✨🎉 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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎉 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.
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.
📣 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. 💬💙
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. 💬💙
🏁 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!
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!
🍎✨ 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!
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!
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday - May Spotlight
This month, we’re excited to feature Dan Fitzpatrick, Slate Valley’s Assistant Director of Finance—someone whose experience and perspective reach far beyond our region.
Dan has been part of the Slate Valley team for the past five years, supporting the district’s financial operations and helping ensure our schools run smoothly behind the scenes. Prior to joining Slate Valley, Dan spent six years working at the International School of Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso, West Africa—bringing a truly global perspective to his role.
His connection to West Africa goes even deeper. From 1997 to 1999, Dan served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Burkina Faso, an experience that reflects his commitment to service and community.
Outside of work, Dan enjoys spending time on the golf course, working on landscaping projects, and being active in his church’s Men’s Club. He also values simple, meaningful moments—like playing UNO with his 11-year-old daughter, praying, and connecting with others.
A quote that guides Dan’s outlook comes from the Gospel of Mark: “Everything is possible for one who believes.” (Mark 9:23)
We’re grateful for Dan’s dedication, global experiences, and the steady support he brings to Slate Valley each day.
This month, we’re excited to feature Dan Fitzpatrick, Slate Valley’s Assistant Director of Finance—someone whose experience and perspective reach far beyond our region.
Dan has been part of the Slate Valley team for the past five years, supporting the district’s financial operations and helping ensure our schools run smoothly behind the scenes. Prior to joining Slate Valley, Dan spent six years working at the International School of Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso, West Africa—bringing a truly global perspective to his role.
His connection to West Africa goes even deeper. From 1997 to 1999, Dan served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Burkina Faso, an experience that reflects his commitment to service and community.
Outside of work, Dan enjoys spending time on the golf course, working on landscaping projects, and being active in his church’s Men’s Club. He also values simple, meaningful moments—like playing UNO with his 11-year-old daughter, praying, and connecting with others.
A quote that guides Dan’s outlook comes from the Gospel of Mark: “Everything is possible for one who believes.” (Mark 9:23)
We’re grateful for Dan’s dedication, global experiences, and the steady support he brings to Slate Valley each day.
Board Meeting - Tonight - May 4, 2026
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Castleton Elementary School Cafeteria.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/xcd-vvjm-pvi
Or dial: (US) +1 402-796-1093 PIN: 677 846 861#
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 Castleton Elementary School Cafeteria.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/xcd-vvjm-pvi
Or dial: (US) +1 402-796-1093 PIN: 677 846 861#
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: May 1, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/22d792fab09c/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-1-2026
https://mailchi.mp/22d792fab09c/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-1-2026
🏃♀️💗 Lace up and show your support!
The Fair Haven Grade School Girls on the Run team is gearing up for their big race—and you’re invited to cheer them on!
Join us Monday, May 4th at 4:00 PM at the FHU Track as the girls take on their practice 5K in preparation for the official event on Saturday, June 6th in Manchester, VT.
👏 Come celebrate their hard work, determination, and teamwork!
🧁 Plus, they’ll be hosting a bake sale fundraiser—so bring your appetite and support a great cause!
Let’s show these runners how proud we are!
The Fair Haven Grade School Girls on the Run team is gearing up for their big race—and you’re invited to cheer them on!
Join us Monday, May 4th at 4:00 PM at the FHU Track as the girls take on their practice 5K in preparation for the official event on Saturday, June 6th in Manchester, VT.
👏 Come celebrate their hard work, determination, and teamwork!
🧁 Plus, they’ll be hosting a bake sale fundraiser—so bring your appetite and support a great cause!
Let’s show these runners how proud we are!
Submitted by 4th Grade Teacher Ms. Wagner: On Thursday, the fourth graders had a special visit from the Fair Haven Historical Society. They presented about the American Revolutionary War, and students rotated through different stations where they learned how to grind seeds and grain for food and how to wrap a bandage. Students had hands-on experiences, including trying on costumes, playing instruments, and handling artifacts. It was a fun day of engaging, hands-on learning!
Here are more students celebrated today during our Falcon Gathering!! Keep up the great work demonstrating our SOAR values!!
FHGS celebrated students today in our April Falcon Gathering!! Check out these amazing students who have excelled during the month of April in their demonstration of our core values - Safety, Ownership, Acceptance, and Respect. Keep SOARing FHGS students!!
🎨✨ Join Us for Preschool Family Night! ✨🎨
Get ready for an evening full of creativity, exploration, and hands-on fun at our Art and Sensory Play Night!
🖌️ Come play, explore, and get messy with us as we dive into exciting sensory activities designed for our youngest learners and their families.
📅 Monday, May 11th
⏰ 4:00–5:00 PM
👨👩👧👦 Siblings are welcome!
We can’t wait to see you there for a fun-filled evening of learning and play!
Get ready for an evening full of creativity, exploration, and hands-on fun at our Art and Sensory Play Night!
🖌️ Come play, explore, and get messy with us as we dive into exciting sensory activities designed for our youngest learners and their families.
📅 Monday, May 11th
⏰ 4:00–5:00 PM
👨👩👧👦 Siblings are welcome!
We can’t wait to see you there for a fun-filled evening of learning and play!
🚨 Boil Water Advisory – Fair Haven 🚨
A boil water advisory has been issued for parts of Fair Haven, including Fair Haven Grade School and Fair Haven Union Middle & High School.
🏫 There will be school tomorrow as scheduled.
💧 Students are encouraged to bring their own drinking water from home if possible.
We will continue to keep our community updated as more information becomes available. Thank you for your cooperation and support.
A boil water advisory has been issued for parts of Fair Haven, including Fair Haven Grade School and Fair Haven Union Middle & High School.
🏫 There will be school tomorrow as scheduled.
💧 Students are encouraged to bring their own drinking water from home if possible.
We will continue to keep our community updated as more information becomes available. Thank you for your cooperation and support.
💙 Thank You, Lion’s Club! 💙
We are incredibly grateful to the Lion’s Club for their generous donation to the Slate Valley Unified School District.
This support helps ensure our students have what they need, when they need it most. Funds are often used to provide winter essentials like coats, snowpants, and boots. They also help students attend camp with confidence—providing items such as bathing suits, new outfits, and shoes.
Your kindness makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and families. Thank you for helping us take care of our community! 🦁
We are incredibly grateful to the Lion’s Club for their generous donation to the Slate Valley Unified School District.
This support helps ensure our students have what they need, when they need it most. Funds are often used to provide winter essentials like coats, snowpants, and boots. They also help students attend camp with confidence—providing items such as bathing suits, new outfits, and shoes.
Your kindness makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and families. Thank you for helping us take care of our community! 🦁
🌎💚 Happy Earth Day from Slate Valley! 💚🌎
Before heading into Spring Break, FHGS second graders in Ms. Bruno’s class took time to learn about caring for our planet by creating their own Earth Day crafts. We’re always proud to celebrate the ways our learners are thinking about protecting and appreciating the world around them.
Wishing our entire Slate Valley community a joyful and meaningful Earth Day! 🌍💙
Before heading into Spring Break, FHGS second graders in Ms. Bruno’s class took time to learn about caring for our planet by creating their own Earth Day crafts. We’re always proud to celebrate the ways our learners are thinking about protecting and appreciating the world around them.
Wishing our entire Slate Valley community a joyful and meaningful Earth Day! 🌍💙
🍎☀️ Free Summer Meals for Kids & Teens!
Slate Valley is proud to offer the 2026 Summer Food Service Program at the Fair Haven Grade School Cafeteria!
All children and teens 18 and under can enjoy free breakfast and lunch this summer—no registration required.
📅 Dates: June 29 – August 14
⏰ Times:
• Breakfast: 8:30–9:30 AM
• Lunch: 11:30 AM–12:30 PM
Please note: Meals must be eaten on-site in the cafeteria.
Help us spread the word so every child has access to healthy, nutritious meals all summer long!
🔎 Find more locations at: https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sitefinder
Slate Valley is proud to offer the 2026 Summer Food Service Program at the Fair Haven Grade School Cafeteria!
All children and teens 18 and under can enjoy free breakfast and lunch this summer—no registration required.
📅 Dates: June 29 – August 14
⏰ Times:
• Breakfast: 8:30–9:30 AM
• Lunch: 11:30 AM–12:30 PM
Please note: Meals must be eaten on-site in the cafeteria.
Help us spread the word so every child has access to healthy, nutritious meals all summer long!
🔎 Find more locations at: https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sitefinder
🍦✨ Celebrations, baking, and fun with our 5th and 6th grade students! ✨🍪
Students enjoyed a well-earned ice cream sundae party as a reward for consistently following classroom expectations—way to go! 🎉
The fun didn’t stop there… students also got hands-on in the kitchen creating delicious robin’s nest treats and positive affirmation sugar cookies. 🍫🐦💛 A perfect mix of creativity, teamwork, and sweet success!
Submitted by Courtney St.Clair - Social Emotional Interventionist
Students enjoyed a well-earned ice cream sundae party as a reward for consistently following classroom expectations—way to go! 🎉
The fun didn’t stop there… students also got hands-on in the kitchen creating delicious robin’s nest treats and positive affirmation sugar cookies. 🍫🐦💛 A perfect mix of creativity, teamwork, and sweet success!
Submitted by Courtney St.Clair - Social Emotional Interventionist
