Slate Valley District Newsletter: May 23, 2025
https://mailchi.mp/379ab7e1eb23/may-23-2025-slate-valley-news
This morning, all 6th graders had a special visit from the Slate Valley Middle School team as part of our ongoing efforts to support students through their transition to middle school.
The Middle School Principal, Ms. Paquette, School Counselor, Mrs. Ezzo, and two teachers, Mr. Clark and Mr. Merrill, traveled to each elementary school to meet with the 6th grade classes. They introduced themselves, shared what life in middle school is like, and answered lots of thoughtful questions from students.
Each student received a brochure featuring photos and descriptions of all middle school faculty and staff—helping our future middle schoolers get to know the faces and roles of the team that will support them next year.
This visit is just one of the many ways Slate Valley works to make the move to middle school exciting, informed, and welcoming for our students.
This morning, in a heartfelt Memorial Day Ceremony, Castleton Elementary School gathered as a community to honor and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice serving our country.
We were privileged to welcome the Crippens Fellows Post 50 Color Guard as our honored guests. The event was beautifully hosted by our students, who showed great respect and pride throughout the program.
Everyone played a special role in the ceremony. Together, students sang "Tribute to the Armed Services," with each grade contributing a verse. Sergeant Glenn Wilcox of the Vermont Army National Guard shared powerful words on the history and significance of Memorial Day, reminding us why we pause to remember.
Grades 4 and 5 delivered a moving recitation of the poem In Flanders Fields, and the ceremony concluded with the solemn playing of Taps by our talented student musicians.
It was a meaningful morning of remembrance, reflection, and gratitude. Thank you to all who attended and participated. 🇺🇸❤️
Lace Up for a Cause! 🏃♀️👟
Join us for a fun and meaningful 5K Walk/Run to support the Slate Valley "Back to School" Clothing Program! Whether you walk, jog, or run, every step you take helps provide local students with the clothing they need to start the school year with confidence and style.
No matter your pace, you're making a difference. So grab a friend, bring your energy, and let’s go the distance—for our kids, our community, and a great cause.
You don’t have to be fast—you just have to show up. Sign up today and help us make a difference, one step at a time!
Slate Valley is proud to honor seven incredible women whose dedication and service have left a lasting impact on our school district. From guiding entire schools to supporting individual students, each has played a vital role in shaping our learning community. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to principal Kim Prehoda and assistant principal Bonnie Lenihan, whose leadership and vision have inspired both staff and students; Lynn LaClair, our proficiency- based learning coach, who championed innovation and personalized growth; Deb Williams, our school nurse whose compassion ensured health and safety every day; and our three instructional assistants, Veronica Lambert, Helen Reed and Mary Lou Williams, whose tireless support uplifted classrooms with care and commitment. Their legacies will live on in the lives they’ve touched, and we thank them for their years of unwavering service.
Last week, the 6th grade earned some extra recess time, and the boys challenged Mr. DeMatties to a fun game of basketball.
You're invited to the next Community Advisory Council (CAC) Meeting on Monday, June 2, 2025, at 5:45 PM.
Join us in the Central Office Conference Room at FHUMHS to discuss important updates and initiatives within our school community. The Agenda can be found at https://5il.co/3ggzz. All are welcome! We hope to see you there!
Slate Valley District Newsletter: May 16, 2025
https://mailchi.mp/56bcb5c72913/district-news-may-16-2025
Last night at CES, in conjunction with our Celebration of Learning, families had the opportunity to take home two FREE trees thanks to the generous support of the Community Canopy Program!
THANK YOU, Community Canopy Program for partnering with us and helping our CES families grow something special — right in their own backyards!
Celebration of Learning at CES
Thank you to all who joined us last night! Teachers proudly showcased student work, answered questions, and shared insights into the curriculum. It was a great evening of connection, learning, and community.
We’re so proud of our students and grateful for your support!
Please join us tomorrow for our Celebration of Learning - 4:00 to 5:30 PM!
🌞 What a perfect day for an adventure! Today, CES enjoyed a memorable all-school field trip to the Shelburne Museum!
From historic buildings and vintage trains to American folk art and hands-on exhibits, students explored a rich collection that brought history to life. This trip gave us a unique chance to step back in time and engage with centuries of art, culture, and innovation—all in one beautiful place.
Thank you to our amazing staff, volunteers, and bus drivers who made it all possible. This was a day our students will remember for years to come!
Last week, we celebrated the creativity and talent of our K–6 students at our Evening of the Arts on Wednesday, May 8th. The event was a wonderful showcase of student expression through both visual art and musical performances.
Families and community members enjoyed walking through the hallways of colorful student art and listening to beautiful live music and singing performed by all. It was a night filled with inspiration, pride, and a true appreciation for the arts.
A special thank you to art teacher, Mrs. Parrott and music teacher, Ms. Tugas, and to everyone who joined us and helped make the evening such a memorable success!
Board Meeting - May 12, 2025
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Orwell Village School - Town Hall
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/asv-ffux-gux
Or dial: (US) +1 443-679-3222 PIN: 164 803 879#
Please note: To participate in conversation virtually and/or ask a question virtually, please use the “raise hand” icon in Google Meet. Typing responses or questions in chat is not an option.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: May 10, 2025
https://mailchi.mp/7194963147c0/may-10-district-newsletter
Friday Focus: Faculty and Staff Appreciation
The Slate Valley Unified Union's Central Office team and School Board celebrated Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week by visiting each school with a coffee and pastry cart, going room to room to personally serve and thank our incredible educators and staff. It was a small gesture to show our immense gratitude for all they do every day to support, inspire, and care for our students. Thank you for your unwavering dedication—you are truly appreciated!
Throwback Thursday: In celebration of Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week, we’re taking a moment to look back to 2005 and honor the incredible educators and staff who shaped lives at Fair Haven Union High School 20 years ago—we're thankful to all, present and past, for your lasting impact and dedication!
Submitted by CSO:
We're celebrating our amazing educators this week! If you'd like to contribute by bringing in food or treats, please use the sign-up link below.
Each class was assigned a specific day, but if you missed yours, you're still welcome to bring something in—there's still time! We have just tomorrow and Friday left.
Thank you for your support and generosity!
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uiXYwISPfK_IwS0XK1iTa240YoHocV4QTWcOz4LSl7I/edit?usp=sharing
Where Are They Now Wednesday? Spotlight on Emily Stockwell
This year marks the 20th reunion of the Fair Haven Union High School Class of 2005, and Emily Stockwell’s journey since graduation has been nothing short of inspiring — a testament to passion, creativity, and community spirit.
After graduating from FHUHS, Emily attended Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport, PA, where she earned an Associate Degree in Floral Design and Interior Plantscape. She honed her craft working with several florists in Pennsylvania before returning to her Vermont roots. Back home, she joined the teams at Hawley Florist and Everyday Flowers, ultimately purchasing Everyday Flowers — a business she now proudly owns and operates in Poultney, Vermont.
Emily’s connection to her alma mater has remained strong. For the past four years, she has generously volunteered her time and supplies to work with some Fair Haven Union High School students, helping them create stunning floral bouquets. Through this initiative, Emily not only shares her expertise but also inspires a new generation to explore their own creative talents.
While at FHUHS, Emily played soccer her freshman year but found a more natural path getting involved with 4-H, where she focused on dairy farming. She credits her high school guidance counselor, Mrs. Tracy Gallipo, as a pivotal influence, who encouraged her to stay focused on her dreams.
Emily’s dedication and artistry have not gone unnoticed: she has been named “Number 1 Florist” for three consecutive years by The Lake Region FreePress. Beyond her flourishing business, she remains deeply connected to her passions for farming, gardening, and animal care — looking after a lively group of dogs, cats, goats, and donkeys. A proud supporter of our nation’s veterans, Emily embodies a spirit of service, gratitude, and community pride.
When asked what advice she would offer current Slate Valley students, Emily shared this heartfelt message:
"Don't give up on your dreams. It might take time, but if you keep working toward them, someday they will come true."
Congratulations, Emily! Your success, generosity, and spirit are a true inspiration to Slater Nation.
Reminder of Upcoming "Transition to Middle School" Events for Current 6th Graders...
