🏃♀️🏃♂️ Looking for a fun way to stay active this summer?
The Slate Valley Efts Running Group is welcoming youth athletes interested in cross country or cross-training for other sports! No registration, no commitment—just drop in when you can.
Join local USATF SafeSport-certified coaches for age-appropriate workouts and group runs every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00–7:30 p.m., beginning June 16, at the R&H Rail Trail entrance on South Street in Castleton.
Whether you're training for a sport or simply enjoy running, come check it out!
Questions? Contact Dan Verrington at dan.verrington@svuvt.org
The Slate Valley Efts Running Group is welcoming youth athletes interested in cross country or cross-training for other sports! No registration, no commitment—just drop in when you can.
Join local USATF SafeSport-certified coaches for age-appropriate workouts and group runs every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00–7:30 p.m., beginning June 16, at the R&H Rail Trail entrance on South Street in Castleton.
Whether you're training for a sport or simply enjoy running, come check it out!
Questions? Contact Dan Verrington at dan.verrington@svuvt.org
Where Are They Now Wednesday: June Alumni Feature - Jeffrey Jr. York, FHUHS Class of 2016
From the football field at Fair Haven Union High School to building a career and family-centered life, this month’s alumni spotlight features Jeffrey Jr. York, a proud member of the Class of 2016 whose journey highlights hard work, perseverance, and dedication.
During his time at FHUHS, Jeffrey participated in football and was also involved in the school’s work study program, an experience that helped prepare him for life beyond graduation. Looking back, those experiences helped provide practical skills and a foundation that carried into adulthood.
After graduating Jeffrey entered the workforce and gained experience across several professions. Shortly after high school, he and his family welcomed their first daughter, Piper, while he worked in construction and explored different career opportunities.
Today, Jeffrey works at Doran brothers, and is enrolled in classes earning his CDL. Reflecting on the teachers who made a difference in his life, Jeffrey shared that choosing just one was difficult, but he credits Mr. Blackbird as someone who had a meaningful impact on him.
"He never treated anyone differently no matter the reason and always kept it straight with us no matter the situation. He also showed me that no matter what stands in your way, you can achieve what you want."
Outside of work, Jeffrey says his greatest joy comes from being a husband, father, and provider for his family. He is the proud father of three daughters and hopes they will one day enjoy the same experiences and memories at FHUHS that he did.
When asked for a favorite quote, Jeffrey shared words from Tupac Shakur that continue to inspire him:
"Through every dark night, there's a bright day after that. So no matter how hard it gets, stick your chest out, keep your head up... and handle it."
Jeffrey’s advice for today’s Slate Valley students is simple but meaningful:
"Focus — high school isn’t forever. Enjoy your time while you're there and absorb as much knowledge as possible. You’ll be surprised by how much you carry with you into the real world and how much the decisions you make now can impact your future."
We thank Jeffrey for sharing his story and wish him continued success in his career, family life, and future endeavors.
From the football field at Fair Haven Union High School to building a career and family-centered life, this month’s alumni spotlight features Jeffrey Jr. York, a proud member of the Class of 2016 whose journey highlights hard work, perseverance, and dedication.
During his time at FHUHS, Jeffrey participated in football and was also involved in the school’s work study program, an experience that helped prepare him for life beyond graduation. Looking back, those experiences helped provide practical skills and a foundation that carried into adulthood.
After graduating Jeffrey entered the workforce and gained experience across several professions. Shortly after high school, he and his family welcomed their first daughter, Piper, while he worked in construction and explored different career opportunities.
Today, Jeffrey works at Doran brothers, and is enrolled in classes earning his CDL. Reflecting on the teachers who made a difference in his life, Jeffrey shared that choosing just one was difficult, but he credits Mr. Blackbird as someone who had a meaningful impact on him.
"He never treated anyone differently no matter the reason and always kept it straight with us no matter the situation. He also showed me that no matter what stands in your way, you can achieve what you want."
Outside of work, Jeffrey says his greatest joy comes from being a husband, father, and provider for his family. He is the proud father of three daughters and hopes they will one day enjoy the same experiences and memories at FHUHS that he did.
When asked for a favorite quote, Jeffrey shared words from Tupac Shakur that continue to inspire him:
"Through every dark night, there's a bright day after that. So no matter how hard it gets, stick your chest out, keep your head up... and handle it."
Jeffrey’s advice for today’s Slate Valley students is simple but meaningful:
"Focus — high school isn’t forever. Enjoy your time while you're there and absorb as much knowledge as possible. You’ll be surprised by how much you carry with you into the real world and how much the decisions you make now can impact your future."
We thank Jeffrey for sharing his story and wish him continued success in his career, family life, and future endeavors.
🎓 Trivia Tuesday – June Edition! 🎓
School is winding down, graduation celebrations are approaching, and we have an end of year question to test your knowledge!
Do you know?
Approximately how many days does a student spend in school from kindergarten through Grade 12?
Drop your guess in the comments below.
School is winding down, graduation celebrations are approaching, and we have an end of year question to test your knowledge!
Do you know?
Approximately how many days does a student spend in school from kindergarten through Grade 12?
Drop your guess in the comments below.
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday: June Spotlight
This month, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on someone who truly represents dedication and commitment within Slate Valley—Ann Pelkey, our Payroll Specialist and the district’s longest-serving employee with an incredible 44 years of service!
For more than four decades, Ann has been an essential part of the Slate Valley family, beginning her career shortly after graduating from Castleton State College with a degree in Business Administration. Forty-four years is a remarkable milestone and a reflection of the care, consistency, and heart she brings to her work every day.
While many people may not realize it, Ann’s role impacts every employee across the district. In fact, if you work in Slate Valley and haven’t yet had the pleasure of meeting Ann personally, you’ve certainly benefited from her hard work behind the scenes. Every time a paycheck arrives accurately and on time, Ann makes that happen — and that’s definitely something worth being thankful for!
Outside of work, Ann enjoys karaoke, reading, mini golf, and spending time with family and friends. She loves going for walks and rides with her loyal and friendly dog, Belle. She is a volunteer at the Fair Haven American Legion, and also serves as secretary of the American Legion Auxiliary Fair Haven Unit 49.
Ann’s favorite saying perfectly reflects her fun spirit and sense of humor: “It’s never late till midnight — it’s early after that.”
When asked to share anything else, Ann simply said, “I so enjoy working and being a part of the Slate Valley family.” After 44 years of dedication, we can confidently say that the feeling is mutual.
Thank you, Ann, for your years of service, your commitment to the district, and for helping keep everything running behind the scenes. Slate Valley is fortunate to have you!
This month, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on someone who truly represents dedication and commitment within Slate Valley—Ann Pelkey, our Payroll Specialist and the district’s longest-serving employee with an incredible 44 years of service!
For more than four decades, Ann has been an essential part of the Slate Valley family, beginning her career shortly after graduating from Castleton State College with a degree in Business Administration. Forty-four years is a remarkable milestone and a reflection of the care, consistency, and heart she brings to her work every day.
While many people may not realize it, Ann’s role impacts every employee across the district. In fact, if you work in Slate Valley and haven’t yet had the pleasure of meeting Ann personally, you’ve certainly benefited from her hard work behind the scenes. Every time a paycheck arrives accurately and on time, Ann makes that happen — and that’s definitely something worth being thankful for!
Outside of work, Ann enjoys karaoke, reading, mini golf, and spending time with family and friends. She loves going for walks and rides with her loyal and friendly dog, Belle. She is a volunteer at the Fair Haven American Legion, and also serves as secretary of the American Legion Auxiliary Fair Haven Unit 49.
Ann’s favorite saying perfectly reflects her fun spirit and sense of humor: “It’s never late till midnight — it’s early after that.”
When asked to share anything else, Ann simply said, “I so enjoy working and being a part of the Slate Valley family.” After 44 years of dedication, we can confidently say that the feeling is mutual.
Thank you, Ann, for your years of service, your commitment to the district, and for helping keep everything running behind the scenes. Slate Valley is fortunate to have you!
Slate Valley District Newsletter: May 29, 2026 - https://mailchi.mp/3636bf31d624/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-15-13836785
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Erica Stoliker ✨🎓
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Bella Manley ✨🎓
📣 Community members are invited to attend the next Slate Valley Community Advisory Council (CAC) Meeting!
The Community Advisory Council provides an opportunity for families, staff, and community members to collaborate, share ideas, and engage in meaningful conversations that help support and strengthen our Slate Valley schools.
📅 Tuesday, June 2, 2026
🕔 5:45–7:00 PM
📍 Central Office Conference Room
Fair Haven Union Middle & High School
This meeting will also serve as the final Community Advisory Council meeting of the 2025–26 school year. Thank you to everyone who has participated and shared ideas throughout the year. Your voices, perspectives, and collaboration help make our Slate Valley community stronger.
We hope you’ll join us as we wrap up another great year together!
The Community Advisory Council provides an opportunity for families, staff, and community members to collaborate, share ideas, and engage in meaningful conversations that help support and strengthen our Slate Valley schools.
📅 Tuesday, June 2, 2026
🕔 5:45–7:00 PM
📍 Central Office Conference Room
Fair Haven Union Middle & High School
This meeting will also serve as the final Community Advisory Council meeting of the 2025–26 school year. Thank you to everyone who has participated and shared ideas throughout the year. Your voices, perspectives, and collaboration help make our Slate Valley community stronger.
We hope you’ll join us as we wrap up another great year together!
🌿🚣 Celebrating 40 Years of Summer Environmental Projects! 🚣🌿
For four decades, students and community members in Slate Valley have explored, learned, and connected with nature through unforgettable summer environmental programs—from the original East Creek Project, to CARP & CHAMP, and today’s GAP program.
Now it’s time to celebrate this incredible milestone together!
📅 Saturday, May 30
🕙 10:00 a.m.
📍 Glen Lake
Whether you participated years ago, are involved today, or simply enjoy the outdoors, everyone is invited to join us as we celebrate 40 years of environmental learning, stewardship, and memories.
🚣 Need a kayak? Kayaks may be available to borrow! Contact cstantonvt@gmail.com
Come reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the impact these programs have had across generations. 🌲
For four decades, students and community members in Slate Valley have explored, learned, and connected with nature through unforgettable summer environmental programs—from the original East Creek Project, to CARP & CHAMP, and today’s GAP program.
Now it’s time to celebrate this incredible milestone together!
📅 Saturday, May 30
🕙 10:00 a.m.
📍 Glen Lake
Whether you participated years ago, are involved today, or simply enjoy the outdoors, everyone is invited to join us as we celebrate 40 years of environmental learning, stewardship, and memories.
🚣 Need a kayak? Kayaks may be available to borrow! Contact cstantonvt@gmail.com
Come reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the impact these programs have had across generations. 🌲
District Newsletter - May 22, 2026: https://mailchi.mp/330cab433461/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-15-13836741
📣 Reminder for Students & Families 📣
Please note the upcoming schedule changes for the Memorial Day holiday weekend:
🕒 Friday, May 22 – Early Release Day
🇺🇸 Monday, May 25 – No School in recognition of Memorial Day
As we enjoy the long weekend, we also take time to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.
Please plan accordingly, and we wish everyone a safe and meaningful holiday weekend. ❤️🤍💙
Please note the upcoming schedule changes for the Memorial Day holiday weekend:
🕒 Friday, May 22 – Early Release Day
🇺🇸 Monday, May 25 – No School in recognition of Memorial Day
As we enjoy the long weekend, we also take time to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.
Please plan accordingly, and we wish everyone a safe and meaningful holiday weekend. ❤️🤍💙
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Riley Babbie ✨🎓
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Savannah Wilkinson ✨🎓
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Taylor Lesan✨🎓
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Olivia Paige ✨🎓
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Victoria Kelly ✨🎓
For many years, Slate Valley Unified Union School District has proudly participated in the USDA Summer Food Service Program, providing free, nutritious meals to children throughout our community during the summer months. As we begin planning for Summer 2026, we want to hear from you!
We are gathering feedback about the SFSP non-congregate meal program, which offers free multi-day meal boxes for children 18 and under. Each box includes 7 breakfasts and 7 lunches, can be picked up by a parent or guardian, and requires no application or income qualification.
We are especially hoping to connect with families whose children are not enrolled in the Castleton Recreation Camp or the Boys and Girls Club camp at Castleton Elementary School, as those programs will continue providing free summer meals on site.
Please take a few moments to complete this anonymous survey—
https://bit.ly/SVSummerMeals2026Survey
your feedback will help us make the program as accessible and convenient as possible for Slate Valley families. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and helping us better serve our community. Please complete one survey per household.
We are gathering feedback about the SFSP non-congregate meal program, which offers free multi-day meal boxes for children 18 and under. Each box includes 7 breakfasts and 7 lunches, can be picked up by a parent or guardian, and requires no application or income qualification.
We are especially hoping to connect with families whose children are not enrolled in the Castleton Recreation Camp or the Boys and Girls Club camp at Castleton Elementary School, as those programs will continue providing free summer meals on site.
Please take a few moments to complete this anonymous survey—
https://bit.ly/SVSummerMeals2026Survey
your feedback will help us make the program as accessible and convenient as possible for Slate Valley families. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and helping us better serve our community. Please complete one survey per household.
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Megan Wetmore✨🎓
Special Board Meeting - May 18, 2026 - Notice Earlier Start
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:00 p.m. in the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/mcd-hhri-num
Or dial: (US) +1 470-839-8350 PIN: 521 928 888#
Please note: To participate in conversation virtually and/or ask a question virtually, please use the “raise hand” icon in Google Meet. Typing responses or questions in chat is not an option.
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:00 p.m. in the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/mcd-hhri-num
Or dial: (US) +1 470-839-8350 PIN: 521 928 888#
Please note: To participate in conversation virtually and/or ask a question virtually, please use the “raise hand” icon in Google Meet. Typing responses or questions in chat is not an option.
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Isabella Zellars ✨🎓
