Board Meeting - January 12, 2026
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Castleton Elementary School Cafeteria.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/epv-sidz-zry
Or dial: (US) +1 406-905-1177 PIN: 663 913 503#
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 Castleton Elementary School Cafeteria.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/epv-sidz-zry
Or dial: (US) +1 406-905-1177 PIN: 663 913 503#
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.
WANTED: Community members interested in serving as Slate Valley School Board Representatives!
Slate Valley Unified Union School District is seeking residents who want to make a meaningful impact on our schools and students. Open seats are available in West Haven (3 seats), Hubbardton (1 seat), and Orwell (1 seat). There are also seats in Benson, Fair Haven, and Castleton, where current members are running unopposed.
Serving on the school board is a great way to represent your community, support student success, and help shape the future of Slate Valley schools. Board members receive an annual stipend, and no prior experience is required—just a commitment to serve.
If you’re interested in running, please visit your town office to obtain a petition and learn more about the process and requirements.
Slate Valley Unified Union School District is seeking residents who want to make a meaningful impact on our schools and students. Open seats are available in West Haven (3 seats), Hubbardton (1 seat), and Orwell (1 seat). There are also seats in Benson, Fair Haven, and Castleton, where current members are running unopposed.
Serving on the school board is a great way to represent your community, support student success, and help shape the future of Slate Valley schools. Board members receive an annual stipend, and no prior experience is required—just a commitment to serve.
If you’re interested in running, please visit your town office to obtain a petition and learn more about the process and requirements.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: January 9, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/878590be2697/january-9-2026-slate-valley-district-newsletter
https://mailchi.mp/878590be2697/january-9-2026-slate-valley-district-newsletter
3rd Graders getting a Yeti for a New Year!
1st Grade quilt squares
1st Grade quilt squares
2nd Graders made "Things I Love" snowflakes!
4th Grade playing "Camouflage" and animal tracking on the nature trail
This Friday, we’re focusing on Slate Valley’s Community Advisory Council (CAC)—a group that brings community voices together to support and strengthen our schools. Made up of community members from across the district, CAC meets monthly with the superintendent and district staff to share perspectives, discuss school-related topics, and strengthen the connection between our schools and the communities they serve. Everyone is welcome to attend—join us at the next meeting on February 2, 2026, in the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Library. We will be joined by our local legislators to discuss updates on Act 73. Come be part of the conversation!
Literacy Stations in Kinder Land!
More 2nd Grade number scrolls
2nd Grade started their number corner scrolls today
🏆 Throwback Thursday 🏆
A decade ago, the Fair Haven Union High School Scholars Bowl Team made school history by defeating Rutland High School to win the 2016 PEGTV Academic Showdown Championship—a match that was televised and watched by viewers across the region.
This victory marked the first—and only—time the FHUHS Scholars Bowl Team captured the championship title, earning well-deserved recognition for their knowledge, teamwork, and dedication.
We’re proud to celebrate this unforgettable moment and the students and advisor who made it happen.
A decade ago, the Fair Haven Union High School Scholars Bowl Team made school history by defeating Rutland High School to win the 2016 PEGTV Academic Showdown Championship—a match that was televised and watched by viewers across the region.
This victory marked the first—and only—time the FHUHS Scholars Bowl Team captured the championship title, earning well-deserved recognition for their knowledge, teamwork, and dedication.
We’re proud to celebrate this unforgettable moment and the students and advisor who made it happen.
Crazy 8’s Club kicked off 2026 by constructing popsicle stick planes and used flight factors to predict the safest runway path. Students determined that avoiding factors of 12 was the safest plan. Thank you, Mrs. Schuyler, for bringing Crazy 8's to BVS again this year!
Where Are They Now Wednesday? | Fair Haven Union High School Alumna Spotlight
Nikiah (Vincent) Viger, Class of 2005
From the halls of Fair Haven Union High School to a career dedicated to helping students navigate their college journeys, Nikiah Viger’s path is a powerful example of leadership, service, and lifelong learning.
Nikiah graduated from FHUHS in 2005 (then Nikiah Vincent) and went on to complete her undergraduate studies at the College of St. Joseph, earning a B.A. in Psychology (2005–2009). She continued her education at Suffolk University, where she earned a Master of Education in School Counseling with a Certificate in Admissions Counseling (2009–2011).
While her original goal was to become a guidance counselor, Nikiah quickly learned how competitive the field could be. Rather than giving up, she pivoted—and found her calling. In July 2012, she returned to her alma mater, the College of St. Joseph, as a Financial Aid Counselor, where she spent more than four years helping students understand and access federal, state, and institutional financial aid.
“CSJ meant a great deal to me,” Nikiah shared. “It’s where I met my husband and a large group of friends who are now family. I was able to give back to a place that gave me a great education and helped shape the person I am today.”
In November 2016, Nikiah took the next step in her career, joining Castleton University as Senior Financial Aid Officer. Now nine years into her time with Vermont State University, she has continued to grow professionally, navigating evolving federal regulations and the challenges of a university merger while keeping student service at the center of her work. Most recently, Nikiah earned a promotion to Financial Aid Specialist, a milestone she is incredibly proud of.
When asked about a teacher who left a lasting impact, Nikiah immediately pointed to Mr. Bruce.
“He always had fun ways to teach history,” she recalled. “His passion made it easy to listen and learn—and I’m certain no one who had him will ever get ‘We Didn’t Start the Fire’ out of their heads.”
Beyond the classroom, she credits Mr. Bruce with creating a safe, supportive space for students and maintaining meaningful connections long after graduation—especially special for the Class of 2005, who were among his very first students.
Nikiah was deeply involved during her time at Fair Haven Union High School, successfully balancing academics, leadership, and a wide range of activities. She participated in Field Hockey for three years, Winter Cheer for four years, and Softball for four years as a catcher. In addition, she was active in the National Honor Society, SMILE, Community Service Club, Chorus, KeyNotes, Yearbook Club, Marching Band, and Jazz Band, and served as Class Treasurer all four years.
Her involvement, she says, helped shape the confidence and leadership skills she carries into her career today.
Nikiah met her husband, Chadd, during their college years at CSJ, and the couple recently celebrated 15 years of marriage. After completing their graduate studies in Boston, they returned to Vermont, settling in Nikiah’s hometown of Fair Haven.
They have two children: Max (13), a 7th grader at FHUMHS who plays sports year-round, and Maylee (10), a 5th grader at FHGS and a competitive dancer. Their household also includes two Boston Terriers, Sammie and Ollie, and a cat named Luna. Chadd currently serves as a Selectman in Fair Haven.
When they’re not at a ball field or dance auditorium, the Viger family enjoys spending time with friends and family and heading out on new adventures together.
Her advice for current Slate Valley students is to stay curious and engaged. She stated, “Get involved and explore opportunities. Try a new club, sport, or role you might normally shy away from. The more you engage and challenge yourself, the more you’ll grow. And always be kind—small acts can make a big difference. You don’t have to have everything figured out right now. Just keep showing up, stay curious, and be good to others.”
We’re proud to celebrate Nikiah Viger and the meaningful work she continues to do in support of students and families. Once a Slater, always a Slater!
Nikiah (Vincent) Viger, Class of 2005
From the halls of Fair Haven Union High School to a career dedicated to helping students navigate their college journeys, Nikiah Viger’s path is a powerful example of leadership, service, and lifelong learning.
Nikiah graduated from FHUHS in 2005 (then Nikiah Vincent) and went on to complete her undergraduate studies at the College of St. Joseph, earning a B.A. in Psychology (2005–2009). She continued her education at Suffolk University, where she earned a Master of Education in School Counseling with a Certificate in Admissions Counseling (2009–2011).
While her original goal was to become a guidance counselor, Nikiah quickly learned how competitive the field could be. Rather than giving up, she pivoted—and found her calling. In July 2012, she returned to her alma mater, the College of St. Joseph, as a Financial Aid Counselor, where she spent more than four years helping students understand and access federal, state, and institutional financial aid.
“CSJ meant a great deal to me,” Nikiah shared. “It’s where I met my husband and a large group of friends who are now family. I was able to give back to a place that gave me a great education and helped shape the person I am today.”
In November 2016, Nikiah took the next step in her career, joining Castleton University as Senior Financial Aid Officer. Now nine years into her time with Vermont State University, she has continued to grow professionally, navigating evolving federal regulations and the challenges of a university merger while keeping student service at the center of her work. Most recently, Nikiah earned a promotion to Financial Aid Specialist, a milestone she is incredibly proud of.
When asked about a teacher who left a lasting impact, Nikiah immediately pointed to Mr. Bruce.
“He always had fun ways to teach history,” she recalled. “His passion made it easy to listen and learn—and I’m certain no one who had him will ever get ‘We Didn’t Start the Fire’ out of their heads.”
Beyond the classroom, she credits Mr. Bruce with creating a safe, supportive space for students and maintaining meaningful connections long after graduation—especially special for the Class of 2005, who were among his very first students.
Nikiah was deeply involved during her time at Fair Haven Union High School, successfully balancing academics, leadership, and a wide range of activities. She participated in Field Hockey for three years, Winter Cheer for four years, and Softball for four years as a catcher. In addition, she was active in the National Honor Society, SMILE, Community Service Club, Chorus, KeyNotes, Yearbook Club, Marching Band, and Jazz Band, and served as Class Treasurer all four years.
Her involvement, she says, helped shape the confidence and leadership skills she carries into her career today.
Nikiah met her husband, Chadd, during their college years at CSJ, and the couple recently celebrated 15 years of marriage. After completing their graduate studies in Boston, they returned to Vermont, settling in Nikiah’s hometown of Fair Haven.
They have two children: Max (13), a 7th grader at FHUMHS who plays sports year-round, and Maylee (10), a 5th grader at FHGS and a competitive dancer. Their household also includes two Boston Terriers, Sammie and Ollie, and a cat named Luna. Chadd currently serves as a Selectman in Fair Haven.
When they’re not at a ball field or dance auditorium, the Viger family enjoys spending time with friends and family and heading out on new adventures together.
Her advice for current Slate Valley students is to stay curious and engaged. She stated, “Get involved and explore opportunities. Try a new club, sport, or role you might normally shy away from. The more you engage and challenge yourself, the more you’ll grow. And always be kind—small acts can make a big difference. You don’t have to have everything figured out right now. Just keep showing up, stay curious, and be good to others.”
We’re proud to celebrate Nikiah Viger and the meaningful work she continues to do in support of students and families. Once a Slater, always a Slater!
This morning, Wednesday, January 7th, all Slate Valley schools are on a two hour delay due to the weather.
Thank you to our special 2nd grade guest for sharing their own published story with Kinders!
First grade had a guest reader and author today from 2nd grade, they loved listening and asking questions.
Every morning :) Little K - 2 boots placed with care by students to keep the floors from getting wet and slippery :)
Trivia Tuesday - Did you know? 🎳
Slater sophomore Aiden Goyette made history by rolling the first perfect game (300) in Slater Bowling history—and just the second 300 game ever in Vermont high school bowling!
This incredible achievement happened on Saturday, January 3, at Rutland Bowlerama during the qualifying round of the Vermont State Bowling League. Congratulations, Aiden! 👏🎉
Slater sophomore Aiden Goyette made history by rolling the first perfect game (300) in Slater Bowling history—and just the second 300 game ever in Vermont high school bowling!
This incredible achievement happened on Saturday, January 3, at Rutland Bowlerama during the qualifying round of the Vermont State Bowling League. Congratulations, Aiden! 👏🎉
