Today's Varsity Baseball game at Hartford has been canceled due to expected weather. A reschedule date will be determined and there will be baseball practice this afternoon.
What a game—and what a crowd! 💙🏀
Yesterday, the FHU Unified Basketball team hosted Mill River, and the energy inside the gym was incredible. The stands were packed with students, faculty, and staff, all coming together to cheer on the Slaters. 🙌
We were especially excited to welcome Mrs. Mingo’s first graders from Fair Haven Grade School, who brought big smiles, loud cheers, and plenty of school spirit! 📣
From tip-off to the final buzzer, the gym was filled with encouragement, teamwork, and pride. This is what Slater Nation is all about—supporting one another and celebrating every moment. 💙
Yesterday, the FHU Unified Basketball team hosted Mill River, and the energy inside the gym was incredible. The stands were packed with students, faculty, and staff, all coming together to cheer on the Slaters. 🙌
We were especially excited to welcome Mrs. Mingo’s first graders from Fair Haven Grade School, who brought big smiles, loud cheers, and plenty of school spirit! 📣
From tip-off to the final buzzer, the gym was filled with encouragement, teamwork, and pride. This is what Slater Nation is all about—supporting one another and celebrating every moment. 💙
On May 1st, members of our Drama Club had the exciting opportunity to attend the New England Regional One-Act Play Festival at the Paramount Theatre!
Students spent the day immersed in live theater, watching outstanding performances from across the region. Experiences like this not only inspire creativity, but also give our students a deeper appreciation for the craft, collaboration, and storytelling that bring productions to life.
A big thank you to everyone who helped make this trip possible—it was a memorable and meaningful day for our aspiring performers and theatre enthusiasts!
Students spent the day immersed in live theater, watching outstanding performances from across the region. Experiences like this not only inspire creativity, but also give our students a deeper appreciation for the craft, collaboration, and storytelling that bring productions to life.
A big thank you to everyone who helped make this trip possible—it was a memorable and meaningful day for our aspiring performers and theatre enthusiasts!
Students in Mr. VanDerKern’s middle school Design class have been hard at work—and the results speak for themselves!
During their recent stone carving unit, students explored their Slater heritage by shaping soapstone into unique creations and using a Glowforge to engrave slate tiles with meaningful designs. From animal carvings to Vermont-inspired artwork, each piece reflects both craftsmanship and creativity.
This hands-on learning experience was made possible thanks to a $5,000 grant from the Vermont Superintendents Association and Vermont Hand Crafters, along with valued partnerships with Taran Brothers Slate (Poultney) and the Vermont Marble, Granite, Slate & Soapstone Company.
You can see this incredible student work on display at the Chaffee Center for the Arts in Rutland from June 5–July 11—we hope you’ll stop by and check it out!
During their recent stone carving unit, students explored their Slater heritage by shaping soapstone into unique creations and using a Glowforge to engrave slate tiles with meaningful designs. From animal carvings to Vermont-inspired artwork, each piece reflects both craftsmanship and creativity.
This hands-on learning experience was made possible thanks to a $5,000 grant from the Vermont Superintendents Association and Vermont Hand Crafters, along with valued partnerships with Taran Brothers Slate (Poultney) and the Vermont Marble, Granite, Slate & Soapstone Company.
You can see this incredible student work on display at the Chaffee Center for the Arts in Rutland from June 5–July 11—we hope you’ll stop by and check it out!
🎉 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. 💬💙
🌸🎶 Cinco de Mayo Concert Concessions! 🎶🌸
Join us for a festive evening at the FHU Gym as we celebrate Cinco de Mayo with delicious food and great music!
⏰Open during the concert. The concert begins at 6:30 pm
🗓 Tuesday, May 5th
📍 FHU Gym
🌮 Featuring Nachos!
Build your perfect plate with your choice of toppings:
Nacho cheese, taco meat, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream
🥤 Plus Grab & Go Options:
Chips, sweets, and drinks available!
Come hungry, bring your friends, and enjoy the celebration! 🎉
Join us for a festive evening at the FHU Gym as we celebrate Cinco de Mayo with delicious food and great music!
⏰Open during the concert. The concert begins at 6:30 pm
🗓 Tuesday, May 5th
📍 FHU Gym
🌮 Featuring Nachos!
Build your perfect plate with your choice of toppings:
Nacho cheese, taco meat, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream
🥤 Plus Grab & Go Options:
Chips, sweets, and drinks available!
Come hungry, bring your friends, and enjoy the celebration! 🎉
☕💙 Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week is off to a great start! 💙☕
We kicked off the week on Monday with a special visit to the incredible faculty and staff at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School! 🎉 Our Central Office team hit the halls bright and early, delivering fresh coffee, tea, and a delicious assortment of breakfast treats to help start the day right. 🍎🥐
From warm smiles to quick hallway chats, it was a wonderful way to say thank you to the educators and staff who make FHU such a special place for students each and every day.
And we’re not done yet! Tomorrow, the team will be visiting additional schools across the district to continue spreading appreciation and gratitude. 💫
It truly takes a village—and we are so lucky to have such a dedicated, caring one. 💙
We kicked off the week on Monday with a special visit to the incredible faculty and staff at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School! 🎉 Our Central Office team hit the halls bright and early, delivering fresh coffee, tea, and a delicious assortment of breakfast treats to help start the day right. 🍎🥐
From warm smiles to quick hallway chats, it was a wonderful way to say thank you to the educators and staff who make FHU such a special place for students each and every day.
And we’re not done yet! Tomorrow, the team will be visiting additional schools across the district to continue spreading appreciation and gratitude. 💫
It truly takes a village—and we are so lucky to have such a dedicated, caring one. 💙
🎶 FHUMHS Band Marches with Pride! 🎶
Yesterday, Sunday, May 3rd, the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band proudly took part in Rutland’s annual Loyalty Parade! 🇺🇸
Our talented musicians filled the streets with music, energy, and school spirit as they marched through downtown, representing our community with pride and excellence. The band delivered a fantastic performance for all in attendance.
👏 Thank you to our students, directors, and supporters for making this such a memorable experience—and for continuing this wonderful tradition!
Yesterday, Sunday, May 3rd, the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band proudly took part in Rutland’s annual Loyalty Parade! 🇺🇸
Our talented musicians filled the streets with music, energy, and school spirit as they marched through downtown, representing our community with pride and excellence. The band delivered a fantastic performance for all in attendance.
👏 Thank you to our students, directors, and supporters for making this such a memorable experience—and for continuing this wonderful tradition!
🍎✨ 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
Congratulations to our Fair Haven Union High School Students of the Marking Period!
These students have demonstrated outstanding effort, dedication, and commitment to their learning. Their hard work inside and outside the classroom truly sets them apart—and we are so proud of all they’ve accomplished!
Keep up the amazing work, Slaters!
These students have demonstrated outstanding effort, dedication, and commitment to their learning. Their hard work inside and outside the classroom truly sets them apart—and we are so proud of all they’ve accomplished!
Keep up the amazing work, Slaters!
Today, the Career Exploration class traveled to Burlington for an inside look at WCAX-TV Channel 3 News. The group was welcomed by Jay Barton, who led a personalized tour of the station and offered a behind-the-scenes glimpse into how a newsroom operates.
The visit concluded with a special backstage opportunity to watch a live broadcast of The News at Noon, featuring John McMahon and Allison Finch. Following the broadcast, students engaged in a Q&A session with the journalist and meteorologist, learning about their career paths, how news and weather are gathered, and the unique challenges of delivering live television in an ever-changing environment.
To top it off, students had the chance to step onto the WCAX set themselves—trying out the weather screen and experiencing firsthand the art of broadcasting.
The visit concluded with a special backstage opportunity to watch a live broadcast of The News at Noon, featuring John McMahon and Allison Finch. Following the broadcast, students engaged in a Q&A session with the journalist and meteorologist, learning about their career paths, how news and weather are gathered, and the unique challenges of delivering live television in an ever-changing environment.
To top it off, students had the chance to step onto the WCAX set themselves—trying out the weather screen and experiencing firsthand the art of broadcasting.
🎓 Calling All Seniors – We Want to Celebrate YOU! 🎉
Hey Class of 2026—this is your moment to shine! ✨
We’re putting the spotlight on YOU by featuring seniors on our website and social media—and we don’t want to miss anyone!
📣 Share your plans.
📝 It’s quick and easy—just fill out the form:
🔗 https://bit.ly/FHUClassof2026
📅 Deadline: May 27
You can also scan the QR code on the flyer to get started!
We are so proud of everything you’ve achieved and can’t wait to celebrate your journey.
Hey Class of 2026—this is your moment to shine! ✨
We’re putting the spotlight on YOU by featuring seniors on our website and social media—and we don’t want to miss anyone!
📣 Share your plans.
📝 It’s quick and easy—just fill out the form:
🔗 https://bit.ly/FHUClassof2026
📅 Deadline: May 27
You can also scan the QR code on the flyer to get started!
We are so proud of everything you’ve achieved and can’t wait to celebrate your journey.
ALL games today are postponed, at home and at Middlebury.
🚨 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.
🌷 A Blooming Reminder 🌷
For the past two years, Tarah Turner has partnered with Mr. Merolle’s horticulture class to plant red tulips during Red Ribbon Week—and now they’re in full bloom!
Red Ribbon Week is a nationwide campaign that promotes healthy, drug-free lifestyles and encourages youth to make positive choices. These vibrant red tulips are more than just a sign of spring—they’re a lasting symbol of that commitment.
Long after Red Ribbon Week has passed, the tulips continue to grow and bloom, serving as a daily reminder of the importance of making safe and healthy choices. 🌱❤️
For the past two years, Tarah Turner has partnered with Mr. Merolle’s horticulture class to plant red tulips during Red Ribbon Week—and now they’re in full bloom!
Red Ribbon Week is a nationwide campaign that promotes healthy, drug-free lifestyles and encourages youth to make positive choices. These vibrant red tulips are more than just a sign of spring—they’re a lasting symbol of that commitment.
Long after Red Ribbon Week has passed, the tulips continue to grow and bloom, serving as a daily reminder of the importance of making safe and healthy choices. 🌱❤️
