🎙️ New Educational Insights Podcast Episode! 🎧
In this episode, Superintendent Brooke Olsen-Farrell and Director of Curriculum Casey O’Meara sit down with two active community members — Mr. Bob Crowley of Castleton and Ms. Rose Anne Van Lew of Fair Haven — for a thoughtful discussion on education in Slate Valley.
This is Part 1 of the conversation, where introductions are made and the group dives into an engaging discussion about Cognia Testing and its role in our schools.
https://youtu.be/SGOcUJeeys0
🎧 Stay tuned for Part 2, where we continue gathering valuable community perspectives on Slate Valley and the future of education in our district.
In this episode, Superintendent Brooke Olsen-Farrell and Director of Curriculum Casey O’Meara sit down with two active community members — Mr. Bob Crowley of Castleton and Ms. Rose Anne Van Lew of Fair Haven — for a thoughtful discussion on education in Slate Valley.
This is Part 1 of the conversation, where introductions are made and the group dives into an engaging discussion about Cognia Testing and its role in our schools.
https://youtu.be/SGOcUJeeys0
🎧 Stay tuned for Part 2, where we continue gathering valuable community perspectives on Slate Valley and the future of education in our district.
Throwback Thursday: We’re heading back to 2002, when Castleton Elementary and Castleton Village School students — from kindergarten through 8th grade — took part in creating Capstone Learning Projects!
Every student chose a topic they were passionate about, conducted research, and shared what they learned through oral reports and hands-on demonstrations. Over the years, this project has evolved — once also known as PPPs (Personal Performance Projects) and most recently as PLPs (Personal Learning Projects) — but the goal remains the same: empowering students to explore their interests and show what they know in creative ways.
Pictured here: a Castleton Village School 8th grader who did his Capstone Project on the rodeo, complete with roping demonstrations!
Can anyone recognize this cowboy from 23 years ago?
Every student chose a topic they were passionate about, conducted research, and shared what they learned through oral reports and hands-on demonstrations. Over the years, this project has evolved — once also known as PPPs (Personal Performance Projects) and most recently as PLPs (Personal Learning Projects) — but the goal remains the same: empowering students to explore their interests and show what they know in creative ways.
Pictured here: a Castleton Village School 8th grader who did his Capstone Project on the rodeo, complete with roping demonstrations!
Can anyone recognize this cowboy from 23 years ago?
Where Are They Now Wednesday: Elizabeth Kyhill, Class of 1999
This month, we’re happy to feature Elizabeth Kyhill, a 1999 graduate of Fair Haven Union High School, whose journey from FHUHS student to healthcare leader is both inspiring and full of heart.
After graduation, Elizabeth attended St. Anselm College in Manchester, NH, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2003. She later went on to earn her Master of Science in Nursing – Leadership and Management from Walden University in Minneapolis, MN, in 2015.
Elizabeth’s passion for healthcare began early and grew through years of dedication and learning. She started her career as a Nursing Assistant and Medical Assistant while in college and joined Rutland Regional Medical Center in 2004. Over the years, she advanced through several clinical and leadership positions, leading to her current role as Vice President of Medical Group Operations, Provider Recruitment, and Medical Staff Services. In this role, she oversees the direction, leadership, and operations of all medical groups at the hospital.
When reflecting on her school days, Elizabeth shared:
“Every teacher influenced me in some way, but a few stand out. In 5th grade, Mr. Hubbard and
Mr. Lobdell helped me realize the importance of taking ownership of my learning to reach
higher-level classes. In high school, Mr. Mahar and Mrs. Pelletier, both excellent science
teachers, motivated me to work hard and sparked my interest in science. That interest
ultimately led me to nursing school, showing me that finding joy in what you learn makes it
easier to succeed.”
While at FHUHS, Elizabeth was an active participant in soccer, basketball, track, tennis, and the Nature Club.
Elizabeth’s favorite quote by Maya Angelou perfectly reflects her compassionate outlook:
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget
how you made them feel.”
Family and community are at the heart of everything Elizabeth does. She shared,
“My family is the most important part of my life, with my community a close second. We have
built amazing friendships and connections here, and I know that none of my accomplishments
would be possible without strong family and community support.”
Elizabeth volunteers as a nurse at Rutland County Health Partners and serves on the board of Community Health Centers of the Rutland Region, giving back to the community that helped shape her.
Her advice for today’s Slate Valley students?
“Part of being a Slater is having GRIT. With hard work comes reward. Stay resilient—you can
achieve anything you set your mind to.”
Elizabeth Kyhill is a shining example of what it means to embody Slater pride, perseverance, and purpose.
This month, we’re happy to feature Elizabeth Kyhill, a 1999 graduate of Fair Haven Union High School, whose journey from FHUHS student to healthcare leader is both inspiring and full of heart.
After graduation, Elizabeth attended St. Anselm College in Manchester, NH, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2003. She later went on to earn her Master of Science in Nursing – Leadership and Management from Walden University in Minneapolis, MN, in 2015.
Elizabeth’s passion for healthcare began early and grew through years of dedication and learning. She started her career as a Nursing Assistant and Medical Assistant while in college and joined Rutland Regional Medical Center in 2004. Over the years, she advanced through several clinical and leadership positions, leading to her current role as Vice President of Medical Group Operations, Provider Recruitment, and Medical Staff Services. In this role, she oversees the direction, leadership, and operations of all medical groups at the hospital.
When reflecting on her school days, Elizabeth shared:
“Every teacher influenced me in some way, but a few stand out. In 5th grade, Mr. Hubbard and
Mr. Lobdell helped me realize the importance of taking ownership of my learning to reach
higher-level classes. In high school, Mr. Mahar and Mrs. Pelletier, both excellent science
teachers, motivated me to work hard and sparked my interest in science. That interest
ultimately led me to nursing school, showing me that finding joy in what you learn makes it
easier to succeed.”
While at FHUHS, Elizabeth was an active participant in soccer, basketball, track, tennis, and the Nature Club.
Elizabeth’s favorite quote by Maya Angelou perfectly reflects her compassionate outlook:
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget
how you made them feel.”
Family and community are at the heart of everything Elizabeth does. She shared,
“My family is the most important part of my life, with my community a close second. We have
built amazing friendships and connections here, and I know that none of my accomplishments
would be possible without strong family and community support.”
Elizabeth volunteers as a nurse at Rutland County Health Partners and serves on the board of Community Health Centers of the Rutland Region, giving back to the community that helped shape her.
Her advice for today’s Slate Valley students?
“Part of being a Slater is having GRIT. With hard work comes reward. Stay resilient—you can
achieve anything you set your mind to.”
Elizabeth Kyhill is a shining example of what it means to embody Slater pride, perseverance, and purpose.
Trivia Tuesday: 💡Did You Know?
As part of Act 73, Vermont’s sweeping education law passed earlier this year, the School District Redistricting Task Force is charged with reshaping how our state’s schools are organized. The Task Force will present three proposed redistricting maps by December 1, 2025, outlining options to consolidate Vermont’s 119 school districts (within 52 supervisory unions) into just 10 to 25 larger districts.
Under the law, each new district would oversee between 4,000 and 8,000 students, from pre-K through grade 12 — “to the extent practical.”
Learn more about Act 73 and the redistricting process here: https://vtnea.org/act73
As part of Act 73, Vermont’s sweeping education law passed earlier this year, the School District Redistricting Task Force is charged with reshaping how our state’s schools are organized. The Task Force will present three proposed redistricting maps by December 1, 2025, outlining options to consolidate Vermont’s 119 school districts (within 52 supervisory unions) into just 10 to 25 larger districts.
Under the law, each new district would oversee between 4,000 and 8,000 students, from pre-K through grade 12 — “to the extent practical.”
Learn more about Act 73 and the redistricting process here: https://vtnea.org/act73
Hello Slate Valley Families,
We want to ensure every family has access to support when needed. If your household could benefit from community resources, particularly with food assistance, please use the link below to find local food shelf and meal site locations through the Vermont Foodbank.
If you have questions or would like help accessing resources, please reach out to our Home–School Liaison, Carrieann Wolcott — she is here to help!
📧 Email: cwolcott@svuvt.org
📱 Cell: 802-265-0676
☎️ School Office: 802-265-3883 ext. 7068
🔗 Vermont Foodbank Food Shelf & Meal Site Locator:
https://www.vtfoodbank.org/access-food/find-a-food-shelf/
No family should face challenges alone — we are here to support you.
We want to ensure every family has access to support when needed. If your household could benefit from community resources, particularly with food assistance, please use the link below to find local food shelf and meal site locations through the Vermont Foodbank.
If you have questions or would like help accessing resources, please reach out to our Home–School Liaison, Carrieann Wolcott — she is here to help!
📧 Email: cwolcott@svuvt.org
📱 Cell: 802-265-0676
☎️ School Office: 802-265-3883 ext. 7068
🔗 Vermont Foodbank Food Shelf & Meal Site Locator:
https://www.vtfoodbank.org/access-food/find-a-food-shelf/
No family should face challenges alone — we are here to support you.
Last week, Castleton Elementary School’s P.E. teacher, Ms. Briley Blackbird, transformed the gym into a spooktacular space for students!
Students rotated through six spooky-themed activity stations, each designed to keep them moving, laughing, and building their fitness skills — all while enjoying a little seasonal fun. From ghostly games to pumpkin-inspired challenges, it was a frightfully good time for everyone!
Students rotated through six spooky-themed activity stations, each designed to keep them moving, laughing, and building their fitness skills — all while enjoying a little seasonal fun. From ghostly games to pumpkin-inspired challenges, it was a frightfully good time for everyone!
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday featuring Ellenor Cox-Hansen
This week, we’re excited to introduce Ellenor Cox-Hansen, Director of Special Education at Fair Haven Grade School! Ellenor joined Slate Valley in July 2025 and brings a wealth of experience from her previous work in SVSU (Bennington) and BRSU (Manchester).
Outside of school, Ellenor enjoys cooking, gardening, and reading, finding joy and creativity in each of these hobbies. Her favorite quote, by Thich Nhat Hanh, reflects her compassionate and mindful approach to both life and education:
“Waking up this morning, I smile. Twenty-four brand new hours are before me. I vow to live fully in each moment and to look at all beings with eyes of compassion.”
We’re so happy to have Ellenor as part of Slate Valley and the Fair Haven Grade School team—her dedication, warmth, and wisdom are already making a wonderful impact!
This week, we’re excited to introduce Ellenor Cox-Hansen, Director of Special Education at Fair Haven Grade School! Ellenor joined Slate Valley in July 2025 and brings a wealth of experience from her previous work in SVSU (Bennington) and BRSU (Manchester).
Outside of school, Ellenor enjoys cooking, gardening, and reading, finding joy and creativity in each of these hobbies. Her favorite quote, by Thich Nhat Hanh, reflects her compassionate and mindful approach to both life and education:
“Waking up this morning, I smile. Twenty-four brand new hours are before me. I vow to live fully in each moment and to look at all beings with eyes of compassion.”
We’re so happy to have Ellenor as part of Slate Valley and the Fair Haven Grade School team—her dedication, warmth, and wisdom are already making a wonderful impact!
Board Meeting - TONIGHT - November 3, 2025
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Fair Haven Grade School Library.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/xwq-bbuo-ytt
Or dial: (US) +1 321-765-3491 PIN: 771 020 254
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 Fair Haven Grade School Library.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/xwq-bbuo-ytt
Or dial: (US) +1 321-765-3491 PIN: 771 020 254
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: October 31, 2025
https://mailchi.mp/865db2fa5f16/october-31st-slate-valley-district-newsletter
https://mailchi.mp/865db2fa5f16/october-31st-slate-valley-district-newsletter
Please join us for our next Community Advisory Council (CAC) Meeting !
Time: 6:00–7:00 PM (Notice the slightly later start)
Location: Fair Haven Union Middle & High School – Central Office Conference Room
This is a great opportunity to connect with district administration, share community concerns, get FY27 Budget and Act 73 updates and hear how the school year is going.
All are Welcome! We look forward to seeing you there!
Time: 6:00–7:00 PM (Notice the slightly later start)
Location: Fair Haven Union Middle & High School – Central Office Conference Room
This is a great opportunity to connect with district administration, share community concerns, get FY27 Budget and Act 73 updates and hear how the school year is going.
All are Welcome! We look forward to seeing you there!
There were wagging tails and happy smiles at Castleton Elementary School today as the Caring Canines made one of their special visits!
Students had the wonderful opportunity to read aloud to the pups, practicing their fluency and confidence while enjoying some furry encouragement. It’s hard to tell who loved it more — the students or the dogs!
Students had the wonderful opportunity to read aloud to the pups, practicing their fluency and confidence while enjoying some furry encouragement. It’s hard to tell who loved it more — the students or the dogs!
❄️🏀 Winter Sports Registration Is Now Open! 🏒❄️
It’s time to register for Slate Valley’s Winter Sports season! Our athletic programs are organized into three levels:
Grades 5–6 Sports
Middle School Sports (Grades 7–8)
High School Sports (Grades 9–12)
Be sure your child is registered on FormReLeaf for their chosen sport (use the link below) and has an up-to-date sports physical on file at their school.
https://formreleaf.com/
It’s time to register for Slate Valley’s Winter Sports season! Our athletic programs are organized into three levels:
Grades 5–6 Sports
Middle School Sports (Grades 7–8)
High School Sports (Grades 9–12)
Be sure your child is registered on FormReLeaf for their chosen sport (use the link below) and has an up-to-date sports physical on file at their school.
https://formreleaf.com/
In today's Rutland Herald!
This morning, Phyllis Blanchard—retired CES teacher and proud member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Crippen-Fellows American Legion Post 50—brought a touch of magic to our 4th grade classrooms with some very special gifts!
Each student received an American Legion Auxiliary “Have a Safe Halloween” Coloring Book, while teachers and staff were surprised with handcrafted, Harry Potter–themed teddy bears lovingly made by Mrs. Blanchard herself.
While visiting, Mrs. Blanchard even took a turn with the Harry Potter Sorting Hat—adding a bit of extra fun and laughter!
These special bears will now join the 4th graders on their many adventures at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
We’re so thankful for Mrs. Blanchard’s creativity, kindness, and community spirit!
Each student received an American Legion Auxiliary “Have a Safe Halloween” Coloring Book, while teachers and staff were surprised with handcrafted, Harry Potter–themed teddy bears lovingly made by Mrs. Blanchard herself.
While visiting, Mrs. Blanchard even took a turn with the Harry Potter Sorting Hat—adding a bit of extra fun and laughter!
These special bears will now join the 4th graders on their many adventures at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
We’re so thankful for Mrs. Blanchard’s creativity, kindness, and community spirit!
Today, Chef Tony stopped by Castleton Elementary School to serve up his famous hot honey chicken sandwiches—and they were a huge hit! Students couldn’t stop talking about how delicious everything was, and the lunchroom was filled with smiles.
A highlight of the visit? Chef Tony playfully tossed pickles and cheese slices into the mouths of our 5th and 6th graders—adding laughter to an already tasty day!
Thank you, Chef Tony, for sharing your time (and your talent) with us—we can’t wait to have you back!
A highlight of the visit? Chef Tony playfully tossed pickles and cheese slices into the mouths of our 5th and 6th graders—adding laughter to an already tasty day!
Thank you, Chef Tony, for sharing your time (and your talent) with us—we can’t wait to have you back!
Be the Hero of the Day — Substitute with Slate Valley!
Slate Valley Unified Union School District is looking for substitute teachers! We’re seeking caring, flexible individuals who enjoy working with students and supporting learning across our elementary, middle, and high schools. If you’re ready to make a difference and be part of a supportive school community, we’d love to have you on our team! Interested? Apply at slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/career-opportunities
Slate Valley Unified Union School District is looking for substitute teachers! We’re seeking caring, flexible individuals who enjoy working with students and supporting learning across our elementary, middle, and high schools. If you’re ready to make a difference and be part of a supportive school community, we’d love to have you on our team! Interested? Apply at slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/career-opportunities
Last Friday, Castleton Elementary School students, faculty, and staff brought their favorite stories to life during the annual Book Character Parade! From classic storybook heroes to imaginative new favorites, the parade route was filled with color, creativity, and plenty of smiles.
This beloved tradition celebrates a love of reading—and as always, our CES community showed off amazing costumes and even bigger school spirit!
A special thank you to Ms. Tugas who always captures the day with the best photos!
This beloved tradition celebrates a love of reading—and as always, our CES community showed off amazing costumes and even bigger school spirit!
A special thank you to Ms. Tugas who always captures the day with the best photos!
Slate Valley District Newsletter: October 24, 2025
https://mailchi.mp/6e5e2878b6d7/slate-valley-district-newsletter-october-24-2025
https://mailchi.mp/6e5e2878b6d7/slate-valley-district-newsletter-october-24-2025
During library class, students in grades K–4 recently read the Red Clover book Whalesong: The True Story of the Musician Who Talked to Orcas by Zachariah OHora. The story introduced students to musician Paul Horn, who once played his flute for Haida the orca—and was amazed when Haida responded with clicks, squeaks, and bubbles!
Inspired by the story, our young readers used 3D pens and 3Doodlers to build their own orcas.
Inspired by the story, our young readers used 3D pens and 3Doodlers to build their own orcas.
TOMORROW... with the option to participate in person or virtually!
Public Hearing Notice: Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force
The Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force invites community members to attend one of its public hearings to share perspectives and priorities that will help shape proposals for Vermont’s future school district boundaries. The hearing closest to us is:
Wednesday, October 22 | 6:00–8:00 PM at Rutland High School, in Rutland.
These hearings are a chance to learn about the Task Force’s purpose and process, share your ideas and concerns, and offer public testimony (2 minutes per speaker; written comments welcome if time runs short).
Your voice matters—help guide the future of Vermont’s schools!
To Participate Virtually Go To: https://bit.ly/vtredistrictingpublichearing
Meeting ID: 288 958 397 374 5 Passcode: Be2vw7j5
Public Hearing Notice: Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force
The Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force invites community members to attend one of its public hearings to share perspectives and priorities that will help shape proposals for Vermont’s future school district boundaries. The hearing closest to us is:
Wednesday, October 22 | 6:00–8:00 PM at Rutland High School, in Rutland.
These hearings are a chance to learn about the Task Force’s purpose and process, share your ideas and concerns, and offer public testimony (2 minutes per speaker; written comments welcome if time runs short).
Your voice matters—help guide the future of Vermont’s schools!
To Participate Virtually Go To: https://bit.ly/vtredistrictingpublichearing
Meeting ID: 288 958 397 374 5 Passcode: Be2vw7j5
