Action based learning with Kinders & 6th graders
about 2 months ago, Kelley Schultz
Two older students and two younger children sit in a circle on a gymnasium floor. They are working together on "Fast Word Writing" worksheets placed in plastic sleeves, using dry-erase markers and clipboards to practice writing names and words.
A teenage girl in a light blue sweatshirt leans over a cafeteria table, pointing to lettered blocks to help a young girl in a green dress. They are using yellow baseplates and blue/red blocks to build words. An adult man watches the activity from the side. IMG_2944.jpg A side view of the same literacy activity at the cafeteria table. A young girl with a long blonde braid reaches into a clear bin of letter blocks while a teenage mentor stands by to assist. Yellow building plates and word slips are spread across the table.
In a gym, an older student walks past a line of numbered papers taped to the floor. Each paper shows a number and a corresponding ten-frame diagram. A younger child in a red dress kneels to interact with one of the papers while another child stands nearby.
n a gym, an older student walks past a line of numbered papers taped to the floor. Each paper shows a number and a corresponding ten-frame diagram. A younger child in a red dress kneels to interact with one of the papers while another child stands nearby. IMG_2943.jpg A teenage girl in a light blue sweatshirt leans over a cafeteria table, pointing to lettered blocks to help a young girl in a green dress. They are using yellow baseplates and blue/red blocks to build words. An adult man watches the activity from the side.
A teenage girl in a light blue sweatshirt leans over a cafeteria table, pointing to lettered blocks to help a young girl in a green dress. They are using yellow baseplates and blue/red blocks to build words. An adult man watches the activity from the side.
A young girl in a pink hoodie kneels on a green gym floor mat. She is using a dry-erase marker to practice writing the number 6 on a worksheet that includes a ten-frame and a "number rhyme" poem.
A young girl with a long blonde braid, wearing a red polka-dot dress, kneels on the floor to practice writing the number 5 on a math worksheet. Other numbered stations are visible nearby.
4th Graders are busy charting one million squares! This lesson helps students understand the magnitude of 1,000,000. Students recognized that each square was 10,000 units and then multiplied that by 100 to find out the total area was 1,000,000 square units.
about 3 hours ago, Kelley Schultz
Two young girls kneel on a classroom floor, working together to align and tape two long horizontal rows of white grid paper. They are focused on making sure the edges of the squares meet perfectly. IMG_1740.jpg Two boys in red hoodies sit on a colorful rug featuring a map of the United States. They are assembling several long strips of grid paper side-by-side to create a large rectangular mat on the floor.
A young boy in a red hoodie stands at a wooden classroom table, carefully using a black tape dispenser to join together squares of white grid paper into a long strip. A purple "Bridges in Mathematics" student book lies on the table nearby.
A young girl with her hair in a ponytail sits at a classroom table, focused on folding or aligning a square of white grid paper to add to a growing chain. A leopard-print tape dispenser and a name tag sheet are on the table in front of her.
Two boys in red hoodies sit on a colorful rug featuring a map of the United States. They are assembling several long strips of grid paper side-by-side to create a large rectangular mat on the floor.
Six smiling students stand in a line in their classroom, proudly holding up a large, completed grid made of taped-together paper squares. Each column of the grid is labeled "10,000" at the top in purple marker. In the background, a "Calendar Grid" bulletin board and a February 2026 calendar are visible.
Students in Crazy 8's math club made origami stars and measured the distances that they traveled.
about 4 hours ago, Kelley Schultz
Four young girls sit around a circular wooden table in a classroom, focused on folding colorful sheets of paper. They are in various stages of an origami project, with light blue, purple, yellow, and pink paper visible. One girl in a grey hoodie carefully creases a large blue sheet, while her peers work on smaller sections and pre-folded shapes.
A high-angle, close-up shot shows a student in a light grey hoodie and black pants kneeling on a tiled floor. She is using a blue plastic ruler to measure the distance or position of a completed green and blue origami ninja star. Her hand is outstretched near the star, and she wears white Crocs decorated with colorful charms.
Seven smiling girls stand together in a school hallway, proudly displaying their completed multi-colored origami ninja stars. They are posed in front of two classroom doors labeled "3rd Grade" and "4th Grade." The group shows a range of expressions from broad grins to quiet smiles, with some holding their paper creations high in the air.
🏛️✨ Throwback Thursday — Going Back to 2016! ✨🏛️

This week we’re heading back 10 years to 2016 to celebrate an impressive student achievement from Castleton Village School. Students in Ms. White’s 7th–8th grade JUMP enrichment group — a cross-grade period where middle schoolers collaborated on special projects — competed in the 3D Vermont Olympiad, a statewide, project-based learning competition combining local history, research, design, and engineering.

As part of the Olympiad, students researched historic buildings in their town, studied their historical significance, created multimedia reports, and constructed detailed, to-scale 3D models for judging and presentation.

That year, CVS students formed two teams. One group focused on the Federated Church of Castleton, while the other researched the Castleton Medical College Chapel. Both teams performed phenomenally at the state competition, showcasing outstanding research, craftsmanship, and presentation skills. The Medical College Chapel team earned first place statewide — an incredible accomplishment.

Experiences like the 3D Vermont Olympiad highlighted how hands-on, place-based learning helps students connect history, creativity, and problem-solving.

👀 Throwback bonus question: Do you recognize one of our district’s current second grade teachers in this group?

See a video recap of the Olympiad at: https://youtu.be/8lwxrfgUJSI
about 4 hours ago, Slate Valley
Throwback Thursday graphic celebrating Castleton Village School’s 2016 3D Vermont State Champions, showing photos of 7th and 8th grade students and advisors at the 3D VT Olympiad with their display table and two detailed scale building models, plus Slate Valley logo and text noting the competition and year.
Kinders and 6th Grade Reading Buddies!
1 day ago, Kelley Schultz
A boy in a brown hoodie reclines on a red mat in a gymnasium, pointing to a page in a book. A young girl in a green shirt sits cross-legged next to him, focused on the story. A pair of pink sneakers sits neatly on the floor beside the mat.
A young girl with blonde braids sits on a red mat, looking toward a teenage boy in a black "Calvin Klein" hoodie. The boy is leaning back and holding a colorful book open for her to see. Her shoes are placed on the tile floor next to the mat.
A teenage girl with long dark hair sits on a gray rug next to a bright green mat, holding open a large picture book. A young boy in a blue Transformer shirt sits on his knees on the mat next to her, looking toward the camera.
A teenage girl with very long brown hair sits on an orange mat, facing two younger girls. One younger girl holds a book titled "Some Smug Slug" while the other lies on her stomach. They are positioned in a large multipurpose room with cafeteria tables folded in the background.
An older boy wearing a black "Mossy Oak" hoodie sits cross-legged on a bright green mat in a school cafeteria, reading a book to two younger boys. The younger boys sit closely, looking at the pages with smiles. Several pairs of shoes are scattered on the floor in front of them.

Where Are They Now Wednesday: Derek Eagan, Class of 2018

This month’s Where Are They Now Wednesday spotlight features Fair Haven Union High School alumnus Derek Eagan, Class of 2018, who has turned his early interest in public safety into a meaningful and fast-paced career in emergency services.

While in High School, Derek pursued training through the Stafford Technical Center Public Safety/Criminal Justice program, building the skills that would launch him into the field. Today, he works full time at Community Health Brandon as a Medical Assistant and also serves per diem with Wallingford Rescue Squad, Brandon Area Rescue Squad, and Regional Ambulance Service. His work keeps him actively engaged in caring for and supporting people across the region when they need it most.

While at FHUHS, Derek was a member of the FHUHS Cadets, an experience that helped shape his career direction and commitment to service. He credits several educators with having a lasting influence on his success, including Mrs. Margret Hayward, Mrs. Sheila Nicholes, and Scott Alkinburgh, whose support and guidance helped him along the way.

Outside of his professional life, Derek stays busy with a wide range of interests. During the summer months, he spends time at Pond Hill Ranch and also enjoys fishing, hiking, and just being outdoors. He values time with family and friends—especially his high school best friend, Adam—and is excited to now be a first-time uncle. He has also developed a passion for photography and recently launched his own business, Derek Eagan Photography.

A quote that continues to motivate him is, “Getting back up is the only back up plan you need,” by Bailey Zimmerman.

His advice to today’s Slate Valley students is simple but heartfelt: Don’t rush your four years. Make friends, and take part in the clubs and sports that interest you.

1 day ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Where Are They Now Wednesday” from Slate Valley featuring FHUHS Class of 2018 alumnus Derek Eagan. Text highlights that he studied Public Safety/Criminal Justice at Stafford Technical Center, works full time in the Rutland Regional Medical Center Emergency Department, serves per diem with local rescue squads, is a former FHUHS Cadet, owns Derek Eagan Photography, and recently became an uncle. The photo shows an adult man standing in front of an ambulance in uniform.
Last night, Senator David Weeks, Representative William Canfield, and Representative Zachary Harvey joined community members at a Community Advisory Council meeting at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School for a forum focused on Act 73.

We appreciate our legislators taking the time to meet with the community, answer questions, and provide thoughtful, detailed explanations about Act 73 and its potential direction and impact on education in Vermont. Their openness and engagement helped make the discussion informative and productive for all who attended.
2 days ago, Slate Valley
Three local legislators speak at a table during a community forum, with a display screen behind them reading “Legislator Perspectives on Act 73” and listing guiding questions.
Community members and local legislators sit around tables in a school library classroom during a public discussion meeting, with a presentation on a screen about Act 73 and participants taking notes.
Trivia Tuesday: Did You Know? 📊

All information about Slate Valley’s Proposed FY27 Budget is available in one convenient place on our website. Community members can review the full set of resources, including:

• Proposed FY27 Budget Presentation
• 2025–2026 Annual Report
• Warning for the Annual Meeting
• FY27 Tax Rate Estimates
• Annual Meeting details — February 19, 2026 at 6:30 PM in the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room

View everything here:
👉 https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget

🗳️ Don’t forget: Please vote on Town Meeting Day — March 3, 2026 by Australian ballot, or vote early using an absentee ballot.

Stay informed and take part in the process!
2 days ago, Slate Valley
Slate Valley Unified School District “Trivia Tuesday” graphic that reads “Did You Know?” and explains that all proposed FY27 budget information — including presentations, reports, and supporting documents — is available on one dedicated website page. Includes images of the FY27 Proposed Budget and 2025–2026 Annual Report covers, a student group photo, a QR code, and the link: slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget.
Reading Buddies!
3 days ago, Kelley Schultz
A wide shot of a classroom showing students working at red tables and on the floor. In the foreground, a boy in a navy hoodie reads a picture book while a girl in a grey hoodie sits next to him with a book titled "More Bones" on the table.
Three students are gathered around a bright red, kidney-shaped table. An older student wearing glasses points to a page in a book, guiding two younger girls who are focused on the text. Small slips of paper are scattered on the table.
Two students sit at a red table looking at a book featuring a large ship, while a third student stands next to them holding a booklet titled "The Story Ship." They appear to be discussing the content of the books together.
Three students sit against a wall decorated with a colorful number line. An older boy in a brown tracksuit sits with his arms crossed between two younger students who are focused on reading their own individual booklets.
A high-angle shot of three girls sitting in a close circle on the handprint rug. Each girl is holding or looking at colorful picture books, appearing to read together or share stories in a small group.
: A group of four students sit in a circle on the handprint rug. An older boy in a brown tracksuit holds a large, busy "search and find" style book, while other students look at their own graphic novels and notebooks nearby.
Two students sit on a colorful rug featuring large, multi-colored handprints. An older student with long red hair holds a large picture book open while a younger boy in a blue t-shirt watches and listens. A classroom calendar and number line are visible on the wall behind them.
Three students are gathered around a bright red, kidney-shaped table. An older student wearing glasses points to a page in a book, guiding two younger girls who are focused on the text. Small slips of paper are scattered on the table
Reminder: Tonight - Act 73 Discussion with Local Legislators!
6:00 to 7:30 PM - Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Library
All are welcome!
3 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic with Slate Valley Community Advisory Council logo and text announcing the next meeting on February 2, 2026, from 6:00–7:30 PM at the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Library, featuring an Act 73 discussion with local legislators.
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday - February Spotlight

This month we’re excited to spotlight Bethany Link, a Grade 3 teacher at Benson Village School. This is Mrs. Link’s second year at BVS. Before joining the Benson community, she taught for six years at Randolph Elementary School, working with students in grades K–2.

Outside the classroom, Mrs. Link enjoys spending time with her family and going on adventures together. She also loves reading a good book, cooking and baking, getting outdoors, and a little shopping when she can fit it in.

Her classroom community is guided by this shared message:
“In this classroom, we respect each other, we never give up, we are kind, we laugh a lot, we make mistakes, we have big dreams, we are family!”

A quote that inspires her personally is:
“Be the change you want to see in the world.” — Mahatma Gandhi

Mrs. Link began the school year on maternity leave after welcoming a baby boy, Thomas Calvin Link, named in honor of both of his grandfathers. We’re so glad to have her back at Benson Village School and deeply appreciate the warmth, care, and positive energy she brings to her students each day.
3 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Meet Monday – Slate Valley Faculty & Staff” featuring BVS Grade 3 teacher Bethany Link, with a family photo and text highlights about her experience, hobbies, classroom motto, and welcome of a new baby boy.
There is no EAST BUS RUN this morning, Monday February 2nd.
3 days ago, Amy Roy
District Newsletter: January 30, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/82c6c6cc4bc0/slate-valley-district-newsletter-january-30-2026
6 days ago, Slate Valley
Slate Valley Unified USD newsletter header dated January 30, 2026, featuring the district logo above a winter scene of people ice fishing on a frozen lake with mountains in the background.
Join Us for our next Community Advisory Council Meeting — Monday, February 2!

We hope you’ll join us for the next Community Advisory Council (CAC) Meeting on Monday, February 2, 2026, from 6:00–7:30 PM in the Library at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School.

We’ll be welcoming our local legislators for an important conversation and updates on Act 73. This is a great opportunity to stay informed, ask questions, and share your perspective as we work together to support our schools and community.

🗓 Monday, February 2, 2026
⏰ 6:00–7:30 PM
📍 FHUMHS Library

Come be part of the conversation — we’d love to see you there!
6 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic with Slate Valley Community Advisory Council logo and text announcing the next meeting on February 2, 2026, from 6:00–7:30 PM at the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Library, featuring an Act 73 discussion with local legislators.
A group of community members sit around tables in a school library, listening to a man speaking at the front, with bookshelves lining the walls behind them.
Wear your favorite hoodie and reading fun in first grade!
6 days ago, Kelley Schultz
These images show a group of ten students and one teacher posing in a primary school classroom featuring a strong emphasis on mathematics and student creativity.
In this image, a group of ten children and one adult are posing together in a classroom setting.
Three young children sit side-by-side on a tiled floor against a gray wall, each holding up a large open children's book
Wear your Favorite Hoodie Day fun!
6 days ago, Kelley Schultz
An adult woman and a young boy stand side-by-side in a classroom, smiling at the camera.
An adult woman and three young girls pose for a group photo in a classroom setting.
Wear Your Favorite Hoodie Tomorrow, Friday, January 30th!
7 days ago, Slate Valley
Flyer announcing “Wear Your Favorite Hoodie Day” on Friday, January 30, 2026. Text encourages students to wear any type of hoodie—big or small, fuzzy, old or new, colorful, or animal-themed—and emphasizes that it should reflect personal style. Images show a patterned hoodie, a red hooded outfit, and a cartoon animal wearing a hoodie and sunglasses.
Students learned about drawing for part of Crayola’s creativity week! They learned about textures, shading, and got to to use different utensils to create their own soccer balls and fields. ⚽️
7 days ago, Kelley Schultz
A young girl with brown hair sits at a wooden table in a classroom, smiling at the camera while working on an art project.
a completed mixed-media artwork on white paper.
A group of students sits at a large round wooden table covered in markers, colored pencils, and hand sanitizer.
others work on pieces featuring geometric patterns, swirls, and landscape elements.
In a bright classroom, several students are seated at round wooden tables, focused on art projects. They are using markers and crayons to draw on white paper, with many art supplies scattered across the tables.
Students in crazy eights math club did a road trip today and had to carefully plan a trip from the East Coast to the West Coast with limitations on gas, miles driven, and other factors! It was a great lesson on adding, subtracting, and planning ahead.
7 days ago, Kelley Schultz
These students are engaging with a math and geography game called "Road Trip!".
The Game Board: Students use a large fabric map of the United States featuring routes and state abbreviations to plan their journey.
Game Pieces: The journey is tracked using dice to determine movement and small car-shaped markers to represent their location on the map.
It looks like this is a log tracking mileage and fuel refills. Based on the handwriting, it’s a great exercise in basic subtraction and keeping a running total!
Fun in the Sun and Snow!
8 days ago, Kelley Schultz
Two smiling young boys stand side-by-side on a paved area covered in light snow and ice, wearing heavy winter coats, snow pants, gloves, and hats. Behind them, a snow-covered playground features a large snow pile, a basketball hoop, and a light-colored building under a clear blue sky.
Two smiling girls in colorful winter gear—one in a purple jacket and the other in a light blue jacket with bright pink snow pants—stand in a large pile of snow. In the background, other children play on the snowbanks near a building under a clear blue sky.
a girl in a purple jacket and pom-pom beanie
A girl with long reddish hair leans back and smiles while sitting in a large, textured snowbank. She is wearing a patterned camouflage-style hoodie and light-colored snow pants.
A side-by-side composite shows two children in dark winter gear standing in a vast, flat snow-covered field. The child on the left wears a black jacket and beanie, while the child on the right wears a black jacket and a brown knit hat.