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.
Outdoor music class!
Recess adventures from Friday!
Grade 5 working in their outdoor space last week!
More outdoor learning spaces!
Enjoying last week's nice weather and making good use of outdoor learning spaces!
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)
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
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.
More Friday, 9/12/20 Ice Cream Day, photos. Sponsored by our FHGS PTO!
Thank you to our FHGS PTO for ice cream day on Friday, 9/12/20!
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)
Reminder: 7/8 Boys and Girls Soccer players from OVS/BVS/FHGS/CVS - FormReLeaf (http://www.formreleaf.com/) sign up is open until 9-15-20 -- Please sign your athletes up!
MS Athletics Letter (8-27-20): https://5il.co/kunv
Arrival went 100% smoother today! Thank you all for your support, yours masks, your distancing! Gentle reminder that if you are dropping off out back, please do not get out of your car - we will come to you! :)
Early morning PE set-up! The dedication is impressive as always! Go Mrs. A!
Day 1 in the books! Onto Day 2. Please check your students belongings, they should have brought home a blue card-stock form that will allow you to answer the screening questions and fill out answers prior to arrival. Fill out the card before coming to school or getting on the bus, bring the card, show it to screeners. Screeners will do a temp check and record it on the sheet and return the sheet to the student/caregiver for the next day. We hope this process speeds up arrival! Practice will make us better at this!
We successfully completed day one of school. Thank you for your patience and kindness! We recognize that arrival and dismissal are the trickiest times and we anticipated that. Please bear with us through this week as we have heard from many that may be changing their drop off and pick up plans. We want to see where things land before we make any changes on our end.
In the morning walkers may not arrive before 7:50 All busses need to arrive and clear out before we can accept walkers safely. We ask that all students and adults follow the physical distancing expectations of 6 feet when waiting in line to get into the school.
At dismissal, parent pick up is out back of our building beginning at 2:15, after the safe departure of our buses.
Please be sure to check your child’s backpack for important paperwork that needs to be filled out and returned to school.
Again, thank you for your support and patience and have a good evening!
Our selfie game may not be our strongest game but we wanted to let you know that all these faces were so excited to see student faces today!
Good afternoon! We won’t share too many photos until we’ve waited a bit and given families a chance to opt out of photos, but here is one that we have student and parent permission for! So far so good. Thank you to all our students, families and staff for the teamwork and patience this morning. Just a gentle reminder to show up at your time for dismissal as early arrivals could clog things up and slow down the process.
For day 1, we will have health check forms for screenings at school building doors and on busses with bus monitors. On day 1, your student should come home with a blue piece of card-stock that allows you to complete health checks prior to arrival and just show us the card at school. This piece of card-stock has enough room for health checks for a full month. So we will look at it and return it to caregiver/student for the next day. No need to panic if lost or forgotten, we will always have extras. If arriving by car out back, we will come to the car and do the screening before the student gets out of the vehicle. Having the students on the school side of the car will make this easiest and safest. Please let your children know the adults doing screenings will have masks and face shields and gloves, precautions to keep all as safe as possible! Lastly, a gentle reminder to all adults to wear masks also at these times and maintain distancing while waiting. Continued appreciation of all your support!!
Here is a reminder of the arrival and departure schedule. Departure may be one of the trickiest parts of the day. We ask that you arrive as close to the time assigned as you can. Showing up early, especially at departure for pick ups could jam up busses out back. We hope this will run smoothly! If there are hiccups, it’s okay. We will get better as we practice!
Happy Labor Day weekend to all! We are so excited to see students tomorrow! We continue to ask you for your patience as we get through the first week. We’ve reimagined our systems to meet health and safety guidelines. Once we see these systems in action, we may need to make slight changes to ensure that all runs as smooth as possible. We will communicate updates! There is no problem we can’t solve together as a community. Thank you!
Classrooms are coming together nicely in ways that honor the distancing required by the health and safety guidelines! Excited to see students in these spaces!
Personal Protective Equipment training for all of our health check screeners! Thank you FHGS nurses. We will be ready for Tuesday!
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
Good Morning FHGS Families, There is a mailing going out today that will include a welcome back letter, arrival and dismissal schedule, bus schedule, lunch order form and menu. In addition, Middle School will also be getting a Middle School letter and their schedules. Attached below are the letters and the arrival/dismissal schedule while you wait for the mailing to arrive! We thank you for your patience while we navigate the logistics of the start of the school year. We are excited to be back together in our building!
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
Thank you to the participants, the families that supported their participation and the adult staff that made this in-person experience possible!
Here are a few more GAP moments!
More GAP moments!
GAP 2020 participants looked a little different than usual with the masks and had to follow some new rules but still got the incredible outdoor experience!
FHGS Teachers doing their outdoor Meet & Greets to prepare for the Fall!
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.
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#.
Good afternoon. Please see the following letter from Principal Deborah Infurna regarding the current plans for the re-opening of FHGS in fall 2020.
https://5il.co/inp6
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 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.
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)
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.
As we wrap up the 19-20 school year, we say a few farewells to FHGS staff members not returning in the fall. Ms. Ostro-Remy, Mrs. Flannigan, and Mrs. Kramer - we will miss you and wish you the best in your coming adventures. Mr. Stanton and Ms. Jockell - we thank you for so many years of service and wish you an incredibly enjoyable retirement.
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.
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.
We were thrilled to see so many FHGS families at tonight's parade! If you were not not able to make it, fear not! We have footage coming for you. Check out tomorrow's Falcon News! Goodnight Falcons!
Thank you for the cards and kind thoughts!
Grade 8 Diploma Drop-off Parade today! Weather cleared up and it was soooo nice to see all the student faces!
Reminder - Ms. McGarry is in the Shaw's parking lot right now collecting library books. Head her way if you have books to drop off! She'll be there until 5pm, take a break for the parade, then be back collecting books from 6-7pm.
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.
HAPPENING TODAY!!! Our "Reverse Parade" will be toady from 5-6pm in the park. Come in your cars anytime between 5 and 6, drive around the edge of the park, and say "Happy Summer!" to FHGS Faculty and Staff! We can't wait to see you! (Social distancing guidelines will be followed at this event.)
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 Chris Stanton’s 22 years of service in our district. Congratulations on your retirement Chris!
Chris Stanton was a tremendous complement to Fair Haven Grade School, staff and community immediately upon arrival in 1998. He shared at the time that it was very difficult decision to leave Orwell Village School, his first teaching assignment, as he had created special bonds with students, parents and community during his time there. However, Chris brought these same attributes to Fair Haven and it was FHGS’ good fortune that he made the transition.
Chris brought a myriad of talents and infectious interests to his teaching assignments. His first was as a self-contained grade 6 classroom teacher before moving to the middle school with the transition of 6th grade. Chris was always about Team whether it was his 5th and 6th grade team partners and later the middle school team. His thoughtful calm demeanor brought a stabilizing focus to every setting. BUT there are some that remember mischief afoot at times in the Kingdom. Chris always proclaimed innocence of these rumors so we will leave those stories for another day….
Chris’ work and interaction with students was equally special. He brought many things to FHGS including a strong interest to immerse kids in healthy environmental activities outside the four walls of a classroom. He fostered and expanded programs that took students to the outdoors and waterways in the Fair Haven – Castleton area. The Castleton Area River Program (later expanded to Great Adventure Program) connected hands on science in the region with the classroom. Chris made summer special for hundreds of students each year leading hiking trips and kayaking adventures on Glen Lake, Bomoseen and Lake Champlain. He will be remembered as a champion of environmental science and bringing science and math to life for his students. Learning through enriching activities made possible by Chris Stanton, Teacher and Mentor for all students.
Chris’ goal was to retire quietly and unnoticed. However, your impact on the lives of students, families and your colleagues is appreciable and you will be greatly missed.
By Deborah Infurna
The Slate Valley tech department has asked us to communicate that, as of right now, families are to keep Chromebooks in their possession for the summer, unless the family is moving out of district. While we all hope to be in the buildings together come fall, the fall remains uncertain and we are looking to avoid collecting only to have to redistribute. If you have any questions, or are moving and need to arrange a pick-up or drop off, please reach out to me, Jen Paquette, at [email protected]
TOMORROW, TOMORROW, TOMORROW!!! Fair Haven Grade School will be hosting a "Reverse Parade." Faculty and Staff will be at the park from 5-6pm, Thursday, June 11, 2020. We invite our students and families to drive around the park, wave, and say your "summer goodbyes." (Social distancing recommendations will be followed.)We hope to see you all tomorrow!
Mrs. Alexander is at the park right now FHGS! She's ready and waiting to collect your library books!
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 Karen Jockell's 17 years of service in our district. Congratulations on your retirement Karen!
Karen Jockell’s 17 year teaching career at Fair Haven Grade School reflects her commitment and steadfast dedication to her students along with the classroom teachers she supported through her supplemental instruction. As a school wide teacher, her position required her to instruct students from multiple grade levels each day and maintain communication with their respective grade teachers for coordination of progress. It was one very important piece needed to generate successful results. To Karen’s credit she adeptly orchestrated this requirement to provide the instruction required of each student. Karen played an integral role in the learning process and progress for the students who passed through her classroom.
Karen was also active in the school and community. She was a teacher and community member that recognized teaching and learning also happened outside the walls of a classroom. Applefest, Supermarket Bingo, and district student activities would find Karen involved and invested. She was an active member in the PTO, Impact Fair Haven, and a variety of district level committees working to better the support, resources and activities available to students and families. FHGS was extremely fortunate to have many years of Karen’s dedication and expertise serving her number one priority, students. We envision Karen continuing to be involved supporting children and teachers in some way in this community, even in retirement.
By Deborah Infurna
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!
From Ms. McGarry, our wonderful FHGS Librarian:
Library books can be dropped off at the school this week on Tuesday and Friday from 10-12 during food pick up. On Wednesday Mrs. Alexander will be in her White Ford Escape across from the Fire Department from 10-12 and on Thursday Ms. McGarry will be in the Shaw's parking lot in her Red Ford Fiesta near the exit from 3-5 and then 6-7 collecting library books! If you are unable to make it to any of these times please reach out to Ms. McGarry ([email protected]) and schedule an alternative time.
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
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
As of today, Wednesday, June 3, 2020 Mrs. Alexander and her students have walked, jogged, and biked 613 miles! Together, they made it to Mrs. Alexander's son's house in Cape Cod, MA and all the way back to Fair Haven, VT.
Woohoo! Way to rock the miles in PE FHGS students!
We are Falcon Strong! How are you getting out and moving?
Reaching out to all FHGS families to let you know that all library books can be dropped off at the back of the school during food pick-up times through June 12. Tuesdays & Fridays, 10-12. Thank you!
Logging more miles for PE class at FHGS. Way to go!
WOOHOO from 5/18 - 5/29, FHGS students and Mrs. A have walked, jogged, and biked 417 miles for PE! Way to stay active!
FHGS Virtual Move-up Day - mark the date and time and on your calendar!
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.
ATTENTION Fair Haven Parents. If you have a child that will be age 5 prior to September 1st and will be entering kindergarten in the fall (and who is not already registered in our preschool program) or if you are new to our community and have school aged children who will be attending Fair Haven Grade School in the fall, please register your child(ren). 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. We look forward to having your child(ren) join us and want to begin planning for the transition.
Thank you!
Attention PreK - 8th grade families: With school nearing the end we want to make a LAST CALL for personal belonging pick up. See times in attached image!
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
Come Alive Outside Passport Program: https://comealiveoutside.com/passports/
In response to COVID-19, Come Alive Outside has revamped their summer passport program while keeping the program’s mission and sense of fun intact. In addition to handing out physical passports, Come Alive Outside will now offer their summer passport program through their website, extending the program’s reach to all of Vermont and beyond. The program begins June 1st and runs until September 18.
Slate Valley School District Opens a New Chapter on Access to Healthcare: https://vtdigger.org/sponsored_content/chcrr-community-health-telehealth-partnership-with-slate-valley-school-district-opens-a-new-chapter-on-access-to-health-care/
We have what looks like a beautiful weekend coming up. How will you get out and enjoy it?
Reminder - Tomorrow, Thursday, May 21st at 2pm, all FHGS students and their families can join in a virtual assembly with Jared Campbell who visited our school earlier this year! Follow instructions and link in the attached photo! Thank you FHGS PTO!
Distance/Remote Learning Update
Wishing our FHGS friends could all be back together! Missing all the Falcons!
P.E. time with a little basketball and a sweet reward after!
Please see the attached announcement about days and times to pick up student belongings at FHGS. Thank you!
FHGS Students rolling through their P.E. time!
FHGS Faculty, Staff & Administration would like to extend a heart-felt thank you to our FHGS families. We know it has not been easy. We appreciate all that you are doing!
Thank you to the FHGS PTO for sponsoring an exciting and fun opportunity for our school! On Thursday, May 21st at 2pm, all FHGS students and their families can join in a virtual assembly with Jared Campbell who visited our school earlier this year! Be sure to put this on your schedules!
Update from Casey O'Meara, Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment
P.E. at home, practicing gymnastics!
It's Teacher Appreciation Week! FHGS Students love and miss their teachers. Keep up the good work!
It's Teacher Appreciation Week! FHGS Students love and miss their teachers. Keep up the good work!
It's Teacher Appreciation Week! FHGS Students love and miss their teachers. Keep up the good work!
It's Teacher Appreciation Week! FHGS Students love and miss their teachers. Keep up the good work!
It's Teacher Appreciation Week! FHGS Students love and miss their teachers. Keep up the good work!
How are you getting your P.E. on? Check out these fabulous FHGS Students!
How are you getting your P.E. on? Check out these fabulous FHGS Students!
Thank you to our PTO for the incredible banner now hanging at FHGS!
FHGS Kindergarten students continue to work hard on their at home assignments.
Announcement for Grades 3-5 families regarding pick up of materials from student desks.
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.
Balancing school work and outdoor fun... FHGS Students getting it done!
A few rainy days ahead. Now is a great time to grab a good book, a fury friend, get cozy, and read!
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.
Materials and belongings from lockers for Grades 6-8 can be picked up during food pick-up times next week: 4/28 & 5/1 from 10-12 behind FHGS.
FHGS Students completing classwork in a variety of different ways!
FHGS Students hard at work, helping out at home. What a great way to get your P.E. in!
Yesterday, April 22, was Earth Day. Check out these photos of how some FHGS Students celebrated!
Mayor Murfee ordered t-shirts for the playground fundraiser - red & blue in children's S (6/8), M (10/12) & L (14/16) and red & gray adults S, M, L and XL. If you'll want a different size let him know so he can include it with the order.
Additions to the order can be in no later than April 26th! He's not ordering toddler sizes or XXL or XXXL unless someone specifically orders them.
He's also willing to order your desired color (blue, pink, teal, tan, purple and autumn orange) and size (xxl, xxxl or toddler sizes) if you message him to let him know before he places the order on the 14th. These will be $20...same price as Lincoln's last year.
Colors can be seen on the Mayor Murfee Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MayorMurfee/
FHGS Students out and about. What a beautiful spot for biking and finding new friends!
These FHGS Falcons (and Mini-Falcon) celebrated National Look Alike Day on Monday. Great job girls!
Cole and Tucker enjoyed the sunshine and some time fishing. We hope you caught the big ones!
To all our FHGS families,
There will be work help available with FHGS Instructional Assistants through Google Meets for all grade levels at scheduled times. Please check with teachers for the schedule or watch for links on Google Classroom or Classroom web sites. Thank you!
To all of our FHGS Middle School families (grades 6-8), we have developed a schedule for which classes will be posting assignments on what days in their Google Classrooms. We hope this consistency can lighten the load at home. Please email teachers or advisors with any questions. Thank you again for your support and hard work in such unusual circumstances!
Here are some additional resources for accessing food during this challenging time:
Some photos from before break... Pre-K students have been busy at home keeping up with their work. Way to go kiddos!
It may be vacation, but we are still at FHGS (and our other sites) handing out meals today. Please stop by and pick up your breakfast and lunch! See you between 10am and 12pm.
Work pick up and drop off will also be taking place at FHGS, 10am-12pm.
One of our very own FHGS students, Bella, getting her PE on in a variety of different way!
REMINDER - We are at FHGS today (as well as our other pick up sites) handing out bagged breakfasts and lunches until noon. Please stop by and get your meals!
Also, First Grade Families - There are packets of new work available. Same location as the food pick up!
More Falcon art and a beautiful birthday shout out to Mrs. Roberts.
Sunny skies will be back, and when they do, FHGS Students will be back outside to enjoy the fresh air!
Max and family created these colorful pussy willows using chalk. They look fabulous! What art projects have you been working on? Send us your photos to share.
Maddie and Patrick went for a walk together - Social Distance Style, on opposite sides of the road!
Vacation is coming! And yet, no one will be traveling. Ms. McGarry has created a virtual field trip for our students. This is NOT an assignment, just a fun option! https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1Mml2MpwRsH-_eLLVvgNVgZNG4Ez6Uq5bBzBV6QDYXEM/edit?usp=sharing
Spring can be a fun and busy time. What kinds of things are you doing (outside or inside) to stay busy? Owen and Emma share a few things they have been up to!
FHGS Students help to create a "Town Wide Egg Hunt" by making and placing eggs in their windows! How many eggs do you think can you find on a walk or drive?
FHGS students getting their PE in doing "lifetime" activities - Raking and Green Up!
FHGS Students getting outside to enjoy the warmer weather and get their PE time in. Keep moving!
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
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
Joey and Jaxx help light the town park with a Star of Hope. Nice job boys!
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.
Thank you to all of our FHGS families for their patience and perseverance. Wishing everyone a safe weekend!
First Grade Families:
Chrome books are now available for all FHGS first graders. If you wish to pick up a chrome book for your student to use for learning through the rest of the school year, they will be available at the back of the school (FHGS) on Tuesday between 10 and 12.
If you are not able to come at this time, please call us to make alternate arrangements. Be well!
Remember the snow we had last week? We hope it's melted away at your house, but here are a few photos of our students out enjoying it while it was here!
The Adams Family after a day of raking -- What a great way to get a workout!
FHGS Kindergarten Students working hard! Way to go!
FHGS Kindergarten Students working hard! Way to go!
FHGS kids getting their PE on in many different ways
Being inventive at home - Making our own soccer goals with things we found outside!!
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
Enjoying National Peanut Butter & Jelly Day!
Town Hall for Kids!
FHGS students touched the hearts of our local medical providers, "These are unprecedented times and these pictures truly mean so much to the Providers at RRMC and the Rutland community."
Check out all of the Falcon Friday Fun activities that our students shared from artwork, playing outside, building fairy houses, going for a walk and riding in a four wheeler on his birthday. Thank you for sharing your fun with us all! Have a super weekend everyone!!!
So many ways to enjoy the day!
Enjoying a hike and some sunshine!
Taking a break and learning to drive!
Enjoying a healthy snack and the sunshine!
This is how to do school work! Comfy seating with a friend as close to outside as possible on a chilling morning!
Another FHGS friend sharing photos of fun in the snow!
Enjoying the snow!
Snowpeople fun!
Time to shovel!
Fun in the snow!
FHGS students hard at work!
❄️☃️❄️
FHGS students getting fresh air and exercise while enjoying the snow! If you have photos to share, please send to [email protected] or [email protected]!
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 Operations 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!
--
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.
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
Ms. McGarry (FHGS Librarian) created a Virtual Library for students while school is dismissed. Check out great resources for live author storytimes, audio and eBooks, databases, virtual field trips, and free parent resources: https://sites.google.com/svuvt.org/msmcgarrysvirtuallibrary/home
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.
Ms. Maggie McGarry, our FHGS Librarian, has created a tutorial for parents on how to use Google Classrooms. We hope this is helpful for you as some teachers are using Google Classrooms while we are not in the building. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=34n-GcEW0Yc&feature=youtu.be
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
Recently, a guided reading group in Mrs. Pequignot's class read a book about sharks. They spent time exploring real shark teeth and comparing them to the teeth in the book. The students also made brochures to teach others about sharks and what they learned!
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
The FHGS Music Basket Raffle this past weekend was a HUGE success! Thank you to all who helped out!
The preschoolers took a walking trip to the post office to learn about the mail delivery process. Some parents accompanied us on our walk and joined the tour. The children mailed a postcard before they left and each of them took home a goodie bag with coloring pages. A big thank you to Laura at the post office who facilitated the visit!
Congratulations to our FHGS Geography Bee team for their participation in the event and their 2nd place finish!! Well done!
Mr. Eddy’s and Ms. McGarry’s 6th grade TAs joined Mrs. McCrea’s Kindergarten class for some yoga this morning for buddy time!
Ms. Lusenskas' excels class created board games based on the books they read. When completed they were able to play each game!
The FHGS music basket raffle is coming up! Help the 5-8 Chorus and Middle School band students raise funds for their trip to the High Note Music festival this spring!
The basket raffle is this Saturday, March 7th in the FHGS gym. Doors open at 10 a.m. and we will draw baskets at 11:30 a.m..
We have some great baskets for the raffle and are still accepting donations of baskets and gift certificates to be included. See you there!
Fair Haven's new Pet Mayor is Murfee! Congratulations to all the candidates. Thank you to our staff, students and families who supported this process!!
March 3, 2020 Results
FHGS students get a taste of the Democratic process!
https://www.mynbc5.com/article/students-vote-for-pet-mayor-on-town-meeting-day/31215135
Thursday night: Discover Slate Valley's new approach to happy and healthy young people, 6:30 p.m. at Fair Haven Grade School.
Ms. Manning's 3rd grade class celebrating their 'wear red win' from our Kindness is Contagious week with a Pizza Party hosted by Principal Infurna! Congratulations and yum!!
Monday was Rocket Launching day at Starbase for our 5th grade!
Exciting morning at the polls!
Spring Sports Registration for Slate Valley Middle Schools: BVS, CVS, FHGS, OVS
Track and Field:
Slate Valley Middle School - Grades 6-8
Baseball:
CVS/OVS - Grades 7/8
FHGS/BVS - Grades 7/8
Softball:
CVS/OVS - Grades 7/8
FHGS/BVS - Grades 7/8
Registration is open through March 30, 2020.
Formreleaf.com
Slate Valley Middle School
If you have questions, please email Kim Alexander ([email protected]).
Fair Haven Grade School 7/8 Girls and Boys Invitational Tournament 2020
Boys Division -- 1st place Otter Valley 8th grade
MVP #20 Carter
All Tourney # 13 Jacob
2nd place FHGS 8th grade
All Tourney # 44 Ty Mackey
Girls Division -- 1st place -- FHGS 7/8
MVP #23 Lily Briggs
All Tourney #12 Izzy Cole
2nd place -- Poultney 7/8
All Tourney #24 Emily
Congratulations to all 4 teams. Thank you to all the 7th, 8th and 7/8 teams that took part in our tournament. It was a great week of basketball.
Please join us to cheer on our 5/6 boys and girls teams next week, March 2nd - 6th. All games are posted on the Slate Valley App under Fair Haven Grade School -- Athletics -- Games. Thanks - all my best Kim.
Mrs. Morgello's 5th grade proudly turning in tokens and then checking out the Mayoral candidates! Great job earning tokens!
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.
Great story on Channel 5 tonight!
https://www.mynbc5.com/article/16-candidates-running-to-be-vermont-towns-next-pet-mayor/31105613
The candidate pool for Pet Mayor continues to increase and diversify! Deadline for entries is today, 2/25/20! Way to go Town of Fair Haven!
Exciting news! FHGS students will be voting for the Pet Mayor on Tuesday, March 3!
Due to the weather, FHGS 5/6 Girls Basketball practice is canceled tonight.
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.
Tons of fun at the Middle School team building sled race this afternoon!!
Beginner band - getting stronger with every practice!
Student designed bulletin board using QR codes to learn more about Influential People! Great job!
More students participating in Thermal Thursday. Here's a reminder that tomorrow, February 14th is Friendship Friday. We will be doing a Big Buddy/Little Buddy pen pal letter exchange. And, wear red for heart health. The class wearing the most red will earn a lunch with Principal Infurna!
Students in Grade 1 participating in Thermal Thursday for our Kindness is Contagious Week!
Please note: March 20th will now be a student day.
FHGS 5th grade at Starbase this past Monday! These activities are Eggbert, which was an engineering activity, and rocket construction.
8th grade Spanish classes reading Brandon Brown Quiere Un Perro by Carol Gaab. It is a fun story and they are really enjoying it.Summary: Bandon Brown really wants a dog, but his mother is not quite so sure. A dog is a big responsibility for any age, much less a soon-to-be 9-year-old. Determined to get a dog, Brandon will do almost anything to get one, but will he do everything it takes to keep one…a secret?
Reminder, tomorrow is Warm-Hearted Wednesday in our Kindness is Contagious Spirit Week!
Kindergarten class celebrates the 100th school day of the year!
All activities including the Prospective Student Night have been cancelled. The Prospective Student Night has been rescheduled for Thursday, February 27th.
8th grade basketball!
The 3rd Grade started a robotics unit in Library! They are learning how to control Edison Robots with sound, light, line tracking, and coding. Here is Mrs. Pequignot's class using them for the first time!
Excited to have the Vernon Tornados here to perform at FHGS! Thank you Mrs. Alexander for making it happen!
Mrs. Moffatt and Gracianna presenting to the Fair Haven Selectboard last night. The class project focused on addressing a community need identified by students. The presentation took the learning one step closer to becoming an action! Excellent work!
Congratulations to our Middle Grades Choir, Intermediate and Advanced Bands, Mrs. Cynthia Hutchins & and Miss Samantha Schreckengost for a fantastic performance tonight!
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).
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
Sarah Cosgrove, Respiratory Therapist & Tobacco Treatment Specialist, will be here on Wednesday, January 15th to present to our FHGS Middle School Students about the misconceptions and dangers of vaping! Information will be coming home soon with Middle School students.
Congratulations to the girls 7/8 team who were the CKS Tournament Championship winners!
Third grade students tackling a Snowman STEM Challenge in library class.
FHGS Middle School art students making cards for Veterans.
Students in K-5 have been working in the library with Ms. McGarry and Mrs. Cacciatore to make 3D-Pen printed snowflakes! This was the first time that students had the opportunity to use this technology! Fourth grade students were able to put lithophanes in the center of their snowflakes, so when light shines through, their picture shows!
Grade 8 has been examining how the Sun, Earth & Moon interact in predictable ways to create observable phenomena such as: tides, phases of the moon, eclipses & seasons. Grade 1 has just finished a unit of astronomy too, focused on the relationship between the sun and the earth.
FHGS Planetarium! Hosted by Mr. Clark's 8th grade science classes for our 1st grade students!
Quilters hard at work!
After school quilting club! Close to having finished quilts!
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.
413 pounds of food donated to Fair Haven Concerned! Thank you Miss Hill, FHGS Middle School and the entire FHGS Community!
PTO event starts at 5:00 Saturday evening!
The FHGS Middle School Food Drive is going very well!! Monday is the last day.Thank you for your continued kindness and generosity!
FHGS PTO Family Traditions Potluck and Movie Night ~ Saturday, December 14th at 5 pm in the cafeteria ~ We hope to see you all there!
10 days left of FHGS's Middle School Food Drive!
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
Just a reminder that the food drive continues!
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.
Victoria Henry presents FHGS with the Mobil Exxon Grant, a grant in the amount of $500, to be used to support the areas of math and science.
Our first school-wide PBIS celebration of the year! Thanks to the hard work of all students and their ability to demonstrate respect, responsibility and safety, we filled our Falcon Tower! We celebrated with a school-wide PJ Day & movies in the afternoon! Congratulations FHGS!!
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
Parents of 6th-8th grade students:
You will be receiving a Letter and Sign-Up Form from your child’s school for the Life Time Activities (LTA) Program offered throughout our district. You may also view the letter (https://5il.co/bfpo) and form (https://5il.co/bfpn) online.
The LTA program is a curriculum based field trip for school students. We are asking for your help in allowing students to make a good selection of activities.
Reminder ~ happening tonight!
Thank you to the Fair Haven Fire Department for their Fire Safety visit!
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!
Students from middle schools across VT gathered in Burlington last week for a day-long tobacco prevention summit. These teens are members of VKAT, Vermont Kids Against Tobacco. Elizabeth, Isabelle and Patrick represented FHGS!
On Friday, Joey and Ari were at the State House receiving recognition for being Fire Safety Calendar Winners!
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.
SVUUSD has received word from the state that the state will be closing 22A/South Main Street at the rail road tracks the afternoon of Monday the 11th. The road will be closed until the afternoon of Friday the 15.
Congratulations and thank you to all of our students and families for your support with our FHGS PTO fall fundraiser! We exceeded our goal!
A gigantic thank you to our FHGS PTO for our Falcon Pride t-shirts!
Incredible Favorite Book Character Day!!
Miss Boudreau's class rockin' Book Character Day!
2019 FHGS 5/6 Soccer Team!
Red Ribbon Week continues with Superhero Day!
Falcon Pride = Respect + Responsibility + Safety!
Red Ribbon week continues. Monday is Superhero day!
Ms. Lusenskas’ and Ms. Countryman’s 4th grade classes took a field trip to Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area where they participated in a Songbird Banding Demonstration with Vermont Fish & Wildlife and Otter Creek Audubon.
The students observed and learned why scientists band birds, how to identify birds from up close and far away, what adaptations birds have, and why they migrate.
Sharing our Silly Socks for Red Ribbon Week. Tomorrow is Hat Day. Building community!
We see more of what we look for, recognize and reinforce! PBIS ~ looking for the positive!
Reminder! Online registration is open through November 8 for Slate Valley Middle School Winter Sports (Basketball & Wrestling). Register online at: https://bit.ly/2B0TSAC
Red Ribbon Spirit Week at FHGS starts Wednesday!!
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
Mr. Clark's 6th grade students working with VT State Parks in a lesson on invasive species.
Stay up-to-date with "Girls on the Run - Vermont" on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/153805061340162/posts/2418123071575005?sfns=mo
Mrs. McCrea's Kindergarten class has been learning about robots in Library. Students used recycled materials in a MakerSpace activity to make robots that looked like themselves.
First graders in Ms. McGarry’s library class have been reading about extreme weather. Today they used the green screen and video equipment to record their own weather forecasts. Stay tuned for their final video.
Slate Valley Expands Telemedicine School Health Program: http://www.slatevalleyunified.org/article/143327?org=fhgs
Ms. Lusenskas’ fourth grade science students observed worms for their adaptation unit. They were asked to describe what they look and feel like as well as what they do. Students will continue to learn about worms and their different adaptations!
Math at FHGS.
Virtual reality experience of Apollo 11 using the Oculus Go headsets at Fair Haven Grade School.
Mrs. Infurna (Principal at FHGS) in the dunking booth at AppleFest!
Applefest 2019!
Middle School students from Mr. Clark's working with their PreK buddy classroom for the first time this school year. They will continue to work together throughout the school year.
Join Special Olympics Vermont for Young Athletes: a sports play program for children 2-7, with and without intellectual disabilities. Castleton University SHAPE gym. View flyer: https://5il.co/a6nv
To register, please email: [email protected]
FHGS Middle School is kicking off their Yankee Candle Fundraising!
Visit: https://www.yankeecandlefundraising.com/
Enter Group ID 99879252 (If you want the sale attributed to a specific middle school student, write the student’s name in the space provided).
Students tried to make the longest paper chain possible with a limited set of materials. This was an amazing teamwork activity and the children worked so well together!
FHGS gave the new Administrative Team a huge welcome this morning!
The FHGS Administrative Team with Fair Haven’s Mayor on Friday.
Mrs. Hart is hosting a Preview Party on Monday August 26th for students and families:
AM Class: 4-4:30 pm
PM Class: 4:45-5:15 pm
TF Class: 5:30-6 pm
We look forward to seeing everyone on Monday!
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!
A letter was put in the mail on 8/22/19 for all FHGS Middle School Families. The letter incorrectly stated that the first day of school is September 28th when, in fact, the first day of school is Wednesday, AUGUST 28th! Our apologies. See you all next week!
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: Ms. Folmsbee's grade 5 Excel group explored some engineering basics using the Rigamajig sets!
There will be a sports meeting in the FHGS Gym on August 29, 6-7pm.
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
