Slate Valley District Newsletter: May 15, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/d52b3bb6eed0/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-15-2026
18 days ago, Slate Valley
Banner graphic for the Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter dated May 15, 2026. The top of the graphic features the title “Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter” in large dark teal lettering with the date centered below. The lower portion includes the Slate Valley logo surrounded by hexagon-shaped school icons representing schools across the district. Decorative spring flowers and green leaves frame the sides, with the slogan “Our Schools, Your Future” in the bottom right corner.
📚🚀 Join us for a special evening celebrating our young authors and illustrators!

The Fair Haven Grade School first graders are excited to share their published books during the “Book Launch @ The Library” event on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the Fair Haven Free Library.

Families and community members are invited to meet the student authors from 5:00–5:45 p.m., followed by refreshments from 5:45–6:00 p.m. The evening will also feature a special guest appearance by local author Andrew Herold.

Come celebrate creativity, storytelling, and the amazing accomplishments of our FHGS firsties!
19 days ago, Slate Valley
Flyer for a “Book Launch @ The Library” event featuring FHGS first graders. The flyer has a bookshelf banner across the top, teal and white design elements, and a rocket launching from an open book illustration. Text includes: Tuesday, May 19, 2026; special guest appearance by local author Andrew Herold; meet the authors from 5:00–5:45 p.m.; refreshments from 5:45–6:00 p.m.; location is the Fair Haven Free Library; and the event celebrates “First Time” authors and illustrators.
🇺🇸 Fair Haven Grade School Memorial Day Program 🇺🇸

Fair Haven Grade School families and community members are warmly invited to attend our Memorial Day Program on Thursday, May 21st at 9:30 AM in the FHGS gymnasium.

Our students in grades K–6 will honor the men and women who have served our country through music, poetry, and readings that celebrate remembrance, gratitude, and patriotism.

We hope you will join us as we come together as a school community to remember and honor those who made sacrifices for our freedom. ❤️🤍💙
23 days ago, Slate Valley
Blue Memorial Day flyer for Fair Haven Grade Schools featuring waving American flags and red, white, and blue confetti graphics. The flyer announces a Memorial Day Program on Thursday, May 21st at 9:30 AM in the Fair Haven Grade School gymnasium. It explains that students in grades K–6 will honor service members through music, poetry, and readings celebrating remembrance, gratitude, and patriotism.
What an incredible evening at last week’s FHGS Spring Concert! 🎶🌸

Our students wowed the audience with their musical talents, from beautiful choral performances to fun instrumental selections that showcased all of their hard work and dedication throughout the year. It was wonderful to see the gym filled with proud families, friends, and community members celebrating our young musicians.

A very special thank you goes to Mrs. Hutchins for the countless hours of preparation, encouragement, and passion she pours into our music program. Her dedication helped make this another spectacular performance for our students and school community. 💙

We would also like to thank everyone who helped make the evening such a success — including staff, families, volunteers, and supporters who continue to encourage the arts at FHGS. Bravo to all involved! 👏🎵
23 days ago, Slate Valley
A group of FHGS students stand on risers in the gym singing together during the spring concert performance.
Elementary students stand on stage in the gym playing colorful ocarinas during the FHGS spring concert while families watch from the audience.
FHGS students sing together on risers during the spring concert while audience members watch from the gymnasium seating area.
Mrs. Hutchins stands beside a student at a microphone during an awards or recognition portion of the FHGS spring concert while students sit nearby on the bleachers.
A choir of FHGS students stands on risers in the gym preparing to sing during the spring concert performance.
A student stands beside Mrs. Hutchins at a microphone while receiving recognition during the FHGS spring concert.
Our students recently had the wonderful opportunity to learn from special guest Miss Lucy Neel, who visited to share Abenaki stories, traditions, and culture. 💙

Miss Lucy brought history to life through storytelling, singing, dancing, drumming, instruments, crafts, and hands-on activities that fully engaged students throughout the visit. Students were able to learn not only about Abenaki heritage, but also about the importance of preserving traditions and sharing stories across generations.

Lucy Neel serves as the Nulhegan Education Coordinator for the Nulhegan Band of the Abenaki Tribe and is also a board member of Abenaki Helping Abenaki, Inc. Her passion and extensive knowledge created an unforgettable learning experience for our students.

Thank you, Miss Lucy, for sharing your culture, talents, and stories with our school community! 🌿🪶🥁
23 days ago, Slate Valley
Miss Lucy Neel sits behind a large traditional drum in the gym while demonstrating drumming techniques and sharing Abenaki traditions with students.
Students sit around a large traditional drum with Miss Lucy Neel in the school gym as they learn about drumming and Abenaki culture.
Miss Lucy Neel demonstrates traditional Abenaki storytelling and movement activities in the school gym while students and staff watch and participate.
Students sit on the gym floor examining traditional cultural items, including a fur and handcrafted tools, during an Abenaki culture presentation.
Miss Lucy Neel stands in the gym speaking to students about Abenaki history and traditions while cultural items are displayed behind her.
On May 7, three Fair Haven Grade School mentor teachers had the honor of pinning their student teachers during the Student Teaching Pinning Ceremony at Vermont State University. 💙🍎

Ms. Manning's, Mrs. McCrea's, and Ms. Robert’s student teachers each chose to have their mentor teacher place their pin — a meaningful moment that reflects the strong relationships, guidance, and support built throughout their student teaching experience.

The following day marked their final time at FHGS, and while we were sad to see them go, we are so proud of all they have accomplished during their time in our classrooms. Thank you for the care, energy, and dedication you brought to our students each day. We wish you all the best as you begin your teaching careers! ✨
23 days ago, Slate Valley
Three mentor teachers and three student teachers stand together smiling during the student teaching pinning ceremony at Vermont State University. The student teachers hold flowers and gift bags.
A mentor teacher pins a student teacher during the pinning ceremony while the student teacher stands in a light blue floral dress holding papers.
A mentor teacher hugs a student teacher during the pinning ceremony while another woman stands nearby clapping.
A mentor teacher pins a student teacher wearing a long floral dress during the ceremony as audience members watch.
A mentor teacher pins a student teacher wearing a yellow floral dress during the Vermont State University student teaching pinning ceremony.
Color, confidence, and lots of smiles! 🌈🏃‍♀️💗

Last week, the Fair Haven Grade School Girls on the Run group celebrated being halfway through their season with an exciting practice 5K Color Run at the FHUMHS campus. Participants were cheered on and showered with colorful powder as they ran, laughed, and encouraged one another every step of the way.

The team is now looking ahead to the official Girls on the Run 5K Color Run on June 6 in Manchester, Vermont!

A huge thank you goes out to all of the coaches, parents, and volunteers who helped make this practice run such a fun and memorable success for our girls. We are so proud of their hard work, positivity, and teamwork this season!
23 days ago, Slate Valley
A large group of Girls on the Run participants and volunteers stand together outdoors on a sunny day with their arms raised while wearing white Color Run shirts and colorful accessories.
A Girls on the Run participant runs through a cloud of blue powder while adult volunteers toss color during the practice Color Run.
A Girls on the Run participant and an adult volunteer pose together smiling near a fence while wearing white Color Run shirts and colorful beads.
Two Girls on the Run participants run through pink and blue powder clouds while volunteers cheer and toss color during the event.
An adult volunteer and a Girls on the Run participant smile together outdoors while wearing matching white Color Run shirts and sunglasses.
An adult volunteer runs through purple powder during the practice Color Run while smiling and wearing a white Color Run shirt and visor.
Four Girls on the Run participants stand together outdoors smiling in white Color Run shirts and decorated visors during the practice 5K event.
A Girls on the Run participant runs joyfully through blue and purple powder clouds while volunteers toss color from both sides.
Two young Girls on the Run participants stand side by side outdoors with their arms around each other wearing white Color Run shirts, beads, and sunglasses.
An adult volunteer and a Girls on the Run participant smile together while covered in colorful powder after completing the practice Color Run.
Learning + laughter = a great time at Fair Haven Grade School! 🎲➕📚

Last week, FHGS kindergartners became the teachers as they showed their grown ups how to play fun and interactive math games. Families practiced addition, subtraction, making equivalent numbers, and reading numbers through hands-on activities and teamwork.

It was wonderful to see students building confidence while sharing their learning with family members in such a meaningful and engaging way. Great job, kindergarteners! 💙💛
23 days ago, Slate Valley
Families and children gather around a table in the library playing interactive math games with cards and wooden game boards during a kindergarten family math night.
A kindergarten student stands beside two adults at a table in the school library while demonstrating a math game using colorful counting cubes, dice, and worksheets.
Students and adults sit together at tables in the library playing educational math games with cards and activity boards during a family learning event.
Three young students sit around a table in the library working on number activities with pencils, dice, and paper while one smiling student holds up a game piece.
Slate Valley Faculty & Staff - We Appreciate You!
26 days ago, Slate Valley
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Slate Valley Faculty & Staff - Thank you for all you do!
26 days ago, Slate Valley
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Slate Valley Faculty & Staff - We Appreciate all you do!
26 days ago, Slate Valley
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Collage-style graphic with a light blue background featuring photos of several faculty and staff members in circular frames. Decorative elements include colored pencils, tulips, and paper clips. Text reads “Thank you” and a note says, “From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of our schools.”
Friday Focus - Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week

As we wrap up Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week, we want to take a moment to say thank you to the incredible faculty and staff of Slate Valley.

From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—your dedication, compassion, and hard work are truly the heartbeat of our schools. ❤️

This week may be coming to a close, but our appreciation for all that you do continues every single day. Thank you for showing up, lifting others up, and making a difference in the lives of our students and community.
26 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic with teal and white background reading “Focus Friday” and “Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week.” In the center is a circular badge with the Slate Valley logo and the message “Thank you for being the heartbeat of Slate Valley,” surrounded by small heart icons. The words “Thank you” appear in script in the lower corner.
☕🥐 The Central Office coffee and pastry cart wrapped up its Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week tour today with visits to both Castleton Elementary School and Fair Haven Grade School!

From coffee and fresh pastries to laughter and conversation in the hallways, it was a small way to thank the incredible faculty and staff members who make a difference in the lives of students every single day. 💙

Thank you to all of our educators, support staff, and school teams across Slate Valley for your dedication, compassion, and commitment to our students and communities. We appreciate you! 🍎✨
26 days ago, Slate Valley
Several staff members smile and talk around a pastry and coffee cart set up in a school library filled with bookshelves.
A staff member stands beside a tray of cinnamon rolls and pastries while preparing a plate in a school hallway during Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week.
Faculty and staff gather around a breakfast cart filled with pastries, fruit, and coffee in a school hallway while chatting and enjoying refreshments together.
Three staff members stand in a school hallway chatting and smiling near a coffee and pastry cart filled with fruit, pastries, and coffee containers during Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week.
A man pours coffee from a large coffee dispenser while another staff member smiles nearby in a school office area during a faculty appreciation event.
Staff members gather around a pastry cart in a school hallway selecting fruit and breakfast treats. A bulletin board behind them reads “Spring Into Healthy Habits.”
✨🎉 Throwback Thursday: Prom Through the Years 🎉✨

From classic black-and-white elegance to bold colors and modern styles, take a trip through time with 50 years of FHU proms (1965–2015)! 💃🕺

What changes do you notice? The fashion? The hairstyles? And what’s stayed the same—crowns, corsages, and unforgettable memories? 👑🌹

👀 Take a closer look… do you recognize anyone? Feel free to tag them in the comments!
27 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Throwback Thursday” with Slate Valley branding and the phrase “Prom Night.” The image is a collage of Fair Haven Union High School prom photos from 1965 to 2015. Photos include black-and-white and color images of students dressed in formal attire, posing as couples or groups, and prom court members wearing crowns and sashes. The bottom text reads “1965–2015: 50 Years of Proms,” with decorative elements like a crown and corsage.
Where Are They Now Wednesday: May Alumni Feature - Hannah (Korda) Ainsworth, FHUHS Class of 2009

From the halls of Fair Haven Union High School to making a meaningful impact in her community, this month’s alumni spotlight features Hannah Korda Ainsworth, a proud member of the Class of 2009.

During her time at FHUHS, Hannah was deeply involved in both academics and extracurricular activities. She played soccer, participated in indoor and outdoor track and field, and competed in softball. In addition, she was active in the rock climbing club, National Honor Society, DUO, and yearbook. Known for her enthusiasm and school pride, Hannah was a dedicated Slaterbration participant and was honored with the “Most School Spirit” award in 2009.

After graduating, Hannah attended Lyndon State College, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Human Services while also obtaining her Level 2 firefighting certification. She went on to serve her community as a member of the Lyndonville Fire Department from 2009 to 2023. After many years of dedicated service, Hannah made the decision to step away in order to focus more on her family and pursue a career path with greater flexibility.

Today, Hannah works as a Therapeutic Case Manager at Northeast Kingdom Human Services, where she continues to support and advocate for others in meaningful ways. Outside of her professional role, she has spent the past five years coaching her sons’ soccer and basketball teams, sharing her passion for teamwork, perseverance, and growth.

Hannah credits several educators who had a lasting impact on her journey, including Mrs. Dubois, Mr. Ketchum, Mr. Bruce, and Mr. Cavacas—teachers who helped guide and inspire her along the way.

At home, Hannah and her husband are busy raising their two boys, embracing the joys and challenges of family life.
Her advice to today’s students is both heartfelt and insightful:
“You meet people for a reason—either they will change your life, or you will change theirs. And remember, you never truly know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory. You’ll blink and these hallways will be behind you, so make the most of it.”

She also shares two simple but powerful reminders:
“You can do hard things” and “Be the kind you want to see in the world.”

Hannah’s journey is a wonderful example of what it means to stay connected to your roots while growing into new roles and responsibilities. Through her service, her career, and her dedication to her family and community, she continues to embody the spirit of a Slater—showing that success is not only measured by accomplishments, but by the positive impact you have on others along the way.
28 days ago, Slate Valley
A teal and white “Where Are They Now Wednesday” graphic from Slate Valley features a portrait of Hannah (Korda) Ainsworth, a Fair Haven Union High School (FHUHS) Class of 2009 alum. She is smiling, wearing glasses and a blue jacket with a lanyard. The graphic includes text highlighting her accomplishments: a bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Lyndon State College; service with the Lyndonville Fire Department from 2009–2023; current role as a Therapeutic Case Manager at Northeast Kingdom Human Services; being married with two sons; and coaching youth soccer and basketball for five years. It also lists her high school activities—soccer, track and field, softball, rock climbing club, National Honor Society, DUO, and yearbook—and notes she received the “Most School Spirit” award in 2009. A small inset shows a black-and-white yearbook-style photo and award mention. The Slate Valley logo appears in the top right.
Mrs. Mingo's first graders had an unforgettable experience yesterday! 💙🏀

They took a trip over to FHU to cheer on the Unified Basketball team—and they were beyond excited from the moment they walked into the gym! 📣

The highlight of the day? Spotting some of their reading buddies! Our students lit up as they saw their mentors not only assisting out on the court, but also cheering in the stands. 💙

From loud cheers to proud smiles, our first graders showed what it truly means to be part of the Slater community—supporting one another and celebrating together across all grade levels.
28 days ago, Slate Valley
A group of younger students and adults sit together in the bleachers, smiling and interacting, with several children wearing bead necklaces.
A player runs onto the court through a banner held open by others, raising their arms as teammates and staff stand nearby.
Three young elementary school students sit together in the bleachers smiling and holding blue and white bead necklaces as they watch the game.
A wider view of the team huddle shows players listening to their coach near the sideline, with a referee and a large crowd of spectators seated in the bleachers behind them.
A young student wearing blue and white beads smiles at the camera while standing beside an older student in a blue and black jacket inside a school gym. The basketball court and spectators are visible in the background.
A wide shot of the bleachers shows a mix of students, staff, and younger children seated closely together, watching the game and enjoying the event.
A high school student with long blonde hair smiles while holding a young child wearing beads. They pose together in a gymnasium with basketball players and spectators in the background.
A group of students and young children sit along the bleachers during a game. A young boy wearing blue and white beads looks toward the camera while older students in basketball jerseys sit nearby, focused on the game.
Two players run down the court during a game, one dribbling a basketball while others move into position. The gym is full of spectators watching from the bleachers.
Students and young children sit closely together on gym bleachers during a basketball game. Several players in white jerseys sit in front while younger students wearing beads watch from the seats behind them.
🎉 Trivia Tuesday: Did You Know? 🇲🇽

Cinco de Mayo is often mistaken for Mexico’s Independence Day—but it actually commemorates the Battle of Puebla (May 5, 1862), when a smaller Mexican army defeated a much larger French force.

Today, it’s also a time to celebrate Mexican culture, heritage, and resilience.
29 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Trivia Tuesday: Did You Know?” with Slate Valley branding. Text explains that Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s Independence Day, but instead commemorates the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, when a smaller Mexican army defeated a larger French force. The graphic includes colorful elements such as a guitar illustration, festive “Cinco de Mayo” text, and a photo of a sombrero and calendar showing May 5 on a bright patterned textile background.
📣 Reminder: Slate Valley Community Advisory Council Meeting Tomorrow!

Join us tomorrow evening for the next Slate Valley Community Advisory Council (CAC) meeting! This is a great opportunity to stay informed, share your voice, and be part of meaningful conversations that help shape our schools and community.

🗓 Tuesday, May 5, 2026
⏰ 5:45 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Central Office Conference Room
Fair Haven Union Middle & High School

We welcome all community members—your perspective matters! We hope to see you there. 💬💙
29 days ago, Slate Valley
A circular logo reads “Slate Valley Community Advisory Council” surrounding a central Vermont-themed emblem with stylized mountains and landscape. Around the emblem are abstract human figures in green and blue, representing community members. Below the logo, text reads: “Next Meeting: May 5, 2026 – 5:45 PM to 7:00 PM, Central Office Conference Room at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School.”
🏁 Fair Haven Grade School Pinewood Derby Fun! 🏁

On Thursday, April 30th, our 6th graders put their creativity, engineering skills, and racing spirit to the test at the annual Pinewood Derby! From sleek speedsters to colorful, creative designs, each car was uniquely crafted and ready to race down the track.

The gym was filled with excitement as classmates cheered each other on, and celebrated victories. A big congratulations to all of our racers and award winners—you made it an unforgettable event!

👏 Thank you to everyone who helped organize and support this special day!
30 days ago, Slate Valley
A row of handmade pinewood derby cars sits on a black-and-white checkered track in a school gym, including colorful designs like a red race car and a pink “Barbie” themed car.
Three students sit on folding chairs in a gym, reacting excitedly to a race. One student leans forward with arms raised in celebration while others watch.
Three students sit in a row of folding chairs in a gym. One student reacts with surprise, hands on their face, while the others look on and smile.
Several students sit along the side of a pinewood derby track in a gym as small cars race down the yellow track in front of them.
A student and a staff member smile while holding a small gold trophy together in a gymnasium, with other students seated on bleachers behind them.
A student in a red sweatshirt holds a small gold trophy while standing next to a smiling staff member in a gym.
A student wearing a red hoodie and glasses holds a gold trophy while standing next to a staff member, both smiling in a gym.
A student holding a trophy stands next to a staff member in a gym, both smiling for the camera with pinewood derby tables in the background.
A student holding a trophy stands next to a staff member in a gym, both smiling for the camera with pinewood derby tables in the background.
Five students stand together in a gym holding their pinewood derby cars and small trophies, smiling proudly after the race.
🍎✨ Happy Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week! ✨🍎

This week, we celebrate the incredible educators and staff who make Slate Valley such a special place to learn and grow. From classrooms to cafeterias, offices to buses—your dedication, compassion, and hard work shape the lives of our students every single day.

Thank you for the countless ways you support, inspire, and uplift our entire community. 💚

Join us in showing appreciation—leave a comment, send a note, or simply say thank you to the amazing people who make a difference every day!
30 days ago, Slate Valley
Colorful graphic celebrating Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week with confetti, school supplies, and bright borders. Text reads “In Celebration of Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week – Thank You!” with the Slate Valley Vermont logo in the center. A message expresses gratitude for faculty and staff for their dedication and impact on students and the community. School names listed include Benson Village School, Castleton Elementary School, Orwell Village School, Fair Haven Grade School, and Fair Haven Union Middle & High School, with corresponding school logos along the bottom.