Reminder: You're invited to come discuss the upcoming August 11th Slate Valley Budget Revote with your board members on July 9th at 6 PM.
CSO Summer Reading Challenge
Letter: https://5il.co/hzb4
Reading Log: https://5il.co/hzb3
Slate Valley middle school athletes (grades 5-8) can sign up for Fall 2020 athletics from July 1st-August 14th on https://www.FormReleaf.com.
Reminder- A yearly physical is required.
2020-2021 Athletics Information:
Please read the full letter from Kim Alexander, District Middle School Athletic Director, here: https://5il.co/heuc
Slate Valley Middle School Athletics (grades 5-8) Fall 2020 Sports Registration for:
FHGS/BVS 5/6 Soccer
FHGS/BVS 7/8 Boys Soccer
FHGS/BVS 7/8 Girls Soccer
CES/CVS/OVS 5/6 Soccer
CVS/OVS 7/8 Boys Soccer
CVS/OVS 7/8 Girls Soccer
Slate Valley Padded Flag Football (6-8)
Slate Valley Cross Country (6-8)
Looking for some summer activities for the kids? Check out Castleton Rec's great line-up of POP-UP programs, for an afternoon of fun. Programs include Theater/Drama, Pottery, Fishing, Animal Tracking, Birding and Archery. Registration is only open for 10 days, and space is limited.
Click the link to learn more and sign up: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/castleton-recreation-26246843751
School Reopening Update - More Information Will Be Provided the Week of July 20th
As you know, we are planning for reopening of schools in the fall. This planning will draw upon input from the parent survey as well as guidance from the Agency of Education (AOE). Guidance from the AOE has changed throughout the pandemic and continues to change frequently. In view of this, we are planning to provide further information during the week of July 20th. Thank you for your continued patience and support during these challenging times.
AOE Guidance: https://5il.co/hjf2
You're invited to come discuss the upcoming August 11th Slate Valley Budget Revote with your board members on July 9th at 6 PM.
2020-2021 Athletics Information:
Please read the letter from Kim Alexander, District Middle School Athletic Director, here: https://5il.co/heuc
Slate Valley Middle School Athletics (grades 5-8) Fall 2020 Sports Registration for:
FHGS/BVS 5/6 Soccer
FHGS/BVS 7/8 Boys Soccer
FHGS/BVS 7/8 Girls Soccer
CES/CVS/OVS 5/6 Soccer
CVS/OVS 7/8 Boys Soccer
CVS/OVS 7/8 Girls Soccer
Slate Valley Padded Flag Football (6-8)
Slate Valley Cross Country (6-8)
Please sign up on the Formreleaf registration (July 1 - August 14)/REMEMBER a yearly physical is mandatory.
Imagine Your Story
Tonight!
Slate Valley Board Member Listening Tour
Come share your thoughts with school board members from your community in a casual setting.
June 18th at 6 p.m.
With the budget being voted down, we wanted to provide you with an opportunity to voice your concerns. Board members from your community will be available to listen to you during these challenging times.
Benson Residents - Meet at Benson Village School with Patricia Beaumont ([email protected]) and Rebeckah St. Peter ([email protected]) to share your concerns.
Castleton Residents - Meet at Castleton Elementary School (outside pavillion) with Julie Finnegan ([email protected]), Toni Lobdell ([email protected]), and Timothy Smith ([email protected]) to share your concerns.
Fair Haven Residents - Meet in the FHUHS Gym - with Michael Bache ([email protected]), Tara Buxton ([email protected]), and Richard Wilson ([email protected]) to share your concerns.
Hubbardton Residents - Meet in the Town Hall with Joshua Hardt ([email protected]) to share your concerns.
Orwell Residents - Meet on the Town Green with Glen Cousineau ([email protected]), Peter Stone ([email protected]vuvt.org), and John Wurzbacher ([email protected]) to share your concerns.
West Haven Residents - Meet at the Grange with Angela Charron ([email protected]) and Tanya Tolchin ([email protected]) to share your concerns.
Please note that due to current requirements, gatherings will be limited to 25 people. We would ask that you adhere to current social distancing and mask recommendations.
If you are unable to make it or feel more comfortable, you may email your board members at the provided email addresses.
Reminder: You're invited! Come share your thoughts with school board members from your community in a casual setting on June 18th at 6 p.m.
A few more pictures from the CES Faculty and Staff Parade
Pictures from the CES Faculty and Staff Parade
Summer Meal Pick Up
The last day for meal pick up or delivery in Orwell, Benson and Castleton will be Friday, June 26th. On Friday the meals distributed will be for Friday through Tuesday, June 30th.
Starting on Tuesday, July 7th meals will be available for pickup only at Fair Haven Grade School between the hours of 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM.
Any child from any town who is 18 years of age or younger can receive meals. When children are not present at the time of meal pick up, a parent or guardian can only receive meals for their child or children. Adults cannot pick up meals for other children when the children are not present with the adult.
Bags of meals will continue to be available for pick up at 10:00AM on Tuesdays and Fridays throughout the summer at Fair Haven Grade School. The last day for meal pick up will be Tuesday, August 11th and will include meals through Friday.
Parents/Guardians of Slate Valley students:
This letter (https://5il.co/h6gs) was sent to households on June 12. We invite you to read it.
In an effort to include your voices as parents/guardians of Slate Valley students, we welcome your perspectives as we reflect, learn, and plan for the fall of 2020. Here (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FDTZNTC) is the link to a survey we have created in order to collect your input.
You're invited! Come share your thoughts with school board members from your community in a casual setting on June 18th at 6 p.m.
Good morning, the Budget Re-Vote results are as follows:
Yes: 550
No: 812
Retirement Spotlight!
This week, Slate Valley is celebrating a different retiree each day with a special retirement spotlight here on social media.
Today, we are celebrating Bonnie Condit’s 33 years of service in our district. Congratulations on your retirement Bonnie!
Bonnie Condit has 33 years of service as an educator at Castleton Elementary School. She started teaching first grade in 1986. Over the years she taught other grade levels ranging from second to sixth grade. Nine of those years were in multiage classrooms, but her love remains with third grade.
Bonnie is very capable of adjusting to the changes in education to better her teaching skills. She is an expert in many areas, from the old DRA scoring to the new distance learning of today. She also has a wealth of math knowledge gained over time. She has coordinated and presented math workshops for the district, but her specialty is sharing math games with her students and fellow teachers.
Some of you may know her through the many committees she has served on. She was chairperson for the CES CHAT Team. She had input with the Supervision and Evaluation Team and led the Math Leadership Team. She was a Summer School Coordinator, and she was part of the CES Technology Committee.
She is also an active member in our Teacher’s Union and held the district President’s position for 10 years, as well as Vice President and Secretary in previous years. She is an active citizen in Castleton’s Community, and is on the Alumni Board for Castleton University.
Bonnie earned a Teacher of the Year Award for always going above and beyond. She sets goals and achieves them, and is never afraid to ask questions because of her passion to learn something new everyday. This quest for knowledge also extends to traveling the world. One of her goals in retirement is to travel with her son Tyler. Bonnie Condit will be missed as a role model by both students and colleagues.
By Randi Ray
Parents & Guardians: Kindergarten Registration
If you have a child that will be age 5 prior to September 1st and will be entering kindergarten in the fall or if you are new to our community and have school aged children who will be attending school in the fall, please register your child(ren).
Please note that if you are moving into Vermont from out-of-state, you will have to follow the 14 day quarantine requirement prior to being allowed to attend Slate Valley schools.
You may access a registration packet at our Slate Valley Unified School District Website under the Parent section or through this link: https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/browse/68589.
Completed registrations can be sent to Deb Robbins, Slate Valley Unified School District, 33 Mechanic Street, Fair Haven, VT 05743.
We look forward to having your child(ren) join us and want to begin planning for the transition.
Thank you!
Reminder:
Tonight (June 8) - There will be an Informational Meeting at 6:30 p.m.(Please connect virtually by going to meet.google.com/iig-prfw-ngu or by calling (US) +1 856-485-0395 PIN: 415 992 197#).
Tomorrow (June 9) - Budget Re-Vote. Please Note: The proposed budget includes ONLY the expenses necessary to address the operational needs of Slate Valley’s schools in their current configuration for the next school year.
Warning: https://5il.co/gct2 Budget: https://5il.co/gepr
For more information visit: http://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/budget--108
Throughout the weeks of distance learning, parents, students, and teachers have certainly been trying their best to keep “our education flowing” as our CES school spirit song proclaims. At some point however, we have all felt frustration or perhaps even gotten a little down when things didn't go as planned.
This is especially true if you are just six years old doing your best to get your work done while away from your teacher and classmates...and you're trying to learn how to ride your first two-wheeler...and it’s one of the first beautiful days of spring! What is a kindergartener to do...what is a mom to do...what is a teacher to do? Well, If you are John Micheal Hackett you offer to help, of course! But an email or video chat just won’t do in this situation, so instead Mr. Hackett hops on his bicycle and rides from Rutland City to Castleton to give his young student some socially distanced bike riding pointers, but more importantly encouragement and a smile before he turns right back around and rides home.
It is connections like this one, and many others that have occurred during this distance learning journey that make Castleton Elementary School such a special place. Whether we are singing our school spirit song in the gym, or sitting in our living rooms in a Google Meet listening to a read aloud, or just hanging out on our bike with our teacher, we are all in this together.
Thank you, Mr. Hackett!! (Does he ever take his tie off??)
Families! Tomorrow is the last day to drop off/pick up any student materials. There are still a lot of items to be picked up, so please swing by the school between 8 am and 6 pm tomorrow. Check with your child's teacher if you are unsure if your child has items to be picked up. Thanks!
Reminder:
The Budget Re-vote for the district will be on June 9.
The Informational Meeting will take place on June 8 at 6:30 p.m. (Please connect virtually by going to meet.google.com/iig-prfw-ngu or by calling (US) +1 856-485-0395 PIN: 415 992 197#).
Please Note: The proposed budget includes ONLY the expenses necessary to address the operational needs of Slate Valley’s schools in their current configuration for the next school year.
Warning: https://5il.co/gct2
Budget: https://5il.co/gepr
For more information visit: http://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/budget--108
Farmers to Families Food Box Distribution
The Vermont National Guard will be at Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport on Monday, 6/1, from 10AM-2PM distributing non-perishable food boxes, along with produce, chicken, and dairy products provided by the Abbey Group while supplies last.
Anyone is welcome to go pick up food.
They will be distributing Farmers To Families meal kits containing meat, produce, and dairy products.
They will also be distributing non-perishable food from FEMA.
All food will be distributed while supplies last.
Visit: https://www.vtfoodbank.org/event/farmers-to-families-food-box-distribution-rutland for more information.
Wyatt has been hard at work creating magic in his grandpa’s workshop. Together, Wyatt and his grandfather conjured up an idea to carve wands for every student in the fourth grade at CES...forty wands to be exact! But these aren't just any old wands; these are wands that will be used by Wyatt’s classmates as they finish their first year of Castleton Elementary Hogwarts Academy. Throughout the year students were not only busy with their math and reading lessons, but they also practiced Quidditch and casting spells...all while earning house points. These generous gifts from Wyatt and his grandfather will be the perfect year end culmination and celebration for the CES houses of Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw.
Beginning Monday, June 1, Castleton Elementary families can join our community to show unity by placing an electronic or battery operated candle in their window.
During these uncertain times, CES would like to create a special community wide symbol of hope that can help unite CES and bring us closer together.
We are asking your family to join us in this nightly effort by placing a candle in a front window of your home that will shine brightly as a message of unity when the day is darkest. Like the rainbows we’ve seen throughout the world, the candles are intended to bring comfort to CES students, families, and neighbors.
We want our families to be safe so please be sure to only use an electric, or battery operated and NOT a candle with an actual flame.
If you do not have an electric candle there are still ways you could participate:
Ask a neighbor if they have an extra you could borrow. They could leave it our your
doorstep (maintaining safe practices and social distancing)
or
You could make a candle out of paper and place it in your window instead.
The CES community has shown a level of caring in a time of crisis that is unmatched Our resilience will be too. We hope to shine our lights as a reminder to those who are struggling the most, that one thing will never change: We will get through this together because we are CES!
The Budget Re-vote for the district will be on June 9.
The Informational Meeting will take place on June 8 at 6:30 p.m. (Please connect virtually by going to meet.google.com/iig-prfw-ngu or by calling (US) +1 856-485-0395 PIN: 415 992 197#).
Please Note: The proposed budget includes ONLY the expenses necessary to address the operational needs of Slate Valley’s schools in their current configuration for the next school year.
Warning: https://5il.co/gct2
Budget: https://5il.co/gepr
For more information visit: http://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/budget--108
Enjoying the nice weather while doing school work!
CES School Spirit Song!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-2smaVJ6aPVjd8WGVqZJfvanSsUcpMlz/view?usp=sharing
Awesome PreK pics!
Distance/Remote Learning Update
Update from Casey O'Meara, Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment
A few photos from Friday's School Spirit Day!
School Spirit Day!
Here are a couple more photos from School Spirit Week at CES!
Working on an art project!
A couple more from Mismatch Day!
Mismatch Day at CES!
Yesterday was "Dress Like Your Favorite Pet" day!
Here are a couple more photos from "Dress to Impress" day!
Dress to Impress Day!
Crazy Hair Day 2020!
More from Crazy Hair Day 2020!
A first grader rocking her crazy hair!!
VPA Press Release: Cancellation of the 2020 Spring Sports Season
Shaw's supermarket in Fair Haven is now a drop off location for our Food Drive.
Slate Valley Food Drive: April 27 - May 8
Reminder: Today from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Rutland Southern VT Regional Airport (1002 Airport Road, North Clarendon, VT)
The Vermont Foodbank is working with FEMA and the VT National Guard to distribute MREs at five sites around Vermont.
Anyone in need of food is welcome and can receive a seven-day supply of Meals Ready-to-Eat for each member of their household.
Cereal and a new book! What could be better?
Here are some additional resources for accessing food during this challenging time:
This third grader is taking notes on penguins! Way to go!
Sibling teamwork with this 7th grader and 1st grader!
Welcome Back, Families!
Don't forget! Student material drop off/pick up will be Tuesday, 4/21 from 8 am to 6 pm. Check with your student's teacher to see if your student has materials to be picked up.
Mrs. Alowitz-Rehm's workspace!
Mrs. Rampone's work space with a view!
Families: Pick up/Drop off of student educational materials will be on Tuesdays, going forward, beginning on Tuesday, 4/21 from 8 am to 6 pm. Please check with your child's teacher to see if you need to pick up anything for your child. Tomorrow, Friday, because vacation is next week, we will have additional hours from 8 am to 12 pm if you did not pick up/drop off materials on Monday.
Have a wonderful break next week!
Mrs. Czachor's work space includes a BIG helper!
Ms. Daley's work space with lots of newborn touches!
This third grader is happy to practice on her recorder!
This kindergarten student was SO happy to see and hear Mrs. Doyle!
Mrs. Glover's work space!
Learning at home is easy with Harry Potter's wand!
This preschooler followed along with his teacher's video to draw a baby duck! His brother did, too!
Mrs. Lenihan’s home office!
Mr. Neeson, Ms. Tugas' assistant for Magic Castle (and her husband) hard at work in his studio!
Dear Parent/Guardian,
On March 17, 2020 Slate Valley educators provided students with review and/or enrichment material, and/or information for new learning assuming everyone would return to school on April 6th. As Vermont is experiencing a school closure for the remainder of the year, Slate Valley educators are preparing to move students forward with grade-level expectations in pursuit of Proficiencies and Performance Indicators upon our return from vacation, April 20, 2020.
Please read the full letter here: https://5il.co/eqcz
Miss Burke has a feline helper in her work space!
Good morning! This is a reminder that we will be having Spring Break next week, April 13 though 17.
Beginning on Tuesday, April 7th - meal pick-up locations will change due to a change in the Federal/State Guidelines:
Meals will be available for pick up on Tuesdays and Fridays starting at 10:00 AM until noon at the following locations:
-Benson Village School
-Castleton Elementary School (no longer Fair Haven
Union High School)
-Fair Haven Grade School
-Orwell Village School
Good evening. Tim Smith, chairman of the Slate Valley School District.
I hope everyone is staying home and healthy in these difficult times. Many thanks to our health care providers.
While difficult to discuss given the circumstances, I want to remind everyone that our school budget failed on Town Meeting Day by a small margin, 95 votes. The $59.5 million construction bond will be tabled for the foreseeable future, at least until the duration of the virus and its far-reaching impacts are better understood. Nonetheless, we are obligated to re-vote the school budget and hope to have a positive result by June 30th. While we continue to work with VT Govt officials, school administration, and town clerks, it is unclear at this time whether we will be holding an in-person vote by late spring or a mail-in vote. We will keep the public notified of any developments.
Public participation is welcome at all of our meetings, however now, the ability of the public to attend is more challenging given the social distancing guidelines. In the past week, Governor Scott amended the open meeting laws whereby a physical location for the public to attend is no longer required. In the same manner that board members participate, the public is invited to attend our meetings in a virtual format.
We are scheduled to have a Finance Committee on Monday 4/6 at 5:30pm, the link to attend is:
https://meet.google.com/hus-roox-dkq?hs=122, dial in only 1-(502) 947-4166 PIN 781 639 980#
We are scheduled to have a regular Board meeting on Monday 4/6 at 6:30pm, the link to attend is:
https://meet.google.com/bzx-mcps-foo?hs=122, dial in only 1-(417) 647-1150 PIN 584 195 054#
Information can also be found at the Slate Valley website, www.slatevalleyunified.org
We appreciate your support and participation. Be well.
Another second grader hard at work!
Mrs. Robertson has an assistant to help her with remote learning!
Beginning on Tuesday, April 7th - meal pick-up locations will change due to a change in the Federal/State Guidelines:
Meals will be available for pick up on Tuesdays and Fridays starting at 10:00 AM until noon at the following locations:
-Benson Village School
-Castleton Elementary School (no longer Fair Haven
Union High School)
-Fair Haven Grade School
-Orwell Village School
At CES, we make learning FUN!
Today's PE assignment: Build a Fort!
This Pre K student is working hard, and she got to listen to Mrs. C and Miss Margie read her a story!
Town Hall for Kids!
Local artist Lindsay Bowles has created free coloring pages for our students to use, here is the first one!
First grade ELA and Art!
This second grader knows his Math!
We know how to work, we know how to play!
This first grader likes to do math and eat pancakes at the same time! Miss Burke approves!
The "in-person" Universal Preschool Screenings for Slate Valley have been canceled. If you signed up for the 0-5 developmental screenings, we will contact you about an alternative method for conducting the screening in the next few weeks.
March 23, 2020 Update - Meals During School Dismissal
Beginning on Tuesday, March 24th we will only have meal pick-up/delivery twice weekly to help maintain social distancing practices.
On Tuesdays breakfast and lunch for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday will be made available for pick-up or delivery.
On Fridays meals for Friday and Monday will be made available for pick-up/delivery
Meals will be available for pick up on Tuesdays and Fridays starting at 10:00 AM until noon at the following locations:
Benson Village School
Fair Haven Union High School
Fair Haven Grade School
Orwell Village School
Meals can be delivered to your home if you have a completed food delivery form on file (https://5il.co/dwgv). Please connect to your school if you have questions.
If you are getting delivery at home please leave a cooler out on your porch. This allows for a more efficient delivery process.
Meals are available to all children ages 18 or younger. You do not need to reside in our district to pick-up meals.
Please note that you can go to any of the schools listed above. You are not restricted to the school that your child attends.
Please notify staff at the pick up location if you will be picking up meals regularly and you have any special dietary needs that have medical implications that must be met.
**** Due to Federal Guidelines we are not allowed to have Castleton Elementary and Village School as pick up locations because of eligibility requirements. However all Castleton families can pick up at any of the other sites in the district.
All Slate Valley playgrounds are closed to help slow the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). Thank you for your cooperation.
Overwhelmed with information coming from all directions? Our COVID-19 page features information and resources in one central location. Visit www.SlateValleyUnified.org and click on the "COVID-19 Information" link at the top.
On this page, you’ll find the latest updates from our district, links to the Vermont Department of Health COVID-19 page, an embedded CDC page, as well as many other helpful resources. It is updated frequently, so check back often.
Update (3-19-20) - Meals During Dismissal:
Starting on Thursday, March 19th the school district will make breakfast and lunch meals available to all children ages 18 years old and younger while school is dismissed. Meals will be available Monday through Friday.
Friday, March 20th - and each day thereafter a breakfast and a lunch will be available for pick up.
Meals will be available for pick up starting at 10:00 AM until noon at the following locations:
Benson Village School
Fair Haven Union High School
Fair Haven Grade School
Orwell Village School
**** Due to Federal Guidelines we are not allowed to have Castleton Elementary and Village School as pick up locations because of eligibility requirements. However all Castleton families can pick up at any of the other sites in the district.
Meals will be delivered to homes if you have a completed food delivery form on file (Link to form: https://5il.co/dwgv). Please contact your school if you have questions.
Please note that you can go to any of the schools listed above. You are not restricted to the school that your child attends.
Please notify staff at the pick up location if you will be picking up meals regularly and you have any special dietary needs that have medical implications that must be met.
Many parents have already picked up personal belongings and work for the next couple of weeks. If you have not, please make arrangements to do so. You may contact the school with any questions.
These two companies are offering free Internet services to households during these challenging times:
Consolidated Communications
Consolidated Is offering students 2 months of free home Internet Service, plus free installation. See the flyer for details.
Internet Essentials from Comcast
As our country continues to manage the COVID-19 emergency, Comcast is taking immediate steps to help connect low-income families to the Internet at home. Follow this link for further details: https://www.internetessentials.com/covid19
Attention Essential Workers: Please read this Press Release from the State of Vermont Emergency Operation Center: https://5il.co/dxv2 for important information about childcare.
Essential workers who need help finding childcare should visit: https://webportalapp.com/webform/essentialworkers or call 2-1-1 ext. 6
Homeschool families are also entitled to come for meal pick-ups!
Please note that you can pick up meals for other families. If you are unable to pick up meals, we will make every effort to get the meals to you. Please call the school to make arrangements.
We're all ready for meal pick-ups between 10 and 12 today!
Reminder:
Meals will be available for pick up at the following locations:
Benson Village School
Fair Haven Union High School
Fair Haven Grade School
Orwell Village School
Please note that you can go to any of the schools listed above.
--
Starting on Thursday, March 19th the school district will make breakfast and lunch meals available to all children ages 18 years old and younger while school is dismissed. Meals will be available Monday through Friday.
Thursday, March 19th - a breakfast for Thursday, a lunch for Thursday and a breakfast for Friday will be available for pick up.
Friday, March 20th - and each day thereafter a breakfast and a lunch will be available for pick up.
**** Due to Federal Guidelines we are not allowed to have Castleton Elementary and Village School as pick up locations because of eligibility requirements. However all Castleton families can pick up at any of the other sites in the district.
The school district will let you know if the method of distribution is going to change.
At some point in the future, meals may be made available for pick up along the bus routes, but we will let you know in advance if and when this change is made. If we make this change, meals will still be available at each of the schools listed above for pick up. However, Castleton and Hubbardton families will still need to pick up meals from one of the eligible sites.
We will be sending out a form with the meals. We ask that you complete the form and return it to the staff member distributing the meals so that we can get a better idea of who needs meals, but is unable to get to one of the schools listed above for pick up. If you are unable to pick up meals, we will make every effort to get the meals to you. This form will also be made available online: https://5il.co/dwgv
Please note that you can go to any of the schools listed above. You are not restricted to the school that your child attends.
Please notify staff at the pick up location if you will be picking up meals regularly and you have any special dietary needs that have medical implications that must be met.
Important Update:
Date: March 18, 2020
To: All Slate Valley UUSD Families
From: Brooke Olsen-Farrell, Superintendent
Subject: Meals Starting March 19, 2020- Updated
Starting on Thursday, March 19th the school district will make breakfast and lunch meals available to all children ages 18 years old and younger while school is dismissed. Meals will be available Monday through Friday.
Thursday, March 19th - a breakfast for Thursday, a lunch for Thursday and a breakfast for Friday will be available for pick up.
Friday, March 20th - and each day thereafter a breakfast and a lunch will be available for pick up.
Meals will be available for pick up starting at 10:00 AM until noon at the following locations:
Benson Village School
Fair Haven Union High School
Fair Haven Grade School
Orwell Village School
**** Due to Federal Guidelines we are not allowed to have Castleton Elementary and Village School as pick up locations because of eligibility requirements. However all Castleton families can pick up at any of the other sites in the district.
The school district will let you know if the method of distribution is going to change.
At some point in the future, meals may be made available for pick up along the bus routes, but we will let you know in advance if and when this change is made. If we make this change, meals will still be available at each of the schools listed above for pick up. However, Castleton and Hubbardton families will still need to pick up meals from one of the eligible sites.
We will be sending out a form with the meals. We ask that you complete the form and return it to the staff member distributing the meals so that we can get a better idea of who needs meals, but is unable to get to one of the schools listed above for pick up. If you are unable to pick up meals, we will make every effort to get the meals to you. This form will also be made available online: https://5il.co/dwgv
Please note that you can go to any of the schools listed above. You are not restricted to the school that your child attends.
Please notify staff at the pick up location if you will be picking up meals regularly and you have any special dietary needs that have medical implications that must be met.
Per Governor Scott's recent directive regarding the requirements of providing child care for specified groups of essential employees as outlined in the following link we are working to collect information regarding those individuals in need of child care for their children. Please complete this form only if you are in need of child care for your children as defined by Governor's Scott directive (https://governor.vermont.gov/press-release/governor-phil-scott-orders-implementation-child-care-system-personnel-essential-covid).
Form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1sSylQhJKYFxlBXGB3Wc_bl9Iei8FZLE8mykhz4HsIMc/edit?ts=5e72490b
Social Distancing: What does it mean?
Starting on Thursday, March 19th the school district will make breakfast and lunch meals available to all children ages 18 years old and younger while school is dismissed. Meals will be available Monday through Friday.
Thursday, March 19th - a breakfast for Thursday, a lunch for Thursday and a breakfast for Friday will be available for pick up.
Friday, March 20th - and each day thereafter a breakfast and a lunch will be available for pick up.
Meals will be available for pick up starting at 10:00 AM until noon at the following locations:
Benson Village School
Castleton Elementary School
Fair Haven Grade School
Orwell Village School
The school district will let you know if the method of distribution is going to change.
At some point in the future, meals may be made available for pick up along the bus routes, but we will let you know in advance if and when this change is made. If we make this change meals will still be available at each of the schools listed above for pick up.
We will be sending out a form with the meals. We ask that you complete the form and return it to the staff member distributing the meals so that we can get a better idea of who needs meals, but is unable to get to one of the schools listed above for pick up. If you are unable to pick up meals, we will make every effort to get the meals to you. This form will also be made available online.
Please note that you can go to any of the schools listed above. You are not restricted to the school that your child attends.
Please notify staff at the pick up location if you will be picking up meals regularly and you have any special dietary needs that have medical implications that must be met.
Due to increased volume nationwide, our alert system is experiencing difficulties. Please check our website regularly for important updates: https://bit.ly/38JVkpl
Good evening,
As a result of increased volume nationwide, our alert system is experiencing difficulties. The following message was sent out this evening:
Due to the issuance of new information by the White House and the rapidly changing situation, all Slate Valley Schools will be closed tomorrow March 17th to both students and non-essential staff. I will follow-up with an update tomorrow.
Thank you again for your patience and stay safe.
Brooke Farrell, Superintendent
We know that we are in the midst of uncertain times. Please know that we are doing everything within our power as a district to care for the well-being of staff, students and families. The Governor released a declaration today that stated that all students will be dismissed from school no later than Wednesday, March 18th. However, student attendance on Monday, March 16th and Tuesday March 17th is a family decision. Your child will not be penalized for staying home.
As a district, in accordance with recommendations from the Department of Health, we are no longer allowing non-essential outside visitors into our school such as volunteers, guest speakers, parents, etc. We will be asking parents to pick up and drop off their students at the front door. If you need to pick up your child during the school day please call ahead to the main office and arrangements will be made to meet you at the front door.
If you have a meeting scheduled with school personnel, please call ahead as we are making arrangements to host required meetings by phone or video. This includes Individual Education Program (IEP) meetings and evaluation planning and results meetings that are required by law.
In addition, field trips and all after-school events are canceled from this point through at least April 6th.
We are working on a plan to offer students at-home learning opportunities and access to a school meals program. We will be asking families whether or not you would like to receive meals while school is dismissed. I will be sending out further communication on this topic tomorrow.
Thank you in advance for your support as we progress through these challenging times.
Sincerely,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
Good afternoon,
On March 15 at 3:20 p.m., Governor Scott announced that statewide school closure will occur no later than Wednesday, March 18, 2020. The purpose of this message is to provide you an update of the actions the Slate Valley Unified School District will take as it relates to Governor Scott's School Closure announcement.
First and foremost, student attendance at school on Monday and Tuesday is a family decision. For these two days, Slate Valley Unified School District attendance procedures will be waived, and no student will be penalized for not attending.
Your district leadership teams will be working with our employees to plan for the support of our students and families during the closure of school. To be clear, our primary areas of focus include the wellbeing of our students, families and employees. The plan that we are developing will strive to encompass all of the components that Governor Scott has referenced in his statement/press conference.
Thank you for your patience and flexibility as we move forward. You can expect regular communication from our district so that we are keeping you informed. We are doing all we can to make sure these priorities are taken care of to the best of our abilities.
Sincerely,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
Congrats to the Castleton 5/6 Girls and Boys Basketball Teams for winning the FHGS Tournament!
Friday's assembly featured our first graders. What an awesome way to wrap-up Dr. Suess Week!
March 3, 2020 Results
Thursday night: Discover Slate Valley's new approach to happy and healthy young people, 6:30 p.m. at Fair Haven Grade School.
It's Dr. Suess Week here at CES! Mrs. Rampone and Mrs. Cacciatore are celebrating by giving our students Dr. Suess Makerspace this week during Library class. Amazing creations being made!
Please note the following Tournament Game changes:
Thursday 2/27
4:30 p.m. FHGS 7/8 Girls vs. Otter Valley 7th Girls
5:30 p.m. Barstow 7/8 Girls vs. Poultney 7/8 Girls
6:30 p.m. winner game 10 vs. winner game 8
7:30 p.m. winner game 9 vs. winner game 11
Thank you for your flexibility.
The second graders were the stars of the show at our last Friday Assembly! They did an amazing job presenting about what they have been learning in Second Step!
The third grade made walls with Stackin’ Stix and Brain Flakes, after reading the Red Clover book, The Wall in the Middle of the Book, by Jon Agee.
FHGS 2020 Invitational Basketball Tournament Info:
Letter: https://5il.co/d30y
7/8 Tournament Schedule: https://5il.co/d30z
5/6 Tournament Schedule: https://5il.co/d310
Discover Slate Valley's new approach to happy and healthy young people on March 5.
Please note: March 20th will now be a student day.
Good morning! Today's assembly has been rescheduled for next Friday, February 14th at 2:15. Hope to see you there!
Girl's 5/6 Basketball!
A few international CU students shared their experiences with Miss Molis' second grade class last week. Just another way we are building connections with CU!
Shots from last night's games: 5/6 Boys
How do some fifth graders pass the time at recess? Practicing a newly learned skill: knitting!
Second graders built straw rockets with Mrs. Rampone last week!
Great news! Ms. Tugas is on the mend! She will be back to CES/CVS on February 3rd. Magic Castle needs to be put on hold for one more week, so no Magic Castle this week. Thanks to all for your patience and understanding as Ms. Tugas recovers.
More pictures of rock climbing!
More pictures of rock climbing!
Our 4th graders had the opportunity to go rock climbing this week at FHGS! Check out these shots! A big THANKS to Kim Alexander and FHGS for their hospitality. The kids had a great experience!
Magic Castle will be cancelled through Monday, 1/27. We hope to be back with Magic Castle on 1/29, but we will keep you posted. Thank you for your patience!
Check out the puzzle the fifth graders just finished! So very cool!
Tomorrow night's concert has been cancelled. Ms. Tugas is ill and unable to be here for the concert. We will reschedule for a later date. Thanks for your understanding!
Reminder! Join us Wednesday night (January 15) from 6-8 PM as we explore real-time data from the youth in Slate Valley. Working together, we can break through barriers to help our youth thrive. Please bring a cell phone for audience participation. *Refreshments provided. *Childcare available at Castleton Village School. Castleton University (The Casella Theater, Fine Arts Building).
The spotlight was on third grade during last Friday's assembly. Great job, third graders!
A huge thank you to our CLiF Grant for 2019-2020! We have received our shipment of $500 in books from FirstBook!
CLiF is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to inspire a love of reading and writing among low-income, at-risk, and rural children up to age 12 throughout New Hampshire and Vermont.
You’re Invited!
Join us as we explore real-time data from the youth in Slate Valley. Working together we can break through barriers to help our youth thrive.
Please bring a cell phone for audience participation.
*Refreshments provided
*Childcare available at Castleton Village School
Wednesday, January 15, 2020
6-8 PM, Castleton University (The Casella Theater, Fine Arts Building)
The sign-up for Slater Youth Wrestling Club (Boys and Girls, Grades K-6) is January 13th from 6-6:30PM.
Sign up form: https://5il.co/c64z
What happens when you meet the PBIS Behavioral Expectations and you earn enough Paw Prints? You get a reward! This afternoon students were treated to a much-deserved movie and popcorn! Well done, Cougars!
First grade with their fifth grade reading buddies!
Snowflake Concert!
We are currently experiencing a power outage at Castleton Village School. All children are safe and sound. Parents/guardians who need to reach Castleton Village School are asked to call Castleton Elementary School at 802-468-5624.
Here are a few shots from the Snowflake concert last week. It was an awesome concert!
All after school activities districtwide have been cancelled for today (12/17) due to the road conditions and predicted snow accumulations as the day goes on. This includes all practices and games.
More scenes from Hour of Code at CES!
Hour of Code started as a one-hour introduction to computer science, designed to demystify "code", to show that anybody can learn the basics, and to broaden participation in the field of computer science.
It has since become a worldwide effort to celebrate computer science, starting with 1-hour coding activities but expanding to all sorts of community efforts.
Ask a second grader about the Daily Five. One of our Daily Five is to read quietly to self. Check out these second graders doing just that!
Students at CES and CVS are completing the Hour of Code. This is a worldwide attempt to familiarize students (Grades K-12) with coding.
Square1art orders are in! You can pick them up in the main office at CES. Any orders not picked up this week will be sent home with students next week. Thank you for your support!
Congratulations to three Castleton students who are members of the Rutland Area Robotics team and participated in the first Lego League VT State Championships held at Norwich University last weekend. These three students worked for hours as a team and competed with 26 VT teams! Wow! Congrats to Asher O., Chris M. and Cayden B. Way to go!
You're Invited!
Join us as we explore real-time data from the youth in Slate Valley. Working together we can break through barriers to help our youth thrive.
Wednesday, January 15, 2020
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Castleton University
The Casella Theater, Fine Arts Building
Find out what's happening at CES in our December newsletter: https://5il.co/bnfw
Students at CES were acknowledged for receiving First Trimester Academic Recognition on Friday.
All after school activities district wide have been cancelled for today (12/6) due to the road conditions and predicted snow accumulations as the day goes on. This includes all practices.
Reminder: You’re invited to join us for an informational building tour at FHUHS tonight at 6:30 p.m. starting in the FHUHS Library.
Letter to Community Members: https://5il.co/b0t9
Here's a shot of a 5th grader mentee with his Castleton University mentor. Great fun in the snow!
Basketball practices have started in the district, please check the Slate Valley App for updated practices and games.
Slate Valley District Wrestling will start Monday, November 18th 4:00-5:30 p.m. at FHUHS. Check the Slate Valley App for all practices. Meets will be updated as they are scheduled.
Reminder: Winter sports meeting for all Middle school athletics, November 18th, 6 p.m. at FHUHS cafeteria. Come meet coaches!
Three CES third graders were recognized in Montpelier on Friday for their winning entries in the Fire Safety Calendar picture contest. Congrats on being selected out of 3,500 entries!
You’re invited to join us for an informational building tour at FHUHS on November 20th at 6:30 p.m. in the FHUHS Library:
•See Facilities Needs
•Learn about Slate Valley Innovation Project
•Ask Questions
There will be a Mandatory Winter Sports Meeting for all Parents, Coaches, Administration:
Monday, November 18th, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Fair Haven Union High School Cafeteria
We will be introducing Winter Coaches for Basketball and Wrestling, going over practice protocol, schedules (game and practice), uniforms, and Q/A.
How many different ways do we learn? Too many to count!
How many different ways do we learn? Too many to count!
Book Character/Idiom Parade!
CES first graders learning and exploring at Wonderfeet Kids' Museum on Thursday.
Mrs. Lucci's 4th-grade students conducting a bird beak experiment in Science.
We filled the fishbowl! Every paw print represents students earning recognition for meeting behavior expectations! Now we celebrate as a whole school with extra recess!
Reminder! Online registration is open through November 8 for Slate Valley Middle School Winter Sports (Basketball & Wrestling). Register online at: https://bit.ly/2B0TSAC
Online registration is open from October 11 through November 8 for Slate Valley Middle School Winter Sports (Basketball & Wrestling). Register online at: https://bit.ly/2B0TSAC
Stay up-to-date with "Girls on the Run - Vermont" on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/153805061340162/posts/2418123071575005?sfns=mo
In library, students read the Red Clover Book, "Misunderstood Shark," by Ame Dyckman. They created origami and clothespin sharks to celebrate this “misunderstood” fish.
Yesterday was Mrs. Ward's birthday! Mr. Hackett's class made her a card and couldn't wait to give it to her! Happy birthday, Mrs. Ward!
Students reading while waiting for parent pick-up.
Students in Kindergarten through Fourth Grade at CES are learning about friendship with the book, The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson! They decorated scratch art to represent “friendship” in library class.
Our thanks to Royal Sheeley and Cathy Tester for the flag demonstration for our 5th graders today! Always such a fun and informative lesson!
Our fishbowl is filling up! Congratulations to our first graders for earning a Paw Print today!
Fifth grade students working on a project that asked them to consider, “Why School?”
Fourth grade students participating in Hogwarts wand and levitation lessons!
Grade 2 and 3 students at CES working on a Kindness Chain during recess.
Several classrooms at CES received classroom supplies through Adopt a Classroom (started by RRMC). The CHCRR clinics, Bayada, GE, GMP, RAVNA, Genesis, Dr. Hogenkamp’s office, Bullock and Coombs, HP Cummings and the EMT class at Regional Ambulance all donated. A huge thank you!
First Day of School Fun!
Back to School Bash! What a great time last night and what an amazing turnout! A big THANKS to the CSO for organizing this event. Thanks also to our amazing DJ, the fire department and the ice cream truck! Can't wait to see everyone tomorrow for the first day!
Back to School Bash! Tonight! 6:30 - 8! Fire Trucks! Music! Ice Cream! Need we say more?! See you there!
Everyone in the Slate Valley is back and gearing up for an exciting school year! This morning during our district-wide gathering, we recognized some of the many outstanding members of our Slate Valley community. Congratulations to all of our 2019 District Award recipients!
Being on-the-go doesn’t mean you can’t stay connected with your child’s school. Our new app has everything you need to be an active participant in your child’s education Features include: Live Feed, News, Events, Athletics, Documents, Notifications and more.
Throwback Thursday: Mrs. Clark, with some of her fifth grade students, showcased their project based learning to parents and the community at a district wide expo held Thursday at FHUHS.
There will be a Fall Sports informational meeting on August 28th, 6-7pm at Castleton Village School.
Join host Dan Warnecke as he talks with Melissa Hoyer (and a student helper!) about the Snack Sack program: https://youtu.be/tFywZN5CYv4
Community members are welcome to attend to tell stories, learn, provide support, and share in a vision for a hate-free Vermont. FB Event: http://www.facebook.com/events/400176637372124
