✏️ Trivia Tuesday: Back-to-School Edition
As Slate Valley students begin a new school year with freshly sharpened pencils, did you know that Castleton once had its own pencil mill?
In the 1800s, slate pencils used by students for writing on slate tablets were manufactured right here in Castleton!
Question: At its peak, approximately how many slate pencils could the mill produce in a single day?
The slate pencil mill was established along Sucker Brook in 1843, and its pencils were eventually shipped around the world. Today, Pencil Mill Road, named for the mill, along with a historical marker at the intersection of Pencil Mill Road and North Road preserve this unique piece of Castleton—and school—history.
For more information, visit: https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=97291
Answer: 100,000 ✏️
As Slate Valley students begin a new school year with freshly sharpened pencils, did you know that Castleton once had its own pencil mill?
In the 1800s, slate pencils used by students for writing on slate tablets were manufactured right here in Castleton!
Question: At its peak, approximately how many slate pencils could the mill produce in a single day?
The slate pencil mill was established along Sucker Brook in 1843, and its pencils were eventually shipped around the world. Today, Pencil Mill Road, named for the mill, along with a historical marker at the intersection of Pencil Mill Road and North Road preserve this unique piece of Castleton—and school—history.
For more information, visit: https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=97291
Answer: 100,000 ✏️
🚌 Now Hiring School Bus Drivers! 🚌
Bet-Cha Transit is seeking school bus drivers to help safely transport students while making a difference in our local communities.
Pay: $29.50–$31.50 per hour
Benefits include:
✅ Paid training
✅ Family-friendly schedule
✅ Child ride-along program
✅ Extra earning opportunities through charters, field trips, athletic events and shuttles
If you are looking for rewarding, part-time work that supports local students and families, learn more and apply today:
🔗 https://ridesta.com/careers/
Bet-Cha Transit is seeking school bus drivers to help safely transport students while making a difference in our local communities.
Pay: $29.50–$31.50 per hour
Benefits include:
✅ Paid training
✅ Family-friendly schedule
✅ Child ride-along program
✅ Extra earning opportunities through charters, field trips, athletic events and shuttles
If you are looking for rewarding, part-time work that supports local students and families, learn more and apply today:
🔗 https://ridesta.com/careers/
📣 Join us in shaping the future of Slate Valley’s elementary schools!
As we begin our Elementary School Reorganization Study, input from families, staff, and community members will be essential. Please join us at an upcoming engagement session to share your perspective, ask questions, and help guide our district’s direction:
📍 Monday, September 21 | 6:30–8:00 PM
Benson Village School — In person only
📍 Tuesday, September 22 | 8:00–9:00 PM
Castleton Elementary School — In person only
💻 Thursday, October 1 | 6:30–7:30 PM
Virtual — Link provided closer to the date
We are also seeking community representatives—especially residents of Benson and Castleton—to serve on the Steering Committee. Members will help gather feedback and analyze options throughout the process.
Interested or have questions? Contact Superintendent Brooke Olsen-Farrell at bfarrell@svuvt.org.
Learn more and follow updates:
www.slatevalleyunified.org/page/elementary-reorganization
As we begin our Elementary School Reorganization Study, input from families, staff, and community members will be essential. Please join us at an upcoming engagement session to share your perspective, ask questions, and help guide our district’s direction:
📍 Monday, September 21 | 6:30–8:00 PM
Benson Village School — In person only
📍 Tuesday, September 22 | 8:00–9:00 PM
Castleton Elementary School — In person only
💻 Thursday, October 1 | 6:30–7:30 PM
Virtual — Link provided closer to the date
We are also seeking community representatives—especially residents of Benson and Castleton—to serve on the Steering Committee. Members will help gather feedback and analyze options throughout the process.
Interested or have questions? Contact Superintendent Brooke Olsen-Farrell at bfarrell@svuvt.org.
Learn more and follow updates:
www.slatevalleyunified.org/page/elementary-reorganization
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday: Mr. Tom DeMatties
Our first Meet Faculty & Staff Monday of the 2026-27 year takes us to Castleton Elementary School, where we are pleased to feature sixth-grade teacher Mr. Tom DeMatties!
Mr. DeMatties brings many years of experience—and a genuine enthusiasm for working with students—to his classroom. He taught for approximately 19 years at the former Castleton Village School before transitioning to Castleton Elementary School. Earlier in his career, he taught at Champlain Valley Christian School, where he also served as principal. His teaching journey began at Poultney Elementary School and also included five years at the former North Country Christian Academy in Williston.
Through all those years and experiences, one thing has remained constant: Mr. DeMatties truly enjoys teaching.
While the work can certainly leave him tired by the end of the day, each morning brings new energy. He especially enjoys heading outside to greet his sixth graders as they arrive at school, knowing that every day will bring something new.
Outside of the classroom, Mr. DeMatties is rarely sitting still! A fan of winter, he enjoys ice skating, shoveling snow, riding skip-jacks, and just about everything the season has to offer. He also enjoys building and working with his hands. Over the years, he has helped build several houses, a tiny house, and even an apartment for his daughter.
Thanksgiving is his favorite holiday because of its simplicity and the opportunity to appreciate family, faith, and life. Giving back is also important to him. Mr. DeMatties has participated in disaster relief work through Samaritan’s Purse—work that he describes as difficult and demanding, but also incredibly rewarding.
More recently, another family tradition has taken root. Mr. DeMatties and his extended family have been making maple syrup together in a newly built sugar house on his father’s property. Each March, the maple trees are waiting, while throughout the rest of the year, plenty of time is spent gathering firewood.
Whether he is teaching sixth graders, lending a hand to others, building something new, or spending time outdoors with his family, Mr. DeMatties lives by a simple philosophy:
“Be good and do good, give it a try.”
Thank you, Mr. DeMatties, for sharing a little more about yourself and for all you bring to the students and community at Castleton Elementary School!
Our first Meet Faculty & Staff Monday of the 2026-27 year takes us to Castleton Elementary School, where we are pleased to feature sixth-grade teacher Mr. Tom DeMatties!
Mr. DeMatties brings many years of experience—and a genuine enthusiasm for working with students—to his classroom. He taught for approximately 19 years at the former Castleton Village School before transitioning to Castleton Elementary School. Earlier in his career, he taught at Champlain Valley Christian School, where he also served as principal. His teaching journey began at Poultney Elementary School and also included five years at the former North Country Christian Academy in Williston.
Through all those years and experiences, one thing has remained constant: Mr. DeMatties truly enjoys teaching.
While the work can certainly leave him tired by the end of the day, each morning brings new energy. He especially enjoys heading outside to greet his sixth graders as they arrive at school, knowing that every day will bring something new.
Outside of the classroom, Mr. DeMatties is rarely sitting still! A fan of winter, he enjoys ice skating, shoveling snow, riding skip-jacks, and just about everything the season has to offer. He also enjoys building and working with his hands. Over the years, he has helped build several houses, a tiny house, and even an apartment for his daughter.
Thanksgiving is his favorite holiday because of its simplicity and the opportunity to appreciate family, faith, and life. Giving back is also important to him. Mr. DeMatties has participated in disaster relief work through Samaritan’s Purse—work that he describes as difficult and demanding, but also incredibly rewarding.
More recently, another family tradition has taken root. Mr. DeMatties and his extended family have been making maple syrup together in a newly built sugar house on his father’s property. Each March, the maple trees are waiting, while throughout the rest of the year, plenty of time is spent gathering firewood.
Whether he is teaching sixth graders, lending a hand to others, building something new, or spending time outdoors with his family, Mr. DeMatties lives by a simple philosophy:
“Be good and do good, give it a try.”
Thank you, Mr. DeMatties, for sharing a little more about yourself and for all you bring to the students and community at Castleton Elementary School!
Board Meeting - September 14, 2026 -
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Benson Village School Gymnasium.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/wgp-jpnj-fhh
Or dial: (US) +1 573-518-7206 PIN: 441 811 264#
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 Gymnasium.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/wgp-jpnj-fhh
Or dial: (US) +1 573-518-7206 PIN: 441 811 264#
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.
District Newsletter: September 11, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/79e04bb012a6/september-11-district-newsletter-13837281
https://mailchi.mp/79e04bb012a6/september-11-district-newsletter-13837281
🇺🇸 25 Years — We Remember
Today marks 25 years since September 11, 2001—a day that forever changed our nation.
We pause to remember the nearly 3,000 lives lost, honor the courage and sacrifice of the first responders and everyday heroes who stepped forward, and recognize the families and communities whose lives were forever changed.
For many of today’s students, September 11 is a part of history they did not experience firsthand. As a school community, we have an important role in helping future generations understand its significance and carry forward the lessons of courage, compassion, service, and unity.
Twenty-five years later, we remember. We honor. We will never forget. 🇺🇸
Today marks 25 years since September 11, 2001—a day that forever changed our nation.
We pause to remember the nearly 3,000 lives lost, honor the courage and sacrifice of the first responders and everyday heroes who stepped forward, and recognize the families and communities whose lives were forever changed.
For many of today’s students, September 11 is a part of history they did not experience firsthand. As a school community, we have an important role in helping future generations understand its significance and carry forward the lessons of courage, compassion, service, and unity.
Twenty-five years later, we remember. We honor. We will never forget. 🇺🇸
Dear Slate Valley Community,
We want to provide an update on our continued recovery following the recent cybersecurity incident that impacted the Slate Valley School District’s technology systems.
We are pleased to report that significant progress has been made, and internet service is beginning to be restored across the district. Staff email is also beginning to come back online, which is another important step in restoring our normal communication systems. Please be aware that email functionality may still be inconsistent as services continue to be restored.
While these are significant steps forward, our systems are not yet fully operational. Our technology team, with the support of cybersecurity professionals, is carefully and methodically bringing systems and services back online. Each system must be evaluated and restored in a manner that prioritizes the security and integrity of our network.
The cause and full scope of the cybersecurity incident remains under investigation. We are working closely with law enforcement and cybersecurity experts as that investigation continues. Because this is an active investigation, there may be details that we are unable to share at this time. We will provide additional information to our community when it is appropriate and when we have verified information to share.
At this time, some technology services remain unavailable or may not function as expected. Student access to Chromebooks has not yet been restored, and we continue to work through other network-connected systems and services.
Throughout this disruption, schools have remained open and learning has continued. Our staff have demonstrated tremendous flexibility and creativity, adapting instruction and operations while many of the technology tools we typically rely upon have been unavailable.
We recognize how important technology and communication are to our students, families, and staff. We greatly appreciate the patience and understanding of our entire Slate Valley community as we work through this recovery.
Our priority is not simply to restore systems quickly, but to restore them safely and securely. We will continue to provide updates as additional services are restored, as we reach significant milestones in the recovery process, and as we are able to share additional verified information regarding the investigation.
Thank you for your continued patience, understanding, and support of our schools.
We want to provide an update on our continued recovery following the recent cybersecurity incident that impacted the Slate Valley School District’s technology systems.
We are pleased to report that significant progress has been made, and internet service is beginning to be restored across the district. Staff email is also beginning to come back online, which is another important step in restoring our normal communication systems. Please be aware that email functionality may still be inconsistent as services continue to be restored.
While these are significant steps forward, our systems are not yet fully operational. Our technology team, with the support of cybersecurity professionals, is carefully and methodically bringing systems and services back online. Each system must be evaluated and restored in a manner that prioritizes the security and integrity of our network.
The cause and full scope of the cybersecurity incident remains under investigation. We are working closely with law enforcement and cybersecurity experts as that investigation continues. Because this is an active investigation, there may be details that we are unable to share at this time. We will provide additional information to our community when it is appropriate and when we have verified information to share.
At this time, some technology services remain unavailable or may not function as expected. Student access to Chromebooks has not yet been restored, and we continue to work through other network-connected systems and services.
Throughout this disruption, schools have remained open and learning has continued. Our staff have demonstrated tremendous flexibility and creativity, adapting instruction and operations while many of the technology tools we typically rely upon have been unavailable.
We recognize how important technology and communication are to our students, families, and staff. We greatly appreciate the patience and understanding of our entire Slate Valley community as we work through this recovery.
Our priority is not simply to restore systems quickly, but to restore them safely and securely. We will continue to provide updates as additional services are restored, as we reach significant milestones in the recovery process, and as we are able to share additional verified information regarding the investigation.
Thank you for your continued patience, understanding, and support of our schools.
FHGS will be conducting a fire drill this week and we will notify families when it is completed.
Good morning, Slate Valley,
On September 3, 2026, Slate Valley Unified USD experienced an outage on our network that affected our ability to access certain systems. Upon discovery, we immediately took steps to secure our network and began working with our IT staff and third-party computer specialists to investigate and respond to the outage.
As our investigation and response remains ongoing, we are working diligently to restore affected systems as quickly and securely as possible. We ask that you please continue to contact the schools through their phone numbers until further notice, refrain from sending emails. We do not expect this issue to result in any closures or missed classes.
We will provide you with updates once additional information is learned.
Sincerely,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
On September 3, 2026, Slate Valley Unified USD experienced an outage on our network that affected our ability to access certain systems. Upon discovery, we immediately took steps to secure our network and began working with our IT staff and third-party computer specialists to investigate and respond to the outage.
As our investigation and response remains ongoing, we are working diligently to restore affected systems as quickly and securely as possible. We ask that you please continue to contact the schools through their phone numbers until further notice, refrain from sending emails. We do not expect this issue to result in any closures or missed classes.
We will provide you with updates once additional information is learned.
Sincerely,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
District Newsletter: September 4, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/f279484e3664/district-newsletter-september-4-2026
https://mailchi.mp/f279484e3664/district-newsletter-september-4-2026
Dear Slate Valley Community,
We want to make you aware that the Slate Valley School District is currently experiencing a cybersecurity issue that is impacting our technology systems.
At this time, we anticipate that we will not have access to the internet, including district email, until further notice. This means that staff will not be able to send or receive email during this time.
Our school phone systems remain operational. If you need to contact your child’s school or a staff member, please call the school directly. School staff will assist you or ensure that your message gets to the appropriate person.
We are actively working with our technology and cybersecurity professionals to address the issue and restore services as safely and quickly as possible. We will provide additional updates to the community as information becomes available.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work through this situation.
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
Superintendent
We want to make you aware that the Slate Valley School District is currently experiencing a cybersecurity issue that is impacting our technology systems.
At this time, we anticipate that we will not have access to the internet, including district email, until further notice. This means that staff will not be able to send or receive email during this time.
Our school phone systems remain operational. If you need to contact your child’s school or a staff member, please call the school directly. School staff will assist you or ensure that your message gets to the appropriate person.
We are actively working with our technology and cybersecurity professionals to address the issue and restore services as safely and quickly as possible. We will provide additional updates to the community as information becomes available.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work through this situation.
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
Superintendent
🍎 Vendors Wanted for Applefest! 🍎
Applefest is coming up, and we’re looking for vendors to join the fun! Whether you sell handmade goods, crafts, local products, delicious treats, or operate a food truck, we’d love to have you be part of this favorite fall tradition.
Applefest 2026 will be held Saturday, September 19, from 10:00 AM–3:00 PM, with a rain date of Sunday, September 20.
🍏 General Vendors: $30 per spot
🍎 Food Vendors/Food Trucks: $35 per spot
Interested in becoming a vendor? Reserve your spot today-Call 802-265-3883!
Applefest is coming up, and we’re looking for vendors to join the fun! Whether you sell handmade goods, crafts, local products, delicious treats, or operate a food truck, we’d love to have you be part of this favorite fall tradition.
Applefest 2026 will be held Saturday, September 19, from 10:00 AM–3:00 PM, with a rain date of Sunday, September 20.
🍏 General Vendors: $30 per spot
🍎 Food Vendors/Food Trucks: $35 per spot
Interested in becoming a vendor? Reserve your spot today-Call 802-265-3883!
Building Our Classroom Community, One Square at a Time!
Mrs. McCrea’s first graders started the school year with a special project designed to celebrate what makes each student unique while bringing everyone together as a class!
Each student created their own illustrated square, which was then combined with their classmates’ artwork to create this wonderful classroom quilt. Just like the pieces of a quilt, every student brings something special to the classroom—and together, they make an amazing community.
What a creative way to begin a new year of learning, friendship, and growing together!
Mrs. McCrea’s first graders started the school year with a special project designed to celebrate what makes each student unique while bringing everyone together as a class!
Each student created their own illustrated square, which was then combined with their classmates’ artwork to create this wonderful classroom quilt. Just like the pieces of a quilt, every student brings something special to the classroom—and together, they make an amazing community.
What a creative way to begin a new year of learning, friendship, and growing together!
NOTICE:
Tonight’s CAC meeting is cancelled. We apologize for the short notice.
Thank you for your understanding.
Tonight’s CAC meeting is cancelled. We apologize for the short notice.
Thank you for your understanding.
🐐 GOAT of the Week!
Submitted by third grade teacher, Ms. Mead: Our third grade students are kicking off a new incentive called GOAT of the Week! Each week, two students will have the opportunity to earn this special recognition by consistently following our classroom expectations. These expectations include being respectful to classmates, following directions, and taking ownership of their work and actions.
Our GOATS of the Week will receive a certificate and a special trophy to proudly keep on their desk throughout the following week. We are so excited to celebrate students who demonstrate leadership, responsibility, and kindness each day!
Our first GOATS of the Week are Theo P. and Addi H.! 🎉 🐐 Congratulations Theo and Addi! We are so proud of you!
Submitted by third grade teacher, Ms. Mead: Our third grade students are kicking off a new incentive called GOAT of the Week! Each week, two students will have the opportunity to earn this special recognition by consistently following our classroom expectations. These expectations include being respectful to classmates, following directions, and taking ownership of their work and actions.
Our GOATS of the Week will receive a certificate and a special trophy to proudly keep on their desk throughout the following week. We are so excited to celebrate students who demonstrate leadership, responsibility, and kindness each day!
Our first GOATS of the Week are Theo P. and Addi H.! 🎉 🐐 Congratulations Theo and Addi! We are so proud of you!
Welcome Back Slate Valley District Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e12155be4a5d/slate-valley-district-newsletter-august-28-2026
As we begin a new school year, please remember: when a school bus has its red lights flashing, STOP. 🛑
Drivers must stop for the bus—do not go around it and do not pass it from the opposite direction. Students may be entering or crossing the roadway, and their safety depends on every driver paying attention and following the law.
Please be patient, stay alert, and give our students the time they need to safely get on and off the bus.
Flashing red lights mean STOP. Every time. 🚌❤️
Thank you for helping keep our Slate Valley students safe!
Drivers must stop for the bus—do not go around it and do not pass it from the opposite direction. Students may be entering or crossing the roadway, and their safety depends on every driver paying attention and following the law.
Please be patient, stay alert, and give our students the time they need to safely get on and off the bus.
Flashing red lights mean STOP. Every time. 🚌❤️
Thank you for helping keep our Slate Valley students safe!
📣 Have a question, concern, or idea for Slate Valley? Join the conversation!
Our next Slate Valley Community Advisory Council (CAC) Meeting will be held:
📅 Tuesday, September 1, 2026
⏰ 5:45–7:00 PM
The CAC is a space created specifically for conversation between our community and district administration. Community members are encouraged to bring questions, share concerns, offer ideas, and discuss topics that are important to them.
While public comment at School Board meetings follows Robert’s Rules of Order and includes established limits on time and discussion, CAC meetings provide an opportunity for more open dialogue with district leadership.
Have something on your mind? Bring it to the CAC. We encourage parents, families, staff, and community members to take advantage of this opportunity to ask questions, share perspectives, and be part of the conversation.
💬 Your voice matters. We hope you’ll join us!
Our next Slate Valley Community Advisory Council (CAC) Meeting will be held:
📅 Tuesday, September 1, 2026
⏰ 5:45–7:00 PM
The CAC is a space created specifically for conversation between our community and district administration. Community members are encouraged to bring questions, share concerns, offer ideas, and discuss topics that are important to them.
While public comment at School Board meetings follows Robert’s Rules of Order and includes established limits on time and discussion, CAC meetings provide an opportunity for more open dialogue with district leadership.
Have something on your mind? Bring it to the CAC. We encourage parents, families, staff, and community members to take advantage of this opportunity to ask questions, share perspectives, and be part of the conversation.
💬 Your voice matters. We hope you’ll join us!
District Title I Meeting
Families of Slate Valley Unified USD students are invited to join us for a Title I Meeting to learn more about the Title I program and how it supports student learning in Slate Valley.
📅 Tuesday, September 1, 2026
⏰ 5:15 PM - Before our Monthly CAC Meeting
📍 Slate Valley Central Office Conference Room located at FHUMHS
Mr. Casey O’Meara, Slate Valley’s Director of Curriculum and Instruction, will share information about Title I services and answer questions from families.
We hope you’ll join us to learn more about the resources and support available to our students through Title I!
Families of Slate Valley Unified USD students are invited to join us for a Title I Meeting to learn more about the Title I program and how it supports student learning in Slate Valley.
📅 Tuesday, September 1, 2026
⏰ 5:15 PM - Before our Monthly CAC Meeting
📍 Slate Valley Central Office Conference Room located at FHUMHS
Mr. Casey O’Meara, Slate Valley’s Director of Curriculum and Instruction, will share information about Title I services and answer questions from families.
We hope you’ll join us to learn more about the resources and support available to our students through Title I!
