Special Board Meeting - June 8, 2026 -
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Orwell Village School Gymnasium.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/vsx-qjxt-kye
Or dial: (US) +1 234-719-4117 PIN: 856 473 497#


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.
10 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic promoting a Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting. The design features the text “Please Join Us Tonight” surrounding a circle of stylized green figures representing community members. Large text reads “Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting.” Inside the center circle, the agenda includes: Consent Agenda, End-of-Year Goal Sharing (Elementary), Legislative Update, Committee Reports, and Finance. The Vermont-themed Slate Valley logo appears on the right side. At the bottom, the graphic lists the meeting details: June 8, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the Orwell Village School Gymnasium. The graphic uses teal, green, and light gray colors on a white background.
PLEASE check out the latest Slate Valley District Newsletter! https://mailchi.mp/0936e2d3fb42/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-15-13836831

Each week, we share student achievements, classroom highlights, upcoming events, staff and alumni spotlights, and important district news from across Slate Valley. It's also where Superintendent Brooke Olsen-Farrell regularly shares updates on educational initiatives and state-level developments that may impact our schools.

We encourage families and community members to take a few minutes to open the newsletter and scroll through. You might discover a student success story, learn about an upcoming event, or gain insight into the work happening throughout our district.

Thank you for helping us celebrate, support, and stay connected to the Slate Valley community!
12 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic promoting the Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter dated June 5, 2026. The header reads "Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter" with the date displayed below. The center of the graphic features the Slate Valley Vermont logo over a scenic lake and tree-lined background. Surrounding the logo are school emblems representing Fair Haven Grade School (FHGS), Benson Village School (BVS), Fair Haven Union Middle School, Fair Haven Union High School, Orwell Village School (OVS), and Castleton Elementary School (CES). The graphic uses the district's green, blue, gold, red, and gray school colors and includes the slogan "Our School, Your Future."
📚✨ Local Author Visit Inspires First Grade Readers ✨📚

This morning, first graders enjoyed a very special visit from local author Mrs. Kristen Ramey, who shared her first children's book, Inex & Alex, with students as a memorable way to wrap up their literacy curriculum for the year.

Mrs. Ramey, a kindergarten teacher at Rutland Northwest Primary School and wife of Slate Valley Athletic Director Mr. Ramey, captivated students as she read her story aloud, answered questions, and discussed the journey of becoming an author. The beautifully illustrated book was brought to life by Olivia Cacciatore, a Fair Haven Union High School Class of 2014 graduate and daughter of Slate Valley's Communications Coordinator, Mrs. Lisa Cacciatore.

One of the highlights of the visit came when every student received their own copy of Inex & Alex to add to their personal library. Students were thrilled to have their books personally signed by Mrs. Ramey and eagerly began reading and sharing the story with classmates.

The visit was a wonderful celebration of reading, writing, creativity, and the power of storytelling. A heartfelt thank you to Mrs. Ramey for inspiring our young readers and helping make this a day they will long remember!
12 days ago, Slate Valley
A class photo shows first-grade students holding their copies of Inex & Alex alongside author Kristen Ramey and classroom staff.
Mrs. Kristen Ramey reads Inex & Alex to a group of first graders gathered around her in their classroom.
A vase of sunflowers and stacks of Inex & Alex books sit on a table as students listen to Mrs. Ramey read in the background.
Mrs. Kristen Ramey holds up an illustrated page from Inex & Alex while reading to students. A child in the foreground raises a hand to participate.
Mrs. Kristen Ramey reads Inex & Alex to a classroom of first-grade students seated around tables and listening attentively.
A student presents a copy of Inex & Alex to Mrs. Kristen Ramey as she signs books for the class.
A student proudly holds up a signed copy of Inex & Alex while speaking with Mrs. Kristen Ramey during the book-signing session.
Mrs. Kristen Ramey signs a copy of Inex & Alex while two smiling students wait nearby to receive their books.
Students sit around classroom tables reading and sharing copies of Inex & Alex after the author visit.
Two students flip through the pages of Inex & Alex, examining the illustrations and text together.
Friday Focus: Field Trips - Learning Beyond the Classroom

As the school year begins to wind down, students across Slate Valley have been taking their learning on the road through a variety of engaging field trips and off-site educational experiences. These opportunities provide valuable hands-on learning, real-world connections, and memories that often last long after the school year ends.

Field trips allow students to explore concepts beyond textbooks and classroom walls while building curiosity, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of the world around them. Whether visiting museums, historical sites, local businesses, or participating in special events, students gain experiences that enrich and extend classroom learning.

Over the past several weeks, students throughout the district have been busy exploring:
- Benson Village School and Orwell Village School students spent a day at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, learning about Vermont's rich maritime history and the importance of Lake Champlain.
- Castleton Elementary School first graders visited the Wonderfeet Kids' Museum, where they enjoyed hands-on exploration and participated in an engineering activity focused on the importance of bees and pollination.
- Fair Haven Union Middle School students and Castleton Elementary fourth graders attended Patriots on the Mount at Mount Independence, a special event commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and bringing history to life through immersive experiences.
- Fair Haven Grade School Band and Chorus students showcased their talents at the High Notes Music Festival in Lake George before celebrating their hard work with a visit to The Great Escape.
- Fair Haven Union High School Career Exploration students toured Telescope Casual Furniture in Granville, gaining firsthand insight into manufacturing careers and the many opportunities available within our local workforce.

These experiences require significant planning, coordination, and teamwork behind the scenes. As we celebrate the learning that takes place beyond the classroom, we also want to extend our sincere thanks to our teachers, support staff, administrators, community partners, families, and transportation teams who help make these opportunities possible.
13 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Focus Friday: Field Trips” featuring a collage of photos from student learning experiences across Slate Valley schools. Images show students touring a manufacturing facility, participating in hands-on activities at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, exploring aquatic ecosystems by collecting samples with nets, visiting the Wonderfeet Kids Museum, attending a music festival and trip to Great Escape, taking part in a historical reenactment at Mount Independence, and conducting a lake ecology activity in shallow water. The Slate Valley Unified Union School District logo appears in the lower right corner. The graphic highlights the variety of off-campus educational opportunities that connect classroom learning with real-world experiences.
🚔👮 Community Helpers in Action at FHGS! 👮🚔

As part of their Community Workers unit, Fair Haven Grade School kindergarten students welcomed Vermont State Trooper Officer Shrauf to their classroom for a special visit.

Students came prepared with plenty of thoughtful—and sometimes hilarious—questions, including:
❓ How many people have you saved?
❓ Did you have to go to police officer school?
❓ Do police officers like donuts?

Officer Shrauf shared what it’s like to serve as a state trooper, explained how officers help keep communities safe, and answered every question with patience and enthusiasm.

The highlight of the visit was heading outside to explore a Vermont State Police cruiser up close! Students had the opportunity to learn about the vehicle, see some of the equipment officers use, and even sit inside the cruiser.

Thank you to Officer Shrauf and the Vermont State Police for helping our youngest learners gain a better understanding of the important role law enforcement officers play in our communities. It was a memorable learning experience for everyone involved! 🚓💙
13 days ago, Slate Valley
A Vermont State Trooper stands with a kindergarten class inside a Fair Haven Grade School classroom. Students smile and gather around the officer on a colorful classroom rug while posing for a group photo.
Kindergarten students stand on a sidewalk outside as a Vermont State Trooper explains features of a Vermont State Police cruiser. The children listen attentively while gathered around the vehicle on a sunny day.
A kindergarten student smiles while sitting inside the passenger seat of a Vermont State Police cruiser during a classroom visit. The vehicle's interior and dashboard are visible.
A group of kindergarten students sits on the grass near a sidewalk watching a demonstration involving a Vermont State Police cruiser parked nearby with its door open. The children observe as they learn about the police vehicle and its equipment.
🏈⚽🏑📣 Attention Slate Valley student-athletes and families! 📣🏑⚽🏈

Planning to participate in a fall sport during the 2026 season? Join us for the Slate Valley Fall Athletics Informational Meeting on Tuesday, June 16 at 5:30 PM in the FHUMHS Gym.

This meeting is for students entering grades 7–12 and their families and will cover important information including:
✅ Athlete registration updates
✅ Fall start dates and heat acclimatization requirements
✅ Summer training opportunities
✅ Athletic schedules and sports physicals
✅ ParentSquare communication tools
✅ Concussion and injury communication protocols
✅ Booster Club support

📌 Please note: This meeting replaces the traditional August athletic meeting.

🏃‍♀️🏈⚽ All athletes must have an updated sports physical on file at school.

Questions? Contact Athletic Director Eric Ramey at eramey@svuvt.org.
14 days ago, Slate Valley
Flyer promoting the Slate Valley 2026 Fall Athletics Informational Meeting. The flyer features sports-themed graphics including a football, golf bag, soccer ball, running shoe, field hockey stick and ball, and cheer pom-poms. Text announces the meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 16 at 5:30 PM in the FHUMHS Gym. The meeting is intended for student-athletes and families in grades 7–12 entering the fall 2026 season. Topics include the new Arbiter athlete registration platform, fall start dates and heat acclimatization procedures, summer training opportunities, athletic schedules and sports physicals, ParentSquare communication, the SWAY concussion and injury communication program, and Booster Club support. Contact information for Athletic Director Eric Ramey is provided. The flyer notes that this meeting replaces the traditional August athletic meeting and reminds families that all athletes need an updated sports physical on file at school. The design uses blue, green, red, and black text on a light background.
📸🎓 Throwback Thursday: FHUHS Graduations Through the Years! 🎓📸

From 1976 to 1993 to 2006 — a lot may have changed at Fair Haven Union High School over the years… but some things never do: the excitement of graduation day, proud families in the crowd, and Slater pride shining through.

What differences do you notice between these graduation photos from the last 50 years? 👀
What feels exactly the same?

Do you recognize anyone in these throwback snapshots? Tag them in the comments or share a favorite graduation memory from your time at FHUHS!

And Slater Alumni — 🎓⬇️ Drop the year you graduated from FHUHS in the comments and see who else from your class is here!

(Photos courtesy of The Rutland Herald Archives)
14 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Throwback Thursday” featuring the Slate Valley logo and three black-and-white historical graduation photos from Fair Haven Union High School. The photos are labeled with the years 1976, 1993, and 2006, showing graduates in caps and gowns during commencement ceremonies. A graduation cap graphic appears in the bottom right corner next to the text “FHUHS Graduations.”
Submitted by music teacher, Mrs. Hutchins: This past Friday, members of the FHGS Intermediate Band and Chorus participated in the High Notes Music Festival and enjoyed a celebratory trip to The Great Escape. Both ensembles earned ratings in the Excellent range and brought home trophies!

We are incredibly proud of our young musicians for their hard work, dedication, and outstanding performances. Congratulations on representing FHGS so well!
15 days ago, Slate Valley
A large group of Fair Haven Grade School students and chaperones wearing matching 2026 High Notes Festival tie-dye shirts pose for a group photo in front of the Great Escape amusement park entrance on a cloudy day. Roller coaster structures and park signage are visible in the background.
Two Fair Haven Grade School students stand on a stage holding tall trophies labeled “Excellent” during the 2026 High Notes Festival. Both students wear tie-dye festival T-shirts and smile proudly while posing with their awards in a performance hall.
🚶‍♀️🚶‍♂️ Safety in Action at Fair Haven Grade School 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️

Yesterday, Fair Haven Grade School conducted a relocation drill as part of our ongoing commitment to school safety and emergency preparedness.

While drills help us practice important procedures, they also provide opportunities to see the kindness and leadership that make our school community so special. During the walk, some of our oldest students stepped up to support our youngest learners, offering reassurance, conversation, and a helping hand along the way.
15 days ago, Slate Valley
A group of Fair Haven Grade School students walks together along a roadside during a relocation drill on a sunny day. In the foreground, an older sixth-grade student walks beside a kindergarten student, offering support as they travel with classmates. Trees, homes, and utility lines can be seen in the background, highlighting the orderly and supervised nature of the drill.
🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Looking for a fun way to stay active this summer?

The Slate Valley Efts Running Group is welcoming youth athletes interested in cross country or cross-training for other sports! No registration, no commitment—just drop in when you can.

Join local USATF SafeSport-certified coaches for age-appropriate workouts and group runs every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00–7:30 p.m., beginning June 16, at the R&H Rail Trail entrance on South Street in Castleton.

Whether you're training for a sport or simply enjoy running, come check it out!

Questions? Contact Dan Verrington at dan.verrington@svuvt.org
15 days ago, Slate Valley
Flyer for the Slate Valley Efts Running Group featuring a cartoon eft (newt) in the background. The flyer invites youth athletes interested in cross country or cross-training for other sports to join. It notes that there is no registration or commitment required and that age-appropriate workouts and group runs are organized by local USATF SafeSport-certified coaches. Meetings take place at the R&H Rail Trail entrance on South Street in Castleton on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00–7:30 p.m. throughout the summer, beginning June 16. The flyer also encourages viewers to follow the Slate Valley Efts Running Group on Facebook.
🧪🔬 Science in Action! 🔬🧪

Mrs. Folmsbee's fifth-grade scientists recently explored the difference between physical changes and chemical changes through a hands-on investigation!

Using baking soda and vinegar, students made predictions, observed reactions, and collected evidence as they witnessed a chemical change firsthand. Excitement filled the classroom as cups bubbled and fizzed, bringing science concepts to life right before their eyes.

Experiments like these help students develop critical thinking skills while discovering that science is all around us. Best of all, they had the opportunity to step into the role of scientists for the day!

Way to go, fifth graders! 👏🧪✨
15 days ago, Slate Valley
Overhead view of three fifth-grade students sitting on the classroom floor around paper plates holding cups and science materials. The students carefully pour ingredients into cups as they conduct a baking soda and vinegar experiment.
Several fifth-grade students sit on the classroom floor with paper plates and cups as they observe a bubbling chemical reaction. A teacher stands in the background while students focus on their science investigation.
Three students sit in a circle around paper plates containing cups filled with a foamy baking soda and vinegar reaction. The students watch closely and discuss the results of their experiment.
A student kneels on the classroom floor holding a cup containing a bubbling science experiment. Two small paper cups and a paper plate are nearby as the student observes the chemical reaction.
A student wearing a baseball cap sits cross-legged on the floor while holding a cup during a science investigation. A paper plate and additional materials are arranged nearby as the student participates in the baking soda and vinegar experiment.
Where Are They Now Wednesday: June Alumni Feature - Jeffrey Jr. York, FHUHS Class of 2016

From the football field at Fair Haven Union High School to building a career and family-centered life, this month’s alumni spotlight features Jeffrey Jr. York, a proud member of the Class of 2016 whose journey highlights hard work, perseverance, and dedication.

During his time at FHUHS, Jeffrey participated in football and was also involved in the school’s work study program, an experience that helped prepare him for life beyond graduation. Looking back, those experiences helped provide practical skills and a foundation that carried into adulthood.

After graduating Jeffrey entered the workforce and gained experience across several professions. Shortly after high school, he and his family welcomed their first daughter, Piper, while he worked in construction and explored different career opportunities. Today, Jeffrey works at Brown’s Auto Salvage as an Inventory Specialist, a position he says he truly enjoys.

Reflecting on the teachers who made a difference in his life, Jeffrey shared that choosing just one was difficult, but he credits Mr. Blackbird as someone who had a meaningful impact on him. "He never treated anyone differently no matter the reason and always kept it straight with us no matter the situation. He also showed me that no matter what stands in your way, you can achieve what you want."

Outside of work, Jeffrey says his greatest joy comes from being a husband, father, and provider for his family. He is the proud father of three daughters and hopes they will one day enjoy the same experiences and memories at FHUHS that he did.

When asked for a favorite quote, Jeffrey shared words from Tupac Shakur that continue to inspire him:
"Through every dark night, there's a bright day after that. So no matter how hard it gets, stick your chest out, keep your head up... and handle it."

Jeffrey’s advice for today’s Slate Valley students is simple but meaningful:
"Focus — high school isn’t forever. Enjoy your time while you're there and absorb as much knowledge as possible. You’ll be surprised by how much you carry with you into the real world and how much the decisions you make now can impact your future."

We thank Jeffrey for sharing his story and wish him continued success in his career, family life, and future endeavors.
15 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic for “Where Are They Now? Wednesday” featuring FHUHS Class of 2016 graduate Jeffrey Jr. York. The graphic includes a photo of Jeffrey sitting with his three daughters, one of whom is holding a newborn baby. Text highlights include: played football, participated in the Work Study Program, works as an Inventory Specialist at Brown’s Auto Salvage, proud husband and father of three daughters, inspirational teacher Mr. Blackbird, and favorite quote: “Through every dark night, there’s a bright day after that.” — Tupac Shakur. The Slate Valley logo appears in the top right corner.
Where Are They Now Wednesday: June Alumni Feature - Jeffrey Jr. York, FHUHS Class of 2016

From the football field at Fair Haven Union High School to building a career and family-centered life, this month’s alumni spotlight features Jeffrey Jr. York, a proud member of the Class of 2016 whose journey highlights hard work, perseverance, and dedication.

During his time at FHUHS, Jeffrey participated in football and was also involved in the school’s work study program, an experience that helped prepare him for life beyond graduation. Looking back, those experiences helped provide practical skills and a foundation that carried into adulthood.

After graduating Jeffrey entered the workforce and gained experience across several professions. Shortly after high school, he and his family welcomed their first daughter, Piper, while he worked in construction and explored different career opportunities.

Today, Jeffrey works at Doran brothers, and is enrolled in classes earning his CDL. Reflecting on the teachers who made a difference in his life, Jeffrey shared that choosing just one was difficult, but he credits Mr. Blackbird as someone who had a meaningful impact on him.
"He never treated anyone differently no matter the reason and always kept it straight with us no matter the situation. He also showed me that no matter what stands in your way, you can achieve what you want."

Outside of work, Jeffrey says his greatest joy comes from being a husband, father, and provider for his family. He is the proud father of three daughters and hopes they will one day enjoy the same experiences and memories at FHUHS that he did.

When asked for a favorite quote, Jeffrey shared words from Tupac Shakur that continue to inspire him:
"Through every dark night, there's a bright day after that. So no matter how hard it gets, stick your chest out, keep your head up... and handle it."

Jeffrey’s advice for today’s Slate Valley students is simple but meaningful:
"Focus — high school isn’t forever. Enjoy your time while you're there and absorb as much knowledge as possible. You’ll be surprised by how much you carry with you into the real world and how much the decisions you make now can impact your future."

We thank Jeffrey for sharing his story and wish him continued success in his career, family life, and future endeavors.
15 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic for “Where Are They Now? Wednesday” featuring FHUHS Class of 2016 graduate Jeffrey Jr. York. The graphic includes a photo of Jeffrey sitting with his three daughters, one of whom is holding a newborn baby. Text highlights include: played football, participated in the Work Study Program, works as an Inventory Specialist at Brown’s Auto Salvage, proud husband and father of three daughters, inspirational teacher Mr. Blackbird, and favorite quote: “Through every dark night, there’s a bright day after that.” — Tupac Shakur. The Slate Valley logo appears in the top right corner.
🎓 Trivia Tuesday – June Edition! 🎓

School is winding down, graduation celebrations are approaching, and we have an end of year question to test your knowledge!

Do you know?
Approximately how many days does a student spend in school from kindergarten through Grade 12?

Drop your guess in the comments below.
16 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic for “Do You Know? Trivia Tuesday” in teal and green colors featuring overlapping speech bubbles at the top with the words “Do You Know?” and a large “Trivia Tuesday” title. A school building with the Slate Valley logo appears in the center beside silhouettes of a young child holding hands with a graduating student wearing a cap and gown. Text asks: “Approximately how many days does a student spend in school from kindergarten through Grade 12?”

(Batch 2) This morning we held our May Falcon Gathering Soar Awards assembly. Congratulations to all of our recipients!

17 days ago, Slate Valley
Three students holding recognition papers stand with an adult and the Falcon mascot during a Fair Haven Grade School assembly.
Four students, including one using forearm crutches, stand with a staff member and the Falcon mascot during a school recognition ceremony.
Three students holding papers pose with a staff member and the Falcon mascot in the gymnasium during a student awards assembly.
Three students of varying ages stand with a staff member and the Falcon mascot while holding certificates and recognition papers during an assembly.
Three students stand in front of the Falcon display and mascot, holding recognition papers during a Fair Haven Grade School awards ceremony.
Two students hold certificates and recognition papers while posing with the Falcon mascot during a student awards assembly in the gymnasium.
A large group of middle school students gathers in the Fair Haven Grade School gymnasium during an assembly. Students stand in line near a table while classmates and staff move throughout the gym.

(Batch 1) This morning we held our May Falcon Gathering Soar Awards assembly. Congratulations to all of our recipients!

17 days ago, Slate Valley
A group of students and staff members pose in the Fair Haven Grade School gymnasium beside the school mascot and a large Falcon display during a student recognition ceremony. Several students hold certificates.
Three students stand with two staff members and the Falcon mascot during an awards presentation at Fair Haven Grade School. One student holds a recognition certificate.
Two students stand with a staff member and the Falcon mascot in the school gymnasium while holding recognition papers during an awards assembly.
Three students holding certificates pose with two staff members and the Falcon mascot during a Fair Haven Grade School recognition event.
Two students holding certificates stand beside two staff members and the Falcon mascot during an awards ceremony in the school gym.
Two young students holding certificates pose with two adults and the Falcon mascot during a student recognition assembly at Fair Haven Grade School.
A young student stands with an adult and the Falcon mascot beside a large Falcon display during a school awards presentation.
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday: June Spotlight

This month, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on someone who truly represents dedication and commitment within Slate Valley—Ann Pelkey, our Payroll Specialist and the district’s longest-serving employee with an incredible 44 years of service!

For more than four decades, Ann has been an essential part of the Slate Valley family, beginning her career shortly after graduating from Castleton State College with a degree in Business Administration. Forty-four years is a remarkable milestone and a reflection of the care, consistency, and heart she brings to her work every day.

While many people may not realize it, Ann’s role impacts every employee across the district. In fact, if you work in Slate Valley and haven’t yet had the pleasure of meeting Ann personally, you’ve certainly benefited from her hard work behind the scenes. Every time a paycheck arrives accurately and on time, Ann makes that happen — and that’s definitely something worth being thankful for!

Outside of work, Ann enjoys karaoke, reading, mini golf, and spending time with family and friends. She loves going for walks and rides with her loyal and friendly dog, Belle. She is a volunteer at the Fair Haven American Legion, and also serves as secretary of the American Legion Auxiliary Fair Haven Unit 49.

Ann’s favorite saying perfectly reflects her fun spirit and sense of humor: “It’s never late till midnight — it’s early after that.”
When asked to share anything else, Ann simply said, “I so enjoy working and being a part of the Slate Valley family.” After 44 years of dedication, we can confidently say that the feeling is mutual.

Thank you, Ann, for your years of service, your commitment to the district, and for helping keep everything running behind the scenes. Slate Valley is fortunate to have you!
17 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Meet Slate Valley Faculty & Staff Monday” featuring Ann Pelkey, Payroll Specialist at Slate Valley. On the left is a photo of Ann seated at her desk smiling, wearing glasses and a blue patterned blouse in an office setting. On the right, a teal background lists highlights about her career and interests, including being the longest-serving Slate Valley employee with 44 years in the district, graduating from Castleton State College with a Business Administration degree, and enjoying karaoke, reading, mini golf, and spending time with family, friends, and her dog Belle. The graphic also notes her volunteer work with the Fair Haven American Legion and her role as secretary of the American Legion Auxiliary Fair Haven Unit 49. Her favorite saying is included: “It’s never late till midnight — it’s early after that.” The Slate Valley logo appears near the bottom alongside her name and title
19 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic for the Slate Valley Unified Union School District newsletter dated May 29, 2026. The top of the image features the title “Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter” in large dark blue text with the date centered beneath it. The lower portion displays the Slate Valley Unified logo in the center against a blue and green abstract background. Surrounding the district logo are the logos of the district’s schools: Fair Haven Grade School (FHGS), Benson Village School (BVS), Fair Haven Union Middle School (FHU Middle School), Fair Haven Union High School (FHU High School), Orwell Village School (OVS), and Castleton Elementary School (CES). The Vermont Education Quality Standards logo appears in the upper left corner, and the slogan “Our Schools, Your Future” appears in the lower right corner.
The Girls on the Run team recently put their lessons of teamwork, kindness, and community service into action through their Community Impact Project. Using the tools and skills they’ve learned throughout the season, the team worked together to create care packages for the Fair Haven Police and Fire Departments.

The packages included chocolates, mints, Gatorade, and other thoughtful treats to show appreciation for the first responders who support our community every day. Students also added handmade bracelets, keychains, and personalized thank-you cards to make each package extra special.

We are so proud of these students for spreading kindness, gratitude, and positivity throughout the Fair Haven community! 💕👏
20 days ago, Slate Valley
A student stands between a school staff member and a Fair Haven police officer while holding a box of colorful treat bags in front of a police cruiser on a sunny afternoon.
A group of elementary students walks toward the historic red-brick Fair Haven Fire Department building on a sunny day.
A large group of elementary students smiles for a photo inside the Fair Haven Fire Department garage between two bright red emergency vehicles.
Students and chaperones pose in front of a Fair Haven fire engine outside the Fair Haven Fire Department during a community visit.
A firefighter speaks to a group of elementary students gathered outside the fire station as they learn about emergency services.
Students listen as a firefighter speaks outside the Fair Haven Fire Department, standing around a wagon filled with donated snacks and treats.
Students sit around a classroom table making colorful beaded bracelets, with containers of beads and craft supplies spread across the table.
Several students smile while working on bracelet-making projects in a classroom filled with beads, string, and craft materials.
A group of students and staff members gathers around the Fair Haven Grade School welcome sign, posing with a wagon full of donated treat bags.
Kindergarten students recently put their math and engineering skills to the test with a fun hands-on STEM activity! Students designed and created aluminum foil boats, then tested how many pennies each boat could hold before sinking. After the experiment, students practiced counting and place value by building their totals with tens and ones. They also compared results through class discussions about which boats held the greatest number of pennies, the least amount, and which boats tied. A creative and engaging way to combine problem-solving, math, and teamwork!
20 days ago, Slate Valley
A kindergarten student places pennies into a handmade aluminum foil boat floating in a classroom sink during a STEM math activity. Handwashing posters hang above the sink.
Two kindergarten students stand at a classroom sink testing an aluminum foil boat filled with pennies to see how much weight it can hold before sinking.
Two kindergarten students work together at a classroom sink during a STEM activity involving aluminum foil boats and pennies while discussing their results.