Live Feed
Slate Valley, about 13 hours ago
Curt Hier has been a member of the FHUHS faculty since the fall of 1986. A Middlebury College graduate, Curt was hired right out of school and began his career in the social studies department. In his tenure at the high school Curt has coached golf, debate team, and has been the student council advisor. When asked what his favorite moments were in his career, he stated that Speech and Debate was, “like a box of chocolates” and that some of his best and most proud moments as a teacher were watching students succeed in that course.
A two-time teacher of the year (1991 and 2000) Curt went on to achieve his MA in education from Castleton University and has always been a vocal member of the department. Best known for his tall stature, endless jokes, and his love of diet Doctor Pepper, Curt has been a familiar face for classes upon classes of students. When reminiscing about the “old days” Curt remarked how much teaching has changed since the good old days of paper/pencil gradebooks of ‘86, and how even after all this time he will miss the school traditions of footballs games and hotdogs, Slaterbration, Winter Carnival, and seeing the special kids each class has to offer.
Upon his retirement Curt plans to take part in some spring and fall golf tournaments, and enjoy time with his cat, Cornelius. When asked what it meant to be a teacher he said, “It’s who I am, not what I do,” and that he, “leaves his parking spot to Kyle Ruby and his MESSY room to Ashleigh Sanborn.”
Congratulations on your retirement Mr. Curt Hier!
Slate Valley, about 15 hours ago
Skip Fenton was a dedicated musician, and music teacher. His passion for Jazz was infectious, and he encouraged his students to write their own music, and improvise during concerts.
Skip was able to make connections with his students, and pushed each student to achieve their own musical goals. During his time at Castleton, Skip would frequently make his music room available to students who needed a quiet and safe space to be. Skip also led the marching band that would play on Memorial Day, and also provided music for assemblies and 8th grade graduations ceremonies.
Thank you Skip for sharing your passion for music, and for our students!
Slate Valley, 1 day ago
“A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite imagination, and instill a love of learning.” -Brad Henry
Sue, this is exactly what you do for not just your students but your colleagues at FHU as well. Please listen and recognize some of the roles that you have played and continue to play in your life as I read this poem that I wrote, recognizing you as the 2019 Yearbook dedication recipient:
She is a teacher, first and foremost.
Giving the students the skills to succeed, praising them when necessary,
Pushing them to excel.
She is a mother.
Raising two children of her own,
Allowing them to dream their own dreams.
She is a grandmother.
Cherishing those precious first steps,
Reliving those first words with her own children
As she listens to the newest voices.
She is a colleague.
Providing unprecedented wisdom,
Illuminating optimistic realism even in the most difficult times.
She is a friend.
Wanting to share successes,
Listening with a sympathetic ear.
She is a teacher.
Changing and embracing
New students year after year.
Thank you, Susan, for all of your years of service and dedication. Fair Haven Union High School has been so fortunate to have you with us. We all wish you happiness as you move on to the next chapter! THANK YOU!
By Tricia Doran
Slate Valley, 1 day ago
Patricia’s journey as an educator began after a 10 year career running a grocery store with her husband. She also took time at home to raise her children before entering the public school arena. Pat began her career in ARSU/Slate Valley as an instructional assistant at the Orwell Village School. It was here where the passion began and Pat decided to work on her teaching degree. She left Orwell Village School to attend Castleton College, where she graduated with her teaching degree the same year her son and daughter graduated from Castleton College as well. Pat returned to Orwell Village School as a schoolwide teacher before transferring to Fair Haven Grade School in the 2012-2013 school year. She has served as an active collaborative member of the FHGS intervention team as well as the educational support team for nine years.
Pat has touched many lives in her role as an educator. With her calm, gentle demeanor, she met students where they were at, developed supportive relationships and worked to facilitate growth in areas of need. Her passion for reading and learning has been evident and she shared that passion with her students. With heartfelt thanks and gratitude, we wish Pat the very best in retirement.
