Throwback Thursday 🕰️📚
Let’s rewind about 50 years to a very different classroom! In 1976, tools like pull-down maps, film projectors, card catalogs, and manual typewriters were everyday staples for students and teachers. Many of these once-essential items have now been replaced by today’s digital technology.
How many of these classroom classics did you recognize? 👀
Drop in the comments other “old school” classroom items you remember seeing that are no longer used today!
Let’s rewind about 50 years to a very different classroom! In 1976, tools like pull-down maps, film projectors, card catalogs, and manual typewriters were everyday staples for students and teachers. Many of these once-essential items have now been replaced by today’s digital technology.
How many of these classroom classics did you recognize? 👀
Drop in the comments other “old school” classroom items you remember seeing that are no longer used today!
Where Are They Now Wednesday – March Spotlight
Cassandra Murphy – FHUHS Class of 2010
March’s Where Are They Now Wednesday spotlight shines on Fair Haven Union High School alumna Cassandra Murphy, a 2010 graduate whose journey reflects determination, leadership, and pride in her roots.
After graduating from FHUHS, Cassandra continued her education at Castleton University, earning her bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems in 2016. During her college years, she also made the decision to serve her country. In 2011, she enlisted in the Vermont Army National Guard, where she served for eight years as a mechanic. It was during her time in the Guard that she met her husband, building both a career path and a lifelong partnership.
Cassandra credits two FHUHS educators for having a meaningful impact on her life. Mr. Bruce encouraged her to always be unapologetically herself—advice that continues to guide her personally and professionally. Mr. Wilson, her math teacher and soccer coach, instilled in her the importance of pushing beyond limits, working hard, and pursuing goals with determination. Those lessons carried far beyond the classroom and the field.
While at FHUHS, Cassandra was a three-sport varsity athlete, competing in soccer as well as indoor and outdoor track. She was part of an exceptional outdoor track team that earned four consecutive state championships from her freshman through senior year—a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to teamwork and dedication.
Today, Cassandra serves as a Senior Buyer at C&S Wholesale Grocers in Keene, New Hampshire—the largest wholesale grocery supply company in the United States. She plans to continue growing within the company and advancing her career.
Family remains at the heart of Cassandra’s life. She and her husband, whom she met in the National Guard in 2014, are raising their five-year-old daughter in New Hampshire. Together, they enjoy camping and frequently return to the Fair Haven area to spend time outdoors with family and friends.
When asked what advice she would offer today’s Slate Valley students, Cassandra shares a heartfelt reminder: enjoy every moment of high school. “These are truly the best years of your life,” she says. “They go by in the blink of an eye.”
From championship athlete to military service member to corporate leadership, Cassandra Murphy’s journey is a proud example of where dedication and hard work can lead.
Cassandra Murphy – FHUHS Class of 2010
March’s Where Are They Now Wednesday spotlight shines on Fair Haven Union High School alumna Cassandra Murphy, a 2010 graduate whose journey reflects determination, leadership, and pride in her roots.
After graduating from FHUHS, Cassandra continued her education at Castleton University, earning her bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems in 2016. During her college years, she also made the decision to serve her country. In 2011, she enlisted in the Vermont Army National Guard, where she served for eight years as a mechanic. It was during her time in the Guard that she met her husband, building both a career path and a lifelong partnership.
Cassandra credits two FHUHS educators for having a meaningful impact on her life. Mr. Bruce encouraged her to always be unapologetically herself—advice that continues to guide her personally and professionally. Mr. Wilson, her math teacher and soccer coach, instilled in her the importance of pushing beyond limits, working hard, and pursuing goals with determination. Those lessons carried far beyond the classroom and the field.
While at FHUHS, Cassandra was a three-sport varsity athlete, competing in soccer as well as indoor and outdoor track. She was part of an exceptional outdoor track team that earned four consecutive state championships from her freshman through senior year—a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to teamwork and dedication.
Today, Cassandra serves as a Senior Buyer at C&S Wholesale Grocers in Keene, New Hampshire—the largest wholesale grocery supply company in the United States. She plans to continue growing within the company and advancing her career.
Family remains at the heart of Cassandra’s life. She and her husband, whom she met in the National Guard in 2014, are raising their five-year-old daughter in New Hampshire. Together, they enjoy camping and frequently return to the Fair Haven area to spend time outdoors with family and friends.
When asked what advice she would offer today’s Slate Valley students, Cassandra shares a heartfelt reminder: enjoy every moment of high school. “These are truly the best years of your life,” she says. “They go by in the blink of an eye.”
From championship athlete to military service member to corporate leadership, Cassandra Murphy’s journey is a proud example of where dedication and hard work can lead.
Dear Slate Valley,
I am writing to share the results of the recent school budget vote. The proposed budget was not approved, with 952 votes in favor and 1125 opposed. The separate article to transfer funds into a reserve account was approved.
We recognize that this outcome is challenging. The budget was developed to largely maintain existing programs and services, while also responding to declining enrollment. As part of that adjustment, the plan included a reduction of 13 positions across the district. We understand that community members carefully weighed educational needs alongside the financial pressures facing taxpayers.
Although this was not the result we had hoped for, our commitment to our students and staff remains steady. We are now focused on identifying a responsible path forward. One that reflects community input while continuing to support high-quality teaching and learning within the constraints of state and federal policies and legislation.
The Board will meet in the coming weeks to review options, gather feedback, and determine next steps. We encourage community members to attend, ask questions, and stay engaged. Clear communication and collaborative problem-solving will be critical as we move forward together.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support of our schools.
Regards,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
I am writing to share the results of the recent school budget vote. The proposed budget was not approved, with 952 votes in favor and 1125 opposed. The separate article to transfer funds into a reserve account was approved.
We recognize that this outcome is challenging. The budget was developed to largely maintain existing programs and services, while also responding to declining enrollment. As part of that adjustment, the plan included a reduction of 13 positions across the district. We understand that community members carefully weighed educational needs alongside the financial pressures facing taxpayers.
Although this was not the result we had hoped for, our commitment to our students and staff remains steady. We are now focused on identifying a responsible path forward. One that reflects community input while continuing to support high-quality teaching and learning within the constraints of state and federal policies and legislation.
The Board will meet in the coming weeks to review options, gather feedback, and determine next steps. We encourage community members to attend, ask questions, and stay engaged. Clear communication and collaborative problem-solving will be critical as we move forward together.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support of our schools.
Regards,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
📣 Town Meeting Day is today — make your voice heard!
As you head to the polls and review the proposed FY27 school budget, here are a few key highlights:
✅ Spending per pupil remains below the state average — $11,565 in Slate Valley compared to $13,947 statewide.
✅ Staffing has been reduced by more than 45 positions over the past eight years, including 3 administrators, demonstrating long-term cost control.
✅ The proposed budget reflects a 2.8% increase, just slightly above the current rate of inflation.
📊 Learn more about the FY27 budget at https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Slate Valley schools.
As you head to the polls and review the proposed FY27 school budget, here are a few key highlights:
✅ Spending per pupil remains below the state average — $11,565 in Slate Valley compared to $13,947 statewide.
✅ Staffing has been reduced by more than 45 positions over the past eight years, including 3 administrators, demonstrating long-term cost control.
✅ The proposed budget reflects a 2.8% increase, just slightly above the current rate of inflation.
📊 Learn more about the FY27 budget at https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Slate Valley schools.
Trivia Tuesday – Do You Know?
When and where was the first Vermont Town Meeting held?
💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments!
🗳️ Today is Town Meeting Day! Don’t forget to exercise your right to vote. Polls are open at the following locations and times:
• Benson: 10 am – 7 pm, Benson Community Hall
• Castleton: 8 am – 7 pm, Castleton Fire Station
• Fair Haven: 10 am – 7 pm, American Legion Post #49
• Hubbardton: 10 am – 7 pm, Hubbardton Town Hall
• Orwell: 10 am – 7 pm, Orwell Town Hall
• West Haven: 10 am – 7 pm, West Haven Town Hall
Every vote matters!
📖 Find the trivia answer here:
https://outside.vermont.gov/dept/sos/Elections_Division/election_info_resources/town_meeting_local_elections/citizens_guide_vermont_town_meeting_2008.pdf
When and where was the first Vermont Town Meeting held?
💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments!
🗳️ Today is Town Meeting Day! Don’t forget to exercise your right to vote. Polls are open at the following locations and times:
• Benson: 10 am – 7 pm, Benson Community Hall
• Castleton: 8 am – 7 pm, Castleton Fire Station
• Fair Haven: 10 am – 7 pm, American Legion Post #49
• Hubbardton: 10 am – 7 pm, Hubbardton Town Hall
• Orwell: 10 am – 7 pm, Orwell Town Hall
• West Haven: 10 am – 7 pm, West Haven Town Hall
Every vote matters!
📖 Find the trivia answer here:
https://outside.vermont.gov/dept/sos/Elections_Division/election_info_resources/town_meeting_local_elections/citizens_guide_vermont_town_meeting_2008.pdf
Slate Valley FY27 Budget: Fiscal Responsibility in Action
As you consider the FY27 budget, here are a few key highlights:
✅ Spending per pupil remains below the state average — $11,565 in Slate Valley compared to $13,947 statewide.
✅ The proposed budget represents a 2.8% increase, just slightly above the current rate of inflation.
✅ Staffing has been reduced by over 45 positions in the past eight years, including 3 administrators, demonstrating long-term cost control.
📊 Learn more about the FY27 budget at https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
As you consider the FY27 budget, here are a few key highlights:
✅ Spending per pupil remains below the state average — $11,565 in Slate Valley compared to $13,947 statewide.
✅ The proposed budget represents a 2.8% increase, just slightly above the current rate of inflation.
✅ Staffing has been reduced by over 45 positions in the past eight years, including 3 administrators, demonstrating long-term cost control.
📊 Learn more about the FY27 budget at https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday — March Spotlight
This month, we’re excited to feature Alicia Bouzianis, a valued member of the Slate Valley team!
Alicia has been part of Slate Valley for eight years. Prior to her current role, she worked with the ABBY Group through Slate Valley, continuing her commitment to supporting students in our schools.
Outside of work, Alicia enjoys spending time outdoors — especially taking long walks and hikes through the woods. She also loves long car rides filled with country music (and isn’t afraid to sing along like she’s headed for the big stage!). Most of all, she enjoys being around kids and making meaningful connections.
A quote that inspires her is:
“Saddle your dreams before you ride them.” — a wise man told me
Beyond the school day, Alicia dedicates significant time to the Boys & Girls Club, working after school and throughout the summer. She shares that seeing the kids’ faces and creating fun experiences with them truly makes her heart full.
Alicia says she truly loves being part of Slate Valley, and we’re grateful for the care, energy, and positivity she brings to our students each day.
This month, we’re excited to feature Alicia Bouzianis, a valued member of the Slate Valley team!
Alicia has been part of Slate Valley for eight years. Prior to her current role, she worked with the ABBY Group through Slate Valley, continuing her commitment to supporting students in our schools.
Outside of work, Alicia enjoys spending time outdoors — especially taking long walks and hikes through the woods. She also loves long car rides filled with country music (and isn’t afraid to sing along like she’s headed for the big stage!). Most of all, she enjoys being around kids and making meaningful connections.
A quote that inspires her is:
“Saddle your dreams before you ride them.” — a wise man told me
Beyond the school day, Alicia dedicates significant time to the Boys & Girls Club, working after school and throughout the summer. She shares that seeing the kids’ faces and creating fun experiences with them truly makes her heart full.
Alicia says she truly loves being part of Slate Valley, and we’re grateful for the care, energy, and positivity she brings to our students each day.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: February 27, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/dbb66208584e/slate-valley-district-newsletter-january-30-13836170
https://mailchi.mp/dbb66208584e/slate-valley-district-newsletter-january-30-13836170
Please join us for Coffee and Conversation with Senator Ruth Hardy!
Orwell residents are especially encouraged to attend, and all Slate Valley community members are warmly welcome to join Senator Ruth Hardy for a casual breakfast conversation.
📅 Friday, March 6, 2026
🕘 9:00–10:00 AM
📍 Orwell Free Library
Come hear updates from the current legislative session and learn more about Act 73, with time for questions and discussion. This is a great opportunity to stay informed, share perspectives, and connect with your local senator.
Offered in partnership with Slate Valley Unified USD and the Orwell Town Library.
We hope to see you there!
Orwell residents are especially encouraged to attend, and all Slate Valley community members are warmly welcome to join Senator Ruth Hardy for a casual breakfast conversation.
📅 Friday, March 6, 2026
🕘 9:00–10:00 AM
📍 Orwell Free Library
Come hear updates from the current legislative session and learn more about Act 73, with time for questions and discussion. This is a great opportunity to stay informed, share perspectives, and connect with your local senator.
Offered in partnership with Slate Valley Unified USD and the Orwell Town Library.
We hope to see you there!
We Are Slate Valley highlights the heart of our district—our students. In this video, Slate Valley students chose words they believe best describe who we are as a district, sharing their voices and perspectives. Together, their reflections celebrate the opportunities, growth, and strong sense of belonging that define Slate Valley. From classrooms to activities, see how our schools support every learner and help students discover who they are and who they can become. See the video at: https://youtu.be/jGoplAjolPU
Slate Valley District Newsletter: February 20, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/7cc4725364fd/slate-valley-district-newsletter
https://mailchi.mp/7cc4725364fd/slate-valley-district-newsletter
🚨 Tonight — SVUUSD Annual Meeting 🚨
Join the Slate Valley Unified Union School District for the Annual Meeting on the FY27 school budget. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the proposed budget, hear important updates, and ask questions about how it supports our students, staff, and schools.
🗓 Tonight — Thursday, February 19, 2026
📍 Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room
🕡 6:30 PM
Can’t attend in person? Join virtually:
🎥 Video call link: https://meet.google.com/oiu-geoi-eaj
📞 Or dial (US): +1 816-425-1778
PIN: 657 919 832#
We hope you can join us and be part of the conversation. Your voice matters!
Join the Slate Valley Unified Union School District for the Annual Meeting on the FY27 school budget. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the proposed budget, hear important updates, and ask questions about how it supports our students, staff, and schools.
🗓 Tonight — Thursday, February 19, 2026
📍 Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room
🕡 6:30 PM
Can’t attend in person? Join virtually:
🎥 Video call link: https://meet.google.com/oiu-geoi-eaj
📞 Or dial (US): +1 816-425-1778
PIN: 657 919 832#
We hope you can join us and be part of the conversation. Your voice matters!
Snowy trails + real-world skills = an unforgettable day for our Castleton Outdoor Adventure Program (COAP) students! ❄️🥾
Students headed out on snowshoes and put their winter survival knowledge into action by building shelters and safely starting a fire. From hauling gear through the snow to working together in the woods, they practiced teamwork, problem-solving, and outdoor safety skills. Hands-on learning at its best!
Students headed out on snowshoes and put their winter survival knowledge into action by building shelters and safely starting a fire. From hauling gear through the snow to working together in the woods, they practiced teamwork, problem-solving, and outdoor safety skills. Hands-on learning at its best!
Our Pre-K students had a bug-tastic time in the library this week! 🐞📚 They listened to the lively story Beetle Bop by Denise Fleming, then got up and moving with an insect-themed dance video. To finish the visit, students created their own colorful beetle puppets to take home. Lots of creativity, movement, and smiles all around!
Coding meets storytime in Mrs. Rampone’s Library class! 📚🤖
Fourth graders read the Red Clover book The Cafe at the Edge of the Woods by Mikey Please, then put their thinking caps on to help the ogre get served — by programming their Ozobots! Using colored markers and coding paths, students designed routes and tested commands, building problem-solving and computational thinking skills along the way. Great teamwork, creativity, and debugging all around!
Fourth graders read the Red Clover book The Cafe at the Edge of the Woods by Mikey Please, then put their thinking caps on to help the ogre get served — by programming their Ozobots! Using colored markers and coding paths, students designed routes and tested commands, building problem-solving and computational thinking skills along the way. Great teamwork, creativity, and debugging all around!
Join us for the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Annual Meeting on the FY27 School Budget 📘
🗓 Thursday, February 19, 2026
⏰ 6:30 PM
📍 Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room
Community members are encouraged to attend to learn more about the proposed budget, ask questions, and better understand how it supports our students and schools. Your participation matters, and we hope to see you there.
For full details and budget information, visit:
https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
🗓 Thursday, February 19, 2026
⏰ 6:30 PM
📍 Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room
Community members are encouraged to attend to learn more about the proposed budget, ask questions, and better understand how it supports our students and schools. Your participation matters, and we hope to see you there.
For full details and budget information, visit:
https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
Tony, a Caring Canines Therapy dog, made some special classroom visits on Monday, and our students were thrilled to read to him! 🐾📚 He stopped by Ms. Burke’s and Mrs. Gorruso’s third grade classes and Ms. Molis’s first grade class, where he listened closely to a wonderful variety of stories. From exciting adventures to silly tales and heartfelt favorites, Tony heard it all. Most importantly, he heard some truly great readers! Thank you to our students for sharing their voices and love of books — and to Tony for being such a patient and encouraging listener.
CES Grade 5 students enjoyed amazing hands-on learning at STARBASE! Students explored science and engineering concepts through interactive activities, including building and testing molecular models, using digital simulations, experimenting with energy and electricity, and preparing and launching rockets outdoors. These real-world STEM experiences help students connect classroom learning to creative problem-solving and teamwork. Way to go, Grade 5 scientists and engineers!
On Friday, February 13, Slate Valley students proudly represented our district at the Green Mountain Music District V Festival. 🎶 Students from multiple schools participated in chorus, band, and jazz, showcasing their talent, preparation, and dedication to music. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and the way they represented their schools.
Festival Participants were:
Middle School Chorus
Castleton Elementary School (CES): Madelyn Stygles, Amos Adamski, Erin Taylor, Anital Crowley
Fair Haven Grade School (FHGS): Neva Randell
Fair Haven Union Middle & High School (FHUMHS): Laila New, Azalea Rehm, Grant Parrott, Emerson Robles (selected), Avery Zeitler, Ember Bentley, Izabella West, Hannah Brink
High School Band — FHUMHS
Maya Volpe, Avery Audent, Shira Hertzberg, Hannah Allard, Elaina Allard, Abigail Young, Henry Young, Libby Rockwell, Ollie Benson, Averie Parrott
Middle School Jazz
Orwell Village School (OVS): Will Scarpulla
Congratulations to all of our student musicians for this outstanding accomplishment! 👏🎼
Festival Participants were:
Middle School Chorus
Castleton Elementary School (CES): Madelyn Stygles, Amos Adamski, Erin Taylor, Anital Crowley
Fair Haven Grade School (FHGS): Neva Randell
Fair Haven Union Middle & High School (FHUMHS): Laila New, Azalea Rehm, Grant Parrott, Emerson Robles (selected), Avery Zeitler, Ember Bentley, Izabella West, Hannah Brink
High School Band — FHUMHS
Maya Volpe, Avery Audent, Shira Hertzberg, Hannah Allard, Elaina Allard, Abigail Young, Henry Young, Libby Rockwell, Ollie Benson, Averie Parrott
Middle School Jazz
Orwell Village School (OVS): Will Scarpulla
Congratulations to all of our student musicians for this outstanding accomplishment! 👏🎼
The Vermont Agency of Education, in collaboration with the Vermont 250th Commission, recently invited teachers from across the state to participate in the 250th Recognition Art Exhibit. Student works of art will be displayed at the Vermont State House and other Vermont Historic Sites in 2026.
Mrs. Ray, CES 4th grade teacher, chose Wilson Bentley as a Vermont past change maker connecting his past art efforts to ongoing work today. In addition to using the “Triptych” method where the artwork was assembled in three vertical sections representing the “Past (History), Present (Connecting to today), and Future (their big idea), the students then wrote an Artist Statement which included information about the title of their work, materials used, symbols and what they represent, along with information about how Wilson Bentley was a Vermont Changemaker. This “one of a kind” project had students engaged in learning about Wilson Bentley and representing him in multiple ways.
Please enjoy the photos of their creations! We hope that some if not all of our students' artwork will be displayed in various sites around the state.
Mrs. Ray, CES 4th grade teacher, chose Wilson Bentley as a Vermont past change maker connecting his past art efforts to ongoing work today. In addition to using the “Triptych” method where the artwork was assembled in three vertical sections representing the “Past (History), Present (Connecting to today), and Future (their big idea), the students then wrote an Artist Statement which included information about the title of their work, materials used, symbols and what they represent, along with information about how Wilson Bentley was a Vermont Changemaker. This “one of a kind” project had students engaged in learning about Wilson Bentley and representing him in multiple ways.
Please enjoy the photos of their creations! We hope that some if not all of our students' artwork will be displayed in various sites around the state.
