! 🌟
From their coach:
“I am thrilled and proud to share that Brody and Frankie have been selected for the All-Tourney Players Team! At this age, there are so many distractions and challenges every day, yet these boys consistently show up, stay determined, and find ways to make things happen. It has been such a pleasure to watch them grow, not only in their basketball skills over the years but also in accountability and their willingness to help younger players. Their leadership and perseverance truly exemplify their hard work and dedication.”
We also want to recognize Tenley Rice (FHGS) for being selected to the Girls All-Tournament Team—an outstanding accomplishment! 👏
Great job to all of our athletes for representing Slate Valley with pride!
On Friday, March 20, our Slate Valley Celtics 5/6 Boys team earned an impressive 2nd place finish at the Glodzik Tournament in West Rutland! 👏
Team members included:
Brody Kendall, Sire Beayon, Grant Bixby, Frankie McKeighan, Waylon Hutchins, Griffith Bowen, Logan Vadnais, and Maverick Pope.
A special congratulations to Brody Kendall (FHGS) and Frankie McKeighan (BVS) for being named to the All-Tournament Team—an honor recognizing standout players from across all teams! 🌟
From their coach:
“I am thrilled and proud to share that Brody and Frankie have been selected for the All-Tourney Players Team! At this age, there are so many distractions and challenges every day, yet these boys consistently show up, stay determined, and find ways to make things happen. It has been such a pleasure to watch them grow, not only in their basketball skills over the years but also in accountability and their willingness to help younger players. Their leadership and perseverance truly exemplify their hard work and dedication.”
We also want to recognize Tenley Rice (FHGS) for being selected to the Girls All-Tournament Team—an outstanding accomplishment! 👏
Great job to all of our athletes for representing Slate Valley with pride!
