📣 Town Meeting Day is today — make your voice heard!

As you head to the polls and review the proposed FY27 school budget, here are a few key highlights:
✅ Spending per pupil remains below the state average — $11,565 in Slate Valley compared to $13,947 statewide.
✅ Staffing has been reduced by more than 45 positions over the past eight years, including 3 administrators, demonstrating long-term cost control.
✅ The proposed budget reflects a 2.8% increase, just slightly above the current rate of inflation.

📊 Learn more about the FY27 budget at https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget

Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Slate Valley schools.
11 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic with patriotic stars and stripes reads “Town Meeting Day 2026 — Vote — Your Voice Matters.” A ballot with a green check mark is shown being placed into a wooden ballot box.
👯‍♀️ Twin Day = Double the Fun! 👬

Kindergarten was seeing double in the best way during Twin Day! From matching pink outfits to Mario Kart buddies and creative costume pairs, these students showed off their teamwork and style. 💙
11 days ago, Slate Valley
Two kindergarten boys stand side by side in a school hallway wearing matching light blue Mario Kart T-shirts and similar pants.
Two kindergarten girls pose together in a hallway wearing matching bright pink zip-up jackets and patterned leggings for Twin Day.
Two kindergarten boys stand close together in a hallway wearing coordinating gray shirts and casual pants, smiling for Twin Day.
Three kindergarten girls stand in a classroom wearing winter hats and jackets with handmade paper costumes, smiling during Twin Day.
Trivia Tuesday – Do You Know?
When and where was the first Vermont Town Meeting held?

💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments!

🗳️ Today is Town Meeting Day! Don’t forget to exercise your right to vote. Polls are open at the following locations and times:

• Benson: 10 am – 7 pm, Benson Community Hall
• Castleton: 8 am – 7 pm, Castleton Fire Station
• Fair Haven: 10 am – 7 pm, American Legion Post #49
• Hubbardton: 10 am – 7 pm, Hubbardton Town Hall
• Orwell: 10 am – 7 pm, Orwell Town Hall
• West Haven: 10 am – 7 pm, West Haven Town Hall

Every vote matters!

📖 Find the trivia answer here:
https://outside.vermont.gov/dept/sos/Elections_Division/election_info_resources/town_meeting_local_elections/citizens_guide_vermont_town_meeting_2008.pdf
11 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Do You Know? Trivia Tuesday” with the Vermont logo and the question, “When and where was the first Vermont Town Meeting held?” Below is a photo of a historic white church surrounded by autumn trees.
Slate Valley FY27 Budget: Fiscal Responsibility in Action
As you consider the FY27 budget, here are a few key highlights:
✅ Spending per pupil remains below the state average — $11,565 in Slate Valley compared to $13,947 statewide.
✅ The proposed budget represents a 2.8% increase, just slightly above the current rate of inflation.
✅ Staffing has been reduced by over 45 positions in the past eight years, including 3 administrators, demonstrating long-term cost control.
📊 Learn more about the FY27 budget at https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
12 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic reading “Tuesday, March 3rd — Please Vote” with Slate Valley and school logos. Polling places and hours listed: Benson 10 am–7 pm at Benson Community Hall; Castleton 8 am–7 pm at Castleton Fire Station; Fair Haven 10 am–7 pm at American Legion Post #49; Hubbardton 10 am–7 pm at Hubbardton Town Hall; Orwell 10 am–7 pm at Orwell Town Hall; West Haven 10 am–7 pm at West Haven Town Hall. Text reads “Our School, Your Future.”
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday — March Spotlight

This month, we’re excited to feature Alicia Bouzianis, a valued member of the Slate Valley team!

Alicia has been part of Slate Valley for eight years. Prior to her current role, she worked with the ABBY Group through Slate Valley, continuing her commitment to supporting students in our schools.

Outside of work, Alicia enjoys spending time outdoors — especially taking long walks and hikes through the woods. She also loves long car rides filled with country music (and isn’t afraid to sing along like she’s headed for the big stage!). Most of all, she enjoys being around kids and making meaningful connections.

A quote that inspires her is:
“Saddle your dreams before you ride them.” — a wise man told me

Beyond the school day, Alicia dedicates significant time to the Boys & Girls Club, working after school and throughout the summer. She shares that seeing the kids’ faces and creating fun experiences with them truly makes her heart full.

Alicia says she truly loves being part of Slate Valley, and we’re grateful for the care, energy, and positivity she brings to our students each day.
12 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Meet Monday – Slate Valley Faculty & Staff” featuring a portrait of Alicia Bouzianis, OVS Instructional Assistant. The design includes bullet points noting she has worked at Slate Valley for 8 years, previously worked with the ABBY Group through Slate Valley, enjoys long walks and hikes in the woods, likes country music and long car rides, is passionate about working with kids, and is active with the Boys & Girls Club after school and in the summer. Favorite quote: “Saddle your dreams before you ride them.” The Slate Valley logo appears in the corner.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: February 27, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/dbb66208584e/slate-valley-district-newsletter-january-30-13836170
14 days ago, Slate Valley
Slate Valley Unified USD newsletter graphic dated February 27, 2026, promoting Town Meeting Day on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. The design features illustrated hands holding ballots around a green ballot box labeled “Vote!” and the phrase “Our School, Your Future.”
Please join us for Coffee and Conversation with Senator Ruth Hardy!

Orwell residents are especially encouraged to attend, and all Slate Valley community members are warmly welcome to join Senator Ruth Hardy for a casual breakfast conversation.

📅 Friday, March 6, 2026
🕘 9:00–10:00 AM
📍 Orwell Free Library

Come hear updates from the current legislative session and learn more about Act 73, with time for questions and discussion. This is a great opportunity to stay informed, share perspectives, and connect with your local senator.

Offered in partnership with Slate Valley Unified USD and the Orwell Town Library.

We hope to see you there!
17 days ago, Slate Valley
Flyer inviting the community to “Coffee & Conversation with Senator Ruth Hardy.” Event is Friday, March 6, 2026, at the Orwell Free Library from 9:00–10:00 AM. Graphic shows a steaming coffee mug and a muffin with the Slate Valley logo. Text notes the event is offered in partnership with Slate Valley Unified USD and the Orwell Free Library.
We Are Slate Valley highlights the heart of our district—our students. In this video, Slate Valley students chose words they believe best describe who we are as a district, sharing their voices and perspectives. Together, their reflections celebrate the opportunities, growth, and strong sense of belonging that define Slate Valley. From classrooms to activities, see how our schools support every learner and help students discover who they are and who they can become. See the video at: https://youtu.be/jGoplAjolPU
19 days ago, Slate Valley
Smiling elementary-age student wearing glasses and a pink shirt stands in front of a decorative tree display with paper snowflakes. A banner along the bottom shows Slate Valley school logos including BVS, CES, FHGS, OVS, FHU High School, and FHU Middle School.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: February 20, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/7cc4725364fd/slate-valley-district-newsletter
21 days ago, Slate Valley
Slate Valley Unified USD newsletter graphic dated February 20, 2026, featuring cartoon children celebrating in front of the words “February Break.” Text reads: All Slate Valley schools will be closed for February Break from Monday the 23rd through Friday the 27th. Classes will resume on Monday, March 2, 2026.
🚨 Tonight — SVUUSD Annual Meeting 🚨

Join the Slate Valley Unified Union School District for the Annual Meeting on the FY27 school budget. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the proposed budget, hear important updates, and ask questions about how it supports our students, staff, and schools.

🗓 Tonight — Thursday, February 19, 2026
📍 Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room
🕡 6:30 PM

Can’t attend in person? Join virtually:
🎥 Video call link: https://meet.google.com/oiu-geoi-eaj

📞 Or dial (US): +1 816-425-1778
PIN: 657 919 832#

We hope you can join us and be part of the conversation. Your voice matters!
23 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic badge with icon of a presenter pointing to a board in front of an audience. Text reads “SVUUSD Annual Meeting — Thursday, February 19, 2026 — FHUMHS Band Room — 6:30 PM.” Teal border with gray background and light green and blue icons.
Looking for a fun and unique event during winter break? 🦫📚
Head to the Fair Haven Free Library on Wednesday, February 25 at 6:00 PM for a special talk with wildlife rehabilitator and author John Aberth, writer of Bringing Up Beaver.

Mr. Aberth will share the incredible true story behind his book — including his experience raising and releasing an orphaned beaver kit named BK, and what it’s like to work closely with wildlife. It’s a great opportunity for students and families to learn more about animals, nature, and real-life conservation work.

Perfect for curious kids and animal lovers — don’t miss it!
24 days ago, Slate Valley
Flyer for a Fair Haven Free Library author talk featuring the book Bringing Up Beaver by John Aberth. Text announces a presentation by the author on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at 6:00 PM. The flyer includes the book cover showing a beaver peeking over a ledge and a photo of the author holding a young beaver, along with a description of his work as a wildlife rehabilitator and the story behind the book.
Join us for the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Annual Meeting on the FY27 School Budget 📘

🗓 Thursday, February 19, 2026
⏰ 6:30 PM
📍 Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room

Community members are encouraged to attend to learn more about the proposed budget, ask questions, and better understand how it supports our students and schools. Your participation matters, and we hope to see you there.

For full details and budget information, visit:
https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
24 days ago, Slate Valley
Hexagon-shaped graphic announcing the SVUUSD Annual Meeting, with an icon of a presenter speaking to an audience beside a safety helmet symbol. Text reads: “SVUUSD Annual Meeting — Thursday, February 19, 2026 — FHUMHS Band Room — 6:30 PM.”
On Friday, February 13, Slate Valley students proudly represented our district at the Green Mountain Music District V Festival. 🎶 Students from multiple schools participated in chorus, band, and jazz, showcasing their talent, preparation, and dedication to music. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and the way they represented their schools.

Festival Participants were:

Middle School Chorus

Castleton Elementary School (CES): Madelyn Stygles, Amos Adamski, Erin Taylor, Anital Crowley

Fair Haven Grade School (FHGS): Neva Randell

Fair Haven Union Middle & High School (FHUMHS): Laila New, Azalea Rehm, Grant Parrott, Emerson Robles (selected), Avery Zeitler, Ember Bentley, Izabella West, Hannah Brink

High School Band — FHUMHS

Maya Volpe, Avery Audent, Shira Hertzberg, Hannah Allard, Elaina Allard, Abigail Young, Henry Young, Libby Rockwell, Ollie Benson, Averie Parrott

Middle School Jazz

Orwell Village School (OVS): Will Scarpulla

Congratulations to all of our student musicians for this outstanding accomplishment! 👏🎼
24 days ago, Slate Valley
Seven middle school chorus students stand in a row against a hallway wall wearing black concert attire and holding green music folders, posing before a performance.
A large student chorus stands on risers in a school gym while a conductor faces them at a microphone stand; students wear black concert clothing and hold green folders.
Wide view of a combined student chorus on gym risers with a conductor in front and a pianist at a grand piano to the side during a concert performance.
Close-up of a section of the student chorus on risers, dressed in black and singing while reading from green music folders.
Front view of a student chorus performing in a gym as the conductor leads with raised arm and a grand piano sits nearby.
Student percussionist in black concert attire plays a mallet instrument near the gym floor while an audience watches from the bleachers behind.
After doing a fantastic job staying focused during their Star 360 testing, our kindergarten students earned a well-deserved celebration — with a hands-on science challenge! Students were tasked with designing a paper bridge strong enough to hold the weight of a kindergartener, using only seven pieces of paper and two feet of tape. The room was full of creativity, teamwork, and excitement as they tested their ideas. They had so much fun that many students immediately asked when they could try another experiment.
25 days ago, Slate Valley
Kindergarten students stand at their desks cutting and folding paper strips with scissors and tape while working on a classroom engineering challenge, with supplies and water bottles visible on the desks.
Several kindergarten students build and tape rolled paper pieces at their desks during a hands-on paper bridge experiment, while classmates work in the background near cubbies and classroom shelves.
A classroom of kindergarten students watches as a teacher supports a child standing on two desks during a paper bridge strength test, with number charts, a calendar board, and a large screen at the front of the room.
A teacher assists another student stepping onto desks to test a paper bridge, while classmates observe and classroom posters, number lines, and a word wall are visible behind them.
A teacher assists another student stepping onto desks to test a paper bridge, while classmates observe and classroom posters, number lines, and a word wall are visible behind them.
A teacher assists another student stepping onto desks to test a paper bridge, while classmates observe and classroom posters, number lines, and a word wall are visible behind them.
A teacher assists another student stepping onto desks to test a paper bridge, while classmates observe and classroom posters, number lines, and a word wall are visible behind them.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: February 13, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/d1e32e42eac9/district-newsletter-february-13-2026
28 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter” dated February 13, 2026, with a Presidents Day themed banner showing a patriotic design and an illustration of George Washington. Text states that all Slate Valley schools will be in session on Monday, February 16, 2026 (Presidents Day), and it is a regular school day for students and staff.
🏃‍♀️💜 Girls on the Run is coming to FHGS this spring!

We’re excited to share that Courtney St.Clair, Brianna Norton, and Erin Haley will be leading our next Girls on the Run season. This empowering program helps girls build confidence, strengthen friendships, and develop important life skills — all while staying active and having fun.

📅 Registration opens February 18
Right now, families can complete the Participant Interest Form to let us know they’d like to join:

🔗 Interest Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf0LExTZFARlFbtriglKuOipqGQNgEZproMhq0OCjaPMYH9XA/viewform

Learn more about the program here:
🌐 https://www.gotrvt.org/

Girls on the Run focuses on confidence, connection, personal growth, and creating a supportive, girl-centered space where every participant’s voice matters. We can’t wait to get started this spring!
28 days ago, Slate Valley
Two adult coaches wearing purple Girls on the Run shirts stand smiling in front of a Girls on the Run Vermont backdrop, holding a pink and gold sign that reads “GOTR Vermont.”
Flyer for Girls on the Run Vermont describing girl-centered programming, trained coaches, confidence-building lessons, and supportive team environments, with contact information, website links, and QR codes for participant and coach interest forms.
Flyer for Girls on the Run Vermont describing girl-centered programming, trained coaches, confidence-building lessons, and supportive team environments, with contact information, website links, and QR codes for participant and coach interest forms.
During the months of January & February FHGS has been learning about and practicing Empathy. The Student Voice group visited classes to read the book "A Little Spot of Empathy" and play "A Little Spot of Feelings Game Show". If you visit FHGS you may see shoe coloring sheets up on the walls to remind everyone to "Stand in someone else's shoes" and practice empathy.
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Student stands at the front of a classroom reading from a picture book beside a large screen showing a close-up image of the moon, while several elementary students sit on the floor listening.
A group of elementary students sit on a colorful rug in a classroom library area while a student reads aloud from a book near a whiteboard and shelves labeled “READ.”
Student sits at a desk coloring a worksheet with a blue marker, with an open supply box of markers and scissors and reading notes visible on the table.
Older students stand at the front of an elementary classroom near an interactive board displaying a feelings-style quiz game, while younger students sit at desks watching.
Large group of kindergarten-aged students and a few older student helpers pose together behind classroom desks, smiling at the camera.
Students gather around desks in a classroom, leaning in and talking together during a group activity, with an interactive board visible in the background.
Students sit around tables facing a classroom screen showing a feelings-themed quiz board, while a student at the front holds a book and presents to the class.
Today's Rutland Herald: Scan the QR Code in the photo or go to https://bit.ly/SVULTA to see the accompanying video.
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Poster for Slate Valley Unified USD promoting the Lifetime Activities program. The graphic includes the district logo and text listing the towns served, with multiple photos of students participating in activities such as woodworking, hiking, ice skating, ice fishing, martial arts training, treadmill fitness, fishing, cooking, and horseback riding. A central text block explains the history and purpose of the Lifetime Activities program and notes winter and late spring sessions. The poster includes a video link and QR code, the slogan “Our School, Your Future,” and district contact information with website and social media icons.
Ms. O’Dell’s 3rd grade class had an exciting 100th day of school! They started the day by writing stories about our 100th birthday, completed a 100 LEGO challenge, made a special snack using 10 pieces from 10 yummy treats, and ended with a 100-word writing challenge. What a fun and memorable day of learning and celebration!
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Class photo of students and a teacher in front of a math bulletin board, many wearing decorated “100 days” glasses and posing together for a 100th day of school celebration.
Student wearing bright “100 days” glasses sits at a desk with a worksheet and neatly sorted snacks and candies arranged in groups to total 100 items.
Student smiling at a desk with a “100 days” snack mat, showing grouped treats like pretzels, crackers, marshmallows, and candy arranged for a 100th day math activity.
Student wearing decorated “100 days” glasses sits at a desk with a worksheet and an assortment of snacks sorted into groups for a 100th day counting activity.
Two students standing behind a desk holding completed “100 LEGO Challenge” worksheets, with a colorful LEGO structure displayed in front of them.
Two students standing at desks with their LEGO builds and challenge papers, posing in a classroom with cubbies and school supplies visible behind them.
Two students smiling and holding “100 LEGO Challenge” worksheets while standing beside a tall, multicolored LEGO build on a classroom desk.
Two students standing behind a desk holding completed “100 LEGO Challenge” worksheets, with a colorful LEGO structure displayed in front of them.
Student smiling and holding a worksheet titled “My 100th birthday” with a drawing and writing about what they would do on their 100th birthday.
Group of elementary students standing in a classroom in front of a “Number Corner” math bulletin board, smiling and wearing colorful handmade “100 days” glasses to celebrate the 100th day of school.
🚨 All Slate Valley Afterschool Activities & Athletics Are Cancelled – Tuesday, February 10, 2026 🌨️

Due to the impending weather, all afterschool activities and athletics are cancelled today, Tuesday, February 10, 2026. This also includes Boys & Girls Club programs.

Please plan for students to go home at regular dismissal time. Thank you for your understanding, and please stay safe.
about 1 month ago, Slate Valley
Graphic with a snowy background and the Slate Valley logo that reads: “Tuesday, February 10, 2026 — All Slate Valley After School Activities & Athletics Are Canceled. This includes Boys & Girls Club Programs.”