Join Us for our next Community Advisory Council Meeting — Monday, February 2!

We hope you’ll join us for the next Community Advisory Council (CAC) Meeting on Monday, February 2, 2026, from 6:00–7:30 PM in the Library at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School.

We’ll be welcoming our local legislators for an important conversation and updates on Act 73. This is a great opportunity to stay informed, ask questions, and share your perspective as we work together to support our schools and community.

🗓 Monday, February 2, 2026
⏰ 6:00–7:30 PM
📍 FHUMHS Library

Come be part of the conversation — we’d love to see you there!
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Graphic with Slate Valley Community Advisory Council logo and text announcing the next meeting on February 2, 2026, from 6:00–7:30 PM at the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Library, featuring an Act 73 discussion with local legislators.
A group of community members sit around tables in a school library, listening to a man speaking at the front, with bookshelves lining the walls behind them.
Board Meeting Tonight- January 26, 2026
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School band room.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/zjf-fize-oet
Or dial: (US) +1 413-779-5205 PIN: 549 283 171#

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.
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Graphic announcing a Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting. Text reads “Please Join Us Tonight” and “Board Meeting.” The agenda includes consent agenda; warning for FY27 school budget; tax rate discussion; committee reports for building and grounds, policy, and executive committee. Meeting details list January 26, 2026 at 6:30 PM, held at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School in the Band Room. The graphic features a circular table with stylized people icons and a Vermont logo.
Good Afternoon,

All Slate Valley Schools will be closed tomorrow, Monday, January 26, 2026, due to the weather conditions. Stay safe and have a great day!

Best,

Brooke Olsen-Farrell, Superintendent
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Graphic announcing “No School Snow Day!” with snowflakes on a snowy background. Text reads “Monday, January 26th,” alongside the Slate Valley Unified School District logo.
Slate Valley District Newsletter for January 23, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/df08e8fadaac/slate-valley-district-newsletter-january-16-13835994
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Slate Valley Unified USD newsletter header dated January 23, 2026, featuring an illustration of five bundled-up people shivering in winter coats beneath hanging icicles, suggesting cold winter weather.
🎪 Tonight’s the night! Castleton Elementary School invites families and community members to Wunderle’s Big Top Adventures—an interactive circus experience full of movement, balance, and big smiles!

Over the past two days, CES students have been learning exciting circus skills and preparing to share what they’ve practiced with our school community.

📅 Tonight, January 22
⏰ Showtime: 5:30 PM (doors open at 5:00 PM)
📍 Castleton Elementary School
🎟️ Free admission & snacks

Come one, come all and enjoy watching students showcase their hard work and new talents! Circus items will be for sale (cash only), with proceeds supporting the school store. We hope to see you under the big top! 🎉🎪
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Flyer titled “Castleton Elementary Presents Wunderle’s Big Top Adventures” with circus-themed graphics. Event is January 22, 2026, showtime 5:30 pm, free admission and snacks, held at Castleton Elementary School with circus items for sale, cash only.
Student hula-hooping with multiple colorful hoops during a circus skills activity in the school gym.
Student tossing and catching juggling clubs while practicing coordination during the circus workshop.
Student spinning a plate on a stick as classmates watch during a circus activity in the gym.
Group of students juggling small balls together during a hands-on circus skills session.
Student balancing a feather on their face while standing in the gym during a circus challenge.
Two students smiling and helping each other balance on a wobble board during circus activities.
Instructor supporting a student standing on a large balance ball during a supervised circus exercise.
Student hula-hooping while walking across the gym floor during the circus workshop.
Student spinning a plate on a stick with focused expression during the circus skills session.
FHU Band Bottle Drive - Help our Slaters get to Orlando, FL!
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Graphic announcing FHU Band bottle drive throughout January 2026, with bottle drop-off at Liberty Street Redemption in Fair Haven; proceeds support the band’s trip to the Orlando Heritage Music Festival in Florida.
❤️🎉 Kids Heart Challenge Kickoff at Castleton Elementary! 🎉❤️

This morning, Castleton Elementary School students kicked off the Kids Heart Challenge with lots of excitement and enthusiasm! Students gathered together to learn about heart health, teamwork, and how they can make a difference while having fun along the way.

We’re off to a great start and can’t wait to see our Heart Heroes in action over the coming weeks—let’s get moving, learn healthy habits, and support a great cause
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Elementary students sit on the gym floor at Castleton Elementary School during the Kids Heart Challenge kickoff assembly while a presenter speaks at the front, with colorful heart-themed characters displayed and a mural painted on the gym wall behind them.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: January 16, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/409168fc586b/slate-valley-district-newsletter-january-16-13835966
about 2 months ago, Slate Valley
Graphic header for the Slate Valley Unified Union School District newsletter dated January 16, 2026. The image features a winter illustration with snow-covered trees, mountains, falling snow, and a skier on a snowy hillside, along with the district logo and the text “Our Schools, Your Future.”
NEEDED: Community members interested in serving as Slate Valley School Board Representatives!

Slate Valley Unified Union School District is seeking residents who want to make a meaningful impact on our schools and students. Open seats are available in West Haven (3 seats), Hubbardton (1 seat), and Orwell (1 seat). There are also seats in Benson, Fair Haven, and Castleton, where current members are running unopposed.

Serving on the school board is a great way to represent your community, support student success, and help shape the future of Slate Valley schools. Board members receive an annual stipend, and no prior experience is required—just a commitment to serve.
If you’re interested in running, please visit your town office to obtain a petition and learn more about the process and requirements.
about 2 months ago, Slate Valley
Graphic announcing “School Board Members Needed” for Slate Valley Unified Union School District, with open seats in West Haven, Hubbardton, and Orwell. Text encourages serving the community, supporting students, and participating in school decisions; notes no experience required and to visit the town office for details. Includes the Slate Valley Vermont logo and a photo of adults seated around a table in discussion.
No School – Monday, January 19, 2026

Slate Valley Unified Union School District schools will be closed on Monday, January 19, 2026, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

This day honors Dr. King’s legacy of service, equity, and justice, and invites us all to reflect on the values of compassion, courage, and community.

We wish our students, families, and staff a meaningful day of remembrance. ❤️🤍💙
about 2 months ago, Slate Valley
Graphic shows the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial statue against a blue sky. Text reads, “No School Monday, January 19, 2026, in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day,” with a Vermont school district logo at the bottom.
Hello, Heart Heroes—are you READY?! ❤️🎉

Be on the lookout! A parent letter is coming home with your student this week with all the details about this year’s Kids Heart Challenge, how to get involved, and the fun activities ahead.

You don’t have to wait to get started—families can register today and complete Finn’s Mission together!

👉 Visit www.heart.org/schools
or use the AHA Schools App to sign up.

Let’s work together to build heart-healthy habits and support kids with special hearts! ❤️
about 2 months ago, Slate Valley
Bright blue graphic featuring Finn, a cartoon dog mascot wearing a headset and heart emblem, with the text “Are You Ready?” and “Kids Heart Challenge” from the American Heart Association.
On January 9, 2026, we were proud to recognize our Cougar Award recipients for the month of December. The character trait of the month was honesty, and we are so proud of the many wonderful students who demonstrated integrity, trustworthiness, and doing the right thing—even when it isn’t easy.

With so many deserving students to choose from, this recognition truly reflects the strong character of our school community. Congratulations to all of our Cougar Award recipients!
about 2 months ago, Slate Valley
Two elementary students stand in a school gym holding certificates, each posing with a staff member against red safety mats.
Three elementary students hold certificates while standing with a staff member in a gymnasium, smiling in front of red wall mats.
Two students display certificates while standing beside a staff member in a school gym, posed in front of red padding.
Two students hold certificates and stand with a staff member in a gymnasium, smiling against a red padded wall.
A student holds a certificate while standing next to a staff member in a school gym, posed in front of red wall mats.
Two students display certificates while standing with a staff member in a gymnasium, smiling in front of red padding.
A student holds a certificate next to a staff member in a school gym, both smiling in front of red safety mats.
Board Meeting - January 12, 2026
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Castleton Elementary School Cafeteria.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/epv-sidz-zry
Or dial: (US) +1 406-905-1177 PIN: 663 913 503#

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.
about 2 months ago, Slate Valley
Graphic announcing a Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting on January 12, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the Castleton Elementary School cafeteria. Agenda items include the consent agenda, Act 73 discussion, open board seats discussion, and committee finance reports. Includes district logo and “Please Join Us Tonight” text.
WANTED: Community members interested in serving as Slate Valley School Board Representatives!

Slate Valley Unified Union School District is seeking residents who want to make a meaningful impact on our schools and students. Open seats are available in West Haven (3 seats), Hubbardton (1 seat), and Orwell (1 seat). There are also seats in Benson, Fair Haven, and Castleton, where current members are running unopposed.

Serving on the school board is a great way to represent your community, support student success, and help shape the future of Slate Valley schools. Board members receive an annual stipend, and no prior experience is required—just a commitment to serve.

If you’re interested in running, please visit your town office to obtain a petition and learn more about the process and requirements.
about 2 months ago, Slate Valley
Alt text: A green graphic reading “Wanted: Slate Valley School Board Representatives,” showing three person icons with the Slate Valley logo and text noting open seats in West Haven, Hubbardton, and Orwell, and a $1,200 reward.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: January 9, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/878590be2697/january-9-2026-slate-valley-district-newsletter
about 2 months ago, Slate Valley
Graphic showing the Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter header with the text “Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter,” dated January 9, 2025, above a festive “Happy New Year 2026” design with gold lettering, hanging numbers, and subtle geometric patterns.

This Friday, we’re focusing on Slate Valley’s Community Advisory Council (CAC)—a group that brings community voices together to support and strengthen our schools. Made up of community members from across the district, CAC meets monthly with the superintendent and district staff to share perspectives, discuss school-related topics, and strengthen the connection between our schools and the communities they serve. Everyone is welcome to attend—join us at the next meeting on February 2, 2026, in the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Library. We will be joined by our local legislators to discuss updates on Act 73. Come be part of the conversation!

about 2 months ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Friday Focus: CAC – Community Advisory Council.” The design features photos of adults seated around tables in meeting settings, engaged in discussion and listening. Text on the graphic includes “All Are Welcome” and “One Meeting Each Month,” along with the Slate Valley Community Advisory Council logo.
📢 CSO Meeting Update 📢

Tonight’s CSO Meeting will now be held virtually.

🗓 Thursday, January 8
⏰ 6:00–7:00 PM
💻 Google Meet

🔗 Join by video: https://meet.google.com/wqx-feng-veh

📞 Join by phone: +1 262-891-0639
🔑 PIN: 135 936 951
📱 More phone options: https://tel.meet/wqx-feng-veh?pin=9962419609670

We hope you can join us online this evening!
about 2 months ago, Slate Valley
Graphic with a red background and a megaphone icon announcing, “Attention! Tonight’s CSO meeting is now virtual.” Text includes the date and time, “January 8, 6–7 PM,” and a note to join via a Google Meet link displayed at the bottom.
❄️🌲 COAP’s first outing was a huge success! 🌲❄️

The first outing of the Castleton Outdoor Adventure Program (COAP) was both fun and deeply rewarding.

To the casual observer, it may have looked like a handful of kids sliding down a snowy hillside, just laughing and having fun. But woven into every outdoor moment were powerful learning opportunities. Through teamwork, problem-solving, and perseverance, the students demonstrated meaningful social-emotional skills while navigating small challenges.

Snowy smiles, a few tumbles, and lots of growth—this is what learning looks like during COAP. We can’t wait for the next adventure! ❄️💙
about 2 months ago, Slate Valley
Two students stand side by side in a snowy clearing, wearing winter jackets and snow pants, smiling at the camera after a day of outdoor activity.
Two students sit in the snow facing each other, working together to fasten snowboard bindings, surrounded by a snow-covered field and trees.
One student stands on a snowboard while another student kneels in the snow, helping adjust the snowboard bindings during an outdoor winter activity.
A student wearing a green winter jacket lies back in the snow with a snowboard attached, smiling after a playful fall on a snowy hillside.
A student tumbles backward in the snow while sledding or snowboarding, with legs briefly in the air, capturing a lighthearted moment of winter play.
CES January Newsletter: https://aptg.co/K0HYv1
about 2 months ago, Slate Valley
CES Newsletter Banner for January showint both the Slate Valley Logo on the left side and the cougar pawprint logo on the right.
🏆 Throwback Thursday 🏆

A decade ago, the Fair Haven Union High School Scholars Bowl Team made school history by defeating Rutland High School to win the 2016 PEGTV Academic Showdown Championship—a match that was televised and watched by viewers across the region.

This victory marked the first—and only—time the FHUHS Scholars Bowl Team captured the championship title, earning well-deserved recognition for their knowledge, teamwork, and dedication.

We’re proud to celebrate this unforgettable moment and the students and advisor who made it happen.
about 2 months ago, Slate Valley
The team advisor with four members of the Fair Haven Union High School Scholars Bowl Team stand on a stage holding a large championship check after winning the 2016 PEGTV Academic Showdown.