📣 Reminder: Slate Valley Community Advisory Council Meeting Tomorrow!

Join us tomorrow evening for the next Slate Valley Community Advisory Council (CAC) meeting! This is a great opportunity to stay informed, share your voice, and be part of meaningful conversations that help shape our schools and community.

🗓 Tuesday, May 5, 2026
⏰ 5:45 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Central Office Conference Room
Fair Haven Union Middle & High School

We welcome all community members—your perspective matters! We hope to see you there. 💬💙
about 13 hours ago, Slate Valley
A circular logo reads “Slate Valley Community Advisory Council” surrounding a central Vermont-themed emblem with stylized mountains and landscape. Around the emblem are abstract human figures in green and blue, representing community members. Below the logo, text reads: “Next Meeting: May 5, 2026 – 5:45 PM to 7:00 PM, Central Office Conference Room at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School.”
🏁 Fair Haven Grade School Pinewood Derby Fun! 🏁

On Thursday, April 30th, our 6th graders put their creativity, engineering skills, and racing spirit to the test at the annual Pinewood Derby! From sleek speedsters to colorful, creative designs, each car was uniquely crafted and ready to race down the track.

The gym was filled with excitement as classmates cheered each other on, and celebrated victories. A big congratulations to all of our racers and award winners—you made it an unforgettable event!

👏 Thank you to everyone who helped organize and support this special day!
about 15 hours ago, Slate Valley
A row of handmade pinewood derby cars sits on a black-and-white checkered track in a school gym, including colorful designs like a red race car and a pink “Barbie” themed car.
Three students sit on folding chairs in a gym, reacting excitedly to a race. One student leans forward with arms raised in celebration while others watch.
Three students sit in a row of folding chairs in a gym. One student reacts with surprise, hands on their face, while the others look on and smile.
Several students sit along the side of a pinewood derby track in a gym as small cars race down the yellow track in front of them.
A student and a staff member smile while holding a small gold trophy together in a gymnasium, with other students seated on bleachers behind them.
A student in a red sweatshirt holds a small gold trophy while standing next to a smiling staff member in a gym.
A student wearing a red hoodie and glasses holds a gold trophy while standing next to a staff member, both smiling in a gym.
A student holding a trophy stands next to a staff member in a gym, both smiling for the camera with pinewood derby tables in the background.
A student holding a trophy stands next to a staff member in a gym, both smiling for the camera with pinewood derby tables in the background.
Five students stand together in a gym holding their pinewood derby cars and small trophies, smiling proudly after the race.
🍎✨ Happy Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week! ✨🍎

This week, we celebrate the incredible educators and staff who make Slate Valley such a special place to learn and grow. From classrooms to cafeterias, offices to buses—your dedication, compassion, and hard work shape the lives of our students every single day.

Thank you for the countless ways you support, inspire, and uplift our entire community. 💚

Join us in showing appreciation—leave a comment, send a note, or simply say thank you to the amazing people who make a difference every day!
about 16 hours ago, Slate Valley
Colorful graphic celebrating Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week with confetti, school supplies, and bright borders. Text reads “In Celebration of Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week – Thank You!” with the Slate Valley Vermont logo in the center. A message expresses gratitude for faculty and staff for their dedication and impact on students and the community. School names listed include Benson Village School, Castleton Elementary School, Orwell Village School, Fair Haven Grade School, and Fair Haven Union Middle & High School, with corresponding school logos along the bottom.
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday - May Spotlight

This month, we’re excited to feature Dan Fitzpatrick, Slate Valley’s Assistant Director of Finance—someone whose experience and perspective reach far beyond our region.

Dan has been part of the Slate Valley team for the past five years, supporting the district’s financial operations and helping ensure our schools run smoothly behind the scenes. Prior to joining Slate Valley, Dan spent six years working at the International School of Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso, West Africa—bringing a truly global perspective to his role.

His connection to West Africa goes even deeper. From 1997 to 1999, Dan served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Burkina Faso, an experience that reflects his commitment to service and community.

Outside of work, Dan enjoys spending time on the golf course, working on landscaping projects, and being active in his church’s Men’s Club. He also values simple, meaningful moments—like playing UNO with his 11-year-old daughter, praying, and connecting with others.

A quote that guides Dan’s outlook comes from the Gospel of Mark: “Everything is possible for one who believes.” (Mark 9:23)

We’re grateful for Dan’s dedication, global experiences, and the steady support he brings to Slate Valley each day.
about 18 hours ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Meet Slate Valley Faculty & Staff Monday” featuring Dan Fitzpatrick, Assistant Director of Finance. On the left is a photo of Dan, a smiling man wearing glasses and a gray collared shirt with a Slate Valley lanyard, standing in an office setting. On the right is a teal background with bullet points highlighting his experience: 5 years with Slate Valley, 6 years at the International School of Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso, and service as a Peace Corps volunteer from 1997–1999. Additional points note his interests in golf and landscaping, involvement in a church men’s group, and enjoying time with his daughter, especially playing UNO. A favorite quote is included: “Everything is possible for one who believes.” – Mark 9:23. The Slate Valley logo appears, along with his name and title at the bottom.
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.
about 18 hours 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
3 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.”
🏃‍♀️💗 Lace up and show your support!

The Fair Haven Grade School Girls on the Run team is gearing up for their big race—and you’re invited to cheer them on!

Join us Monday, May 4th at 4:00 PM at the FHU Track as the girls take on their practice 5K in preparation for the official event on Saturday, June 6th in Manchester, VT.

👏 Come celebrate their hard work, determination, and teamwork!
🧁 Plus, they’ll be hosting a bake sale fundraiser—so bring your appetite and support a great cause!

Let’s show these runners how proud we are!
4 days ago, Slate Valley
Colorful flyer with a watercolor background reads “Fair Haven Grade School Girls on the Run.” It invites the community to join on Monday, May 4th to cheer on the girls during a 5K practice run at the FHU Track at 4:00 PM. The flyer also notes a baked sale fundraiser. Silhouettes of running girls line the bottom of the design.
Submitted by 4th Grade Teacher Ms. Wagner: On Thursday, the fourth graders had a special visit from the Fair Haven Historical Society. They presented about the American Revolutionary War, and students rotated through different stations where they learned how to grind seeds and grain for food and how to wrap a bandage. Students had hands-on experiences, including trying on costumes, playing instruments, and handling artifacts. It was a fun day of engaging, hands-on learning!
4 days ago, Slate Valley
An older adult in historical clothing demonstrates how to wrap a bandage on a student’s arm while other students watch closely around a classroom table.
Students dressed in colonial-era costumes gather around a table as an older adult explains historical items, including coins and a tricorn hat.
Two smiling students wearing colonial-style costumes and tricorn hats stand side by side, posing for a photo in a classroom.
An adult in historical attire helps a student wrap a bandage on their arm while other students observe and materials are spread across a table.
A group of students examine cloth materials at a classroom table while one student holds up a piece of fabric, with others engaged in the activity behind them.
Students gather around a table with an adult in historical clothing, watching a demonstration involving food items like corn and vegetables as part of a hands-on activity.
An adult in colonial-style clothing demonstrates an object to a group of students gathered around a table, who watch attentively.
Students stand around a table listening to an adult in historical dress explain materials and artifacts during a classroom activity.
Students stand around a table listening to an adult in historical dress explain materials and artifacts during a classroom activity.
Three students in colonial-style costumes smile and pose together in front of a classroom bulletin board that reads “Be a Team Player!”
Here are more students celebrated today during our Falcon Gathering!! Keep up the great work demonstrating our SOAR values!!
4 days ago, Deb Infurna
Twostudents holding certificates and one adult posing with a blue eagle mascot in a gymnasium in front of a "SOAR" sign.
Two students holding certificates and one adult posing with a blue eagle mascot in a gymnasium in front of a "SOAR" sign.
Three students holding certificates and one adult posing with a blue eagle mascot in a gymnasium in front of a "SOAR" sign.
Three students holding certificates and one adult posing with a blue eagle mascot in a school gymnasium in front of a "Fair Haven Grade School" sign.
Three students holding certificates pose with a blue and white eagle mascot in a gymnasium in front of a "SOAR" sign.
A student in a pink shirt high-fives an eagle mascot in a school gymnasium while holding a "SOAR" certificate.
Three students holding certificates and an adult woman pose with a blue eagle mascot in a school gymnasium in front of a "SOAR" sign.
FHGS celebrated students today in our April Falcon Gathering!! Check out these amazing students who have excelled during the month of April in their demonstration of our core values - Safety, Ownership, Acceptance, and Respect. Keep SOARing FHGS students!!
4 days ago, Deb Infurna
Two young students holding certificates stand in a school gym with an adult and a large bird mascot, posing in front of a basketball hoop and a school eagle display.
Three students holding certificates stand with three adults and a bird mascot in a school gym, posing in front of a basketball hoop and a large eagle display.
Two students and three adults posing with an eagle mascot in a school gymnasium. The students hold certificates while standing in front of a blue and white "SOAR" cutout and a basketball hoop.
Three students and two adults standing in a school gymnasium next to an eagle mascot, holding certificates in front of a basketball hoop.
Two students holding certificates and two adults posing with a blue eagle mascot in a school gymnasium in front of a "SOAR" sign.
Three students holding certificates and two adults posing with an eagle mascot in a school gymnasium. They are standing in front of a blue "SOAR" sign and a basketball hoop.
A group of four students and two adults stand in a school gymnasium holding certificates, posing next to a large bird mascot and a school eagle sign, with a basketball hoop and gym wall in the background.
🎨✨ Join Us for Preschool Family Night! ✨🎨

Get ready for an evening full of creativity, exploration, and hands-on fun at our Art and Sensory Play Night!

🖌️ Come play, explore, and get messy with us as we dive into exciting sensory activities designed for our youngest learners and their families.

📅 Monday, May 11th
⏰ 4:00–5:00 PM
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Siblings are welcome!

We can’t wait to see you there for a fun-filled evening of learning and play!
5 days ago, Slate Valley
Colorful flyer with paint-like brush strokes around the border. Text reads “Preschool Family Night: Art and Sensory Play. Come play, explore, and get messy! Monday May 11th, 4–5 PM. Siblings welcome.”
🚨 Boil Water Advisory – Fair Haven 🚨

A boil water advisory has been issued for parts of Fair Haven, including Fair Haven Grade School and Fair Haven Union Middle & High School.
🏫 There will be school tomorrow as scheduled.
💧 Students are encouraged to bring their own drinking water from home if possible.
We will continue to keep our community updated as more information becomes available. Thank you for your cooperation and support.
5 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic with bold red headline reading “Boil Water Advisory for Fair Haven Grade School and Fair Haven Union Middle & High School.” Below is an illustration of a large pot of water boiling over a flame. At the bottom, red text states, “There will be school tomorrow as scheduled.”
💙 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! 🦁
7 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! 🌍💙
13 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
13 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.
🍦✨ Celebrations, baking, and fun with our 5th and 6th grade students! ✨🍪

Students enjoyed a well-earned ice cream sundae party as a reward for consistently following classroom expectations—way to go! 🎉

The fun didn’t stop there… students also got hands-on in the kitchen creating delicious robin’s nest treats and positive affirmation sugar cookies. 🍫🐦💛 A perfect mix of creativity, teamwork, and sweet success!

Submitted by Courtney St.Clair - Social Emotional Interventionist
14 days ago, Slate Valley
Teacher and several students gather around a table mixing ingredients for a baking activity, smiling and posing for a group selfie in a classroom.
Teacher sits with a group of students around a classroom table as they enjoy ice cream cones and treats during a celebration.
Two staff members and a student smile behind trays of homemade robin’s nest treats topped with candy, with baking supplies on the table in a classroom setting.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: April 17, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/8852b597100f/district-newsletter-april-10-13836492
17 days 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.”
Submitted by Music teacher, Mrs. Hutchins: 🎭 It’s a Wrap! 🎭

Photo Batch 2: Spring Drama at FHGS has come to a close! Over the past two and a half months, Ms. Corey, Ms. Deb, and Mrs. Hutchins have worked with nearly 70 students in grades 1–6 through our after-school drama club.
This week, our talented performers took the stage over two nights, bringing Dolly the Polka-Dotted Llama, Talent Show Trouble, and Peter Pan to life.

We are so proud of the hard work, enthusiasm, and joy these students shared with our community. They did a fantastic job—bravo to all! 👏✨
18 days ago, Slate Valley
Three students pose in animal-themed costumes, including an owl outfit, bear ears and paws, and a large cardboard costume piece.
Three students pose on stage, one wearing a bright peacock cape with wings spread, while the others wear animal-inspired accessories.
Five students dressed in tan outfits with bear ears pose on stage, some crouching and others flexing playfully.
Three students pose on stage, one holding pom-poms, one singing into a microphone, and another wearing a handmade calculator costume.
Six students stand side by side on stage in colorful dresses and casual outfits, smiling with arms around each other.
Two students stand back-to-back on stage in matching athletic outfits, smiling, with a red jump rope looped around their feet.
Two students lean on wooden stage blocks, smiling at the camera—one in a red sequined top, the other in a costume with a striped tie and cardigan.
Three students pose together on stage in mixed costumes, including a safari-style outfit, a colorful shirt with cat ears, and a blue dress.
Three students stand in a row on stage with arms extended forward, as if mid-performance or dance pose.
Three students pose on stage with props, including a top hat and a stuffed animal, smiling and gesturing playfully.
Submitted by Music teacher, Mrs. Hutchins: 🎭 It’s a Wrap! 🎭

Photo Batch 1: Spring Drama at FHGS has come to a close! Over the past two and a half months, Ms. Corey, Ms. Deb, and Mrs. Hutchins have worked with nearly 70 students in grades 1–6 through our after-school drama club.
This week, our talented performers took the stage over two nights, bringing Dolly the Polka-Dotted Llama, Talent Show Trouble, and Peter Pan to life.

We are so proud of the hard work, enthusiasm, and joy these students shared with our community. They did a fantastic job—bravo to all! 👏✨
18 days ago, Slate Valley
Two students face each other on stage holding prop swords, appearing to act out a scene while wearing costume pieces.
Four students pose on stage in mermaid-inspired costumes, sitting and kneeling while smiling and gesturing playfully.
A large group of students gather across the stage in costumes and casual clothing, posing together in front of a black curtain during a group photo.
Four students dressed as pirates stand on stage holding prop swords, posing in front of a black curtain with a simple set piece nearby.
A group of students stand together on stage in casual and themed outfits, smiling and posing around a wooden platform.
A large group of students pose on a stage in front of a black curtain, wearing a mix of costumes including animals and themed outfits, smiling and posing together.
Four students pose together on stage, one seated on a wooden box with a rope prop, while others stand behind in costume-inspired outfits.
Six students pose on stage in character costumes, including casual and themed outfits, standing and sitting around a wooden box.
A group of students pose together on stage in casual clothes and costumes, smiling and gesturing while gathered around a wooden platform.
Two students stand on stage holding puppets—one a blonde girl puppet and the other a green dragon—posing in front of a black curtain backdrop.
Ms. Bruno’s second grade class put their learning into action as they wrapped up their science unit on biodiversity, habitats, and species! 🐦🌿

Students designed and built birdhouse prototypes using simple materials, thinking carefully about what birds need to survive and thrive. From planning to creating, these young scientists showed creativity, problem-solving, and a strong understanding of how to support local wildlife.

Great work, second graders!
18 days ago, Slate Valley
Three students sit at a classroom table smiling and working on birdhouse prototypes made from paper cups, plates, and craft materials, with scissors, glue, and worksheets spread out.
Two students concentrate on gluing and assembling birdhouse prototypes using paper cups and plates, with craft tools and materials arranged on their desks.
Two students work at desks creating birdhouse prototypes, carefully placing paper cups and materials together while following printed instructions.
A student wearing a hat and jacket works independently at a desk, building a birdhouse prototype using paper cups, glue, and craft materials, with other students working in the background.
Three students focus on building their birdhouse prototypes, using glue and assembling paper cups and plates at a classroom table covered with supplies.