📣 Reminder: Slate Valley Community Advisory Council Meeting Tomorrow!
Join us tomorrow evening for the next Slate Valley Community Advisory Council (CAC) meeting! This is a great opportunity to stay informed, share your voice, and be part of meaningful conversations that help shape our schools and community.
🗓 Tuesday, May 5, 2026
⏰ 5:45 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Central Office Conference Room
Fair Haven Union Middle & High School
We welcome all community members—your perspective matters! We hope to see you there. 💬💙
Join us tomorrow evening for the next Slate Valley Community Advisory Council (CAC) meeting! This is a great opportunity to stay informed, share your voice, and be part of meaningful conversations that help shape our schools and community.
🗓 Tuesday, May 5, 2026
⏰ 5:45 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Central Office Conference Room
Fair Haven Union Middle & High School
We welcome all community members—your perspective matters! We hope to see you there. 💬💙
☕💙 Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week is off to a great start! 💙☕
We kicked off the week on Monday with a special visit to the incredible faculty and staff at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School! 🎉 Our Central Office team hit the halls bright and early, delivering fresh coffee, tea, and a delicious assortment of breakfast treats to help start the day right. 🍎🥐
From warm smiles to quick hallway chats, it was a wonderful way to say thank you to the educators and staff who make FHU such a special place for students each and every day.
And we’re not done yet! Tomorrow, the team will be visiting additional schools across the district to continue spreading appreciation and gratitude. 💫
It truly takes a village—and we are so lucky to have such a dedicated, caring one. 💙
We kicked off the week on Monday with a special visit to the incredible faculty and staff at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School! 🎉 Our Central Office team hit the halls bright and early, delivering fresh coffee, tea, and a delicious assortment of breakfast treats to help start the day right. 🍎🥐
From warm smiles to quick hallway chats, it was a wonderful way to say thank you to the educators and staff who make FHU such a special place for students each and every day.
And we’re not done yet! Tomorrow, the team will be visiting additional schools across the district to continue spreading appreciation and gratitude. 💫
It truly takes a village—and we are so lucky to have such a dedicated, caring one. 💙
🍎✨ Happy Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week! ✨🍎
This week, we celebrate the incredible educators and staff who make Slate Valley such a special place to learn and grow. From classrooms to cafeterias, offices to buses—your dedication, compassion, and hard work shape the lives of our students every single day.
Thank you for the countless ways you support, inspire, and uplift our entire community. 💚
Join us in showing appreciation—leave a comment, send a note, or simply say thank you to the amazing people who make a difference every day!
This week, we celebrate the incredible educators and staff who make Slate Valley such a special place to learn and grow. From classrooms to cafeterias, offices to buses—your dedication, compassion, and hard work shape the lives of our students every single day.
Thank you for the countless ways you support, inspire, and uplift our entire community. 💚
Join us in showing appreciation—leave a comment, send a note, or simply say thank you to the amazing people who make a difference every day!
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday - May Spotlight
This month, we’re excited to feature Dan Fitzpatrick, Slate Valley’s Assistant Director of Finance—someone whose experience and perspective reach far beyond our region.
Dan has been part of the Slate Valley team for the past five years, supporting the district’s financial operations and helping ensure our schools run smoothly behind the scenes. Prior to joining Slate Valley, Dan spent six years working at the International School of Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso, West Africa—bringing a truly global perspective to his role.
His connection to West Africa goes even deeper. From 1997 to 1999, Dan served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Burkina Faso, an experience that reflects his commitment to service and community.
Outside of work, Dan enjoys spending time on the golf course, working on landscaping projects, and being active in his church’s Men’s Club. He also values simple, meaningful moments—like playing UNO with his 11-year-old daughter, praying, and connecting with others.
A quote that guides Dan’s outlook comes from the Gospel of Mark: “Everything is possible for one who believes.” (Mark 9:23)
We’re grateful for Dan’s dedication, global experiences, and the steady support he brings to Slate Valley each day.
This month, we’re excited to feature Dan Fitzpatrick, Slate Valley’s Assistant Director of Finance—someone whose experience and perspective reach far beyond our region.
Dan has been part of the Slate Valley team for the past five years, supporting the district’s financial operations and helping ensure our schools run smoothly behind the scenes. Prior to joining Slate Valley, Dan spent six years working at the International School of Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso, West Africa—bringing a truly global perspective to his role.
His connection to West Africa goes even deeper. From 1997 to 1999, Dan served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Burkina Faso, an experience that reflects his commitment to service and community.
Outside of work, Dan enjoys spending time on the golf course, working on landscaping projects, and being active in his church’s Men’s Club. He also values simple, meaningful moments—like playing UNO with his 11-year-old daughter, praying, and connecting with others.
A quote that guides Dan’s outlook comes from the Gospel of Mark: “Everything is possible for one who believes.” (Mark 9:23)
We’re grateful for Dan’s dedication, global experiences, and the steady support he brings to Slate Valley each day.
Board Meeting - Tonight - May 4, 2026
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Castleton Elementary School Cafeteria.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/xcd-vvjm-pvi
Or dial: (US) +1 402-796-1093 PIN: 677 846 861#
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 6:30 p.m. in the Castleton Elementary School Cafeteria.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/xcd-vvjm-pvi
Or dial: (US) +1 402-796-1093 PIN: 677 846 861#
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.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: May 1, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/22d792fab09c/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-1-2026
https://mailchi.mp/22d792fab09c/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-1-2026
🚨 Boil Water Advisory – Fair Haven 🚨
A boil water advisory has been issued for parts of Fair Haven, including Fair Haven Grade School and Fair Haven Union Middle & High School.
🏫 There will be school tomorrow as scheduled.
💧 Students are encouraged to bring their own drinking water from home if possible.
We will continue to keep our community updated as more information becomes available. Thank you for your cooperation and support.
A boil water advisory has been issued for parts of Fair Haven, including Fair Haven Grade School and Fair Haven Union Middle & High School.
🏫 There will be school tomorrow as scheduled.
💧 Students are encouraged to bring their own drinking water from home if possible.
We will continue to keep our community updated as more information becomes available. Thank you for your cooperation and support.
This is a gentle reminder that we will be gathering this Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 11:00 AM to celebrate the life of Bonnie L. Partridge.
Please join us at Castleton Elementary School in Castleton, Vermont as we come together to honor Bonnie—a beloved member of the Castleton community whose kindness, dedication, and sense of humor touched so many lives.
In her spirit, guests are invited (if they wish) to wear their favorite Adidas clothing or Dallas Cowboys/NASCAR attire.
We hope you can join us as we share memories, celebrate her life, and support one another. 💙
Please join us at Castleton Elementary School in Castleton, Vermont as we come together to honor Bonnie—a beloved member of the Castleton community whose kindness, dedication, and sense of humor touched so many lives.
In her spirit, guests are invited (if they wish) to wear their favorite Adidas clothing or Dallas Cowboys/NASCAR attire.
We hope you can join us as we share memories, celebrate her life, and support one another. 💙
💙 Thank You, Lion’s Club! 💙
We are incredibly grateful to the Lion’s Club for their generous donation to the Slate Valley Unified School District.
This support helps ensure our students have what they need, when they need it most. Funds are often used to provide winter essentials like coats, snowpants, and boots. They also help students attend camp with confidence—providing items such as bathing suits, new outfits, and shoes.
Your kindness makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and families. Thank you for helping us take care of our community! 🦁
We are incredibly grateful to the Lion’s Club for their generous donation to the Slate Valley Unified School District.
This support helps ensure our students have what they need, when they need it most. Funds are often used to provide winter essentials like coats, snowpants, and boots. They also help students attend camp with confidence—providing items such as bathing suits, new outfits, and shoes.
Your kindness makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and families. Thank you for helping us take care of our community! 🦁
🌎💚 Happy Earth Day from Slate Valley! 💚🌎
Before heading into Spring Break, FHGS second graders in Ms. Bruno’s class took time to learn about caring for our planet by creating their own Earth Day crafts. We’re always proud to celebrate the ways our learners are thinking about protecting and appreciating the world around them.
Wishing our entire Slate Valley community a joyful and meaningful Earth Day! 🌍💙
Before heading into Spring Break, FHGS second graders in Ms. Bruno’s class took time to learn about caring for our planet by creating their own Earth Day crafts. We’re always proud to celebrate the ways our learners are thinking about protecting and appreciating the world around them.
Wishing our entire Slate Valley community a joyful and meaningful Earth Day! 🌍💙
🍎☀️ Free Summer Meals for Kids & Teens!
Slate Valley is proud to offer the 2026 Summer Food Service Program at the Fair Haven Grade School Cafeteria!
All children and teens 18 and under can enjoy free breakfast and lunch this summer—no registration required.
📅 Dates: June 29 – August 14
⏰ Times:
• Breakfast: 8:30–9:30 AM
• Lunch: 11:30 AM–12:30 PM
Please note: Meals must be eaten on-site in the cafeteria.
Help us spread the word so every child has access to healthy, nutritious meals all summer long!
🔎 Find more locations at: https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sitefinder
Slate Valley is proud to offer the 2026 Summer Food Service Program at the Fair Haven Grade School Cafeteria!
All children and teens 18 and under can enjoy free breakfast and lunch this summer—no registration required.
📅 Dates: June 29 – August 14
⏰ Times:
• Breakfast: 8:30–9:30 AM
• Lunch: 11:30 AM–12:30 PM
Please note: Meals must be eaten on-site in the cafeteria.
Help us spread the word so every child has access to healthy, nutritious meals all summer long!
🔎 Find more locations at: https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sitefinder
Slate Valley District Newsletter: April 17, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/8852b597100f/district-newsletter-april-10-13836492
https://mailchi.mp/8852b597100f/district-newsletter-april-10-13836492
ANNOUNCEMENT: There will be NO 5:30 pm LATE BUS on Friday, April 17, 2026.
📣 Reminder for Slate Valley Families!
All Slate Valley schools will have an early release day on Friday, April 17, 2026.
This will be followed by Spring Break from Monday, April 20 through Friday, April 24. 🌸
We hope everyone enjoys a safe, relaxing, and well-deserved break!
Classes will resume on Monday, April 27, 2026.
All Slate Valley schools will have an early release day on Friday, April 17, 2026.
This will be followed by Spring Break from Monday, April 20 through Friday, April 24. 🌸
We hope everyone enjoys a safe, relaxing, and well-deserved break!
Classes will resume on Monday, April 27, 2026.
Share Your Memories of Bonnie 💙
As we prepare to celebrate the life of Bonnie L. Partridge, we invite all friends, colleagues, and students—past and present—to help us honor her memory.
We are creating a special slideshow to be shared during her Celebration of Life on May 2, 2026, and would love to include your photos and video memories.
How to Submit:
• Complete the form by going to: https://bit.ly/BonniePCelebrationofLife
• Scan the QR code on the flyer
• Email your photo/video directly to Lisa Cacciatore at lcacciatore@svuvt.org
Submission Deadline:
All entries must be received by April 24, 2026
Whether it’s a candid moment, a favorite memory, or a short video message, your contribution will help tell the story of Bonnie’s impact and the many lives she touched.
Thank you for helping us celebrate Bonnie in such a meaningful way. 💙
As we prepare to celebrate the life of Bonnie L. Partridge, we invite all friends, colleagues, and students—past and present—to help us honor her memory.
We are creating a special slideshow to be shared during her Celebration of Life on May 2, 2026, and would love to include your photos and video memories.
How to Submit:
• Complete the form by going to: https://bit.ly/BonniePCelebrationofLife
• Scan the QR code on the flyer
• Email your photo/video directly to Lisa Cacciatore at lcacciatore@svuvt.org
Submission Deadline:
All entries must be received by April 24, 2026
Whether it’s a candid moment, a favorite memory, or a short video message, your contribution will help tell the story of Bonnie’s impact and the many lives she touched.
Thank you for helping us celebrate Bonnie in such a meaningful way. 💙
🏀 Hoops, High-Fives, and Heart: Unified Basketball Brings the Energy!
Submitted by Coach/Athletic Director Eric Ramey: In front of a near-packed house, the Slaters hosted a Unified Basketball game for the first time in school history, and used a balanced effort to top Otter Valley 44-28. The Slaters lead 22-12 at the half, and used a big 3rd quarter to pull away. The Otters got hot in the 4th period to close the gap, but the Slaters held on for the victory.
Brett Hazen led Fair Haven with 12 points, and he consistently found open teammates, assisting on numerous hoops for the Slaters. Troy Hazen finished with 8 points, Jordan Alger and Jayden Botts had 6pts, and Nate Moulton and Travis Alger both had 4pts.
The Otters were led by Collin Elliot, Jeremiah Shaw and Alyssa Wade with 6 points each, Levi Machia had 4pts, and Madison Mitchell, Logan Korson and Reece Sheldrick each had 2pts.
Final: Fair Haven 44 / Otter Valley 28
The Slaters are back in action on Thursday, hosting Rutland at 4pm. Admission is free, and we hope to see the gym packed once again.
Submitted by Coach/Athletic Director Eric Ramey: In front of a near-packed house, the Slaters hosted a Unified Basketball game for the first time in school history, and used a balanced effort to top Otter Valley 44-28. The Slaters lead 22-12 at the half, and used a big 3rd quarter to pull away. The Otters got hot in the 4th period to close the gap, but the Slaters held on for the victory.
Brett Hazen led Fair Haven with 12 points, and he consistently found open teammates, assisting on numerous hoops for the Slaters. Troy Hazen finished with 8 points, Jordan Alger and Jayden Botts had 6pts, and Nate Moulton and Travis Alger both had 4pts.
The Otters were led by Collin Elliot, Jeremiah Shaw and Alyssa Wade with 6 points each, Levi Machia had 4pts, and Madison Mitchell, Logan Korson and Reece Sheldrick each had 2pts.
Final: Fair Haven 44 / Otter Valley 28
The Slaters are back in action on Thursday, hosting Rutland at 4pm. Admission is free, and we hope to see the gym packed once again.
🌱💚 FHUMHS Students Giving Back for Green-Up Day! 💚🌱
On May 1st, students from Fair Haven Union Middle & High School will be out in the community celebrating Green-Up Day—and they’re ready to lend a helping hand!
From spring yard clean-ups to other small outdoor tasks, our students are excited to support members of the Slate Valley community. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, give back, and make a positive impact together.
If you or someone you know could use a little extra help this spring, please fill out the quick form below, or contact Jackie Phillips (email: jphillips@svuvt.org or phone: 802-265-4966). FHUMHS principals and assistant principals will review submissions and follow up directly.
👉 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfHYQ48U-NIH-q2A1cECoC8cBXMl0eQSxBGHs8ZvZqpa98wow/viewform
Thank you for being part of our community—and for helping our students make a difference! 🌎✨
On May 1st, students from Fair Haven Union Middle & High School will be out in the community celebrating Green-Up Day—and they’re ready to lend a helping hand!
From spring yard clean-ups to other small outdoor tasks, our students are excited to support members of the Slate Valley community. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, give back, and make a positive impact together.
If you or someone you know could use a little extra help this spring, please fill out the quick form below, or contact Jackie Phillips (email: jphillips@svuvt.org or phone: 802-265-4966). FHUMHS principals and assistant principals will review submissions and follow up directly.
👉 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfHYQ48U-NIH-q2A1cECoC8cBXMl0eQSxBGHs8ZvZqpa98wow/viewform
Thank you for being part of our community—and for helping our students make a difference! 🌎✨
Slate Valley District Newsletter: April 10, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/5722f5802f0b/district-newsletter-april-10-2026
https://mailchi.mp/5722f5802f0b/district-newsletter-april-10-2026
Slate Valley Leading the Conversation on AI in Education
Last week, we were proud to have our very own Walter Ripley, Slate Valley Technology Coordinator, present at the VTCLA (Vermont Curriculum Leaders Association) Annual Spring Meeting!
Walter joined education leaders from across the state to co-present on AI Usage & Guidance, collaborating with partners from the Agency of Education and Vita-Learn. The session focused on how curriculum and technology leaders can work together to thoughtfully and effectively integrate AI tools into K–12 education.
We are incredibly proud of Walter for representing Slate Valley and contributing to meaningful, forward-thinking work that supports innovation and student learning across our state!
Last week, we were proud to have our very own Walter Ripley, Slate Valley Technology Coordinator, present at the VTCLA (Vermont Curriculum Leaders Association) Annual Spring Meeting!
Walter joined education leaders from across the state to co-present on AI Usage & Guidance, collaborating with partners from the Agency of Education and Vita-Learn. The session focused on how curriculum and technology leaders can work together to thoughtfully and effectively integrate AI tools into K–12 education.
We are incredibly proud of Walter for representing Slate Valley and contributing to meaningful, forward-thinking work that supports innovation and student learning across our state!
📚✨ Friday Focus: Smiles & “i before e”… or is it? ✨📚
This week, our Friday Focus shines on our amazing 2nd and 3rd graders across Slate Valley!
Traveling from school to school, it was impossible to miss the smiles, laughter, and joy of learning happening in every classroom and hallway. Whether students were tackling their Cognia assessments, heading out for recess or lunch, diving into a good book, or puzzling over tricky spelling rules like “ei” and “ie,” their curiosity and energy were on full display.
It’s moments like these that remind us how special our schools are—filled with students who are growing, learning, and supporting one another every single day.
Keep shining, Slate Valley! 🌟
This week, our Friday Focus shines on our amazing 2nd and 3rd graders across Slate Valley!
Traveling from school to school, it was impossible to miss the smiles, laughter, and joy of learning happening in every classroom and hallway. Whether students were tackling their Cognia assessments, heading out for recess or lunch, diving into a good book, or puzzling over tricky spelling rules like “ei” and “ie,” their curiosity and energy were on full display.
It’s moments like these that remind us how special our schools are—filled with students who are growing, learning, and supporting one another every single day.
Keep shining, Slate Valley! 🌟
