Meet Faculty & Staff Monday - February Spotlight
This month we’re excited to spotlight Bethany Link, a Grade 3 teacher at Benson Village School. This is Mrs. Link’s second year at BVS. Before joining the Benson community, she taught for six years at Randolph Elementary School, working with students in grades K–2.
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Link enjoys spending time with her family and going on adventures together. She also loves reading a good book, cooking and baking, getting outdoors, and a little shopping when she can fit it in.
Her classroom community is guided by this shared message:
“In this classroom, we respect each other, we never give up, we are kind, we laugh a lot, we make mistakes, we have big dreams, we are family!”
A quote that inspires her personally is:
“Be the change you want to see in the world.” — Mahatma Gandhi
Mrs. Link began the school year on maternity leave after welcoming a baby boy, Thomas Calvin Link, named in honor of both of his grandfathers. We’re so glad to have her back at Benson Village School and deeply appreciate the warmth, care, and positive energy she brings to her students each day.
This month we’re excited to spotlight Bethany Link, a Grade 3 teacher at Benson Village School. This is Mrs. Link’s second year at BVS. Before joining the Benson community, she taught for six years at Randolph Elementary School, working with students in grades K–2.
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Link enjoys spending time with her family and going on adventures together. She also loves reading a good book, cooking and baking, getting outdoors, and a little shopping when she can fit it in.
Her classroom community is guided by this shared message:
“In this classroom, we respect each other, we never give up, we are kind, we laugh a lot, we make mistakes, we have big dreams, we are family!”
A quote that inspires her personally is:
“Be the change you want to see in the world.” — Mahatma Gandhi
Mrs. Link began the school year on maternity leave after welcoming a baby boy, Thomas Calvin Link, named in honor of both of his grandfathers. We’re so glad to have her back at Benson Village School and deeply appreciate the warmth, care, and positive energy she brings to her students each day.
District Newsletter: January 30, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/82c6c6cc4bc0/slate-valley-district-newsletter-january-30-2026
https://mailchi.mp/82c6c6cc4bc0/slate-valley-district-newsletter-january-30-2026
Join Us for our next Community Advisory Council Meeting — Monday, February 2!
We hope you’ll join us for the next Community Advisory Council (CAC) Meeting on Monday, February 2, 2026, from 6:00–7:30 PM in the Library at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School.
We’ll be welcoming our local legislators for an important conversation and updates on Act 73. This is a great opportunity to stay informed, ask questions, and share your perspective as we work together to support our schools and community.
🗓 Monday, February 2, 2026
⏰ 6:00–7:30 PM
📍 FHUMHS Library
Come be part of the conversation — we’d love to see you there!
We hope you’ll join us for the next Community Advisory Council (CAC) Meeting on Monday, February 2, 2026, from 6:00–7:30 PM in the Library at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School.
We’ll be welcoming our local legislators for an important conversation and updates on Act 73. This is a great opportunity to stay informed, ask questions, and share your perspective as we work together to support our schools and community.
🗓 Monday, February 2, 2026
⏰ 6:00–7:30 PM
📍 FHUMHS Library
Come be part of the conversation — we’d love to see you there!
What a way to wrap up this round of Lifetime Activities! ❄️ Despite the super chilly temps, our Frisbee golf and ice fishing groups bundled up, braved the cold, and made the most of their final day together—proving that a little winter weather can’t stop the fun.
To top it all off, Principal Jen Paquette surprised both groups with hot chocolate and donuts, which were a huge hit and very much appreciated on such a cold day!
We also want to share a sincere thank you from Ms. Paquette to everyone for their patience and understanding when the trip ended with a small hiccup—a bus breakdown that required a later return than planned. Students, staff, and families were incredibly supportive and flexible while we waited for a replacement bus, and that teamwork truly reflects the strength of our school community.
Cold hands, warm drinks, and great memories—now that’s a Lifetime Activities day to remember!
To top it all off, Principal Jen Paquette surprised both groups with hot chocolate and donuts, which were a huge hit and very much appreciated on such a cold day!
We also want to share a sincere thank you from Ms. Paquette to everyone for their patience and understanding when the trip ended with a small hiccup—a bus breakdown that required a later return than planned. Students, staff, and families were incredibly supportive and flexible while we waited for a replacement bus, and that teamwork truly reflects the strength of our school community.
Cold hands, warm drinks, and great memories—now that’s a Lifetime Activities day to remember!
🥶 Bundle Up—Thursday's Our Final LTA Day! ❄️
Tomorrow wraps up the final week of this session of Lifetime Activities, and winter is reminding us it’s in full swing!
Students in Ice Fishing and Frisbee Golf will be heading to Lake St. Catherine, while Yoga and Baking groups will take short walks to alternate locations around town. Please be sure students dress warmly and appropriately for cold outdoor conditions—layers, hats, gloves, warm socks, and winter footwear are a must!
🧤 Cold-Weather Safety Measures in Place:
• Hand warmers provided for all students
• Regular communication with families
• A bus will remain on site at outdoor locations
• Students will rewarm every 45 minutes
• Advisors will closely monitor hands, feet, noses, ears, and overall comfort
• Advisors and administration will stay in close contact and will call it early if conditions require
We’re excited to wrap up a great LTA session—just don’t be “that one guy.” Dress warm! 😄❄️
Tomorrow wraps up the final week of this session of Lifetime Activities, and winter is reminding us it’s in full swing!
Students in Ice Fishing and Frisbee Golf will be heading to Lake St. Catherine, while Yoga and Baking groups will take short walks to alternate locations around town. Please be sure students dress warmly and appropriately for cold outdoor conditions—layers, hats, gloves, warm socks, and winter footwear are a must!
🧤 Cold-Weather Safety Measures in Place:
• Hand warmers provided for all students
• Regular communication with families
• A bus will remain on site at outdoor locations
• Students will rewarm every 45 minutes
• Advisors will closely monitor hands, feet, noses, ears, and overall comfort
• Advisors and administration will stay in close contact and will call it early if conditions require
We’re excited to wrap up a great LTA session—just don’t be “that one guy.” Dress warm! 😄❄️
Project Build students are at it again! 🛠️📚
This time, they’re putting their skills to work by building outdoor Little Library Book Boxes for the local park. From careful measuring to drilling and assembly, students are gaining hands-on experience while giving back to the community in a meaningful way. We love seeing learning, craftsmanship, and community connection come together—nice work, students!
This time, they’re putting their skills to work by building outdoor Little Library Book Boxes for the local park. From careful measuring to drilling and assembly, students are gaining hands-on experience while giving back to the community in a meaningful way. We love seeing learning, craftsmanship, and community connection come together—nice work, students!
“Tell me you live in Vermont without telling me…”
Two FHUHS seniors, Porter and Logan, arrived at school by snowmobile today—because of course they did! Staff shared that about a decade ago, this was actually a common sight, with 8–9 sleds regularly parked outside by the greenhouse.
Some traditions never really disappear… they just wait for the right snowfall. Stay warm and safe, Slaters!
Two FHUHS seniors, Porter and Logan, arrived at school by snowmobile today—because of course they did! Staff shared that about a decade ago, this was actually a common sight, with 8–9 sleds regularly parked outside by the greenhouse.
Some traditions never really disappear… they just wait for the right snowfall. Stay warm and safe, Slaters!
🏀🌟 State Champion Alert! 🌟🏀
On Saturday at Spaulding High School, FHU Middle School student Jaden earned the title of Vermont State Champion in the 12/13-year-old boys division of the Elks National Hoop Shoot Contest! Jaden sank an incredible 23 out of 25 free throws to secure the win.
This victory follows an impressive run—winning at the Rutland County level, then Sectionals in Springfield, and now States. Next up: Regionals in Portland, Maine this March, where Jaden will compete against the top shooters from each New England state for a chance to advance to Nationals in Chicago.
We are so proud of Jaden’s hard work, focus, and determination. Way to represent FHU—keep shooting for the stars! 🌟
On Saturday at Spaulding High School, FHU Middle School student Jaden earned the title of Vermont State Champion in the 12/13-year-old boys division of the Elks National Hoop Shoot Contest! Jaden sank an incredible 23 out of 25 free throws to secure the win.
This victory follows an impressive run—winning at the Rutland County level, then Sectionals in Springfield, and now States. Next up: Regionals in Portland, Maine this March, where Jaden will compete against the top shooters from each New England state for a chance to advance to Nationals in Chicago.
We are so proud of Jaden’s hard work, focus, and determination. Way to represent FHU—keep shooting for the stars! 🌟
Reminder: Friday, January 30, 2026 is a half day for students.
Here is the 1/2 day Student Schedule:
Period 1 - 8:10 to 9:01
Period 2 - 9:04 to 9:55
Period 3 - 9:58 to 10:49
Period 4 - 10:52 to 11:45
Here is the 1/2 day Student Schedule:
Period 1 - 8:10 to 9:01
Period 2 - 9:04 to 9:55
Period 3 - 9:58 to 10:49
Period 4 - 10:52 to 11:45
Board Meeting Tonight- January 26, 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/zjf-fize-oet
Or dial: (US) +1 413-779-5205 PIN: 549 283 171#
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. 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/zjf-fize-oet
Or dial: (US) +1 413-779-5205 PIN: 549 283 171#
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.
Good Afternoon,
All Slate Valley Schools will be closed tomorrow, Monday, January 26, 2026, due to the weather conditions. Stay safe and have a great day!
Best,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell, Superintendent
All Slate Valley Schools will be closed tomorrow, Monday, January 26, 2026, due to the weather conditions. Stay safe and have a great day!
Best,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell, Superintendent
Slate Valley District Newsletter for January 23, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/df08e8fadaac/slate-valley-district-newsletter-january-16-13835994
https://mailchi.mp/df08e8fadaac/slate-valley-district-newsletter-january-16-13835994
🎤✨ Night of the Elephant Talent Show ✨🎤
What an incredible afternoon at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School for our Night of the Elephant Talent Show!
We are so impressed and proud of our students who showed courage, confidence, and creativity by sharing their talents on stage.
A huge thank-you goes out to everyone who made this event a success—especially the students who helped plan and run the show, our behind-the-scenes stage crew, our dedicated judges, and Mrs. Adams, emcee extraordinaire, who kept the show moving and the crowd engaged.
Keep reaching for the stars—you were amazing! 🌟
What an incredible afternoon at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School for our Night of the Elephant Talent Show!
We are so impressed and proud of our students who showed courage, confidence, and creativity by sharing their talents on stage.
A huge thank-you goes out to everyone who made this event a success—especially the students who helped plan and run the show, our behind-the-scenes stage crew, our dedicated judges, and Mrs. Adams, emcee extraordinaire, who kept the show moving and the crowd engaged.
Keep reaching for the stars—you were amazing! 🌟
Were you unable to attend Course Selection Night on January 14, or want to revisit the information shared?
The FHU Course Selection Process 2026–2027 presentation is now available online. Families and students are encouraged to review it to learn more about course offerings, graduation planning, and next steps for scheduling.
🔗 View the presentation here: https://aptg.co/2VDZZx
Whether you missed the event or just need a refresher, this resource is a great place to start as we plan for the upcoming school year.
The FHU Course Selection Process 2026–2027 presentation is now available online. Families and students are encouraged to review it to learn more about course offerings, graduation planning, and next steps for scheduling.
🔗 View the presentation here: https://aptg.co/2VDZZx
Whether you missed the event or just need a refresher, this resource is a great place to start as we plan for the upcoming school year.
❄️🧥 Lifetime Activities Reminder 🧥❄️
Students—please remember to dress for the cold during Lifetime Activities tomorrow. Very low temperatures are expected, so be sure to wear extra layers, including a warm jacket, hat, gloves, and weather-appropriate footwear to stay comfortable and safe.
Thanks for coming prepared!
Students—please remember to dress for the cold during Lifetime Activities tomorrow. Very low temperatures are expected, so be sure to wear extra layers, including a warm jacket, hat, gloves, and weather-appropriate footwear to stay comfortable and safe.
Thanks for coming prepared!
Join us for FHU Band Room Movie Night—a fun evening for a great cause!
🎥 Two movies for the price of one!
🗓 February 6 | ⏰ 6:30 PM
📍 FHU Band Room
💵 $5 per person
🍿 Snacks and drinks available
✨ All proceeds benefit the FHU Band Trip!
Children under grade 7 must be accompanied by a responsible person.
Bring a friend and enjoy a cozy movie night while supporting our band!
🎥 Two movies for the price of one!
🗓 February 6 | ⏰ 6:30 PM
📍 FHU Band Room
💵 $5 per person
🍿 Snacks and drinks available
✨ All proceeds benefit the FHU Band Trip!
Children under grade 7 must be accompanied by a responsible person.
Bring a friend and enjoy a cozy movie night while supporting our band!
FHU Band Bottle Drive - Help our Slaters get to Orlando, FL!
🎓 Early College Opportunity for Seniors
Thinking ahead to your senior year? Vermont’s Early College program allows eligible students to attend college full-time during their senior year—tuition free—while earning college credit and a high school diploma.
🗓 Application deadline: May 1, 2026
Interested students should connect with their school counselor to learn more and begin the process.
Thinking ahead to your senior year? Vermont’s Early College program allows eligible students to attend college full-time during their senior year—tuition free—while earning college credit and a high school diploma.
🗓 Application deadline: May 1, 2026
Interested students should connect with their school counselor to learn more and begin the process.