District Newsletter: April 3, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/ddaacb2d3e1b/district-newsletter-april-3-2026
2 days ago, Slate Valley
Header for Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter dated April 3, 2026, featuring the phrase “April showers bring May flowers” with illustrations of children holding umbrellas in the rain.
March Falcon Gathering Award Recipients: Batch 3
Congratulations to everyone!
4 days ago, Slate Valley
Two students hold certificates while standing with an adult in a school gym beside a “Soar” hawk display and eagle mascot.
Three students pose in a gym holding certificates next to a “Soar” hawk sign, with the eagle mascot behind them.
An adult and three students stand in a gym holding certificates beside a hawk “Soar” display, with the school mascot nearby.
An adult and three students pose in a school gym holding certificates next to a “Soar” hawk sign and eagle mascot.
March Falcon Gathering Award Recipients: Batch 2
Congratulations to everyone!
4 days ago, Slate Valley
An adult and a young student stand in a school gym holding a certificate beside a “Soar” hawk display, with the school mascot nearby.
An adult stands with three students in a gym, two holding certificates, next to a “Soar” hawk sign and eagle mascot.
Two adults and two students pose in a gym holding certificates beside a hawk “Soar” display, with the school mascot standing to the side.
Two young students stand in a gym holding certificates next to a “Soar” hawk sign, with the eagle mascot behind them.
An adult and a young student stand at a microphone in a gym, reading from papers during a school assembly.
March Falcon Gathering Award Recipients: Batch 1
Congratulations to everyone!
4 days ago, Slate Valley
An adult and two students stand in a school gym holding certificates beside a large “Soar” hawk sign, with a school mascot in an eagle costume nearby.
Two adults and two students pose in a gym holding certificates next to a “Soar” hawk sign, with a hawk mascot standing to the side.
Two adults and two students stand in a gym holding certificates near a hawk “Soar” display, with the school mascot behind them.
Two adults and two students stand in a school gym holding certificates beside a “Soar” hawk sign and eagle mascot.
Two adults and a student pose in a gym holding a certificate next to a “Soar” hawk sign, with the eagle mascot spreading its wings nearby.
In today's Rutland Herald!
4 days ago, Slate Valley
A newspaper-style poster from Slate Valley UUSD titled “SLATER Reading Buddies” highlights high school students partnering with younger students at Fair Haven Grade School to read together, featuring photos, student quotes, and a description of the mentorship program.
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
5 days ago, Slate Valley
A celebratory graphic reading “Budget Passed!” and “Thank You!” surrounds the Slate Valley logo, with icons representing different schools arranged in a hexagon and colorful confetti scattered throughout.
A little encouragement goes a long way 💙

Students in Mrs. Roberts’ and Mrs. Mingo’s 1st grade classes created colorful artwork filled with kind words and positive messages for Mrs. Folmsbee’s and Mrs. Renninger’s 5th grade classes as they kick off testing today!

From “You can do hard things” to “You are smart,” these thoughtful notes are a wonderful reminder of the power of kindness, support, and community across grade levels. We’re cheering on our 5th graders—good luck, you’ve got this! 🌟
5 days ago, Slate Valley
Two elementary students in a classroom smile while holding colorful hand-drawn posters with encouraging words and phrases like “I can.”
Two students hold bright drawings with positive messages such as “You are smart” and “I can do hard things,” surrounded by colorful doodles.
Three students stand together holding posters filled with encouraging words and colorful designs, created to support older students during testing.
A student sits at a desk holding a handmade sign that reads “We believe,” decorated with colorful letters and drawings.
A student wearing a hat holds a sign that reads “You are a star! Be brave!” written in marker with simple drawings.
A student smiles while holding a card that says “You are smart,” decorated with drawings including hearts and figures.
A student sits at a desk holding a handmade sign that reads “You can do hard things,” with drawings of a heart and other small illustrations nearby.
A student stands in a classroom holding a small illustrated card with drawings and numbers, part of a set of encouraging messages created for older students.
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.
5 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic with the Slate Valley Community Advisory Council logo showing stylized figures surrounding a Vermont emblem. Text reads: “Slate Valley Community Advisory Council. Next Meeting: April 7, 2026 – 5:45 PM to 7:30 PM. Central Office Conference Room at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School.”
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
5 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic with Slate Valley logo reading “Please Vote Today – March 31st” in large green and red text. Below, polling locations and hours are listed: 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), and West Haven (10 AM–7 PM, West Haven Town Hall). School logos appear along the bottom.
📣 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!
6 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic announcing a 2nd proposed budget re-vote information meeting on Monday, March 30, 2026 at 6:30 PM in the FHUMHS School Band Room, with a virtual link and phone option provided. Also includes reminder to vote on March 31 and lists polling locations and hours for Benson, Castleton, Fair Haven, Hubbardton, Orwell, and West Haven. Includes Slate Valley school logos and decorative elements.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: March 27, 2026 https://mailchi.mp/6c2b1eb06ee9/slate-valley-district-newsletter-32726
9 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic header for “Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter” dated March 27, 2026, featuring a maple sugaring theme with pancakes, syrup dripping across the top, and a metal bucket labeled “‘Tis the Season.”
🌱💚 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! 🌎✨
9 days ago, Slate Valley
Fifth-grade families were invited to come check out what their child had learned about during science and social studies during the second trimester. Science sharing included posters on moon phases and planet research. Social studies sharing included a cardboard shanty made by the students with cardboard, along with an essay about Hoovervilles during the Great Depression. It was so wonderful to see how proud the students were to share their work and learning with their families. Many thanks to all who were able to join us!
9 days ago, Deb Infurna
Gemini said Image Summary A vertical photograph shows a man and two children reviewing schoolwork in a classroom. The girl in the center appears to be presenting or reading from a worksheet while the man and another child listen attentively.
A vertical indoor photograph shows a man and two children standing around a classroom table, focused on a student-made project.
A vertical photograph shows a woman and a young girl interacting over a school project in a classroom. The woman leans in with an enthusiastic expression as the girl displays her work.
A vertical photograph shows a woman in a classroom flipping through a student’s packet while a young boy stands beside his project display.
A vertical indoor photograph shows a woman and two children in a classroom, looking at school projects displayed on a student desk.
A vertical photograph shows a woman and a young boy standing together in a classroom, posing with school projects made of cardboard.
A vertical indoor photograph captures a woman and two children in a primary school classroom, likely during a project presentation or open house.
🎭🎶 FHGS Concert Spotlight! 🎶🎭

Yesterday, March 25, 2026, students in Kindergarten through third grade at Fair Haven Grade School took the stage for a fantastic performance of HATS! A Musical That Celebrates What’s Underneath!

From silly to heartfelt, the show featured hats of all shapes and sizes, along with clever songs and rhymes that brought the audience on a fun and meaningful journey. The story reminded us all of an important message—it's not the hat that makes a person special, but what’s underneath. ❤️

Our young performers did an incredible job singing, acting, and shining on stage, and the audience even got to enjoy the surprise appearance of Ima Milliner and her unforgettable “hat of all hats!”

👏 A huge thank you to music teacher Mrs. Cynthia Hutchins for bringing this production to life, and to all the parents, faculty, and staff who helped make this special event possible.

We are so proud of our talented students—what a wonderful celebration of creativity, confidence, and community! 🌟
10 days ago, Slate Valley
Young students on a stage wearing red, white, and blue hats, singing and raising their hats during a school performance in a gym.
Elementary students perform on stage wearing a variety of hats and costumes, clapping and singing during a musical.
Children stand in a row on stage holding up different hats as part of a musical performance in a school gym.
Students on stage wave patriotic-themed hats while performing, with one student in a wheelchair included in the group.
A large group of young students perform on stage in front of an audience seated in a school gymnasium.
Week ONE of Girls on the Run was a success!! 🎉🏃‍♀️
This week, our team came together to build a strong foundation—creating group expectations to ensure a safe, supportive, and fun experience for everyone.

We also explored what makes each of us unique, from our families and cultures to our interests and personalities. 🩵 It’s all about celebrating who we are and lifting each other up!

We can’t wait to keep growing, learning, and having fun together each week! 🌟
11 days ago, Slate Valley
Group of girls posing together in a gym with smiles and raised hands, holding completed worksheets and celebrating their participation in Girls on the Run.
Group of elementary-aged girls and coaches sitting in a circle on a gym floor, raising hands and participating in a group discussion during Girls on the Run practice.
Overhead view of girls sitting on a gym floor working on worksheets with drawings and writing, focusing on activities about identity and personal traits.
Girls and coaches standing in a circle on a gym court engaging in an active group activity, with cones and equipment visible on the floor.
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
12 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Slate Valley Estimated Tax Rates Remain Stable” outlining FY27 budget highlights, including March 31 revote, minimal spending increase (0.86%), no tax rate increases above 7%, estimated decreases in Castleton and Fair Haven, a $32M budget, and an estimated tax rate of $1.2955 (down 5¢), with info meeting details and website link.
🏀 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!
13 days ago, Slate Valley
A youth basketball team in matching Falcons uniforms stands together on a gym court holding a trophy, smiling after their tournament finish.
A young basketball player in a Falcons jersey holds both a trophy and a small award on a gym court with other players and spectators in the background.
A young boy stands in a kitchen holding a basketball award, smiling proudly while wearing a dark green sweatshirt.
A student stands in a gym holding a clear basketball award, smiling with decorative face paint, against a green padded wall.
Board Meeting - Tonight - March 23, 2026
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/iqn-ovgq-etb
Or dial: (US) +1 304-935-5224 PIN: 665 218 411#

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.
13 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic inviting the public to a Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting on March 23, 2026 at 6:30 PM in the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room. Agenda includes consent agenda, MTSS presentation and discussion, Stafford report, letter to governor discussion, contracts, and committee reports including building and grounds, policy, and executive.
Reminder: The Slate Valley Unified USD budget re-vote is coming up on March 31.

A second proposed budget information meeting will be held on Monday, March 30 at 6:30 PM in the FHUMHS Band Room—an opportunity to learn more about the updates and ask questions.

Be sure to review the changes, check your polling location, and make your voice heard. Every vote matters!

Find more information at: https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
16 days ago, Slate Valley
Flyer for Slate Valley Unified USD budget re-vote on March 31, with bold text “Please Vote.” Includes details for a second proposed budget information meeting on March 30, 2026 at 6:30 PM in the FHUMHS band room. Lists polling places and hours for Benson, Castleton, Fair Haven, Hubbardton, Orwell, and West Haven. A section titled “What Changed?” explains a $202,500 reduction from the original budget, including staffing and spending adjustments. A QR code directs viewers to more information on the district website.
District Newsletter: March 20, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/fcbd84a59439/spring-into-action-slate-valley-district-news
16 days ago, Slate Valley
Digital newsletter header for Slate Valley Unified USD dated March 20, 2026, featuring a colorful illustration of Earth split between day and night with the sun, clouds, and moon, and banners reading “Hello Spring.”