🎉🏆 SkillsUSA Success at Stafford Technical School! 🏆🎉
Stafford Technical School proudly sent 92 students to compete in 34 competitive areas at the Vermont SkillsUSA competition last week—and what an incredible showing it was!
We are so proud of every student who stepped outside their comfort zone, challenged themselves, and represented Stafford with pride. Whether you placed in the top three or not, your effort and courage truly matter!
A special congratulations to our Fair Haven Union High School medalists:
🥇 Brianna Gebo – Gold, Job Skill Demonstration A
🥇 Brian Dugan – Gold, Motorcycle Maintenance Technology
🥈 Emily Kennedy – Silver, Action Skills
🥉 Orianna Kerr – Bronze, Nurse Assisting
Our Gold Medalists will go on to represent Vermont at the National SkillsUSA Competition in Atlanta, GA this June—best of luck on the national stage! 🇺🇸✨
Stafford Technical School proudly sent 92 students to compete in 34 competitive areas at the Vermont SkillsUSA competition last week—and what an incredible showing it was!
We are so proud of every student who stepped outside their comfort zone, challenged themselves, and represented Stafford with pride. Whether you placed in the top three or not, your effort and courage truly matter!
A special congratulations to our Fair Haven Union High School medalists:
🥇 Brianna Gebo – Gold, Job Skill Demonstration A
🥇 Brian Dugan – Gold, Motorcycle Maintenance Technology
🥈 Emily Kennedy – Silver, Action Skills
🥉 Orianna Kerr – Bronze, Nurse Assisting
Our Gold Medalists will go on to represent Vermont at the National SkillsUSA Competition in Atlanta, GA this June—best of luck on the national stage! 🇺🇸✨
🎓 College Visit Day!
Today, some of our juniors had the opportunity to explore their futures with visits to Franklin Pierce University and Keene State College!
Students participated in informative sessions and guided campus tours, gaining valuable insight into college life, academic programs, and campus communities. Experiences like these help our students begin to envision their next steps beyond high school.
Thank you to both campuses for welcoming our students and providing such engaging visits!
Today, some of our juniors had the opportunity to explore their futures with visits to Franklin Pierce University and Keene State College!
Students participated in informative sessions and guided campus tours, gaining valuable insight into college life, academic programs, and campus communities. Experiences like these help our students begin to envision their next steps beyond high school.
Thank you to both campuses for welcoming our students and providing such engaging visits!
Slate Valley District Newsletter: April 10, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/5722f5802f0b/district-newsletter-april-10-2026
https://mailchi.mp/5722f5802f0b/district-newsletter-april-10-2026
🧵 Farm to Fiber in Action! 🐑
Our 7th & 8th grade students in Mr. VanDerKern’s Design class have been getting hands-on with history, science, and creativity through their Farm to Fiber unit!
Students explored how textiles are made from start to finish—creating cordage from flax, spinning their own yarn, and designing unique projects including felted animals, potholders, and bracelets. 🧶✨
This engaging, real-world learning experience was made possible in part thanks to a $500 grant from National Agriculture in the Classroom and the continued support of Mountain Heart Farm in Danby.
We’re proud of the creativity, craftsmanship, and curiosity our students demonstrated every step of the way!
Our 7th & 8th grade students in Mr. VanDerKern’s Design class have been getting hands-on with history, science, and creativity through their Farm to Fiber unit!
Students explored how textiles are made from start to finish—creating cordage from flax, spinning their own yarn, and designing unique projects including felted animals, potholders, and bracelets. 🧶✨
This engaging, real-world learning experience was made possible in part thanks to a $500 grant from National Agriculture in the Classroom and the continued support of Mountain Heart Farm in Danby.
We’re proud of the creativity, craftsmanship, and curiosity our students demonstrated every step of the way!
📚✨ Friday Focus: Smiles & “i before e”… or is it? ✨📚
This week, our Friday Focus shines on our amazing 2nd and 3rd graders across Slate Valley!
Traveling from school to school, it was impossible to miss the smiles, laughter, and joy of learning happening in every classroom and hallway. Whether students were tackling their Cognia assessments, heading out for recess or lunch, diving into a good book, or puzzling over tricky spelling rules like “ei” and “ie,” their curiosity and energy were on full display.
It’s moments like these that remind us how special our schools are—filled with students who are growing, learning, and supporting one another every single day.
Keep shining, Slate Valley! 🌟
This week, our Friday Focus shines on our amazing 2nd and 3rd graders across Slate Valley!
Traveling from school to school, it was impossible to miss the smiles, laughter, and joy of learning happening in every classroom and hallway. Whether students were tackling their Cognia assessments, heading out for recess or lunch, diving into a good book, or puzzling over tricky spelling rules like “ei” and “ie,” their curiosity and energy were on full display.
It’s moments like these that remind us how special our schools are—filled with students who are growing, learning, and supporting one another every single day.
Keep shining, Slate Valley! 🌟
👏 Congratulations to our Fair Haven Union High School students who were recognized by Stafford Technical Center as 2025–26 3rd Quarter Students of the Marking Period!
We are proud to celebrate Dante Morse, Eli Donaldson, Brianna Gebo, Aden Wilkins, Alias Paquette, Leyton Noel, and Jocelyn Renninger for their hard work, dedication, and achievement in their technical and academic programs.
Your commitment to learning, skill development, and excellence represents the very best of FHU and the Slater community. Keep up the outstanding work! 💙
We are proud to celebrate Dante Morse, Eli Donaldson, Brianna Gebo, Aden Wilkins, Alias Paquette, Leyton Noel, and Jocelyn Renninger for their hard work, dedication, and achievement in their technical and academic programs.
Your commitment to learning, skill development, and excellence represents the very best of FHU and the Slater community. Keep up the outstanding work! 💙
Congratulations, Mr. Kelson!
https://www.rutlandherald.com/news/local/fair-haven-physical-education-teacher-wins-shape-vermont-award/article_47fb8ba0-d85f-429c-ac50-fd76d849eb3c.html
https://www.rutlandherald.com/news/local/fair-haven-physical-education-teacher-wins-shape-vermont-award/article_47fb8ba0-d85f-429c-ac50-fd76d849eb3c.html
📚✨Throwback Thursday✨📚
We’re taking it back to the 1976 FHUHS Yearbook, where this creative drawing introduced “Ogg,” a proposed Slater mascot designed by a sophomore with the initials K.C.
The student shared their vision of building a mascot for games—complete with blue and white hair and a large rubber nose!
Here’s the fun part…
👀 Do you know who K.C. is?
Hint: This talented artist went on to become a long-time teacher right here in Slate Valley!
Drop your guesses in the comments—we can’t wait to see who remembers! 👇
We’re taking it back to the 1976 FHUHS Yearbook, where this creative drawing introduced “Ogg,” a proposed Slater mascot designed by a sophomore with the initials K.C.
The student shared their vision of building a mascot for games—complete with blue and white hair and a large rubber nose!
Here’s the fun part…
👀 Do you know who K.C. is?
Hint: This talented artist went on to become a long-time teacher right here in Slate Valley!
Drop your guesses in the comments—we can’t wait to see who remembers! 👇
Submitted by Eric Ramey: Slaters Unified rallied from a 20 point 4th quarter deficit, but ran out of time, falling 52-49 at Springfield on Tuesday.
Brett Hazen went on a one-man 12 point run in the final 2 minutes to cut the Cosmos lead to three when the clock hit zero.
Brett Hazen led the Slaters with 14 points. He was followed by Jordan Alger with 12pts and a big blocked shot, Travis Alger with 11pts, including the first three 3-pointers in Slaters Unified history! Troy Hazen was great around the rim scoring 10pts, and Jayden Bots rounded the scoring by swishing a 10ft jumper. Selena White played a great all around game with some great passes finding open teammates for easy baskets.
The Slaters will return to action on Tuesday April 14th, hosting unified for the first time when the Otter Valley Otters come to town for a 4pm tip off. We hope to see everyone there.
There is no admission fee.
Brett Hazen went on a one-man 12 point run in the final 2 minutes to cut the Cosmos lead to three when the clock hit zero.
Brett Hazen led the Slaters with 14 points. He was followed by Jordan Alger with 12pts and a big blocked shot, Travis Alger with 11pts, including the first three 3-pointers in Slaters Unified history! Troy Hazen was great around the rim scoring 10pts, and Jayden Bots rounded the scoring by swishing a 10ft jumper. Selena White played a great all around game with some great passes finding open teammates for easy baskets.
The Slaters will return to action on Tuesday April 14th, hosting unified for the first time when the Otter Valley Otters come to town for a 4pm tip off. We hope to see everyone there.
There is no admission fee.
Where Are They Now Wednesday: April Spotlight - Marty Vinci, Class of 1970
This month, we’re proud to highlight Fair Haven Union High School alumnus Marty Vinci, a member of the Class of 1970 whose journey reflects dedication, hard work, and a lifelong connection to his roots.
Following graduation, Marty pursued specialized training at Meat Cutting School in Toledo, Ohio—launching a career that would span four decades. He worked as a meat cutter throughout Vermont and upstate New York, building a reputation for skill and consistency in his trade.
In 2007, Marty took his experience to the next level, beginning a new chapter with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a Meat Inspector in Atlanta, Georgia. After three years, he transferred to Hilton Head, South Carolina, where he continued his work for an additional 15 years. Marty officially retired on January 1, 2025, concluding an impressive career dedicated to food safety and public service.
Retirement hasn’t slowed him down. Today, Marty enjoys working part-time in the pro shop at a local golf course in the Hilton Head area—staying active and connected within his community.
During his time at Fair Haven, Marty was a two-sport athlete, participating in football, and baseball. He served as captain of the football team his senior year, demonstrating leadership both on and off the field. One of his most memorable moments came on the baseball diamond, when he delivered a game-winning hit in the bottom of the 14th inning to defeat rival Poultney—a moment that still stands out decades later.
Marty also credits Coach Tom LaPlaca as a meaningful influence during his high school years. Their close relationship helped keep him motivated and focused, leaving a lasting impact that extended well beyond graduation.
From standout student-athlete to a long and successful career, Marty Vinci’s story is one of perseverance, pride, and community—qualities that continue to define Slater alumni.
This month, we’re proud to highlight Fair Haven Union High School alumnus Marty Vinci, a member of the Class of 1970 whose journey reflects dedication, hard work, and a lifelong connection to his roots.
Following graduation, Marty pursued specialized training at Meat Cutting School in Toledo, Ohio—launching a career that would span four decades. He worked as a meat cutter throughout Vermont and upstate New York, building a reputation for skill and consistency in his trade.
In 2007, Marty took his experience to the next level, beginning a new chapter with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a Meat Inspector in Atlanta, Georgia. After three years, he transferred to Hilton Head, South Carolina, where he continued his work for an additional 15 years. Marty officially retired on January 1, 2025, concluding an impressive career dedicated to food safety and public service.
Retirement hasn’t slowed him down. Today, Marty enjoys working part-time in the pro shop at a local golf course in the Hilton Head area—staying active and connected within his community.
During his time at Fair Haven, Marty was a two-sport athlete, participating in football, and baseball. He served as captain of the football team his senior year, demonstrating leadership both on and off the field. One of his most memorable moments came on the baseball diamond, when he delivered a game-winning hit in the bottom of the 14th inning to defeat rival Poultney—a moment that still stands out decades later.
Marty also credits Coach Tom LaPlaca as a meaningful influence during his high school years. Their close relationship helped keep him motivated and focused, leaving a lasting impact that extended well beyond graduation.
From standout student-athlete to a long and successful career, Marty Vinci’s story is one of perseverance, pride, and community—qualities that continue to define Slater alumni.
💙 Class of 2029 Blanket Fundraiser! 💙
Support the Class of 2029 while showing off your Slater pride! These cozy blankets are perfect for home, games, or gifting—and each purchase helps support our students.
✨ Details:
• $30 each
• Two great design options
• Soft, vibrant, and full of school spirit
• A perfect keepsake—limited edition!
📣 We earn over 50% profit on every blanket sold, so your support truly makes a difference!
🛒 To order, see any 9th grade student or contact Kaycee Eastman or Tarah Turner
Thank you for supporting our students! 💙
Support the Class of 2029 while showing off your Slater pride! These cozy blankets are perfect for home, games, or gifting—and each purchase helps support our students.
✨ Details:
• $30 each
• Two great design options
• Soft, vibrant, and full of school spirit
• A perfect keepsake—limited edition!
📣 We earn over 50% profit on every blanket sold, so your support truly makes a difference!
🛒 To order, see any 9th grade student or contact Kaycee Eastman or Tarah Turner
Thank you for supporting our students! 💙
✨ 8th Grade Access Day at CCV Rutland ✨
We’re excited to share that our 8th grade students will be visiting the Community College of Vermont in Rutland for an Access Day experience on April 14th and 15th! Students will attend in pre-assigned groups, traveling by school bus from FHU and returning around 1:30 PM.
This annual opportunity helps students begin exploring college and career pathways as they prepare for high school. During their visit, students will:
🔹 Learn about post-secondary options
🔹 Participate in two engaging, hands-on mini classes
🔹 Experience a college campus environment
This has been a long-standing and meaningful experience for Fair Haven students, and we’re excited to continue the tradition!
🍕 CCV will provide pizza for lunch. Students may also bring their own lunch or request a bagged lunch from school.
📩 Questions? Please contact Kim Ezzo at kezzo@svuvt.org
We’re excited to share that our 8th grade students will be visiting the Community College of Vermont in Rutland for an Access Day experience on April 14th and 15th! Students will attend in pre-assigned groups, traveling by school bus from FHU and returning around 1:30 PM.
This annual opportunity helps students begin exploring college and career pathways as they prepare for high school. During their visit, students will:
🔹 Learn about post-secondary options
🔹 Participate in two engaging, hands-on mini classes
🔹 Experience a college campus environment
This has been a long-standing and meaningful experience for Fair Haven students, and we’re excited to continue the tradition!
🍕 CCV will provide pizza for lunch. Students may also bring their own lunch or request a bagged lunch from school.
📩 Questions? Please contact Kim Ezzo at kezzo@svuvt.org
Due to illness, tonight’s Slate Valley Community Advisory Council (CAC) meeting has been cancelled. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to connecting at our next meeting on May 5, 2026. Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school community!
🇺🇸 Trivia Tuesday 🇺🇸
Question:
How did Mount Independence in Orwell, Vermont, get its name?
Answer:
Mount Independence was named in 1776 by American troops stationed there during the Revolutionary War. The name honored the colonies’ declaration of independence from Great Britain, which had just been adopted that summer.
🇺🇸 Did You Know?
As we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States, Mount Independence stands as a powerful local reminder of that pivotal moment in 1776. Even more meaningful, it remains a popular field trip destination for many Slate Valley students—giving them the opportunity to walk the very grounds where history was made and connect classroom learning to real-world experiences.
🔗 Learn more: https://historicsites.vermont.gov/mount-independence
Question:
How did Mount Independence in Orwell, Vermont, get its name?
Answer:
Mount Independence was named in 1776 by American troops stationed there during the Revolutionary War. The name honored the colonies’ declaration of independence from Great Britain, which had just been adopted that summer.
🇺🇸 Did You Know?
As we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States, Mount Independence stands as a powerful local reminder of that pivotal moment in 1776. Even more meaningful, it remains a popular field trip destination for many Slate Valley students—giving them the opportunity to walk the very grounds where history was made and connect classroom learning to real-world experiences.
🔗 Learn more: https://historicsites.vermont.gov/mount-independence
Submitted by Athletic Director, Eric Ramey: Congratulations to Slater junior Anthony Szabo on being selected as the 2026 Rutland Herald Male Wrestler of the Year! Anthony continues to pile up the accoloades, and is one of Slater Nation's best ambassadores. Well done Ant!
Rutland Herald link below.
Source: Rutland Herald Szabo, Allen earn Herald honors https://share.google/xO5Dzxi7VXjLUaBhl
Rutland Herald link below.
Source: Rutland Herald Szabo, Allen earn Herald honors https://share.google/xO5Dzxi7VXjLUaBhl
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!
Submitted by coach Ramey: The Slaters Unified Basketball team played its first ever game on Tuesday, traveling to Mill River to take on the Minutemen. After a close first half, the home team had a big 3rd quarter to get the win.
The leading scorer for the Slaters was Brett Hazen with 16 points. He was followed by his brother Troy Hazen with 8pts, Jaden Bots and Selina White with 4pts, and Nate Moulton, Travis Alger and Jordan Alger each scored 2pts.
The Slaters mentors were outstanding keeping the game at a fast pace, and all of our athletes scored in the game, and played their best from start to finish!
The Slaters will be back in action on Tuesday April 7th, traveling to Springfield to take on the Cosmos at 5:30pm.
The leading scorer for the Slaters was Brett Hazen with 16 points. He was followed by his brother Troy Hazen with 8pts, Jaden Bots and Selina White with 4pts, and Nate Moulton, Travis Alger and Jordan Alger each scored 2pts.
The Slaters mentors were outstanding keeping the game at a fast pace, and all of our athletes scored in the game, and played their best from start to finish!
The Slaters will be back in action on Tuesday April 7th, traveling to Springfield to take on the Cosmos at 5:30pm.
