The appreciation tour rolled on today! ☕🍎 Central office administrators and staff visited Orwell Village School and Benson Village School, delivering coffee and pastries to fuel and celebrate our incredible educators and staff during Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week.

From warm cups of coffee to sweet treats and even warmer conversations, it was a small way to say thank you for the big impact our teams make every single day. We are so grateful for the dedication, care, and heart you bring to our schools!
18 days ago, Slate Valley
A staff member pours coffee from a thermal dispenser on a green-covered table in a school hallway. Another staff member stands nearby holding a cup. The table is set with bananas, apples, cups, and coffee supplies.
A smiling staff member stands behind a refreshment table with coffee dispensers, fruit, and cups in a school hallway. Classroom doors and student work are visible in the background.
Several staff members gather around a table with pastries and coffee in a school setting. One person pours a drink while others chat and hold plates, enjoying the appreciation treats.
🎉 Trivia Tuesday: Did You Know? 🇲🇽

Cinco de Mayo is often mistaken for Mexico’s Independence Day—but it actually commemorates the Battle of Puebla (May 5, 1862), when a smaller Mexican army defeated a much larger French force.

Today, it’s also a time to celebrate Mexican culture, heritage, and resilience.
18 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Trivia Tuesday: Did You Know?” with Slate Valley branding. Text explains that Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s Independence Day, but instead commemorates the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, when a smaller Mexican army defeated a larger French force. The graphic includes colorful elements such as a guitar illustration, festive “Cinco de Mayo” text, and a photo of a sombrero and calendar showing May 5 on a bright patterned textile background.
🌼 First Grade Fun! 🐝🐦

On Friday, May 1st, our first graders had a hands-on, joy-filled experience bringing creativity and nature together!

We were so lucky to welcome Mercedes, who generously provided more than 15 beautifully prebuilt birdhouses and bee homes for our students to decorate. Because everything was thoughtfully prepared ahead of time, students were able to jump right into painting, designing, and making each piece their own.

From bright colors to imaginative details, our young artists created cozy homes that will soon support local birds and pollinators—learning about nature while having so much fun along the way!

A heartfelt thank you to Mercedes for making this meaningful and memorable experience possible. 💛
19 days ago, Slate Valley
A group of first-grade students gathers around a pink-covered picnic table outside, carefully painting wooden birdhouses. One student leans in closely to add detail while others watch and work. A teacher stands nearby, supervising. The brick school building and grassy area are visible behind them.
Two young students paint birdhouses at a bright green-covered picnic table outdoors. One child kneels while painting carefully, and another stands holding a paintbrush. Grass, trees, and parked cars are visible in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
Three young students sit and kneel at a long outdoor picnic table covered with a bright orange tablecloth, painting small wooden birdhouses and bee homes. Paint plates, brushes, and cups are spread across the table. A school building with brick walls is in the background.
A smiling young student wearing a medal sits at a picnic table with a neon yellow surface, proudly displaying a painted wooden birdhouse. Other students work in the background near the school building.
📣 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. 💬💙
19 days 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.”
OVS Green Up Day 2026
19 days ago, Slate Valley
An adult with an orange backpack and a student stand on rocks near a ditch, placing collected trash into a large green bag.
Two students in gloves pass a piece of trash to an adult wearing a safety vest beside a small stream, while another student holds a full green trash bag.
Students wearing safety vests walk along a gravel road carrying green trash bags, collecting litter under a bright sky.
A group of students and an adult spread out along a rural dirt road, picking up trash with green bags, with open fields and hills in the background.
Three students wearing safety vests and gloves stand along a gravel roadside and rocky ditch, picking up litter on a sunny day.
A group of students in gloves and casual clothes gather along a roadside, placing trash into a large green bag during a cleanup.
Students walk down a country road with green trash bags, continuing their roadside cleanup on a partly cloudy day.
A small group of students walks along a gravel road, scanning the ground and collecting litter into green bags near a wooded area.
Students stand along the edge of a dirt road and grassy embankment, picking up trash near bushes and placing it into a green bag.
🍎✨ 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!
19 days 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.
19 days 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.
19 days 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
22 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.”
OVS April Newsletter: See the Digital Version at https://aptg.co/B2Kx8s
22 days ago, Slate Valley
Orwell Village School April 2026 newsletter cover featuring a green and white design with vine accents and the Slate Valley logo. A small circular photo of the school appears at the top. Text highlights a busy April with celebrations, a spring concert, field trips, and fundraising. Photos show kitchen staff smiling, a police officer serving food, and students eating together. A large section describes a delayed Thanksgiving feast celebration serving about 300 people, thanking community partners and volunteers. Upcoming events listed: May 22 (7th grade teachers visit 6th graders and half-day teacher in-service) and May 25 (no school for Memorial Day).
Second page of the Orwell Village School April 2026 newsletter with multiple student activity highlights. Includes photos of students performing in a spring concert with recorders and instruments, and a description of the event’s success. A section on a chess tournament announces a student champion and runner-up. Another section features a student council visit to the State House with a group photo. A safety message titled “Big Smiles, Safe Miles” encourages helmet use, traffic awareness, and safe travel habits. Footer invites readers to find the school on Facebook.
A "booming" First Friday!

We loved seeing our classrooms filled with parents this morning. From student-led tours to math game showdowns, it was a joy to reunite after our break. Our students loved being the experts today, thanks for joining the fun!
22 days ago, Slate Valley
Students and adults work together in a colorful elementary classroom, with some children building on a rug with blocks while others sit at tables completing activities.
Students and family members spread out across a classroom, working on activities at tables and on a rug, with a teacher standing nearby and classroom supplies lining the walls.
A young student writes on a worksheet while an adult sits beside them for support at a classroom table with learning materials.
A teacher leans over to assist students working at desks in a bright classroom while other children focus on assignments around the room.
A student reads a small booklet titled “Dangerous Floods” while an adult sits beside them smiling in a classroom setting.
A smiling student holds up a booklet titled “Deadly Tsunamis” in a classroom while a teacher stands in the background.
A group of students stand together on a classroom rug, smiling for a group photo with books and classroom materials scattered nearby.
A student stands beside an adult at a desk, discussing work on a laptop in a classroom with a large window behind them.
A teacher sits with a small group of students around a desk, guiding them as they look at a large book and complete an activity together.
Students and an adult gather around a classroom table using a blender to prepare a drink, with ingredients and cups spread out on the table.
Check out these moves! ♟️ Our chess tournament participants were honored at the PBIS Assembly today. While everyone earned a medal for competing, we gave a special spotlight to our Champion, Runner-Up, and Sportsmanship trophy winners. Great job to all!
22 days ago, Slate Valley
Two students stand in a school gym smiling and holding large trophies, with a tiger mascot behind them. Musical decorations and seated band students are visible in the background.
Three students hold trophies while standing together in a gymnasium with a tiger mascot behind them; a staff member stands at a podium in the background during an assembly.
A large group of students gathers in a school gym for a group photo, many wearing medals, while three students kneel in front holding trophies and a tiger mascot crouches beside them near the stage.
Here are our PBIS Students of the Month for April! Congratulations!
22 days ago, Slate Valley
A group of elementary students stand in a line in a school gym holding green certificates, with a tiger mascot behind them. A stage with seated band students and hanging music note decorations is visible in the background under a basketball hoop.
April's PBIS Assembly Specialist Awards!
22 days ago, Slate Valley
Two elementary students stand together holding a small award while smiling beside a tiger mascot and an adult in a school gym, with a band seated in the background.
A student holds a certificate and a small award while posing with a teacher and a tiger mascot during a school assembly in a gym with musicians behind them.
A student holding a small ukulele stands between a teacher and a tiger mascot in a gymnasium, with a school band seated in the background.
A student smiles while holding a small award, standing next to a tiger mascot and an adult in a school gym during an assembly.
A student holds a unique award while standing beside a tiger mascot and an adult holding a microphone, with a band and musical decorations visible in the background.
April's PBIS Assembly - Classroom Awards!
22 days ago, Slate Valley
Two elementary students stand with a tiger mascot and an adult in a gym, holding a blue award certificate while a school band sits in the background.
A student holds a pink award certificate while standing with a tiger mascot and an adult holding a microphone in a school gym with musicians behind them.
A student in an orange hoodie holds a blue certificate beside a tiger mascot and an adult in a gymnasium with a band seated in the background.
A student holds a green award certificate while standing with a smiling adult and a tiger mascot in a decorated school gym.
A student holds a pink certificate while standing between a tiger mascot and an adult in a gym with musical decorations and students seated behind them.
Three students stand together holding certificates with a tiger mascot and an adult in a gymnasium during an award presentation.
A student holds a white certificate while posing with a tiger mascot and an adult holding a microphone in a school gym.
Two students hold bright certificates while standing with a tiger mascot and an adult during an award presentation in a gym with a band in the background.
💙 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! 🦁
25 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.
Who says writing has to happen at a desk? ✍️☀️ Our 6th graders took their Writing Workshop outdoors today to soak up some vitamin D and find a little inspiration in the fresh air. The words just flow better in the sunshine!
25 days ago, Slate Valley
Students sit in outdoor Adirondack chairs along a school building, smiling and using laptops in the sunshine while a teacher stands nearby.
Two students relax in Adirondack chairs outdoors, smiling with laptops on their laps while working together in the sun.
Three students sit at a picnic table outside a brick school building, working on laptops and looking toward the camera.
The wait was worth it! With our cafeteria renovations finally complete, we were so excited to host our OVS Thanksgiving dinner before our April Break.

We want to extend a giant thank you to Stonewood Farms, First National Bank of Orwell & our Community Volunteers for their incredible contributions to this feast.

And of course, the biggest thank you to our OVS Lunch Ladies! They put our new kitchen to the test and served up a truly delicious meal for our students and staff.
26 days ago, Slate Valley
Four children and an adult sit together at a table with lunch trays, smiling at the camera in a crowded cafeteria.
Students and adults sit at long tables in a school cafeteria, eating lunch and talking together. Children smile at the camera while holding trays of food.
Three elementary-aged girls sit side by side at a cafeteria table, smiling with arms around each other while eating lunch.
Three adult women stand together smiling in front of a padded gym wall, posing for a group photo.
A staff member sits with two boys at a cafeteria table, smiling at the camera while they eat a meal with trays of food.
Three girls sit at a cafeteria table with lunch trays, smiling at the camera in a bright, busy dining space.
A police officer wearing gloves serves food from a table to a student holding a tray, with rolls and hot food visible.
A woman sits with two children and a baby at a cafeteria table, smiling while eating lunch among other families in the background.
Three students sit at a cafeteria table with trays of food, smiling while holding drinks and utensils, with other diners behind them.
Three cafeteria staff members wearing black shirts and aprons stand together in a kitchen area, smiling at the camera.
📚✨ Orwell Village School families—the Scholastic Book Fair is here!

This is a wonderful opportunity to spark a love of reading and help students build their home libraries with books they’ll enjoy again and again. Families can set up an eWallet for easy, cash-free shopping, and even contribute to Share the Fair to help ensure every student can take home a book.

🗓 Dates: April 27 – May 1
📍 Location: OVS Library
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Open to the public:
• Tuesday, April 28 | 3:00–6:00 PM
• Friday, May 1 | 7:45–8:45 AM

Interested in helping out? Volunteers are welcome and appreciated! Let’s make this a fun and memorable reading experience for all. 📖💙
26 days ago, Slate Valley
Flyer for Orwell Village School Scholastic Book Fair. The flyer includes the school logo and colorful “Community Book Fair” title. It invites families to attend and explains options like setting up an eWallet and contributing to “Share the Fair” to help students access books. Event details list dates from Monday, April 27 to Friday, May 1, located in the OVS Library. Public shopping times are Tuesday, April 28 from 3:00–6:00 PM and Friday, May 1 from 7:45–8:45 AM. The flyer also encourages volunteering and is signed by the principal, Mr. Patrick Walters. Decorative images of books and a book bag appear at the bottom.
🌎💚 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! 🌍💙
about 1 month 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.