Where Are They Now Wednesday: Christopher Hanson, Class of 1991
This week, we’re proud to spotlight Christopher Hanson, a 1991 graduate of Fair Haven Union High School, whose journey has taken him across the country—and around the world!
After starting at Northeastern University in Boston, Christopher completed both his undergraduate and master’s degrees through the University of Nebraska while serving in the U.S. Army, and later earned his doctoral degree from National University. He’s worked as a paramedic in Boston, a Physician Assistant in both military and civilian settings, and now serves as an innovation leader in healthcare quality in Texas. His career has taken him to over a dozen states and numerous countries—truly living the Dr. Seuss quote: “Oh, the places you’ll go!”
Christopher credits several FHUHS teachers for shaping his path:
- Mr. Whalen (Social Studies) – taught him the value of seeing other perspectives and engaging in thoughtful debate.
- Mr. Hier (History) – showed him that studying history helps us learn from the past.
- Mr. Ollie Allen (Substitute Teacher) – encouraged him to take calculated risks, a lesson that guided his life and career.
During his FHUHS days, Christopher wrestled his junior year and served his community as a volunteer firefighter and EMT.
Today, he continues to impact lives through health leadership and quality improvement. Outside of work, Christopher enjoys woodworking, painting, travel, pickleball, and playing the bagpipes. He’s also a proud father of two and grandfather to four granddaughters—“there isn’t quite anything like the love of grandkids,” he says.
His advice to current Slate Valley students?
“Never give up. It’s okay to not know what you want to be when you grow up—some days I still don’t. But never, ever give up trying to make yourself a better person.”
Thank you, Christopher, for sharing your journey and reminding us that learning, growth, and service never stop!
This week, we’re proud to spotlight Christopher Hanson, a 1991 graduate of Fair Haven Union High School, whose journey has taken him across the country—and around the world!
After starting at Northeastern University in Boston, Christopher completed both his undergraduate and master’s degrees through the University of Nebraska while serving in the U.S. Army, and later earned his doctoral degree from National University. He’s worked as a paramedic in Boston, a Physician Assistant in both military and civilian settings, and now serves as an innovation leader in healthcare quality in Texas. His career has taken him to over a dozen states and numerous countries—truly living the Dr. Seuss quote: “Oh, the places you’ll go!”
Christopher credits several FHUHS teachers for shaping his path:
- Mr. Whalen (Social Studies) – taught him the value of seeing other perspectives and engaging in thoughtful debate.
- Mr. Hier (History) – showed him that studying history helps us learn from the past.
- Mr. Ollie Allen (Substitute Teacher) – encouraged him to take calculated risks, a lesson that guided his life and career.
During his FHUHS days, Christopher wrestled his junior year and served his community as a volunteer firefighter and EMT.
Today, he continues to impact lives through health leadership and quality improvement. Outside of work, Christopher enjoys woodworking, painting, travel, pickleball, and playing the bagpipes. He’s also a proud father of two and grandfather to four granddaughters—“there isn’t quite anything like the love of grandkids,” he says.
His advice to current Slate Valley students?
“Never give up. It’s okay to not know what you want to be when you grow up—some days I still don’t. But never, ever give up trying to make yourself a better person.”
Thank you, Christopher, for sharing your journey and reminding us that learning, growth, and service never stop!
Trivia Tuesday!
Did you know? The name October comes from the Latin word “octo,” meaning eight—but it’s actually our tenth month of the year!
Trivia Question:
Why is October named for “eight” even though it’s our tenth month?
Drop your answer in comments...
... or scroll down for the Answer!
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Answer:
Because in the original Roman calendar, the year began in March, making October the eighth month! When January and February were added later, October shifted to tenth place—but kept its original name.
Did you know? The name October comes from the Latin word “octo,” meaning eight—but it’s actually our tenth month of the year!
Trivia Question:
Why is October named for “eight” even though it’s our tenth month?
Drop your answer in comments...
... or scroll down for the Answer!
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Answer:
Because in the original Roman calendar, the year began in March, making October the eighth month! When January and February were added later, October shifted to tenth place—but kept its original name.
Please Join Us Tomorrow for Coffee & Conversation!
Tuesday, October 7, 2025, 8:00 - 9:30 AM at the Fair Haven Wooden Soldier.
Come share your questions, ideas, and feedback with district leadership in a relaxed, friendly setting. We value your voice and look forward to the conversation!
Everyone’s welcome!
Bring a friend, grab a cup on us, and let’s talk.
Tuesday, October 7, 2025, 8:00 - 9:30 AM at the Fair Haven Wooden Soldier.
Come share your questions, ideas, and feedback with district leadership in a relaxed, friendly setting. We value your voice and look forward to the conversation!
Everyone’s welcome!
Bring a friend, grab a cup on us, and let’s talk.
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday: CES Pre-K Teacher, Ms. Laura Daily
This month we’re excited to highlight Ms. Laura Daily, who is now in her third year at Slate Valley—though she’s no stranger to our district! After working here previously, Laura returned about ten years later, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a deep passion for early childhood education.
Before returning to Slate Valley, Laura worked in several roles across the region, including opening the preschool program at Wells Village School and serving in West Rutland School, the Bennington Rutland Supervisory Union, and the Early Childhood Education Department at Bennington College. She’s also worked with HeadStart and as a curriculum coordinator for a private preschool. Laura has been studying and working in education since the 1990s, with her true calling centered around Early Childhood Development and Learning.
When she’s not in the classroom, Laura loves spending time with her family, enjoying nature, gardening, horseback riding, yoga, and taking walks with her dog and three children.
Her favorite quote?
“It is what it is, and it will be what you make of it.”
Laura dreams of one day opening her own hands-on learning program that partners closely with families and includes an equine therapy component—an inspiring vision that perfectly reflects her dedication to learning through experience.
Thank you, Ms. Daily, for your passion, creativity, and dedication—and for being such a valuable part of the Slate Valley community!
This month we’re excited to highlight Ms. Laura Daily, who is now in her third year at Slate Valley—though she’s no stranger to our district! After working here previously, Laura returned about ten years later, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a deep passion for early childhood education.
Before returning to Slate Valley, Laura worked in several roles across the region, including opening the preschool program at Wells Village School and serving in West Rutland School, the Bennington Rutland Supervisory Union, and the Early Childhood Education Department at Bennington College. She’s also worked with HeadStart and as a curriculum coordinator for a private preschool. Laura has been studying and working in education since the 1990s, with her true calling centered around Early Childhood Development and Learning.
When she’s not in the classroom, Laura loves spending time with her family, enjoying nature, gardening, horseback riding, yoga, and taking walks with her dog and three children.
Her favorite quote?
“It is what it is, and it will be what you make of it.”
Laura dreams of one day opening her own hands-on learning program that partners closely with families and includes an equine therapy component—an inspiring vision that perfectly reflects her dedication to learning through experience.
Thank you, Ms. Daily, for your passion, creativity, and dedication—and for being such a valuable part of the Slate Valley community!
Board Meeting Tonight - October 6, 2025
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Orwell Village School Gym (Town Hall).
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/sri-euji-itv
Or dial: (US) +1 484-746-4332 PIN: 841 923 393#
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. at the Orwell Village School Gym (Town Hall).
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/sri-euji-itv
Or dial: (US) +1 484-746-4332 PIN: 841 923 393#
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.
October 3, 2025: Slate Valley District Newsletter
https://mailchi.mp/fa2659ed6054/district-newsletter-october-3-2025
https://mailchi.mp/fa2659ed6054/district-newsletter-october-3-2025
📢 Please join us for our next Community Advisory Council (CAC) Meeting of the school year!
🕔 Time: 5:45–7:00 PM
📍 Location: Fair Haven Union Middle & High School – Central Office Conference Room
This is a great opportunity to connect with district administration, share community concerns, and hear updates on Act 73 as well as how the school year is going and our hopes moving forward.
All are Welcome! We look forward to seeing you there! 💙
🕔 Time: 5:45–7:00 PM
📍 Location: Fair Haven Union Middle & High School – Central Office Conference Room
This is a great opportunity to connect with district administration, share community concerns, and hear updates on Act 73 as well as how the school year is going and our hopes moving forward.
All are Welcome! We look forward to seeing you there! 💙
Slate Valley District Newsletter: September 26, 2025
https://mailchi.mp/79359f4019ef/slate-valley-district-newsletter-92625
https://mailchi.mp/79359f4019ef/slate-valley-district-newsletter-92625
We’re excited to kick off the first podcast of the 2025–2026 school year! Superintendent Brooke Olsen-Farrell sat down with Slate Valley Unified’s Board Chair, Julie Finnegan, for an insightful conversation.
In this episode, Julie shares about:
✔️ The responsibilities of the board chair position
✔️ The school board’s goals and aspirations for the year ahead
✔️ The importance of community involvement
✔️ Thoughts on Act 73 and what it could mean for our community
Tune in to hear directly from district leadership as we continue building transparency and connection with our community. 🎧
Watch or Listen to the full Podcast at https://youtu.be/zus4jJvbsb0
In this episode, Julie shares about:
✔️ The responsibilities of the board chair position
✔️ The school board’s goals and aspirations for the year ahead
✔️ The importance of community involvement
✔️ Thoughts on Act 73 and what it could mean for our community
Tune in to hear directly from district leadership as we continue building transparency and connection with our community. 🎧
Watch or Listen to the full Podcast at https://youtu.be/zus4jJvbsb0
☕️💬 Join Us for Coffee & Conversation!
Community members are warmly invited to our next Coffee & Conversation on Friday, September 26, 2025 at 9:00 AM at the Orwell Free Library.
Come share your questions, ideas, and feedback with district leadership in a relaxed, friendly setting. We value your voice and look forward to the conversation!
When: Friday, Sept. 26, 2025 · 9:00 AM
Where: Orwell Free Library
Who: All community members—everyone’s welcome!
Bring a friend, grab a cup, and let’s talk. ☕️
Community members are warmly invited to our next Coffee & Conversation on Friday, September 26, 2025 at 9:00 AM at the Orwell Free Library.
Come share your questions, ideas, and feedback with district leadership in a relaxed, friendly setting. We value your voice and look forward to the conversation!
When: Friday, Sept. 26, 2025 · 9:00 AM
Where: Orwell Free Library
Who: All community members—everyone’s welcome!
Bring a friend, grab a cup, and let’s talk. ☕️
Board Meeting - September 22, 2025
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at 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/asz-bujx-ixw
Or dial: (US) +1 218-301-2538 PIN: 630 332 195#
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. at 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/asz-bujx-ixw
Or dial: (US) +1 218-301-2538 PIN: 630 332 195#
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: September 19, 2025
https://mailchi.mp/4bee6898ba67/slate-valley-district-newsletter-for-september-19-2025
https://mailchi.mp/4bee6898ba67/slate-valley-district-newsletter-for-september-19-2025
📸 Slater Nation – We Need Your Photos! 🏈⚽⛳🏑
Have a great shot of your athlete in action at a Fair Haven Union Middle or High School game? We’d love to share it!
It’s easy:
1️⃣ Snap your best sports photos
2️⃣ Scan the QR code or go to: https://forms.gle/VVBaDmx22iDJSozM6
3️⃣ Submit your pictures to be featured on our website and social media!
Your photos help us celebrate our Slater athletes and capture the spirit of every game. Thank you for being part of the team behind the team!
📢 Join us Wednesday, September 24th for the 2025–2026 Annual Title I Meeting!
We’re excited to welcome parents and families to learn more about Title I Schoolwide Programs and how they help address barriers to academic success. 💙
📍 Benson Village School (BVS)
🕓 4:30 PM – Before Open House
🔗 meet.google.com/jev-hifs-mfd
We’re excited to welcome parents and families to learn more about Title I Schoolwide Programs and how they help address barriers to academic success. 💙
📍 Benson Village School (BVS)
🕓 4:30 PM – Before Open House
🔗 meet.google.com/jev-hifs-mfd
Mark your calendars! Our first Coffee and Conversation event is this Friday morning, September 19, at 10 AM at the Castleton Free Library.
This is your opportunity to meet with school board members and administration in a relaxed environment to discuss the start of the school year. We’ll be there to talk about any questions or concerns you may have, both local and state. Everyone is welcome—we hope to see you there!
This is your opportunity to meet with school board members and administration in a relaxed environment to discuss the start of the school year. We’ll be there to talk about any questions or concerns you may have, both local and state. Everyone is welcome—we hope to see you there!
Fair Haven Graduate Emmet MacKay’s Nomination Earns Mr. Nathan Morris Yale Educator Award!
Slate Valley Unified USD and Fair Haven Union High School are proud to announce that math teacher and class of 2025 advisor Mr. Nathan Morris has been named a recipient of the 2025 Yale Educator Award, following a heartfelt nomination by Class of 2025 graduate Emmet MacKay. The Yale Educator Recognition Program honors outstanding teachers and counselors worldwide who inspire and support their students. Of this year’s 302 nominees from 38 states and 22 countries, 61 teachers and 26 counselors were selected for the award.
Emmet’s nomination captured the energy and dedication that set Mr. Morris apart:
“Mr. Morris is not just a teacher or class advisor. He is a force. He is the pulse of our school. He is the reason our class of 2025 had any chance at making senior year feel legendary. He planned our prom(s), found the deals that made our senior trip possible, organized fundraisers, and pushed every one of us to step up. He showed us how to lead by leading harder than anyone else. Every hallway knows his voice. Every classroom knows his presence. The man is said to have two volumes: loud, and louder.
There were days when he would emerge from a smoky room wearing a blue wig while Nirvana played at full blast (for science...). There were rallies where he would charge down the bleachers with a massive homemade hammer that looked like something out of a cartoon. That hammer became a symbol of our class, and so did his self-coined phrase, which he shouted at every rally and event: ‘Be the hammer, not the nail!’
But Mr. Morris is more than school spirit. He is the kind of teacher who shows up beside a desk when students forget to ask for help. He is the kind of advisor who gives you the guidance you did not even know you needed. When I told him I didn't really want to apply to Yale, he looked at me and told me to make my own story. That conversation changed me. I applied. I got in. I would not be here without him.
Mr. Morris is spirited, loyal, and legendary. He went to this school, grew up in this town, and has poured himself into building something better for the students who came after him. I will never forget what he gave us.”
Mr. Morris’ recognition is both a personal honor and a proud moment for SVUUSD and Fair Haven Union High School. His passion, loyalty, and unwavering commitment to students has left a lasting mark, and the entire community celebrates this well-deserved achievement.
Photo shows Nate Morris, pictured kneeling in front, with Emmet MacKay standing behind him holding the class sledgehammer, alongside fellow participants of a Class of 2025 5K fundraiser.
Slate Valley Unified USD and Fair Haven Union High School are proud to announce that math teacher and class of 2025 advisor Mr. Nathan Morris has been named a recipient of the 2025 Yale Educator Award, following a heartfelt nomination by Class of 2025 graduate Emmet MacKay. The Yale Educator Recognition Program honors outstanding teachers and counselors worldwide who inspire and support their students. Of this year’s 302 nominees from 38 states and 22 countries, 61 teachers and 26 counselors were selected for the award.
Emmet’s nomination captured the energy and dedication that set Mr. Morris apart:
“Mr. Morris is not just a teacher or class advisor. He is a force. He is the pulse of our school. He is the reason our class of 2025 had any chance at making senior year feel legendary. He planned our prom(s), found the deals that made our senior trip possible, organized fundraisers, and pushed every one of us to step up. He showed us how to lead by leading harder than anyone else. Every hallway knows his voice. Every classroom knows his presence. The man is said to have two volumes: loud, and louder.
There were days when he would emerge from a smoky room wearing a blue wig while Nirvana played at full blast (for science...). There were rallies where he would charge down the bleachers with a massive homemade hammer that looked like something out of a cartoon. That hammer became a symbol of our class, and so did his self-coined phrase, which he shouted at every rally and event: ‘Be the hammer, not the nail!’
But Mr. Morris is more than school spirit. He is the kind of teacher who shows up beside a desk when students forget to ask for help. He is the kind of advisor who gives you the guidance you did not even know you needed. When I told him I didn't really want to apply to Yale, he looked at me and told me to make my own story. That conversation changed me. I applied. I got in. I would not be here without him.
Mr. Morris is spirited, loyal, and legendary. He went to this school, grew up in this town, and has poured himself into building something better for the students who came after him. I will never forget what he gave us.”
Mr. Morris’ recognition is both a personal honor and a proud moment for SVUUSD and Fair Haven Union High School. His passion, loyalty, and unwavering commitment to students has left a lasting mark, and the entire community celebrates this well-deserved achievement.
Photo shows Nate Morris, pictured kneeling in front, with Emmet MacKay standing behind him holding the class sledgehammer, alongside fellow participants of a Class of 2025 5K fundraiser.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: Week of September 12, 2025
https://mailchi.mp/3e7c8316491f/district-newsletter-september-12-2025
https://mailchi.mp/3e7c8316491f/district-newsletter-september-12-2025
Focus Friday: Slate Valley is celebrating our newest full-time students — our kindergarteners!
As a fun project, all kindergarteners from Orwell Village School, Benson Village School, Castleton Elementary School, and Fair Haven Grade School came together to create a joyful video, “On the 12th Day of Kindergarten.”
The video can be seen at https://bit.ly/12thDayofKindergarten
We are so proud of our youngest learners — they’ve jumped right into their Slate Valley journey, and they’re already off to a wonderful start!
As a fun project, all kindergarteners from Orwell Village School, Benson Village School, Castleton Elementary School, and Fair Haven Grade School came together to create a joyful video, “On the 12th Day of Kindergarten.”
The video can be seen at https://bit.ly/12thDayofKindergarten
We are so proud of our youngest learners — they’ve jumped right into their Slate Valley journey, and they’re already off to a wonderful start!
☕✨ Coffee & Conversation is back! ✨☕
Join Slate Valley school board members and administrators for a cup of coffee on us and a chance to share your thoughts, questions, and ideas. Topics include the FY27 Budget, Act 73, and the upcoming school year — but all voices and perspectives are welcome!
📍 Upcoming Dates & Locations:
September 19, 2025 | Castleton Free Library | 10:00–11:00 AM
September 26, 2025 | Orwell Free Library | 9:00–10:30 AM
October 7, 2025 | Fair Haven – Wooden Soldier | 8:00–9:30 AM
October 9, 2025 | Benson Town Hall | 8:00–9:30 AM
Come enjoy community, connection, and coffee — we’d love to hear from you!
Join Slate Valley school board members and administrators for a cup of coffee on us and a chance to share your thoughts, questions, and ideas. Topics include the FY27 Budget, Act 73, and the upcoming school year — but all voices and perspectives are welcome!
📍 Upcoming Dates & Locations:
September 19, 2025 | Castleton Free Library | 10:00–11:00 AM
September 26, 2025 | Orwell Free Library | 9:00–10:30 AM
October 7, 2025 | Fair Haven – Wooden Soldier | 8:00–9:30 AM
October 9, 2025 | Benson Town Hall | 8:00–9:30 AM
Come enjoy community, connection, and coffee — we’d love to hear from you!
Throwback Thursday!
Throwing it back to 1967, when a couple of our local one-room schoolhouses in Hubbardton and West Haven were still using outhouses and had no running water!
This Rutland Daily Herald clipping from October 5, 1967 highlights how teachers carried water into classrooms each day, and students relied on outdoor privies instead of indoor bathrooms.
Thankfully, times have changed!
Who remembers stories from parents or grandparents about the “old schoolhouse days”? Share them below—we’d love to hear! 👇
Throwing it back to 1967, when a couple of our local one-room schoolhouses in Hubbardton and West Haven were still using outhouses and had no running water!
This Rutland Daily Herald clipping from October 5, 1967 highlights how teachers carried water into classrooms each day, and students relied on outdoor privies instead of indoor bathrooms.
Thankfully, times have changed!
Who remembers stories from parents or grandparents about the “old schoolhouse days”? Share them below—we’d love to hear! 👇
