Students in Grades K-4 have been learning about Hummingbirds, with this year's Red Clover book, Hummingbird by Nicola Davies. Students created masks to celebrate this amazing little bird! Thank you to Miss Burke's 2nd grade class.
Dear Slate Valley Families,
I hope this letter finds you well. As we head into April break I would like to update you on new Guidelines released from the Agency of Education yesterday, April 8th. These guidelines are part of Vermont’s Reopening Plan. Starting on April 19th all students will need to be screened at home. We will not be doing temperature checks in schools. We will no longer require the form for entrance to school each day per the state guidelines. We ask that you continue to check temperatures and check for any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 and keep children home that have even 1 symptom. The Department of Health guidelines remain the same in managing illness. Please call your child’s school nurse with any questions as they can guide you in safe school attendance.
Additionally schools are now required to follow ACCD guidelines and Vermont’s Reopening Plan as such there is no quarantine requirement for travel. However, if your unvaccinated child does travel you are required to obtain a COVID test within 72 hours of return. Your child will be able to continue to attend school if symptom free. If you have planned travel, we encourage you to sign up on the Department of Health website for return testing before you leave and as the site allows. Documentation of the negative test may be required if a case of COVID-19 occurs in the school and your child is considered a close contact. Physician offices for the most part will not perform testing unless your child is symptomatic. Please continue practicing the best prevention measures of mask wearing, 6 foot distancing and hand cleansing during your travels to remain healthy and safe.
Social distancing has moved to 3 feet for all students with the exception of 7-12 students when eating. That will remain at 6 feet. Contact tracing is still determined based on the 6 foot standard so we will continue to keep all 7-12 students 6 feet apart whenever feasible. Adults will still need to maintain the 6 feet social distancing.
Masks continue to be required of students and staff at all times in the buildings regardless of vaccination status.
For more information please visit the Department of Health and ACCD.vermont.gov websites for more detailed and specific information on travel, quarantine, and vaccines. The Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) sections are very helpful.
I know this has been a hard road this year and your support for the school district has been very much appreciated. I truly hope you have a wonderful week with your children next week.
Best,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
Superintendent
Tree Project Presentation Day - Thanks to Mr. Canty, 5th Graders have become expert researchers as a result of this project!
Dodge House Donation Drive - A FHUHS Student’s R.E.A.L. Project
Please view the flyer here for more information: https://www.smore.com/xpe32
This drive is being held by the Slate Valley Unified School District. We hope to raise awareness of homeless Veterans, and support the Dodge House in Rutland, which "provides shelter, clothing, food, and an individualized program to reintegrate veterans back into the community and help them to achieve self sufficiency" (http://www.chcrr.org).
Donation boxes will be located in the front offices of all Slate Valley schools from March 29th and April 25th.
Reminder! Tonight (April 5, 2021)
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board (Virtual) Meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Participation will be VIRTUAL ONLY. Connect by going to http://meet.google.com/kdn-osig-qsn or join by phone (US) +1 617-675-4444 PIN: 474 306 975 5652#.
Tonight’s Agenda: https://5il.co/r4fm
Previous Meeting Minutes: https://5il.co/qwix
CES Trimester 2 Awards Assembly: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nG2pmm-kahELiZw5GfMDdeSSa3PQdMu7/view?usp=sharing
WCAX will be airing their segment honoring Super-Senior Karen Williams this evening at 6:40 PM and again tomorrow morning at 6:40 AM! You will also be able to view it online after it airs at https://www.wcax.com/news/education/super-seniors/. Congratulations Karen!
You’re invited to join us this evening at 6 PM for a Community Connections virtual discussion on District Reorganization.
Community Connections are an opportunity for community members to have a conversation with Central Office administrators.
Join us by going to https://meet.google.com/jxr-qubs-ptw or by phone (US)+1 609-438-1179 (PIN: 408 338 127#)
Dear Slate Valley Families,
I hope this letter finds you well and beginning to see some light at the end of the very long tunnel. With the uptick in COVID cases and a holiday weekend upon us, I would like to send some reminders.
As we are headed into a holiday and a week off with warmer weather, I just wanted to remind everyone to stay vigilant to protect one other. We are almost there, but the pandemic is not quite over. We want to continue to prevent any outbreaks that could result in limitations on learning, extra-curricular activities, sports, and future events such as graduation.
We saw how gatherings and travel affected us after the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. There has been a recent surge in cases in our community, so maintaining precautions is very important for preventing spread. This is especially true because several individuals who have recently tested positive have experienced no symptoms. Without following mask and social distancing guidelines, people are unknowingly spreading it.
Please follow our current Vermont gathering guidelines regarding the number of households and vaccine receipt. If you travel, please follow quarantine guidelines upon return. Additionally, please wear masks, stay 6 feet apart, and sanitize/wash your hands often. If parents are vaccinated, it does not mean that children can travel without quarantine. It may mean that your student may not be able to return to in person learning after April break.
We know this has been so difficult and so many of us are "over it," but we need to keep up the precautions for a little while longer. Positive change is coming, but we are not there yet. And to get there as soon as possible, we all need to continue to maintain the great illness prevention work we are all doing.
So do the fun holiday traditions, gather as much as you can under the guidelines, enjoy family as best you can, and soon we will be back to a much better place.
Thank you for your continued support of the schools and our community's health.
Sincerely,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
Superintendent
Dodge House Donation Drive - A FHUHS Student’s R.E.A.L. Project
Please view the flyer here for more information: https://www.smore.com/xpe32
This drive is being held by the Slate Valley Unified School District. We hope to raise awareness of homeless Veterans, and support the Dodge House in Rutland, which "provides shelter, clothing, food, and an individualized program to reintegrate veterans back into the community and help them to achieve self sufficiency" (http://www.chcrr.org).
Donation boxes will be located in the front offices of all Slate Valley schools from March 29th and April 25th.
Dear Slate Valley Community Members,
On 3-29-21 we learned about an individual connected to Castleton Village School and Castleton Elementary School that has Coronavirus Disease. This individual was in attendance while contagious. Contact tracing has been completed and all close contacts have been identified. As always we are working closely with the Department of Health. We continue to advise our staff and students to stay home when sick. We recommend that you take action to help limit the spread of COVID-19, even if your child is not experiencing symptoms. This is especially important given that we know the virus is in our community.
Please read the full letter from Superintendent Olsen-Farrell: https://5il.co/r0ln
You’re invited to join us on March 31st at 6 PM for a Community Connections virtual discussion on District Reorganization.
Community Connections virtual chats are an opportunity for community members to have a conversation with Central Office administrators.
Join us by going to https://meet.google.com/jxr-qubs-ptw or by phone (US)+1 609-438-1179 (PIN: 408 338 127#)
Dear Slate Valley Families,
We have been through a lot this year and over the last four years as a Slate Valley Community. In the past four years we have experienced a threat to school safety and COVID-19. As a result, anxiety has increased for some of our staff, students and community members. The safety, social and emotional wellbeing of students, staff and our community continue to be priorities for Slate Valley as we move towards recovery.
As we move forward with recovery from the pandemic, we are also faced with the potential release of a person who threatened staff and students at Fair Haven Union High School. In 2018, the individual who threatened FHU was adjudicated as a youthful offender, a designation for a defendant under the age of 22 and facing charges within the adult criminal justice system. Youthful offender status only follows an individual through their 22nd birthday, which this individual will turn this year. In some cases these individuals are reintegrated into the community or area prior to the regulation of their youthful offender status. When someone is adjudicated as a youthful offender, information about that individual's whereabouts, treatment, or possible consequences cannot be shared. In this case the Department of Corrections and Department of Children/Families have joint oversight of this individual until his 22nd birthday which is in August. I pride myself on being able to accurately communicate when I have knowledge of matters which may impact our community, but in this case I don’t have any additional information. I have repeatedly asked for the information and have been denied access to the information. I have been left to assume there is a likelihood that this individual could return to Vermont in the very near future. If I did have the information, you would have the information as well.
Although I know I don’t have specific information on this one individual, I do know that we have been doing great work in terms of school safety and we will continue to be vigilant as a school community. If at any time you have concerns directly related to this individual or any safety concern, please contact local law enforcement. They take these calls very seriously and will promptly look into concerns.
I am fully aware of the anxiety that this may cause some of you on top of COVID-19. However, I felt the need to bring it to your attention as I believe you have the right to know as much as possible. Again, the safety, social and emotional wellbeing of students, staff and our community are the priorities for Slate Valley.
Below you can find contact information for those agencies or individuals you can contact if you are in need of support:
Students can contact their school counselors and other school support by calling the individual schools. To access community based support for mental health issues, please call Rutland Mental Health (for intake appointments) at 775-2381 or the Crisis Line at 775-1000.
Families/Community Members may also contact Rutland Mental Health (for intake appointments) at 775-2381 or the Crisis Line at 775-1000.
As in the past, we encourage community members to report any suspicious or concerning behaviors that may have a negative impact on schools within the District to your local law enforcement agency:
Fair Haven Police Department: 802-265-4531
Castleton Police Department: 802-468-5012
VT State Police Rutland Barracks: 802-773-9101
We are all in this together and we all need to do our part to take care of one another.
Sincerely,
Brooke Farrell, Superintendent
Below is a link to an annual survey seeking valuable family input. This survey asks families about student achievement, safety, and overall climate at CES. It will take about 10 minutes to complete and will be open until April 9th. The results will be used to address any areas families are concerned about. We will also celebrate areas families think we are doing well in. We will provide the results before the end of the school year. Please give us your input, and we thank you for your time.
https://uconn.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_80t9Hr0SHo6NXam
A huge thank you for the book donation from the Boys and Girls Club at Castleton Elementary School!
Reminder! Tonight (March 22, 2021)
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board (Virtual) Meeting
Fair Haven Union High School, 6:30 p.m.
Participation will be VIRTUAL ONLY. Connect by going to http://meet.google.com/yyb-ypeg-juu or join by phone (US)+1 617-675-4444 PIN: 867 675 227 0575#
Tonight’s Agenda: https://5il.co/qtk1
Previous Meeting Minutes: https://5il.co/qgoh
Pictures from CES Crazy Hair Day!
It's School Spirit Week at CES! Wednesday was Wear Green Day. Check out these shots!
We have two games featuring the CES/CVS/OVS Grade 5/6 combined teams this afternoon streaming on the CES Athletics YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/2PcjHb1. At 4:30 the Grade 5/6 girls take on the FHGS/BVS Grade 5/6 girls. That game will be followed by the 6th grade boys vs the FHGS 5/6 boys team with tip off scheduled for 6:00.
This afternoon at 5:00 we have a basketball game between the FHGS/BVS 5/6 Boys and the CES/OVS 5th Grade Boys that will be streaming live on the FHGS Athletics YouTube channel here: https://bit.ly/2QjfhQr
Link Updated: meet.google.com/uew-eubv-gvi
Join us this afternoon at 3:30 PM for a virtual meeting to discuss our draft Title I Parent Involvement Policy (E-1). This meeting will be an opportunity for parents to provide feedback on the policy.
In an effort to focus our work on Wednesday afternoon, please review a draft Title I Parent Involvement Policy https://5il.co/qm74 and accompanying draft procedures https://5il.co/qm6y. These two drafts will be considered in relation to the Title I Parent/Family Engagement Toolkit https://5il.co/qm6u provided by the Vermont Agency of Education.
Meeting ID: http://meet.google.com/uew-eubv-gvi
Phone Number: +1 443-671-8799
PIN: 834 838 577#
Here are some shots of our Friday Fun activities!
This afternoon on the FHGS Athletics YouTube Channel, https://bit.ly/3dX3Nf7, the FHGS/BVS Grade 5/6 Boys will take on the CES/CVS/OVS 6th Grade Boys with tip off scheduled for 5:00.
Rosters for the FHGS/BVS team can be found here: https://bit.ly/3lm0Je5
Rosters for the CES/CVS/OVS team can be found here: https://bit.ly/3cDWs1S
Student teacher Ms. Patch drumming with our students!
This Week!
The Slate Valley Unified School Board is hosting a week of Virtual Listening Tours beginning on March 16th to continue the discussion on district reorganization. Listening tours are an opportunity to have a conversation with board members. You may attend any of the meetings - regardless of which town you reside in.
Please join us at 6 p.m. for a discussion about district reorganization on the following dates:
March 16th with Tim, Julie, Toni, Josh, and Christine (Castleton/Hubbardton) Join with Google Meet https://meet.google.com/wyi-oqrg-pnc or join by phone (US) +1 209-850-2378 (PIN: 574504536)
March 17th with Pati, Becky, Beckah, Peter, Glen, and John (Benson/Orwell) Join with Google Meet at https://meet.google.com/ifr-ijcb-qdc or join by phone (US) +1 573-343-8213 (PIN: 143009028)
March 18th with Mike, Rick, Tara, Tanya, and Angela (Fair Haven/West Haven) Join with Google Meet https://meet.google.com/ust-vwqk-mmx or join by phone join by phone (US) +1 786-592-9982 (PIN: 735144976)
We have a basketball doubleheader this afternoon on the CES Athletics YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/2NDiUiX
At 4:30 the CES/CVS/OVS Grade 5/6 Girls take on Christ the King - Rutalnd. Following the conclusion of that game the CES/OVS Grade 5 Boys take on their district counterparts from FHGS/BVS with tip off scheduled for 6:00.
CES/CVS/OVS team rosters can be found here: https://bit.ly/30Jbf5A
Tonight! (Monday, March 15) Please join us for a virtual community conversation on school safety at 6 PM.
This meeting will be an opportunity to discuss in more detail some of our infrastructure upgrades, the threat assessment process, drills as well as our planning process.
Join with Google Meet http://meet.google.com/jpc-hjfw-qcu or by phone (US) +1 413-998-6051 PIN: 650 703 945#
Today the FHGS/BVS 5/6 basketball teams take on their district counterparts the CES/CVS/OVS 5/6 teams and both games will be streaming live starting at 4:30 on the FHGS Athletics YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3dX3Nf7
The girls are scheduled to tip off at 4:30 and will be followed by the boys at 6:00.
FHGS/BVS rosters can be found here: https://bit.ly/3c0mnjY CES/CVS/OVS rosters can be found here: https://bit.ly/3qkW64N
Students in Mrs. Ray's class used the book Every Month is a New Year by Marilyn Singer and Susan L. Roth, to compare how their families celebrate the New Year with other traditions around the world. Students created posters to illustrate their differences. This book was given to each classroom here at Castleton Elementary School through the CLIF Momentum Grant.
4th Graders posed as beavers while building a dam at recess!
The Slate Valley Unified School Board is hosting a week of Virtual Listening Tours beginning on March 16th to continue the discussion on district reorganization.
Listening tours are an opportunity to have a conversation with board members. You may attend any of the meetings - regardless of which town you reside in.
Please join us at 6 p.m. for a discussion about district reorganization on the following dates:
March 16th with Tim, Julie, Toni, Josh, and Christine (Castleton/Hubbardton)
Join with Google Meet https://meet.google.com/wyi-oqrg-pnc or join by phone (US) +1 209-850-2378 (PIN: 574504536)
March 17th with Pati, Becky, Beckah, Peter, Glen, and John (Benson/Orwell)
Join with Google Meet at https://meet.google.com/ifr-ijcb-qdc or join by phone (US) +1 573-343-8213 (PIN: 143009028)
March 18th with Mike, Rick, Tara, Tanya, and Angela (Fair Haven/West Haven)
Join with Google Meet https://meet.google.com/ust-vwqk-mmx or join by phone join by phone (US) +1 786-592-9982 (PIN: 735144976)
Please join us for a virtual community conversation on school safety on Monday, March 15 at 6 PM.
This meeting will be an opportunity to discuss in more detail some of our infrastructure upgrades, the threat assessment process, drills as well as our planning process.
Meeting ID http://meet.google.com/jpc-hjfw-qcu
Phone Number (US) +1 413-998-6051
PIN: 650 703 945#
Reminder! Tonight (March 8, 2021)
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board (Virtual) Meeting
6:30 PM
Participation will be VIRTUAL ONLY. Connect by going to http://meet.google.com/jzz-apgt-bsw Or join by phone (US) +1 617-675-4444 PIN: 849 660 115 6341#
Tonight’s Agenda: https://5il.co/q7z6
Previous Meeting Minutes: https://5il.co/pibk
Today the FHGS/BVS 5/6 basketball teams take on their district counterparts the CES/CVS/OVS 5/6 teams and both games will be streaming live starting at 4:30 on the FHGS Athletics YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3dX3Nf7
The girls are scheduled to tip off at 4:30 and will be followed by the boys at 6:00.
FHGS/BVS rosters can be found here: https://bit.ly/3c0mnjY
CES/CVS/OVS rosters can be found here: https://bit.ly/3qkW64N
Thank you to the Slate Valley community for your support!
Here are the results from Town Meeting Day:
Budget: Yes- 868 No- 810
Transfer of $882,500 to the Reserve: Yes- 1028 No-565
School Board Members elected (all incumbents):
Tara Buxton
Pati Beaumont-Stannard
Peter Stone
Rebecca Spears
Toni Lobdell
Christine Pouliot
Do these look like boring paper bags? Well, they aren't! Inside, families will find fun activities to do together. Enjoy!
Please join us for a virtual community conversation on school safety on Monday, March 15 at 6 PM.
This meeting will be an opportunity to discuss in more detail some of our infrastructure upgrades, the threat assessment process, drills as well as our planning process.
Meeting ID http://meet.google.com/jpc-hjfw-qcu
Phone Number (US) +1 413-998-6051
PIN: 650 703 945#
Tomorrow we have two home games featuring the combined CES/OVS Grade 5/6 basketball teams that'll be streaming live over on our YouTube channel, which can be found here: https://bit.ly/2NDiUiX
At 4:30 the girls' team tips off vs the combined FHGS/BVS team. That game will be followed at 6:00 by the boys' team playing the combined FHGS/BVS team.
Save the Date!
The Slate Valley Unified School Board is hosting a week of Virtual Listening Tours beginning on March 16th to continue the discussion on district reorganization.
Listening tours are an opportunity to have a conversation with board members. You may attend any of the meetings - regardless of which town you reside in. Please join us at 6 p.m. for a discussion about district reorganization on the following dates:
March 16th with Tim, Julie, Toni, Josh, and Christine (Castleton/Hubbardton)
Join with Google Meet https://meet.google.com/wyi-oqrg-pnc or join by phone (US) +1 209-850-2378 (PIN: 574504536)
March 17th with Pati, Becky, Beckah, Peter, Glen, and John (Benson/Orwell)
Join with Google Meet at https://meet.google.com/ifr-ijcb-qdc or join by phone (US) +1 573-343-8213 (PIN: 143009028)
March 18th with Mike, Rick, Tara, Tanya, and Angela (Fair Haven/West Haven)
Join with Google Meet https://meet.google.com/ust-vwqk-mmx or join by phone join by phone (US) +1 786-592-9982 (PIN: 735144976)
Snowstorm Recess!
This video was played during the SVUUSD Annual Informational Meeting on February 22, 2021. It features scenes from around the district this school year: http://shorturl.at/rvEVX
Tonight! (February 22, 2021)
Slate Valley voters are invited to join us for a virtual informational meeting.
Virtually connect by going to http://meet.google.com/yjx-xnzo-dpq or by calling (US) +1 402-337-4387 PIN: 505 127 437#
Resources
Annual Report: https://5il.co/pc7r
Budget PowerPoint (PDF): https://5il.co/pjwn
Budget Newsletter: https://5il.co/pgqm
Reminder - Slate Valley voters are invited to join us for a virtual informational meeting on Monday, February 22, 2021.
Virtually connect by going to http://meet.google.com/yjx-xnzo-dpq or by calling (US) +1 402-337-4387 PIN: 505 127 437#
Resources
Annual Report: https://5il.co/pc7r
Budget PowerPoint (PDF): https://5il.co/pqu5
Budget Newsletter: https://5il.co/pgqm
A third grader made this for Mrs. Prehoda. Can you tell what her favorite animal is? This third grader did an awesome job on this poster!
CES students made kindness cards for our senior citizens. They will be delivered to them today!
Reminder - tomorrow!
Saturday, February 13
10 a.m. to Noon
Slate Valley and Fair Haven Concerned Essential Food Box Distribution Day
Families within the Slate Valley School District are invited to pick up a Food Box.
Good afternoon,
We are excited to announce the launch of our YouTube channels for our grade 5-8 athletics teams. These channels will be based on gym locations, rather than teams, to allow for the possibility of more than one event to be streamed at one time. On these channels, you’ll be able to watch live streamed athletic events via YouTube Live.
Channels:
Castleton Elementary School: https://bit.ly/3da2Xvj
Castleton Village School: https://bit.ly/3qbxJaM
Fair Haven Grade School: https://bit.ly/3tQ9Ebt
Visit the new channels and be sure you subscribe and turn on notifications to be automatically notified when there is a live stream taking place.
Athletics update: Tomorrow afternoon, we will be sharing details about Friday’s sporting events - including information on how you can view them.
A message from the Vermont Department of Health:
The Health Department has detected an increase in COVID-19 activity in Rutland County during the last two weeks.
What we know is:
Rutland City and some surrounding towns now have evidence of increased rates, multiple household clusters and workplaces with cases.
Surrounding towns with increased rates include Benson, Pittsford, Castleton, West Haven and Fair Haven.
At this time we are seeing an increased number of cases that are not known to be associated with an outbreak, which is an indication of more widespread community transmission. We are sharing this information to encourage community-wide public health interventions.
Our area is seeing an increase in COVID-19 activity. Take these prevention steps to help slow the spread:
-Stay home if you are sick.
-Wash your hands often.
-Keep your social circle to only the people you live with.
-Stay at least 6 feet apart from people you do not live with.
-Wear a mask any time you are around people you do not live with.
See the complete message and resources from the Department of Health: https://5il.co/pieg
Our SROs pitch in wherever they can!
Good afternoon,
All after school activities have been canceled for today (2/9/21) due to weather conditions.
This fourth grader sure knows how to relax and recharge at recess!
Reminder! Tonight (February 8, 2021)
Your invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board (Virtual) Meeting
Fair Haven Union High School, 6:30 p.m.
Participation will be VIRTUAL ONLY. Connect by going to http://meet.google.com/ddd-acaw-zxq Or join by phone (US) +1 617-675-4444 PIN: 267 808 206 8448#
Tonight’s Agenda: https://5il.co/peud
Previous Meeting Minutes: https://5il.co/p31h
Slate Valley and Fair Haven Concerned Essential Food Box Distribution Day
Saturday, February 13
10 a.m. - Noon
Families within the Slate Valley School District are invited to pick up a Food Box.
Dear Slate Valley Community,
I am aware that bill S.63 “An act relating to the prohibition of school resource officers” was recently introduced in the Senate Education Committee. This bill proposes to prohibit schools from contracting for the services of school resource officers. Some of the national data has clearly demonstrated a disparate level of law enforcement treatment of communities of color that have resulted in increased arrests, expulsion and suspensions. However, we have been very pleased with the level of professionalism of our school based law enforcement officers and have established clear roles, responsibilities and practices that have prioritized positive interactions, mentoring, community building and steered clear from law enforcement being seen as disciplinarians and enforcement focused. Resource officers in schools have proven to provide an opportunity to create, and support relationships that strengthen our communities. In an effort to provide equity in our communities, inequities will be created by the removal of resource officers from our schools for Slate Valley.
As Superintendent, I am opposed to this bill due to our past and current experiences with our school resource officers. If you have questions regarding this bill I would encourage you to reach out to your legislators. Rest assured that I know how important our School Resource Officer program is to our district and will do everything in my power to ensure that this bill in its current language does not become law.
Several years ago our community was impacted by a potential threat that resulted in a level of stress and anxiety that is still being felt today. The safety of our students, faculty and staff will always be our top priority. As such we will continue to take appropriate measures to address any school safety concerns.
Link to Bill S.63: https://legislature.vermont.gov/Documents/2022/Docs/BILLS/S-0063/S-0063%20As%20Introduced.pdf
Sincerely,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell, Superintendent
Check out our February newsletter here: https://5il.co/pc2g
Dear Slate Valley Community Member,
On 2-2-21 we learned about an individual at Castleton Elementary School that has Coronavirus Disease. This individual was in attendance last week while contagious. Contact tracing has been completed. As always we are working closely with the Department of Health. We continue to advise our staff and students to stay home when sick. We recommend that you take action to help limit the spread of COVID-19, even if your child is not experiencing symptoms. This is especially important given that we know the virus is in our community.
Please read the full letter from Superintendent Olsen-Farrell here: https://5il.co/p86h
Good Evening,
Due to the impending weather conditions all Slate Valley Schools will be closed tomorrow, February 2nd. Stay safe and enjoy your day!
Brooke Farrell, Superintendent
Dear Slate Valley Community Member,
This is hard and there is no way to make everyone happy, except of course to say that the pandemic is over and we can return to whatever “normal” will look like. I know people are hurting. This has been an incredibly difficult year for our students, families and staff. We need everyone to remember that we are all humans and all are dealing with different challenges that the pandemic has presented, there is sacrifice, compassion and understanding needed by us all.
It was both unfortunate and necessary that FHUHS and FHGS needed to go remote this week but given the amount of students and staff quarantining it was the only decision. We are planning on returning to in person learning for FHUHS and FHGS on Monday February 1st. Additional, positive cases have been identified and those students are isolating according to the Department of Health Guidelines. Some of these cases are due to high school athletics and in consultation with the Department of Health we will be moving back to Phase I for High School Winter Sports for Monday, February 1st and Tuesday, February 2nd. This means that only non-contact drills will be allowed. We will monitor this situation and make a decision on a day to day basis on the status of practices.
Each and every student and staff member is important to me and as such every decision I make is weighed very carefully. Our students deserve every safe opportunity we can give them to access in-person learning. Our staff has had an incredible lift this year as we have changed everything we do related to school. They show-up each day ready to take on these new challenges because they believe that is what is best for your children, our students. It is incumbent upon us all to keep them safe as well.
There is always risk in everything we do and we need to weigh carefully those risks and make the very best decisions possible. There have been many sleepless nights as I weigh those risks and make sure I do what is right for the community, staff and most importantly our students.
There is risk with staying in person and there is risk with going remote. With remote learning, I worry about having the ability to pay our hourly staff if the remote period is a long time. I worry about our students in homes without support. I worry about further spreading the virus as if we are remote, students have more opportunities to visit each others' homes. I worry about parents losing their jobs and having an inability to pay for food and housing. I worry about political backlash from the community and the fallout for staff (This is one thing I wish I didn’t have to worry about but I do). I worry about the ability of our staff to balance teaching our students and being able to support their own kids in remote learning. I worry about the mental health and isolation of all in a remote environment.
With staying in person I worry about in school transmission, although extremely unlikely, not impossible. I worry about the isolation from colleagues. I worry the exhaustion of staff in making sure the social distancing guidelines are being followed. I worry about the concern the staff has for their students and colleagues and the toll on individual mental health.
I know some of you are concerned for a variety of different reasons. I understand your concern and share some of those concerns. We are in the middle of a pandemic and things can’t and won’t be the same. I know that while at times we might disagree with the best way to approach things please know that we always have safety front and center. If we continue to work together and support one another as we work through these challenges, we will be stronger as a community. We need your help in this if we want to continue in person learning and other activities, then we must adhere to the guidelines.
Best,
Brooke Farrell
Reminder! Tonight (January 25, 2021)
You’re invited (virtually) to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Participation will be VIRTUAL ONLY. Connect by going to http://meet.google.com/qag-fpgi-dtn or by calling (US) +1 617-675-4444 PIN: 658 282 596 9955#
Tonight’s Agenda: https://5il.co/osjy
Outdoor classrooms continue at CES. As one wise 5th grader said: "This is where the Science happens!"
Tonight!
Community Connections: A Virtual Meeting with Slate Valley Central Office Administrators
January 20th
6 - 7 PM
Join with Google Meet https://meet.google.com/cvi-tned-tyc
or by phone(US) +1 402-527-4082 (PIN: 450007785)
Dear Slate Valley Community Member,
On 1-15-21 we learned about an individual at Castleton Elementary School that has Coronavirus Disease. This individual was in attendance while contagious. Contact tracing is underway and anyone with possible exposure has been notified and sent home until a final determination on quarantine can be made. We expect to have contact tracing completed by the end of the day today. As always we are working closely with the Department of Health. We continue to advise our staff and students to stay home when sick. We recommend that you take action to help limit the spread of COVID-19, even if your child is not experiencing symptoms. This is especially important given that we know the virus is in our community.
Please read the full letter from Superintendent Olsen-Farrell here: https://5il.co/onre
Community Connections: A Virtual Meeting with Slate Valley Central Office Administrators
January 20th
6 - 7 PM
Join with Google Meet https://meet.google.com/cvi-tned-tyc
or by phone(US) +1 402-527-4082 (PIN: 450007785)
Tonight!
Topics: Budget Outlook & District Reorganization
Please take this opportunity to learn about the upcoming budget outlook as well as continue the discussion about the board's plans for district reorganization.
Join us at 6 p.m. to discuss the upcoming budget and district reorganization on the following dates.
Jan. 12th with Mike, Rick, Tara, Tanya, and Angela (Fair Haven/West Haven) https://meet.google.com/bsc-wcrm-zbw or join by phone (US) +1 929-287-3647 (PIN: 876141866)
Jan. 13th with Tim, Julie, Toni, Josh, and Christine (Castleton/Hubbardton) https://meet.google.com/qok-edco-jhq or join by phone (US) +1 401-285-6400 (PIN: 766569448)
Jan. 14th with Pati, Becky, and Beckah (Benson) https://meet.google.com/rat-adyy-xye or join by phone (US)+1 929-266-1990 (PIN: 284595478)
Jan. 14th with Peter, Glen, and John (Orwell) https://meet.google.com/rat-adyy-xye or join by phone (US) +1 585-535-3234 (PIN: 48340626)
Reminder! Tonight (January 11, 2021)
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board (VIRTUAL) Meeting
Fair Haven Union High School, 6:30 p.m.
Participation will be VIRTUAL ONLY. Connect by going to https://meet.google.com/bfa-wnzj-tio or by calling (US) +1 317-961-0599 PIN: 177 396 689#.
Tonight’s Agenda: https://5il.co/o9q3
Previous Meeting Minutes: https://5il.co/nxpn
Topics: Budget Outlook & District Reorganization
Please take this opportunity to learn about the upcoming budget outlook as well as continue the discussion about the board's plans for district reorganization.
Currently the board is exploring a plan for district reorganization that would include the consolidation of all district middle school students to the high school beginning with the 2022-2023 school year. This would result in the closure or educational repurposing of Castleton Village School. Sixth grade students in Castleton would then attend Castleton Elementary School.
To address the anticipated low enrollment of middle school students in Benson Village School, the board voted on December 7th in favor of in-district school choice (with transportation) for 7th and 8th grade students for the 2021-2022 school year.
Listening tours are an opportunity to have a conversation with your board members. Please join us at 6 p.m. to discuss the upcoming budget and district reorganization on the following dates.
Jan. 12th with Mike, Rick, Tara, Tanya, and Angela (Fair Haven/West Haven) https://meet.google.com/bsc-wcrm-zbw or join by phone (US) +1 929-287-3647 (PIN: 876141866)
Jan. 13th with Tim, Julie, Toni, Josh, and Christine (Castleton/Hubbardton) https://meet.google.com/qok-edco-jhq or join by phone (US) +1 401-285-6400 (PIN: 766569448)
Jan. 14th with Pati, Becky, and Beckah (Benson) https://meet.google.com/rat-adyy-xye or join by phone (US)+1 929-266-1990 (PIN: 284595478)
Jan. 14th with Peter, Glen, and John (Orwell) https://meet.google.com/rat-adyy-xye or join by phone (US) +1 585-535-3234 (PIN: 48340626)
First graders enjoying the snow at dismissal.
Dear Slate Valley Families,
I know thus far that 2021 has proven to be a trying time for our community, state and country. Furthermore, I know that anxiety is at an all time high. We have had 8 reported cases of COVID connected to either a staff member or student since November. The prevalence of these cases has escalated in the last few weeks. Up until this point we remained relatively unscathed.
Please note that we work closely with health officials. We follow the Agency of Education Safe and Healthy Start Guidance. So far we have not had any in-school transmission of the virus. This means that while in school, an individual has not spread it to another individual in the school setting. All the transmission has been community based to date, meaning the exposure occurred outside of school. Although this is the case, we are swift and thorough with tracing possible in-school close contacts and through the Department of Health, quarantine them to observe for symptoms until they can get tested. By following the guidelines, close contacts are kept to a minimum in the school setting.
From this point forward, we will only be notifying Slate Valley families when a case specifically impacts the operations of the school, meaning that the employee or student was in attendance while contagious. We know COVID is widespread in our communities.
I also wanted to let you know that staff has been able to get tested at work since November. While this is voluntary, we have a large number of staff that are being tested on a regular basis. So far these tests have all yielded negative results.
I take my job very seriously when it comes to student and staff safety. There are no easy answers for any of us. There are risks to learning in person and there are risks to moving to remote learning. Some of the risks to moving to remote learning include the impact on mental health, child abuse going unreported, learning loss, and further spread of the virus in the community as students have greater opportunity to congregate without protective measures and parents needing to leave their jobs thus increasing poverty. We look at the data and weigh the risks in order to make the very best decision possible for our kids. That being said I encourage you to work with your building principals if you have concerns. We all need to support each other during this very difficult time.
All the best,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
Superintendent
Bus 6 students: The changes have been made to the new bus assignments for Bus 6 students. Mrs. Ward has contacted all families of CES students and Mr. Worthing will go over the changes with CVS students. Please contact the school if you have questions about the new bus changes.
There's a real focus on kindness at CES!
Slate Valley Unified School District is seeking temporary part-time Custodians, up to 25 hours per week, during the COVID pandemic to maintain the cleanliness of the school facilities as well as 1 regular part-time Custodian 20 hours per week. Custodial experience preferred.
For additional information, contact Chris Cole, Director of Operations at 265-4905 or email [email protected].
This position will remain open until filled. E O E
Good morning,
Please be aware of the following bus change:
Bus 6 - As of Monday, 1/11/21, Bus 6 will no longer run in Castleton. Those students who currently ride Bus 6 will ride either Bus 7 or Bus 8. We should know which students will be on Bus 7 and which will be on Bus 8 before the end of the week. We will let you know as soon as we know details from the bus company.
Dear Slate Valley Community Member,
On 12-29-20 we learned about 2 individuals with Coronavirus Disease at the Castleton Elementary School. These individuals were not in attendance while contagious and therefore there is no need for contact tracing in our school community. We recognize that this is the third case in the last week at Castleton Elementary School. However, at this time we believe transmission did not occur in the school environment and is community based. We are working closely with the Department of Health and at this time we still plan to return in person on January 4th. We recommend that you take action to help limit the spread of COVID-19, even if your child is not experiencing symptoms. This is especially true going into the holiday break and knowing the virus is in our communities.
Please read the complete letter from Superintendent Olsen-Farrell here: https://5il.co/o7s3
Slate Valley MS Athletics -Grades 5-8 - Winter Sports Registration Reopened
Please go to Formreleaf.com and register your athlete for winter bball.
Registration will close on Jan 3rd at 6am - This will be the last opportunity to register, it will not be reopened.
Reminder - Yearly sports physicals are required (every 14 months)
Middle School Basketball for Slate Valley can start as early as Jan 11th. Please check the Slate Valley App for practice and game schedules. That is where you will find changes and updates.
Thank you,
Kim Alexander
Dear Slate Valley Community Member,
On 12-24-20 we learned about a person with Coronavirus Disease at the Castleton Elementary School. This person was in attendance while contagious and therefore contact tracing is underway. The School has already reached out to those impacted. We recommend that you take action to help limit the spread of COVID-19, even if your child is not experiencing symptoms. This is especially true going into the holiday break and knowing the virus is in our communities.
Please read the complete letter from Superintendent Olsen-Farrell: https://5il.co/o6rq
Hello all -
Winter sports practices have been given the go ahead. Practices for Slate Valley 5-8 teams will begin the week of January 11, 2021.
We will be implementing practices with strict guidelines, including the wearing of masks, maintaining 6 foot distancing and no physical contact. At this point intra squad scrimmages and interscholastic competitions are prohibited, but will be revisited.
This is a wonderful opportunity for our athletes. To ensure that we can begin and maintain a winter sports season, I ask you to please remember to follow all safety measures, including travel and multi family guidelines. If your athlete will be traveling or is sick please keep them home and follow the Covid guidelines.
I will be working on a practice schedule over break, which will be uploaded onto the Slate Valley app.
We are still looking to fill some coaching slots.If you are interested or know of anyone, please have them contact me at: [email protected]. The following positions are open: CES/CVS: 5/6 Boys head coach and assistant coach. 5/6 Girls assistant coach, 7/8 Boys assistant coach.
Thank you,
Kim
Dear Slate Valley Community Member,
On 12-22-20 we learned about a person with Coronavirus Disease at the Fair Haven Union High School. This person was not in attendance while contagious and therefore no special actions need to be taken. We recommend that you take action to help limit the spread of COVID-19, even if your child is not experiencing symptoms. This is especially true going into the holiday break and knowing the virus is in our communities.
Please read the full letter from Superintendent Olsen-Farrell with links to resources here: https://5il.co/o60d
Even in lots of snow, outdoor learning continues at CES!
Reminder! Tonight (December 14, 2020)
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Participation will be VIRTUAL ONLY. Connect by going to http:// meet.google.com/srb-bmfc-qwa OR BY CALLING (US) +1 320-416-1017 PIN: 600 914 747#
Tonight’s Agenda: https://5il.co/nw73
Substitute Teachers 2020-2021 Vacancies Slate Valley Unified Union School District is seeking Substitute Teachers for the 2020-2021 school year for an hourly rate of $15.00.
For the weeks of January 4th - 15th - anyone who substitutes in Slate Valley will be paid $15 per hour plus $30 a day bonus for each day they work.
All applicants must apply on https://www.schoolspring.com/. Positions will remain open until filled. EOE
Dear Slate Valley Families,
We have been fielding questions today about the possibility of Slate Valley going remote after December break as many of our neighboring districts have decided to go remote for a period of time beginning January 4th. While that is something that is always on the table should the data specific to Slate Valley indicate that it is appropriate, we do not have data in Slate Valley that would support that move at this time. As such, our intent is to remain in person as we return on January 4th. I continue to believe that in person learning is what is best for students, staff and our communities.
Our schools are some of the safest places for students and staff to be as we carefully follow the health and safety guidance. Of course student and staff safety is always our priority and we will adjust as the data indicates, but going remote is the very last thing we want to do. We continue to encourage students, staff and families to follow Vermont’s Health and Safety Guidance. If everyone continues to do their part, we will get through this together.
As always, please reach out if you have any questions.
Best,
Brooke Farrell, Superintendent
Students in grades K-4 library class, are learning about recycling, reducing and reusing waste. We have read the Red Clover book Crab Cake by Andrea Tsurumi about waste being dumped in the ocean. Students learned how to make a bag out of an old t-shirt!
Students in Ms. Russell's Kindergarten class read Horton Hears a Who by Dr. Seuss. This book was given to grades K-5 through the CLIF Momentum Grant at Castleton Elementary School. The students listened to the book and created artwork representing Horton's trunk holding a clover with the dust speck containing the Whos. Great job Kindergarten!
Second graders have been learning about adjectives. They created a self portrait, designed a mask, and described themselves using adjectives in “who they are behind the mask.” https://youtu.be/Oeb3FEqrNjs
Hello all -
I just wanted to update you all on MS Athletics in the Slate Valley District. Our afterschool athletic programs have been put on "hold" or "pause" for now, due to the rising cases of COVID around the state. I know that our student athletes are anxious to get started and I am anxious for them to get started. BUT, we have to follow guidelines and make sure everyone stays safe and healthy.
The registration for Winter Sports is OPEN until December 15th. Please sign up your athlete if he or she is interested. The site is Formreleaf.com. The day we get the green light to go, I will have practice schedules and will reschedule games. As of right now, I have taken off all games up until Jan 11th. As I get more information, I will be updating the Slate Valley App.
I am still looking for some Assistant basketball coaches and a 5/6 Head coach. Please if you are interested, go to Schoolsprings.com.
As always our student athletes health and safety are number one. Stay safe, be healthy. I will keep you updated.
All my best,
Kim Alexander
Students in Mrs.Ray's 5th grade read How to Read a Book, by Kwame Alexander provided to classrooms by the CLIF Momentum Grant. The book actually gives tips on how to read a book, with references to Bambi and eating oranges. Sound interesting? You bet! The students read and watched Bambi, while eating clementines. What a wonderful lesson incorporating so many aspects of this inspirational book!
Reminder! Tonight (December 7, 2020)
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Participation will be VIRTUAL ONLY. Connect by going to http://meet.google.com/pcg-apgw-ehr or by calling (US) +1 929-279-3293 PIN: 353 796 419#
Tonight’s Agenda: https://5il.co/nhqo
Previous Meeting Minutes: https://5il.co/ng0u
Upcoming Meetings:
December 14, 2020 - SV Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
December 14, 2020 - SV Building & Grounds Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
December 14, 2020 - SV Policy Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
Dear Slate Valley Families,
I know that the new Executive Order from the Governor has been confusing to navigate. First, please understand that an Executive Order from the Governor is law and we must as a school district follow it. In the very simplest of terms this order means that "except for school, students should only be having contact with immediate household members and/or caregivers as needed for parents to work. No visiting between friends/families outside of school is currently allowable and will result in quarantine." This will be in effect for the foreseeable future; we are expecting at least through mid-January.
There is a Frequently Asked Questions document from the State of Vermont which should help answer some of your questions and give you more details. Please click on the link to read the document.
Frequently Asked Questions https://5il.co/nkuv
If you have additional questions please contact the Vermont Department of Health. (802)863-7240, option 0
As of this moment we will not be including a question on multi-household gatherings in our screening process as we do not want to put our students in difficult situations. Instead we are asking that parents be honest and keep their children home to access learning remotely if they have violated this Executive Order. Please find the Executive Order linked below:
Executive Order https://5il.co/nkus
We fully recognize this is difficult but need your help to keep our schools open. If we find that students are not following the guidelines and then attending school, it may force us to move to remote learning. We know that is not what is best for our families and students and as such do not want to have to make that decision.
Sincerely,
Brooke Farrell, Superintendent
Reminder - You’re invited!
Slate Valley School Board Members are hosting a week of Virtual Listening Tours beginning tonight (November 30th).
Currently the board is exploring a plan for district reorganization that would include the consolidation of all district middle school students to the high school beginning with the 2022-2023 school year. This would result in the closure or educational repurposing of Castleton Village School. Sixth grade students in Castleton would then attend Castleton Elementary School. To address low enrollment of middle school students in Benson Village School, the board is considering in-district school choice (with transportation) for 7th and 8th grade students for the 2021-2022 school year.
Listening tours are an opportunity to have a conversation with your board members. Please join board members at 6 p.m. to discuss district reorganization on the following dates:
Nov. 30th with Tanya, Angela (West Haven) https://meet.google.com/bsc-wcrm-zbw or join by phone (US) +1 929-287-3647 (PIN: 876141866)
Nov. 30th with Josh, Christine (Hubbardton) https://meet.google.com/piw-sqjk-crt or join by phone (US) +1 470-208-3216 (PIN: 271699166)
Dec. 1st with Tim, Julie, Toni (Castleton) https://meet.google.com/byi-qppv-qgq or join by phone (US) +1 515-518-4964 (PIN: 853077567)
Dec. 2nd with Peter, Glen, John (Orwell) https://meet.google.com/viq-uxim-get?hs=122&authuser=0 or join by phone (US) +1 218-296-8729 (PIN: 318 417 490#)
Dec. 2nd with Mike, Rick Tara (Fair Haven) https://meet.google.com/cjv-qqvq-fhe or join by phone (US) +1 601-909-0134 (PIN: 703665728)
Dec. 3rd with Pati, Becky, Beckah (Benson) https://meet.google.com/ezx-zxdi-zct or join by phone (US) +1 605-777-0574 (PIN: 127269244)
Good Morning Slate Valley Families,
I would like to follow-up on the District letter from yesterday. I know yesterday’s news from the Governor was hard for all of us to digest and left many of us feeling unsettled right before an upcoming holiday. Put simply, schools are compelled to follow the state guidelines and executive orders from the Governor.
Our intent is to return to in-person learning on Monday November 30th, however it is undoubtedly becoming more and more difficult due to the increasing restrictions. Given that, the State has told schools that students who attend multi-house gatherings that are not in accordance with the Governor’s Executive Order (https://governor.vermont.gov/sites/scott/files/documents/ADDENDUM%208%20TO%20AMENDED%20AND%20RESTATED%20EXECUTIVE%20ORDER%2001-20_0.pdf) may not attend in person school without quarantining for 7-14 days. Therefore, we ask that if your child has attended a multi-house gathering that goes against the Executive Order that they NOT attend school in-person on Monday the 30th. Instead it is expected that they observe the 7-14 day quarantine and engage in learning remotely.
We have said time and time again that in-person learning is what is best for our students, staff and community. Schools are some of the safest places in terms of the virus as we follow the health guidance closely. Furthermore, please note that these new rules put our staff in an untenable position that isn’t of the schools’ making. We care deeply about the wellbeing of our students and staff and ask that if you are upset by the current rules that you contact the state and not take it out on our staff. We are simply trying to do our best for all at a very difficult time.
I would ask that you speak with your building principal if you have any questions or know your child needs to attend remotely beginning on the 30th.
All the best,
Brooke Farrell, Superintendent
Update from Governor Phil Scott’s press conference today:
The start of school sports for the winter season is postponed until further notice. The state of Vermont will assess information weekly to consider when the start to this season will begin.
The governor expressed the following during his remarks, “I hope adults realize the need to sacrifice to give our kids these experiences and keep them in school as much as possible.”
Schools are being encouraged to inquire about participation in multi-family gatherings during Thanksgiving Break. If a staff member is made aware of participation in a multi-family gathering that person may have to quarantine for 7-14 days.
You’re invited!
Slate Valley School Board Members are hosting a week of Virtual Listening Tours beginning on November 30th.
Currently the board is exploring a plan for district reorganization that would include the consolidation of all district middle school students to the high school beginning with the 2022-2023 school year. This would result in the closure or educational repurposing of Castleton Village School. Sixth grade students in Castleton would then attend Castleton Elementary School. To address low enrollment of middle school students in Benson Village School, the board is considering in-district school choice (with transportation) for 7th and 8th grade students for the 2021-2022 school year.
Listening tours are an opportunity to have a conversation with your board members. Please join board members at 6 p.m. to discuss district reorganization on the following dates:
Nov. 30th with Tanya, Angela (West Haven) https://meet.google.com/bsc-wcrm-zbw or join by phone (US) +1 929-287-3647 (PIN: 876141866)
Nov. 30th with Josh, Christine (Hubbardton) https://meet.google.com/piw-sqjk-crt or join by phone (US) +1 470-208-3216 (PIN: 271699166)
Dec. 1st with Tim, Julie, Toni (Castleton) https://meet.google.com/byi-qppv-qgq or join by phone (US) +1 515-518-4964 (PIN: 853077567)
Dec. 2nd with Peter, Glen, John (Orwell) https://meet.google.com/viq-uxim-get?hs=122&authuser=0 or join by phone (US) +1 218-296-8729 (PIN: 318 417 490#)
Dec. 2nd with Mike, Rick Tara (Fair Haven) https://meet.google.com/cjv-qqvq-fhe or join by phone (US) +1 601-909-0134 (PIN: 703665728)
Reminder! Tonight (November 23, 2020)
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Participation will be VIRTUAL ONLY. Connect by going to http://meet.google.com/dtb-pfqk-hrp or by calling (US) +1 414-909-6054 PIN: 721 315 535#
Tonight’s Agenda: https://5il.co/n63m
Previous Meeting Minutes: https://5il.co/n0de
Upcoming Meetings:
December 7, 2020 - SV Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m.
December 7, 2020 - SV Finance Meeting, 5:30 p.m.
December 14, 2020 - SV Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m.
December 14, 2020 - SV Building & Grounds Meeting, 5:30 p.m.
December 14, 2020 - SV Policy Meeting, 5:30 p.m.
First graders dancing during dismissal!
You’re invited!
Slate Valley School Board Members are hosting a week of Virtual Listening Tours beginning on November 30th.
Currently the board is exploring a plan for district reorganization that would include the consolidation of all district middle school students to the high school beginning with the 2022-2023 school year. This would result in the closure or educational repurposing of Castleton Village School. Sixth grade students in Castleton would then attend Castleton Elementary School.
To address low enrollment of middle school students in Benson Village School, the board is considering in-district school choice (with transportation) for 7th and 8th grade students for the 2021-2022 school year.
Listening tours are an opportunity to have a conversation with your board members. Please join board members at 6 p.m. to discuss district reorganization on the following dates:
Nov. 30th with Tanya, Angela (West Haven) https://meet.google.com/bsc-wcrm-zbw or join by phone (US) +1 929-287-3647 (PIN: 876141866)
Nov. 30th with Josh, Christine (Hubbardton) https://meet.google.com/piw-sqjk-crt or join by phone (US) +1 470-208-3216 (PIN: 271699166)
Dec. 1st with Tim, Julie, Toni (Castleton) https://meet.google.com/byi-qppv-qgq or join by phone (US) +1 515-518-4964 (PIN: 853077567)
Dec. 2nd with Peter, Glen, John (Orwell) https://meet.google.com/viq-uxim-get?hs=122&authuser=0 or join by phone (US)
+1 218-296-8729 (PIN: 318 417 490#)
Dec. 2nd with Mike, Rick Tara (Fair Haven) https://meet.google.com/cjv-qqvq-fhe or join by phone (US) +1 601-909-0134 (PIN: 703665728)
Dear Slate Valley Families,
I hope it goes without saying that we know how stressful the pandemic has been for everyone. We are all in this together and we will get through it. I want to remind everyone that our primary focus as a district is to keep everyone safe and remain open for in-person learning. However, as COVID cases begin to rise across the state and region we will only be as safe as our community makes us. It is on all of us to do the right thing and follow the state guidelines.
As the days wear on, we have noticed an increase in the number of student screening questions that are not being answered accurately. We are trying to do our very best as a district to comply with the State’s Health and Safety Guidance and we need families to help make sure the screening questions are accurately and completely answered. In order to keep our schools open and safe we need every single person to do their part. Community spread in Vermont is due to people traveling to restricted areas, not wearing masks and not practicing physical distancing from those outside your household. Please keep your child home if the screening indicates they should stay home. I cannot stress the importance of this enough.
Please do your part and let us know if you need support. We are here to help in these very difficult times.
Best,
Brooke Farrell
Superintendent
What are you planning for the holidays this year? It’s hard to imagine breaking with tradition and celebrating at home, but that is what a lot of Vermont families are deciding to do in 2020.
Travel increases your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19, and the way you celebrate this year will have an impact on your family, community, and Vermont.
Our ability to keep schools open relies on everyone doing their part. It’s easy to let our guard down among friends and family -- people we trust. But the fact is, we don’t know if they’ve been exposed to the virus, and it’s those times that the virus can spread very easily. Please keep this in mind as you consider holiday plans.
Resources
https://accd.vermont.gov/covid-19/restart/cross-state-travel
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html
5th graders building make believe horse jumps with branches from our woods. So cool!
Good morning,
Due to the rising COVID case counts in the Northeast effective today, November 10, 2020, the State of Vermont has suspended its leisure travel map and implemented a mandatory quarantine for anyone returning or traveling to Vermont.
https://accd.vermont.gov/covid-19/restart/cross-state-travel
Slate Valley Middle School Winter Sports Registration -- Is Now Open
Registration will be open from November 10 through December 15.
Please go to http://www.formreleaf.com
-Slate Valley Middle School
-Choose your school, sport and grade level
-Fill out the WHOLE form or resubmit if already in.
-REMINDER of yearly physical (upload or send to nurse)
-SAVE the information
-Check to make sure that your information is saved, you should receive verification.
Information will be coming of start dates for practices, games, etc. We will also be notifying you of ALL guidelines, restrictions, etc.
Thank you for your continued flexibility and support!
Reminder! Tonight (November 9, 2020)
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board meeting.
Fair Haven Union High School, 6:30 p.m.
Participation will be in person or virtually connect by going to http://meet.google.com/iso-hvnh-hhv or by calling (US) +1 405-656-0082 PIN: 628 068 926#
Tonight’s Agenda: https://5il.co/mvql
Previous Meeting Minutes: https://5il.co/mj5k
Upcoming Meetings:
November 23, 2020 - SV Board meeting, 6:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
November 23, 2020 - SV Buildings & Grounds Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
November 23, 2020 - SV Policy Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
Substitute Teachers
2020-2021 Vacancies
Slate Valley Unified Union School District is seeking Substitute Teachers for the 2020-2021 school year for an hourly rate of $15.00.
All applicants must apply on https://www.schoolspring.com/. Position will remain open until filled. EOE
Good afternoon,
The State of Vermont has updated the Cross State Travel Map: https://accd.vermont.gov/covid-19/restart/cross-state-travel.
As you will note, travel outside of the state of Vermont (including Washington County, NY) for non-essential reasons requires a 14 day quarantine.
Reminder of Parent Tech Night at CES:
Grades K-2: Wednesday, November 4, 6:00 - 6:45 PM http://www.meet.google.com/fqr-kfrn-dax
Grades 3-5: Wednesday, November 4, 6:45 - 7:30 PM http://www.meet.google.com/hsn-fnep-uys
Schoolwide Book Character Parade: https://youtu.be/OfxRf25jkL8
Good evening, here is a link to our COVID-19 guide: https://5il.co/ml9y. We hope you find this resource helpful. Note: This guide has been updated from the one (briefly) posted this afternoon to include a missing page.
Dear Slate Valley Families,
As the pandemic wears on, I know that the coming months may be especially difficult for everyone in our Slate Valley Community. I so appreciate all of your efforts and diligence as I know it has been challenging to say the least. For many of us, we miss our family and friends and long for a return to normal. I am hopeful that 2021 will bring with it a return to "normal" albeit a slow return. As we enter winter and the holiday season I would be remiss if I did not remind everyone of the holiday travel guidance from the CDC and the Vermont travel map which is now a sea of red and yellow. I know that as a result many of us will need to adjust our holiday/vacation plans and for that I am sorry. I am certainly hopeful for better days ahead.
Our primary goal is to remain in person for as long as possible with everyone healthy so as such I need to remind you that if students travel out of state during the holiday breaks they may need to quarantine before they return to school. We greatly appreciate your attention to this matter as it will take all of us to do our part. I have included some recent articles on Pandemic Fatigue and the rise of cases. As always please reach out with any questions.
Best,
Brooke Farrell
Superintendent
VT Digger: Pandemic Fatigue
https://vtdigger.org/2020/10/20/as-cases-rise-vermont-balances-economic-health-with-concerns-of-pandemic-fatigue/
NY Times: Pandemic Fatigue
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/10/17/us/coronavirus-pandemic-fatigue.html
CDC Coping with the Holidays
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html#thanksgiving
Cross State Travel
https://accd.vermont.gov/covid-19/restart/cross-state-travel
Good afternoon,
Here is the weekly update of the cross state travel map: https://accd.vermont.gov/covid-19/restart/cross-state-travel
The only Vermont border county that travel is allowed is Washington, NY. All other border counties now require a quarantine.
Kindergarten recess!
Chief Mantello came to CES to teach and review with Miss Burke's second-grade class about how to be prepared for ALICE. Everyone earned a sticker for their hard work!
We are very excited that Slate Valley is offering parent tutorials for our remote learning platforms. A huge thank you to Lisa Cacciatore and Rodney Batschelet Slate Valley's Technology Integrationists!
CES:
11/4 6 to 6:45pm for grades K-2 https://meet.google.com/fqr-kfrn-dax
11/4 6:45 to 7:30pm for grades 3-5 https://meet.google.com/hsn-fnep-uys
Good afternoon, here is the updated travel map for this week: https://accd.vermont.gov/covid-19/restart/cross-state-travel
Please note Washington County, NY is green again. However, many more counties adjacent to Vermont are now yellow and red.
Reminder, the FHUHS REAL Class's Care Package Donation Drive runs through Friday, October 23rd. For more information: https://www.smore.com/qumzr
Ms. Robertson's 4th grade, read "How to Read a Book" by author/illustrator Melissa Sweet. This book was one of our CLIF Momentum Grant gifts this year. The students created posters that were inspired by the illustration of the girl with the butterflies on page 6.
Tennis, anyone?
Open House! Castleton Elementary School's Virtual Open House will be on Wednesday, October 28th. We will have videos from all professional staff talking about the 2020-21 school year. All professional staff will be available for virtual meetings from 6 - 7 p.m. Feel free to contact staff directly if you'd like to meet.
Cross-state Travel Update - The cross-state travel map has been updated by the State of Vermont: https://accd.vermont.gov/covid-19/restart/cross-state-travel. Please be aware that Washington County, NY is now yellow again as are many other border counties.
The FHUHS REAL Class is holding a Care Package Donation Drive from October 12 through 23. Please visit: https://www.smore.com/qumzr for more information.
Reminder! Tonight (October 12, 2020)
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board meeting.
Fair Haven Union High School, 6:30 p.m.
Participation will be in person or virtually connect by going to http://meet.google.com/grn-jxau-emp or by calling (US) +1 225-414-2284 PIN: 456 101 981#
Tonight’s Agenda: https://5il.co/lvat
Previous Meeting Minutes: https://5il.co/lmhb
Upcoming Meetings:
November 9, 2020 - SV Board meeting, 6:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
November 9, 2020 - SV Finance Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
FHUHS REAL Class Sponsors a Care Package Donation Drive
Oct. 12th-Oct. 23rd
It is our goal to collect items to make over 50 care packages that can be given to homeless youth and families in need within our community.
Please Help us make this possible by donating the following foods and items:
Pop Top Canned Food
Packaged Crackers or Trail Mix
Youth or Adult Socks
Winter Hats
Soap
Mini Shampoo
Hand Lotion
Hand Warmers
All Donations can be dropped off at local drop boxes out front of FHUHS, Fair Haven Grade School, Castleton Village School or Benson Village School.
If you would like to make a donation but can’t make it to one of our drop boxes please feel free to contact Nicole Rice, [email protected] for pick up.
Dear Slate Valley Families,
We are very fortunate to be entering the 6th week of in-person learning in Slate Valley. Our district had one of the most aggressive plans for the return to school for our students in the state and to date it has been very successful. However, we are still in the midst of a pandemic and we all need to do our part. We do not want to find ourselves in a situation where we have to move to remote learning as we strongly believe that it is not what is best for our students.
As Halloween approaches we are hearing of different events that are being held in the communities of Slate Valley. We continue to remind everyone to take the health guidelines into consideration when planning activities. We know this is a difficult time for us all and especially our children. The CDC has released guidance (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html#halloween) on low, moderate, and high risk activities for celebration. We want all of our children to have fun and also remain safe and healthy. We truly care about the health and well-being of all of our Slate Valley Community.
Be well,
Brooke Farrell
Superintendent
Cross-state Travel Update - Please view the updated cross-state travel map: https://accd.vermont.gov/covid-19/restart/cross-state-travel. Washington and Essex Counties in NY are now green, so you can travel to those counties this weekend. Warren and Saratoga Counties (NY) remain on the quarantine list though. Also, while there are no travel restrictions within the state of Vermont, Addison, Bennington and Grand Isle Counties have a large increase in infection rates.
Substitute Teachers
2020-2021 Vacancies
Slate Valley Unified Union School District is seeking Substitute Teachers for the 2020-2021 school year for an hourly rate of $15.00. All applicants must apply on https://www.schoolspring.com/.
Position will remain open until filled.
EOE
The Boys & Girls Club of Rutland County announces the grand opening of a new Club right here in Castleton elementary.
Starting Monday, October 19th, we will open every day after school until 5:30. What does the Club offer your child? We help with homework and partner with teachers to make sure all of our members achieve academic success. We serve a nutritious snack daily, as well as a dinner. But most of all we provide fun, engaging activities to complement the school day.
Call the Club to register or to get information on fees: 802-747-4944. Or just stop by the school office to get an application, then turn it in to Club. We can’t wait to see you on the 19th!
We invite you to view our virtual October Assembly: http://www.shorturl.at/fjB06
Dear Slate Valley Families,
The Cross-State Travel map changed again today and many of the NY counties that border Vermont now require a 14 day quarantine if you travel there for non-essential activity. This includes Washington, Essex, Warren and Saratoga Counties.
Please know that as a school district we are required to enforce these rules by the Department of Health. This means that if your child travels to any of these areas for non-essential activities such as but not limited to apple picking, dance lessons, sports, funerals, etc they will be required to quarantine and will not be allowed to attend school in person.
If you have a question regarding this please call the Vermont Department of Health or visit the website https://accd.vermont.gov/covid-19/restart/cross-state-travel.
At CES, we simply have a beautiful place to learn!
Reminder! Tonight (September 28, 2020)
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board meeting.
Fair Haven Union High School, 6:30 p.m.
Participation will be in person or virtually connect by going to http://meet.google.com/pgv-bvyg-sux or by calling (US)+1 541-897-2511 PIN: 644 673 160#
Tonight’s Agenda: https://5il.co/lc2h
Previous Meeting Minutes: https://5il.co/l20l
Upcoming Meetings:
October 12, 2020 - SV Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
October 12, 2020 - SV Finance Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
November 9, 2020 - SV Board meeting, 6:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
November 9, 2020 - SV Finance Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
Students in second grade at CES have created daisies to match those in the poem September. The poem was found in the CLIF Momentum Grant book, Every Month is a New Year by Marilyn Singer.
Dear Slate Valley Families,
It was just announced in the Governor's Press Conference that Vermont schools will be allowed to operate in Stage III starting this Saturday, September 26th. For us in Slate Valley, this means that beginning this weekend we will be allowing athletic contests. Generally, speaking there are minimal changes between Stage II and Stage III in the school reopening guidance. As such, in all other areas we will be remaining status quo for the time being. We are doing well in no small part to the staff, students and community’s cooperation and we want to keep it that way. In the coming days and weeks I will be sending out further communication on changes you may see after 2 weeks in Stage III.
I know that the cross-state travel map has been frustrating for some families and I completely understand. Please know that as a school district we are compelled to follow requirements put forth by the State of Vermont. The map is now being updated on Tuesdays so families can plan their activities for the coming weekend. Please note that Washington County, NY is now off the map. However, Warren and Saratoga Counties in NY are still on the map so please, please plan your travel accordingly. We do not want to be in a position of asking your child to remain home from in-person learning. This does not benefit anyone. If you have questions please refer to the website: https://accd.vermont.gov/covid-19/restart/cross-state-travel/faqs and/or call the Vermont Department of Health. Also, according to the Vermont Department of Health apple picking is a leisure activity. I know this was not clear to a lot of families over the weekend.
Furthermore, we are so grateful for our school nurses. They truly have borne the brunt of the questions and enforcement of the COVID protocols. Please know that they must follow the guidelines put forth from the Vermont Department of Health and as such everyone is doing the best that they can in this difficult situation.
As always, thank you for your continued support and cooperation during these trying times.
Be well,
Brooke Farrell, Superintendent
Students are enjoying the bicycles from the Bike Smart program!
Free Giveaway
Saturday September 26th , 12-3 p.m.
Out back of Fair Haven Grade School
Mask required. Bring your own bags.
Free items including clothes, household items, and some toys! Everyone is invited to browse the items and take what you need.
Dear Slate Valley Families,
Thank you so very much for all of your patience and cooperation these last couple of weeks. The reopening of school has gone well due in no small part to all of your support. The cross-state travel map changed today and as such many of the counties that you may travel to in NY state are now on the travel restriction list. Please make sure to check this map if you are planning any travel out of state as it may impact your child's ability to attend school in person. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact your school administration.
https://accd.vermont.gov/covid-19/restart/cross-state-travel
Thank you and have a wonderful weekend!
Best,
Brooke Farrell, Superintendent
The 2020 Census ends on September 30th. Please take a few minutes at http://www.2020census.gov or call 844-330-2020 to make sure you count.
The bikes are here for two weeks! Thanks to the Bike Smart program for this opportunity!
Second grade outdoor learning and snack!
Reminder! Tonight (September 14, 2020)
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board meeting. Fair Haven Union High School, 6:30 p.m.
Participation will be in person or virtually connect by going to http://meet.google.com/sed-pvzz-bsy or by calling (US) +1 317-961-0599 PIN: 177 396 689#.
Tonight’s Agenda: https://5il.co/ksn7
Previous Meeting Minutes: http://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/browse/151952
Upcoming Meetings:
-September 28, 2020 - SV Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
-September 28, 2020 - SV Policy Committee Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
-September 28, 2020 - SV Building and Grounds Committee Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
-October 12, 2020 - SV Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
-October 12, 2020 - SV Finance Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (FHUHS)
Castleton Elementary School has received the CLIF Momentum Grant! All grades K-5 received six different picture books to read to their students. Each class will do a project of their choice to accompany each book. This week Ms. Robertson's 4th grade class made posters relating to the book "Someone New," by Anne Sibley O'Brien.
Kim Hetrick is a talented landscaper! Thanks to a generous community donation, we had our front landscaping redone this summer. Looks fabulous. Thanks to Kim!
Mrs. Parrott's "Art On A Cart" has style!
Morning Health Checks at CES
Welcome back, CES students!
A video from Mrs. Prehoda, CES Principal: https://www.facebook.com/CastletonElementarySchool/videos/627070114850622/
Congratulations to all of our exceptional Slate Valley Staff!
District Awards Video: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vsLm7iXGI7Qqws3GukYbnNNLLFosJZJ4/view?usp=sharing
Award Recipients:
SVUUSD Executive Awards
Fair Haven: Library/Tech Integration Team - Maggie McGarry, Lisa Cacciatore & Rodney Batschelet
FHUHS: FHUHS Counseling Department
UVM Outstanding Teacher Award
Castleton Village: Annie Crumb
FHUHS: M. Susan Cornell
SVUUSD Outstanding Teacher Award
Benson: Jessica Thurston
Castleton Elementary: Jenna Ray
Castleton Village: Annie Crumb
Fair Haven: Katie Hart
FHUHS: M. Susan Cornell
Orwell: Francine Broughton
Instructional Assistant Award
Benson: Greta Doran
Castleton Elementary: Amy Cotton
Castleton Village: Jill McClure
Fair Haven: Lisa Brough
FHUHS: Robin Sheldrick
Orwell: Amy Messer
SVUUSD Special Service Award Letter
Slate Valley Technology Team
CES is Proud to Present its Masked Marvels:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iwVBc2R88G08qzNwKVjghxdBe4iTvx-H/view?usp=sharing
This is a video showing students what their teachers will look like wearing their masks.
VAC: We just learned that VAC, who usually offers a program after school in one of our classrooms, has decided they will not offer a program this year. We wanted to let parents know of their decision.
Reminder: Food Box Distribution Day
Thursday, August 27th
10am - 11am
Nursing Substitutes
2020-2021 Vacancies
Slate Valley Unified Union School District is seeking Nursing Substitutes for the 2020-2021 school year for an hourly rate of $30.00. All applicants must apply on https://www.schoolspring.com/.
Position will remain open until filled.
EOE
Looking for temporary, part-time work?
Slate Valley Unified School District is seeking temporary part-time Custodians, up to 25 hours per week, during the COVID pandemic to maintain the cleanliness of the school facilities. Custodial experience preferred.
For additional information contact Chris Cole, Director of Operations at 265-4905 or email [email protected].
This position will remain open until filled. E O E
Food Box Distribution Day
Thursday August 27th
10am - 11am
Substitute Teachers
2020-2021 Vacancies
Slate Valley Unified Union School District is seeking Substitute Teachers for the 2020-2021 school year for an hourly rate of $15.00. All applicants must apply on https://www.schoolspring.com/.
Position will remain open until filled.
EOE
Good morning, please view the Slate Valley Reopening Plan: https://5il.co/jkgt. This plan will be updated frequently as new guidance becomes available.
Looking for temporary, part-time work?
Slate Valley Unified School District is seeking temporary part-time Custodians, up to 25 hours per week, during the COVID pandemic to maintain the cleanliness of the school facilities. Custodial experience preferred.
For additional information contact Chris Cole, Director of Operations at 265-4905 or email [email protected].
This position will remain open until filled.
E O E
Reminder: The Slate Valley budget vote is today.
This budget represents the current year's (2020-2021) operational budget only. Complete budget details can be found on the Slate Valley website https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/.
Frequently Asked Questions: https://5il.co/j8fk
As we approach the opening of school in the fall, please read the following letter from Superintendent Olsen-Farrell in regard to state travel restrictions: https://5il.co/j60a
Reminder - Our last scheduled day for food pick up at FHGS is Tuesday, August 11th and will include meals thru Friday, August 14th.
Meals are available for pick up between the hours of 10:00AM and 11:00AM on Tuesdays and Fridays throughout the summer at Fair Haven Grade School. 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.
We have started a Frequently Asked Questions document regarding the reopening of schools: http://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/browse/155634. Please check back often as this will be updated as new information becomes available.
5th Grade Book Buddies story walk, now showing at the Fair Haven Park!
Reminder:
There will be a budget informational meeting this evening (Monday, August 3, 2020) at 6:30 PM.
Please connect virtually by going to http://meet.google.com/xyb-itrv-dgu or by calling (US) +1 234-307-0704 PIN: 698 588 330#.
If you missed our free food box giveaway on Saturday you still have a chance to come pick one up. The remainder of the boxes will be distributed tomorrow, Tuesday, July 28th between 10am-11am at the Fair Haven Grade School!
Good Morning, please read the following letter from our Principal, Mrs. Prehoda: https://5il.co/imsf
Good afternoon, please read the following letter (https://5il.co/ijms) from Superintendent Olsen-Farrell in regard to the district’s Hazing, Harassment, and Bullying Policy.
Food Box Distribution Day:
Saturday July 25th
Noon-2PM
Pick up behind FHGS
All families within the Slate Valley School District are invited to pick up a Food Box. There are 100 boxes available on a first come, first served basis.
Helpful resources for the upcoming (August 11th) Slate Valley Budget Revote:
Budget Web Page https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/budget--108
Budget Flyer https://5il.co/igm1
Frequently Asked Questions https://5il.co/ig1r
Please read the following letter from Superintendent Olsen-Farrell regarding the re-opening of school: https://5il.co/igh5
Reminder, there is a special SVUUSD Board Meeting tonight at 6:30 PM
Virtually connect by going to: http://meet.google.com/qbe-fiog-fsk
See the agenda for more information.
Summer Meals Reminder:
Meals will be available for pick up between the hours of 10:00AM and 11:00AM on Tuesdays and Fridays throughout the summer at Fair Haven Grade School.
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.
The last day for meal pick up will be Tuesday, August 11th and will include meals through Friday.
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]), 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
