🇺🇸 Happy 250th Birthday, America! 🇺🇸

Slate Valley joins our community in celebrating 250 years of history, freedom, resilience, and the American spirit.

As we honor this milestone, we also celebrate the people, stories, and communities that continue to shape our nation’s future—including right here in Slate Valley.

Wishing everyone a safe, joyful, and meaningful celebration! ❤️🤍💙
about 7 hours ago, Slate Valley
A patriotic graphic celebrates America's 250th birthday. Red, white, and blue balloons with stars and stripes border the top and bottom of the image. The Slate Valley Unified Union School District logo is centered near the top. A blurred American flag, colorful fireworks, and sparkling lights fill the background. Large white text reads: "FROM SLATE VALLEY TO AMERICA: HAPPY 250TH BIRTHDAY!"
Slate Valley District Newsletter: June 19, 2026 https://mailchi.mp/4fa4cf530e17/final-slate-valley-district-newsletter-for-2025-26-school-year
15 days ago, Slate Valley
Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter graphic dated June 19, 2026. The top section features the title “Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter” with the date beneath it. The lower section shows a summer-themed design with a blue swimming pool water background, a beach ball, and oversized red sunglasses. Across the image, large text reads, “School’s Out for… Summer.” Slate Valley logos appear in opposite corners, emphasizing the end of the school year and the start of summer vacation.
📚🧶 Celebrating a Wonderful Chapter and a Well-Deserved Retirement! 🧶📚

Today, faculty, staff, friends, and administrators gathered at Castleton Elementary School for a special potluck luncheon honoring librarian Tina Rampone and her 16 years of dedicated service to our students and school community.

The afternoon was filled with laughter, heartfelt stories, cherished memories, and a beautiful slideshow created by Jessica Tugas that highlighted Tina's years of inspiring young readers, fostering creativity, and making the library a welcoming place for generations of students.

In a fitting tribute to one of Tina's favorite hobbies, a knitting theme was woven throughout the celebration, complete with thoughtful gifts and a colorful yarn bouquet that reflected the care and creativity she has shared with so many over the years.

While we will certainly miss Tina's warm smile, innovative spirit, and passion for literacy, we wish her nothing but happiness, relaxation, and plenty of time for books, knitting projects, and new adventures in retirement.

Congratulations, Tina, and thank you for everything you've given to Castleton Elementary School! ❤️📖🧶
16 days ago, Slate Valley
The school principal addresses faculty and staff gathered for Tina Rampone's retirement luncheon as attendees listen from tables decorated in purple.
A large bouquet made from colorful skeins of yarn, knitting supplies, and tissue paper sits on a table as a retirement gift honoring librarian Tina Rampone's love of knitting.
A colleague stands beside Tina Rampone, smiling while presenting her with a bouquet made of colorful yarn and knitting supplies during her retirement celebration.
Faculty and staff gather around a long potluck buffet table filled with salads, sandwiches, desserts, and homemade dishes during Tina Rampone's retirement luncheon.
A colleague presents a skein of yarn and knitting needles while speaking to the group during the knitting-themed retirement celebration for Tina Rampone.
Tina Rampone laughs alongside colleagues while seated at a decorated table during her retirement gathering at Castleton Elementary School.
The school principal stands beside retiring librarian Tina Rampone as she holds a colorful student-created artwork featuring hearts and an open book during her retirement celebration.
A staff member reads from prepared remarks while sharing memories and well wishes during Tina Rampone's retirement celebration.
A longtime staff member stands and shares remarks with colleagues gathered around decorated tables during a retirement celebration in the Castleton Elementary School cafeteria.
Tina Rampone carries a large bouquet made of yarn and knitting supplies as colleagues line the hallway applauding and celebrating her retirement.
🎉☀️ That’s a Wrap, CES! Happy Summer! ☀️🎉

Castleton Elementary School closed out the 2025-26 school year in style with a day full of smiles, surprises, and celebration!

Students arrived in some unforgettable ways—including classic cars, vintage trucks, and even on horseback—making for a truly memorable start to the last day of school.

The celebration continued at dismissal as students boarded buses through a tunnel of cheers, bubbles, and confetti, sending them off to a well-deserved summer break. It was the perfect ending to a year filled with learning, growth, friendship, and fun.

Have a safe, relaxing, and adventure-filled summer, Cougars! We can't wait to see you again in the fall! 🐾
16 days ago, Slate Valley
Two students and a parent ride horses through the school parking lot while arriving for the last day of school.
A bright red vintage pickup truck arrives at Castleton Elementary School on a rainy morning for the last day of school.
Two young students walk across a wet parking lot after arriving in a vintage black car, one wearing a sparkly blue dress and the other carrying a backpack.
A staff member uses a bubble machine as students arrive at school, filling the air with hundreds of bubbles.
Students and families walk through floating bubbles outside the school entrance during last-day celebrations.
A group of elementary students pose playfully on the grass, smiling and making silly gestures for the camera.
Young students wearing backpacks laugh and reach for bubbles floating outside the school building.
A smiling student proudly holds a blue stuffed animal while standing outside the school.
A school bus drives through a shower of confetti while students and staff cheer from the sidewalk during dismissal.
Students wave from the windows of a school bus as it departs on the final day of school.
🌻🎉 Congratulations to Diane Roberts on her retirement! 🎉🌻

After three years of dedicated service as an Instructional Assistant at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School, Diane is beginning a well-earned retirement.

Thank you, Diane, for the support, encouragement, and care you provided to students and staff each day. Your positive impact on our school community is greatly appreciated.

Wishing you all the best in this exciting new chapter filled with happiness, relaxation, and new adventures. Congratulations and enjoy your retirement!
16 days ago, Slate Valley
Retirement recognition graphic honoring Diane Roberts. The graphic features a portrait of Diane inside a circular frame surrounded by sunflower and greenery illustrations on a light yellow and green background. Text reads: “Happy Retirement,” “Valued by Slate Valley Unified Union School District since 2023,” and “Best Wishes to Diane Roberts.” Additional text identifies her as a “Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Instructional Assistant” and thanks her for “3 Years of Dedicated Service.” Decorative sunflowers, leaves, and a small bee accent the design, with a Vermont-themed logo displayed in the upper left corner.
Please join us in congratulating Kelley Schultz on her retirement from Slate Valley Unified Union School District!

For the past three years, Kelley has served as the Administrative Assistant at Benson Village School, where she has been a welcoming presence for students, families, staff, and visitors alike. Her dedication, kindness, and support have helped keep the school running smoothly each day.

Thank you, Kelley, for your service to the Benson Village School community. We wish you all the best in this exciting new chapter and hope your retirement is filled with happiness, relaxation, and new adventures!

💜 Happy Retirement, Kelley! 💜
16 days ago, Slate Valley
Retirement recognition graphic featuring a portrait of Kelley Schultz. The graphic reads: “Happy Retirement. Valued by Slate Valley Unified Union School District since 2023. Best Wishes to Kelley Schultz, Benson Village School Administrative Assistant. Thank you for 3 years of dedicated service!” The design has a soft lavender background with lilac and violet flowers surrounding the photo and text, along with the Vermont logo in the upper left corner.
🐄 Castleton Elementary School Second Graders Visit Billings Farm! 🐑

Earlier this week, Castleton Elementary School's second graders enjoyed a hands-on learning adventure at Billings Farm in Woodstock!

Students explored life on a working farm by meeting and petting calves and sheep, learning about dairy farming, and even making their own butter. They also discovered how wool is transformed into useful products and created colorful wool butterflies to take home.

From interacting with farm animals to experiencing traditional farm practices firsthand, the trip provided a memorable opportunity to connect classroom learning with Vermont's rich agricultural heritage. Thank you to the staff at Billings Farm for an engaging and educational day!
17 days ago, Slate Valley
A student reaches through a fence to gently pet a calf while another adult crouches nearby interacting with a second calf in a livestock barn.
A large group of second graders poses on and around bright orange farm equipment, including tractors and utility vehicles, beneath shady trees at Billings Farm.
Students and adult chaperones stand inside a dairy barn listening to a Billings Farm educator explain farm operations beside a Jersey cow in its stall.
Two students brush a Jersey cow inside a barn while a Billings Farm educator supervises and explains proper animal care.
Students and an educator walk through a dairy barn aisle, stopping to observe and pet several Jersey calves standing in their pens.
Seven second grade boys sit together on a stone wall outside a farm building, smiling and posing for a group photo during their field trip.
A young student gently pets a sheep while standing beside a Billings Farm staff member holding the animal on a lead rope.
Students gather around a display table covered with wool, yarn, and educational materials as a Billings Farm educator explains how wool is processed and used.
A Billings Farm educator demonstrates the butter-making process in a large wooden bowl while a group of Castleton Elementary second graders gathers closely around to watch and learn.
A second grade student uses a traditional wooden butter paddle to shape freshly made butter while classmates watch from nearby benches.
🥪☀️ Free Summer Meal Box Program Notification! ☀️🥪

Slate Valley families can pick up FREE multi-day meal boxes for children 18 and under this summer!

Each box includes:
🍎 7 breakfasts
🥪 7 lunches

📍 Pickup Location: Fair Haven Grade School parking lot
🗓️ Pickup Day: Every Tuesday during the summer
⏰ Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

📅 First Pickup: Tuesday, June 30
📅 Last Pickup: Tuesday, August 18

Eligibility Requirements:
✔️ Meals are for children 18 and under
✔️ The child is not receiving meals from another Free Summer Meal Program
✔️ The person picking up the meal box is the child’s parent or guardian

Help us spread the word so every child in our community has access to nutritious meals throughout the summer! 💚
17 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic promoting the Slate Valley Free Summer Meal Box Program Pickup. The flyer states that free multi-day meal boxes containing seven breakfasts and seven lunches are available for children 18 and under. Pickup takes place in the Fair Haven Grade School parking lot every Tuesday during the summer from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., beginning June 30 and ending August 18. Eligibility requirements include that the child is 18 or younger, is not receiving meals from another Free Summer Meal Program, and that the person picking up the meal box is the child’s parent or guardian. The graphic features the Slate Valley logo and a green border decorated with food-themed icons.
🔥🐾Passing the Torch at Castleton Elementary School 🐾🔥

Yesterday, Castleton Elementary School celebrated its annual Grade 6 Torch Ceremony, a meaningful tradition that recognizes the leadership, character, and positive impact sixth graders have made throughout their final year at CES.

Throughout the ceremony, students were honored for their accomplishments and contributions to the school community as they prepare to take the next step in their educational journey at Fair Haven Union Middle School. One of the highlights of the event was the symbolic passing of the torch to the rising fifth graders, representing the continuation of leadership, responsibility, and school pride for the year ahead.

Students shared reflections, received recognition certificates, and celebrated the friendships and memories they have built during their years at CES.

The ceremony concluded with a heartwarming slideshow featuring each sixth grader from baby photos to present day, reminding everyone just how much they have grown and how bright their futures are.

Congratulations to the CES 6th Grade Class of 2026! We are proud of your leadership, resilience, and accomplishments, and we can't wait to see all that you achieve in middle school and beyond. ❤️🐾
17 days ago, Slate Valley
A sixth-grade student stands at a podium speaking into a microphone during the Castleton Elementary School Grade 6 Torch Ceremony while school administrators and staff sit behind her.
A young student hugs their teacher as Principal Jared Danyow smiles nearby during the torch-passing portion of the ceremony.
A teacher presents a Certificate of Achievement to a smiling sixth-grade student during the Grade 6 Torch Ceremony.
A sixth-grade student receives a certificate from their teacher while Principal Danyow looks on during the recognition ceremony.
A sixth-grade student shakes hands with Principal Danyow after receiving recognition during the Torch Ceremony.
A group of students participates in the symbolic passing of the torch, holding a handmade torch decorated with red, orange, and yellow tissue paper flames.
Three students hold the ceremonial torch together while one student smiles playfully toward the camera during the Grade 6 Torch Ceremony.
A sixth-grade student holds the ceremonial torch while standing in front of families and community members gathered for the event.
Sixth-grade students laugh and smile while watching a slideshow featuring baby photos and memories from their elementary school years.
Students sit together watching the end-of-year slideshow, reflecting on their journey from childhood to sixth grade during the Castleton Elementary School Torch Ceremony.
🌸🎉 Congratulations, Joann Higgins, on Your Retirement! 🎉🌸

Please join us in celebrating Joann Higgins as she retires after five years of dedicated service to Slate Valley Unified Union School District.

As an Instructional Assistant at Fair Haven Grade School, Joann has made a lasting impact on the students, staff, and families she has worked alongside. Through her patience, kindness, encouragement, and commitment to helping students succeed, she has helped create a positive and supportive learning environment for countless children.

The relationships she built and the care she showed every day have made a difference that extends far beyond the classroom. We are grateful for the time, energy, and heart she brought to her role and to the Fair Haven Grade School community.

Thank you, Joann, for your years of service and dedication. We wish you a retirement filled with happiness, relaxation, new adventures, and many wonderful moments with family and friends.

Congratulations and best wishes on this exciting new chapter!
17 days ago, Slate Valley
Retirement recognition graphic honoring Joann Higgins. The graphic features a portrait of Joann framed by gold geometric shapes and floral decorations on a soft pink background. Text reads: “Happy Retirement,” “Valued by Slate Valley Unified Union School District since 2021,” and “Best Wishes to Joann Higgins.” Additional text identifies her as a “Fair Haven Grade School Instructional Assistant” and thanks her for “5 Years of Dedicated Service.” Pink roses, flowers, greenery, and a watercolor-style rose illustration decorate the graphic, with a Vermont-themed logo displayed in the upper left corner.

Photo Batch 3: Submitted by Mrs. Corliss - The final Mr. Canty project of the year was presented by our 4th grade students last Friday. Reptiles and Amphibians of Vermont, a Vermont Natural Heritage Inventory, was taught by Mr.Canty. Students chose a reptile or amphibian to investigate, then made posters containing information about their Description, Diet. Importance to the environment, and extra facts along with presenting an originally created Haiku poem about their project choice. The projects were presented one by one to the class sharing all the information that was relevant.Through his projects this year, students have learned a great deal about their Vermont Habitat along with using their unique creative expertise developing unknown species. The 4th grade class would like to express their sincere appreciation to Mr. Canty for sharing his passion for the Vermont Outdoors and all that it offers.

18 days ago, Slate Valley
A student stands beside a guest presenter in front of a research display about the Common Watersnake. The project board includes student writing, a haiku poem, and an illustration of a watersnake habitat.
A student wearing a blue hoodie poses with a guest presenter in front of a wildlife research project display featuring a haiku poem, student writing, and a hand-drawn snail illustration.
A smiling student stands in front of a large research board about Fowler’s Toad while posing with a guest presenter. The display includes information about diet, physical characteristics, and environmental importance.
A student stands beside a guest presenter in front of a research project about the Wood Turtle. The display features student writing, drawings, and information about the turtle’s habitat and characteristics.
A student wearing a pink tank top poses with a guest presenter in front of a wildlife research project featuring a salamander life cycle illustration, a haiku poem, and student-written facts.
A smiling student stands beside a guest presenter in front of a project board about the Eastern Newt. The display includes photographs, a haiku poem, and information about the amphibian’s life cycle and habitat.
A student stands with a teacher beside a wildlife research display board featuring drawings, facts, and photographs about a snake named “Dolly.” The classroom background includes maps, globes, and educational materials.
A student holds a wildlife research project and a completed worksheet while standing next to a teacher. The display focuses on a green snake and includes student research notes and illustrations.
Two students stand with their teacher while displaying a large research board about the Blue-Spotted Salamander. The project includes student writing, a haiku poem, and a hand-drawn salamander illustration.
Photo Batch 2: Submitted by Mrs. Corliss: The final Mr. Canty project of the year was presented by our 4th grade students last Friday. Reptiles and Amphibians of Vermont, a Vermont Natural Heritage Inventory, was taught by Mr.Canty. Students chose a reptile or amphibian to investigate, then made posters containing information about their Description, Diet. Importance to the environment, and extra facts along with presenting an originally created Haiku poem about their project choice. The projects were presented one by one to the class sharing all the information that was relevant.Through his projects this year, students have learned a great deal about their Vermont Habitat along with using their unique creative expertise developing unknown species. The 4th grade class would like to express their sincere appreciation to Mr. Canty for sharing his passion for the Vermont Outdoors and all that it offers.
18 days ago, Slate Valley
A smiling student stands beside a guest presenter in front of a research display about the Northern Two-Lined Salamander. The project board includes photos, facts, a life cycle diagram, and student writing.
A student wearing a Green Bay Football shirt poses with a guest presenter next to a wildlife research display featuring a haiku poem and information about a local animal species.
A student in a gray Tiger Football sweatshirt stands beside a guest presenter in front of a project board titled “Spring Salamander,” which includes student research and artwork.
A student wearing glasses and a blue shirt holds a large handmade snake model while posing with a guest presenter. Behind them is a research display about the Eastern Ribbon Snake.
A student wearing a floral-themed shirt stands beside a guest presenter in front of a project board about the Wood Frog, featuring student writing, illustrations, and a haiku poem.
A smiling student stands with a guest presenter in front of a colorful research display about the Northern Map Turtle. The board includes facts, student writing, and a hand-drawn turtle illustration.
A student wearing a black “Jungle Vibes” shirt poses beside a guest presenter in front of a research board about the Spotted Salamander, featuring photos and student-written information.
A student wearing a white “Proudly Me” shirt stands with a guest presenter in front of a detailed research display about the Eastern Hognose Snake, including habitat information, photographs, and student work.
Photo Batch 1: Submitted by Mrs. Corliss: The final Mr. Canty project of the year was presented by our 4th grade students last Friday. Reptiles and Amphibians of Vermont, a Vermont Natural Heritage Inventory, was taught by Mr.Canty. Students chose a reptile or amphibian to investigate, then made posters containing information about their Description, Diet. Importance to the environment, and extra facts along with presenting an originally created Haiku poem about their project choice. The projects were presented one by one to the class sharing all the information that was relevant.Through his projects this year, students have learned a great deal about their Vermont Habitat along with using their unique creative expertise developing unknown species. The 4th grade class would like to express their sincere appreciation to Mr. Canty for sharing his passion for the Vermont Outdoors and all that it offers.
18 days ago, Slate Valley
A student wearing a tan shirt and baseball cap stands beside a guest presenter in a classroom during a wildlife research project presentation. A display board about the Eastern Rat Snake is visible in the background.
A student in a bright blue hoodie poses with a guest presenter next to a wildlife project display board featuring information about a snapping turtle.
A student wearing a striped baseball jersey holds a model of a snake while standing beside a guest presenter. A research display about the Red-Bellied Snake is shown behind them.
A student in a purple shirt and pink shorts stands with a guest presenter in front of a project board about the Eastern Box Turtle, featuring student writing and illustrations.
A student wearing a blue tie-dye Castleton Cougars shirt poses with a guest presenter in front of a wildlife research display about the American Toad.
A student in a red hoodie stands beside a guest presenter in front of a colorful project board about the North American Racer snake, featuring student-written facts and artwork.
A student wearing a black Nike outfit poses with a guest presenter in front of a research display about the Green Frog. The board includes facts, a haiku poem, and student writing.
A student wearing glasses and neon green shorts stands beside a guest presenter while holding a handmade snake model. Behind them is a project board about the Timber Rattlesnake with student research and writing.
🔧🎉 Congratulations, Tony Greene, on Your Retirement! 🎉🔧

After 10 years of dedicated service to Slate Valley Unified Union School District, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Tony Greene as he begins his retirement.

As a Maintenance Technician at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School, Tony has played an important role in keeping our buildings safe, functional, and welcoming for students, staff, and visitors. While much of his work happened behind the scenes, its impact was felt every day by everyone who walked through our doors.

Tony’s commitment, reliability, and willingness to lend a hand have been greatly appreciated throughout his time with the district. We are grateful for the care and expertise he brought to his work and for the many contributions he made over the past decade.

Please join us in thanking Tony for his years of service and wishing him all the best in this exciting new chapter. May your retirement be filled with happiness, relaxation, and plenty of time to enjoy the things you love most!

Congratulations, Tony!
18 days ago, Slate Valley
Retirement recognition graphic honoring Tony Greene. The graphic features a portrait of Tony inside a green and blue hexagonal frame on a light blue background. Text reads: “Happy Retirement,” “Valued by Slate Valley Unified Union School District since 2010,” and “Best Wishes to Tony Greene.” Additional text identifies him as a “Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Maintenance Technician” and thanks him for “10 Years of Dedicated Service.” Decorative maintenance-themed illustrations, including a toolbox with tools, hammer, wrench, nails, and tape measure, surround the portrait. A Vermont-themed logo appears in the upper left corner.
🏛️ FREE Vermont Historic Sites Pass for 4th Graders! 🏛️
Explore Vermont History Where It Happened!

Attention Vermont 4th Grade Families!

The Vermont Division for Historic Preservation is offering a FREE Historic Sites Pass for all Vermont students who have completed 4th grade during the 2025–2026 school year.

With this special pass, students and one accompanying adult receive free admission to all Vermont state-owned historic sites throughout the 2026 season (through October 2026).

🌟 Visit These Historic Vermont Destinations

📍 Bennington Battle Monument State Historic Site
📍 Chimney Point State Historic Site
📍 Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Site
📍 Mount Independence State Historic Site
📍 President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site
📍 President Chester A. Arthur State Historic Site

🎟️ How It Works

✅ Print the 4th Grade Pass Letter
✅ Bring the letter to any participating historic site
✅ Present it to site staff for free admission

No registration required!

🌐 Learn More

For site information, hours, and directions, visit:

HistoricSites.Vermont.gov

❓Questions?

Joshua Bell
Director of State Historic Sites
📞 802-505-8592
📧 Joshua.Bell@vermont.gov
19 days ago, Slate Valley
Flyer titled “Free Vermont Historic Sites Pass for 4th Graders.” It explains that Vermont 4th graders who have finished the school year can visit all Vermont state-owned historic sites with one adult for free during the 2026 season, ending in October. It lists steps for using the pass: print the 4th Grade Pass Letter, bring it to a participating historic site, and show it to site staff for free admission. No registration is required. Sites listed include Bennington Battle Monument, Chimney Point, Hubbardton Battlefield, Mount Independence, President Calvin Coolidge, and President Chester A. Arthur State Historic Sites. More information is available at HistoricSites.Vermont.gov, with a QR code and contact information for Joshua Bell at 802-505-8592 or Joshua.Bell@vermont.gov. The flyer uses green, blue, and gold accents with a “VT History Pass” badge and the message, “Make history part of your summer adventure!”
From FHUMHS Band Director, Ms. Samantha Adams: Marching Band sign ups for grades 7-12 are OPEN. If you are an incoming 7th grader or above, you are invited to join! Scan the QR code or click the link to sign up! Sign ups close at the end of the day July 1st, 2026. If you have any questions, please reach out to Samantha Adams at sadams@svuvt.org

https://forms.gle/a8HQgJoAS94FM8kt9
19 days ago, Slate Valley
nformational flyer promoting the Fair Haven Union (FHU) Marching Band for students entering grades 7–12. The flyer explains that marching band members meet during the summer and after school in the fall and spring to learn pep tunes and perform at football games, parades, and other events. A section titled “Why should I join?” highlights benefits including playing popular songs such as We Will Rock You, Narco, and Star Wars, making new friends, and developing teamwork, communication, leadership, creativity, and problem-solving skills. A “How do I join?” section instructs students to scan a QR code and complete a registration form before July 1, 2026. Contact information for Mrs. Adams (sadams@svuvt.org) is provided for questions. The flyer also lists important summer dates: July 1: Sign-ups close July 14, 1:00–3:00 p.m.: Practice July 21, 1:00–3:00 p.m.: Practice July 28, 1:00–3:00 p.m.: Practice August 10–14, 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.: Band Camp A final section titled “What is band camp?” explains that students learn music, marching techniques, and the football game performance show during an intensive week of practice. It compares band camp to a sports training camp and emphasizes opportunities to meet bandmates and make friends. The flyer features decorative music notes, sparkles, a marching band silhouette, and a QR code on a light gray background.
🐄🌾 Third Graders Explore Shelburne Farms! 🌾🐑

On Friday, June 12, Castleton Elementary School third graders wrapped up the school year with a memorable trip to Shelburne Farms!

Students spent the day exploring the farm, meeting animals, learning about agriculture, and taking part in hands-on experiences. From petting lambs and goats to trying their hand at milking a cow, there were so many fun things to see, do, and discover throughout the day.

It was a wonderful opportunity for students to learn outside the classroom, connect with nature, and celebrate a fantastic year together. What a great way to end the school year!
19 days ago, Slate Valley
Several Castleton Elementary third graders gather around a wooden pen inside a barn, gently petting and observing two lambs while chaperones look on.
A student kneels beside a large dairy cow and practices hand-milking with assistance from a farm educator during a hands-on Shelburne Farms activity.
Three students stand along a wooden livestock enclosure, looking through the slats to observe farm animals inside the barn.
Students sit and kneel inside a barn while watching a large dairy cow resting in its stall during a farm tour.
Two students sit in a wagon filled with hay while viewing a large farm display featuring a team of draft horses pulling farm equipment.
A student stands outdoors near a decorative mailbox and uses binoculars to look across the farm landscape during an exploration activity.
A chalkboard schedule at Shelburne Farms lists the day's farmyard activities, including hand-milking a cow, meeting a cheesemaker, feeding goats, lamb pasture visits, and machine milking demonstrations.
📚🎉 Happy Retirement, Tina Rampone! 🎉📚

After 16 years of dedicated service to the students, staff, and families of Slate Valley, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to Castleton Elementary School and Orwell Village School librarian, Tina Rampone, on her retirement.

For more than a decade and a half, Tina has inspired a love of reading, learning, and curiosity in countless students. Through story times, library lessons, book recommendations, special projects, tech. integration, and her welcoming presence, she helped make the library a place where every child could discover new worlds, ideas, and possibilities.

Tina's passion for literacy, commitment to students, and support of both schools have left a lasting impact that will be felt for years to come. The thousands of young readers she has encouraged and the memories she has helped create are a testament to the difference one dedicated educator can make.

Thank you, Tina, for 16 years of service, kindness, and unwavering dedication to our school communities. We wish you all the happiness, relaxation, adventures, knitting and good books that retirement has to offer.

Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement! 🧶📖✨
19 days ago, Slate Valley
Retirement recognition graphic honoring Tina Rampone. The design features a portrait of Tina inside a decorative geometric frame with watercolor-style books stacked in the lower left corner and a small potted plant with glasses in the lower right. Text reads: "Happy Retirement. Valued by Slate Valley Unified Union School District since 2010. Best Wishes to Tina Rampone, Castleton Elementary School & Orwell Village School Librarian. Thank you for 16 years of dedicated service!" The Slate Valley logo appears in the upper left corner, with soft floral and butterfly accents throughout the design.
Read important information about the future of Slate Valley in this issue of the SVUUSD Newsletter - June 12, 2026: https://mailchi.mp/f9c5248ac253/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-15-13836886
22 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic with a blue sky background and colorful confetti falling around graduation caps. The Fair Haven Union High School Slaters logo appears on the left, and the Slate Valley Unified Union School District logo appears on the right. Large text in the center reads, “Best Wishes to the Class of 2026.” The celebratory graphic congratulates graduating seniors as they prepare for commencement.
COAP joins VOAP on the Slate Valley Trails!
23 days ago, Slate Valley
A group of students and adult leaders pose with their bicycles outside a red barn-style building on a sunny day. Several bikes are parked nearby as the group takes a break before or after a ride.
Students wearing helmets gather with their bicycles beside a red building and parking area. Adult leaders stand nearby as the group prepares for a trail ride.
A student rides a mountain bike across a wooden balance feature on a skills course. The trail area includes gravel paths, grassy fields, and additional riding obstacles.
A trailhead information kiosk stands in a grassy field under a partly cloudy sky. The sign displays a map and information for the Slate Valley Trails Fairgrounds Trails network.
A student wearing a bicycle helmet and backpack sits on a mountain bike in a grassy field. Another bike is parked beside them on a sunny day.
A line of student cyclists rides along a grassy trail bordered by tall grass and trees. The group heads toward a wooded area under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.
Two cyclists navigate a winding bike skills course featuring narrow wooden boardwalk sections and gravel paths. Trees and open grassy fields surround the riding area.