Slate Valley District Newsletter: April 17, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/8852b597100f/district-newsletter-april-10-13836492
https://mailchi.mp/8852b597100f/district-newsletter-april-10-13836492
First graders took learning to the air as they celebrated the day before April break with paper airplanes! ✈️ Students practiced hand-eye coordination while testing how far their planes could fly—using both their dominant and non-dominant hands. They also added an extra challenge by aiming to send their planes through a hula hoop. A fun, hands-on way to build skills and kick off break!
☕♥️ Spreading Kindness, One Cup at a Time!
Our first graders teamed up with Last Cup Cafe in Rutland to share a little extra joy in the community! After learning about kindness, students created thoughtful messages designed to brighten someone’s day.
They then put their creativity to work, decorating coffee cup sleeves for customers to enjoy—turning an everyday moment into something special.
Our students worked so hard and were so proud to help spread happiness beyond the classroom. Be sure to grab a cup and a smile if you stop by! ♥️✨
Our first graders teamed up with Last Cup Cafe in Rutland to share a little extra joy in the community! After learning about kindness, students created thoughtful messages designed to brighten someone’s day.
They then put their creativity to work, decorating coffee cup sleeves for customers to enjoy—turning an everyday moment into something special.
Our students worked so hard and were so proud to help spread happiness beyond the classroom. Be sure to grab a cup and a smile if you stop by! ♥️✨
📣 Reminder for Slate Valley Families!
All Slate Valley schools will have an early release day on Friday, April 17, 2026.
This will be followed by Spring Break from Monday, April 20 through Friday, April 24. 🌸
We hope everyone enjoys a safe, relaxing, and well-deserved break!
Classes will resume on Monday, April 27, 2026.
All Slate Valley schools will have an early release day on Friday, April 17, 2026.
This will be followed by Spring Break from Monday, April 20 through Friday, April 24. 🌸
We hope everyone enjoys a safe, relaxing, and well-deserved break!
Classes will resume on Monday, April 27, 2026.
Our Castleton Elementary School 4th graders recently had the opportunity to participate in the Annual Poppy Poster Contest, thanks to an invitation from Poppy Chairperson Phyllis Blanchard of the Castleton American Legion Auxiliary Unit 50.
Each student thoughtfully created both a draft and final poster, inspired by the story of the Poppy Lady, Moina Belle Michael, and her tribute to veterans. Through their artwork, students explored the powerful symbolism of the poppy:
🔴 Red petals represent the sacrifice and blood shed
⚫🟡 The center reflects the mud and hardship of the battlefield
🌱 The green stem symbolizes the land where so many served and sacrificed
💪 The stem also represents courage and determination
🌸 Together, the poppy stands as a symbol of remembrance and renewal
We are proud to share that our students’ posters have been submitted to the Vermont Department Chairperson for consideration. Great work, CES students!
Each student thoughtfully created both a draft and final poster, inspired by the story of the Poppy Lady, Moina Belle Michael, and her tribute to veterans. Through their artwork, students explored the powerful symbolism of the poppy:
🔴 Red petals represent the sacrifice and blood shed
⚫🟡 The center reflects the mud and hardship of the battlefield
🌱 The green stem symbolizes the land where so many served and sacrificed
💪 The stem also represents courage and determination
🌸 Together, the poppy stands as a symbol of remembrance and renewal
We are proud to share that our students’ posters have been submitted to the Vermont Department Chairperson for consideration. Great work, CES students!
Students in third and fourth grade are reading the Red Clover Book When You Find the Right Rock by Mary Lyn Ray in library class. To deepen their learning, students explored how rocks are formed by watching an informational video, then put their creativity to work by painting their own rocks. The results are full of thoughtful details and beautiful designs!
Share Your Memories of Bonnie 💙
As we prepare to celebrate the life of Bonnie L. Partridge, we invite all friends, colleagues, and students—past and present—to help us honor her memory.
We are creating a special slideshow to be shared during her Celebration of Life on May 2, 2026, and would love to include your photos and video memories.
How to Submit:
• Complete the form by going to: https://bit.ly/BonniePCelebrationofLife
• Scan the QR code on the flyer
• Email your photo/video directly to Lisa Cacciatore at lcacciatore@svuvt.org
Submission Deadline:
All entries must be received by April 24, 2026
Whether it’s a candid moment, a favorite memory, or a short video message, your contribution will help tell the story of Bonnie’s impact and the many lives she touched.
Thank you for helping us celebrate Bonnie in such a meaningful way. 💙
As we prepare to celebrate the life of Bonnie L. Partridge, we invite all friends, colleagues, and students—past and present—to help us honor her memory.
We are creating a special slideshow to be shared during her Celebration of Life on May 2, 2026, and would love to include your photos and video memories.
How to Submit:
• Complete the form by going to: https://bit.ly/BonniePCelebrationofLife
• Scan the QR code on the flyer
• Email your photo/video directly to Lisa Cacciatore at lcacciatore@svuvt.org
Submission Deadline:
All entries must be received by April 24, 2026
Whether it’s a candid moment, a favorite memory, or a short video message, your contribution will help tell the story of Bonnie’s impact and the many lives she touched.
Thank you for helping us celebrate Bonnie in such a meaningful way. 💙
🌱💚 FHUMHS Students Giving Back for Green-Up Day! 💚🌱
On May 1st, students from Fair Haven Union Middle & High School will be out in the community celebrating Green-Up Day—and they’re ready to lend a helping hand!
From spring yard clean-ups to other small outdoor tasks, our students are excited to support members of the Slate Valley community. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, give back, and make a positive impact together.
If you or someone you know could use a little extra help this spring, please fill out the quick form below, or contact Jackie Phillips (email: jphillips@svuvt.org or phone: 802-265-4966). FHUMHS principals and assistant principals will review submissions and follow up directly.
👉 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfHYQ48U-NIH-q2A1cECoC8cBXMl0eQSxBGHs8ZvZqpa98wow/viewform
Thank you for being part of our community—and for helping our students make a difference! 🌎✨
On May 1st, students from Fair Haven Union Middle & High School will be out in the community celebrating Green-Up Day—and they’re ready to lend a helping hand!
From spring yard clean-ups to other small outdoor tasks, our students are excited to support members of the Slate Valley community. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, give back, and make a positive impact together.
If you or someone you know could use a little extra help this spring, please fill out the quick form below, or contact Jackie Phillips (email: jphillips@svuvt.org or phone: 802-265-4966). FHUMHS principals and assistant principals will review submissions and follow up directly.
👉 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfHYQ48U-NIH-q2A1cECoC8cBXMl0eQSxBGHs8ZvZqpa98wow/viewform
Thank you for being part of our community—and for helping our students make a difference! 🌎✨
First graders are learning in motion! 🎉
This year, students have been participating in Action Based Learning (ABL), both in the classroom and in the gym. Through hands-on activities, movement, and play, students are building skills while staying active and engaged. From puzzles and pattern building to balance, math games, and collaborative play—learning has never been so fun!
This year, students have been participating in Action Based Learning (ABL), both in the classroom and in the gym. Through hands-on activities, movement, and play, students are building skills while staying active and engaged. From puzzles and pattern building to balance, math games, and collaborative play—learning has never been so fun!
Slate Valley District Newsletter: April 10, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/5722f5802f0b/district-newsletter-april-10-2026
https://mailchi.mp/5722f5802f0b/district-newsletter-april-10-2026
Submitted by 5th Grade Teacher, Mrs. Meredith Simpson: "During Art Club, Mrs. Parrott and I taught the students how to make creations from shrink film, including keychains, earrings, miniature signs, and more. Another project, which was a major hit, was making a tiny laptop with a movable cursor and mouse! Our final project involved wrapping wire and beads around a rock to make a photo holder. We stayed busy and had a blast!"
Batch 2: April PBiS Assembly - Last week, CES celebrated our PBIS award recipients for the month of March. Students were honored for demonstrating the character trait of the month, resiliency. We're so proud of all those recognized, keep up the great work!
Batch 1: April PBiS Assembly - Last week, CES celebrated our PBIS award recipients for the month of March. Students were honored for demonstrating the character trait of the month, resiliency. We're so proud of all those recognized, keep up the great work!
📚✨ Friday Focus: Smiles & “i before e”… or is it? ✨📚
This week, our Friday Focus shines on our amazing 2nd and 3rd graders across Slate Valley!
Traveling from school to school, it was impossible to miss the smiles, laughter, and joy of learning happening in every classroom and hallway. Whether students were tackling their Cognia assessments, heading out for recess or lunch, diving into a good book, or puzzling over tricky spelling rules like “ei” and “ie,” their curiosity and energy were on full display.
It’s moments like these that remind us how special our schools are—filled with students who are growing, learning, and supporting one another every single day.
Keep shining, Slate Valley! 🌟
This week, our Friday Focus shines on our amazing 2nd and 3rd graders across Slate Valley!
Traveling from school to school, it was impossible to miss the smiles, laughter, and joy of learning happening in every classroom and hallway. Whether students were tackling their Cognia assessments, heading out for recess or lunch, diving into a good book, or puzzling over tricky spelling rules like “ei” and “ie,” their curiosity and energy were on full display.
It’s moments like these that remind us how special our schools are—filled with students who are growing, learning, and supporting one another every single day.
Keep shining, Slate Valley! 🌟
📚✨Throwback Thursday✨📚
We’re taking it back to the 1976 FHUHS Yearbook, where this creative drawing introduced “Ogg,” a proposed Slater mascot designed by a sophomore with the initials K.C.
The student shared their vision of building a mascot for games—complete with blue and white hair and a large rubber nose!
Here’s the fun part…
👀 Do you know who K.C. is?
Hint: This talented artist went on to become a long-time teacher right here in Slate Valley!
Drop your guesses in the comments—we can’t wait to see who remembers! 👇
We’re taking it back to the 1976 FHUHS Yearbook, where this creative drawing introduced “Ogg,” a proposed Slater mascot designed by a sophomore with the initials K.C.
The student shared their vision of building a mascot for games—complete with blue and white hair and a large rubber nose!
Here’s the fun part…
👀 Do you know who K.C. is?
Hint: This talented artist went on to become a long-time teacher right here in Slate Valley!
Drop your guesses in the comments—we can’t wait to see who remembers! 👇
Where Are They Now Wednesday: April Spotlight - Marty Vinci, Class of 1970
This month, we’re proud to highlight Fair Haven Union High School alumnus Marty Vinci, a member of the Class of 1970 whose journey reflects dedication, hard work, and a lifelong connection to his roots.
Following graduation, Marty pursued specialized training at Meat Cutting School in Toledo, Ohio—launching a career that would span four decades. He worked as a meat cutter throughout Vermont and upstate New York, building a reputation for skill and consistency in his trade.
In 2007, Marty took his experience to the next level, beginning a new chapter with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a Meat Inspector in Atlanta, Georgia. After three years, he transferred to Hilton Head, South Carolina, where he continued his work for an additional 15 years. Marty officially retired on January 1, 2025, concluding an impressive career dedicated to food safety and public service.
Retirement hasn’t slowed him down. Today, Marty enjoys working part-time in the pro shop at a local golf course in the Hilton Head area—staying active and connected within his community.
During his time at Fair Haven, Marty was a two-sport athlete, participating in football, and baseball. He served as captain of the football team his senior year, demonstrating leadership both on and off the field. One of his most memorable moments came on the baseball diamond, when he delivered a game-winning hit in the bottom of the 14th inning to defeat rival Poultney—a moment that still stands out decades later.
Marty also credits Coach Tom LaPlaca as a meaningful influence during his high school years. Their close relationship helped keep him motivated and focused, leaving a lasting impact that extended well beyond graduation.
From standout student-athlete to a long and successful career, Marty Vinci’s story is one of perseverance, pride, and community—qualities that continue to define Slater alumni.
This month, we’re proud to highlight Fair Haven Union High School alumnus Marty Vinci, a member of the Class of 1970 whose journey reflects dedication, hard work, and a lifelong connection to his roots.
Following graduation, Marty pursued specialized training at Meat Cutting School in Toledo, Ohio—launching a career that would span four decades. He worked as a meat cutter throughout Vermont and upstate New York, building a reputation for skill and consistency in his trade.
In 2007, Marty took his experience to the next level, beginning a new chapter with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a Meat Inspector in Atlanta, Georgia. After three years, he transferred to Hilton Head, South Carolina, where he continued his work for an additional 15 years. Marty officially retired on January 1, 2025, concluding an impressive career dedicated to food safety and public service.
Retirement hasn’t slowed him down. Today, Marty enjoys working part-time in the pro shop at a local golf course in the Hilton Head area—staying active and connected within his community.
During his time at Fair Haven, Marty was a two-sport athlete, participating in football, and baseball. He served as captain of the football team his senior year, demonstrating leadership both on and off the field. One of his most memorable moments came on the baseball diamond, when he delivered a game-winning hit in the bottom of the 14th inning to defeat rival Poultney—a moment that still stands out decades later.
Marty also credits Coach Tom LaPlaca as a meaningful influence during his high school years. Their close relationship helped keep him motivated and focused, leaving a lasting impact that extended well beyond graduation.
From standout student-athlete to a long and successful career, Marty Vinci’s story is one of perseverance, pride, and community—qualities that continue to define Slater alumni.
Due to illness, tonight’s Slate Valley Community Advisory Council (CAC) meeting has been cancelled. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to connecting at our next meeting on May 5, 2026. Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school community!
🇺🇸 Trivia Tuesday 🇺🇸
Question:
How did Mount Independence in Orwell, Vermont, get its name?
Answer:
Mount Independence was named in 1776 by American troops stationed there during the Revolutionary War. The name honored the colonies’ declaration of independence from Great Britain, which had just been adopted that summer.
🇺🇸 Did You Know?
As we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States, Mount Independence stands as a powerful local reminder of that pivotal moment in 1776. Even more meaningful, it remains a popular field trip destination for many Slate Valley students—giving them the opportunity to walk the very grounds where history was made and connect classroom learning to real-world experiences.
🔗 Learn more: https://historicsites.vermont.gov/mount-independence
Question:
How did Mount Independence in Orwell, Vermont, get its name?
Answer:
Mount Independence was named in 1776 by American troops stationed there during the Revolutionary War. The name honored the colonies’ declaration of independence from Great Britain, which had just been adopted that summer.
🇺🇸 Did You Know?
As we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States, Mount Independence stands as a powerful local reminder of that pivotal moment in 1776. Even more meaningful, it remains a popular field trip destination for many Slate Valley students—giving them the opportunity to walk the very grounds where history was made and connect classroom learning to real-world experiences.
🔗 Learn more: https://historicsites.vermont.gov/mount-independence
The celebration of America’s 250th birthday continues in fourth grade! 🇺🇸
Students recently participated in the Bookmark Design Challenge hosted by the National Endowment for the Arts. As part of the project, students reflected on what America means to them and brought those ideas to life through original bookmark designs—highlighting themes such as history, heritage, important people and moments, cultural traditions, unity, democracy, and hopes for the future.
Three national winners—one from each grade band (K–2, 3–5, 6–8)—will be selected, with winning designs featured on the NEA website and printed for distribution at the Great American State Fair and other national events. Winners will also be invited, along with a parent or guardian, on an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. to take part in a special literacy celebration.
We are so proud of our fourth graders’ creativity and thoughtful work—and we’ll be cheering them on as we hope to see one of our own students’ designs represent our country in this incredible, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Students recently participated in the Bookmark Design Challenge hosted by the National Endowment for the Arts. As part of the project, students reflected on what America means to them and brought those ideas to life through original bookmark designs—highlighting themes such as history, heritage, important people and moments, cultural traditions, unity, democracy, and hopes for the future.
Three national winners—one from each grade band (K–2, 3–5, 6–8)—will be selected, with winning designs featured on the NEA website and printed for distribution at the Great American State Fair and other national events. Winners will also be invited, along with a parent or guardian, on an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. to take part in a special literacy celebration.
We are so proud of our fourth graders’ creativity and thoughtful work—and we’ll be cheering them on as we hope to see one of our own students’ designs represent our country in this incredible, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Board Meeting - April 6, 2026
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Benson Village School Gym.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: link: https://meet.google.com/tbg-nhei-qjq
Or dial: (US) +1 484-321-6815 PIN: 473 638 758#
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. in the Benson Village School Gym.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: link: https://meet.google.com/tbg-nhei-qjq
Or dial: (US) +1 484-321-6815 PIN: 473 638 758#
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.
