Submitted by Eric Ramey: Slaters Unified rallied from a 20 point 4th quarter deficit, but ran out of time, falling 52-49 at Springfield on Tuesday.
Brett Hazen went on a one-man 12 point run in the final 2 minutes to cut the Cosmos lead to three when the clock hit zero.
Brett Hazen led the Slaters with 14 points. He was followed by Jordan Alger with 12pts and a big blocked shot, Travis Alger with 11pts, including the first three 3-pointers in Slaters Unified history! Troy Hazen was great around the rim scoring 10pts, and Jayden Bots rounded the scoring by swishing a 10ft jumper. Selena White played a great all around game with some great passes finding open teammates for easy baskets.
The Slaters will return to action on Tuesday April 14th, hosting unified for the first time when the Otter Valley Otters come to town for a 4pm tip off. We hope to see everyone there.
There is no admission fee.
Brett Hazen went on a one-man 12 point run in the final 2 minutes to cut the Cosmos lead to three when the clock hit zero.
Brett Hazen led the Slaters with 14 points. He was followed by Jordan Alger with 12pts and a big blocked shot, Travis Alger with 11pts, including the first three 3-pointers in Slaters Unified history! Troy Hazen was great around the rim scoring 10pts, and Jayden Bots rounded the scoring by swishing a 10ft jumper. Selena White played a great all around game with some great passes finding open teammates for easy baskets.
The Slaters will return to action on Tuesday April 14th, hosting unified for the first time when the Otter Valley Otters come to town for a 4pm tip off. We hope to see everyone there.
There is no admission fee.
Where Are They Now Wednesday: April Spotlight - Marty Vinci, Class of 1970
This month, we’re proud to highlight Fair Haven Union High School alumnus Marty Vinci, a member of the Class of 1970 whose journey reflects dedication, hard work, and a lifelong connection to his roots.
Following graduation, Marty pursued specialized training at Meat Cutting School in Toledo, Ohio—launching a career that would span four decades. He worked as a meat cutter throughout Vermont and upstate New York, building a reputation for skill and consistency in his trade.
In 2007, Marty took his experience to the next level, beginning a new chapter with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a Meat Inspector in Atlanta, Georgia. After three years, he transferred to Hilton Head, South Carolina, where he continued his work for an additional 15 years. Marty officially retired on January 1, 2025, concluding an impressive career dedicated to food safety and public service.
Retirement hasn’t slowed him down. Today, Marty enjoys working part-time in the pro shop at a local golf course in the Hilton Head area—staying active and connected within his community.
During his time at Fair Haven, Marty was a two-sport athlete, participating in football, and baseball. He served as captain of the football team his senior year, demonstrating leadership both on and off the field. One of his most memorable moments came on the baseball diamond, when he delivered a game-winning hit in the bottom of the 14th inning to defeat rival Poultney—a moment that still stands out decades later.
Marty also credits Coach Tom LaPlaca as a meaningful influence during his high school years. Their close relationship helped keep him motivated and focused, leaving a lasting impact that extended well beyond graduation.
From standout student-athlete to a long and successful career, Marty Vinci’s story is one of perseverance, pride, and community—qualities that continue to define Slater alumni.
This month, we’re proud to highlight Fair Haven Union High School alumnus Marty Vinci, a member of the Class of 1970 whose journey reflects dedication, hard work, and a lifelong connection to his roots.
Following graduation, Marty pursued specialized training at Meat Cutting School in Toledo, Ohio—launching a career that would span four decades. He worked as a meat cutter throughout Vermont and upstate New York, building a reputation for skill and consistency in his trade.
In 2007, Marty took his experience to the next level, beginning a new chapter with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a Meat Inspector in Atlanta, Georgia. After three years, he transferred to Hilton Head, South Carolina, where he continued his work for an additional 15 years. Marty officially retired on January 1, 2025, concluding an impressive career dedicated to food safety and public service.
Retirement hasn’t slowed him down. Today, Marty enjoys working part-time in the pro shop at a local golf course in the Hilton Head area—staying active and connected within his community.
During his time at Fair Haven, Marty was a two-sport athlete, participating in football, and baseball. He served as captain of the football team his senior year, demonstrating leadership both on and off the field. One of his most memorable moments came on the baseball diamond, when he delivered a game-winning hit in the bottom of the 14th inning to defeat rival Poultney—a moment that still stands out decades later.
Marty also credits Coach Tom LaPlaca as a meaningful influence during his high school years. Their close relationship helped keep him motivated and focused, leaving a lasting impact that extended well beyond graduation.
From standout student-athlete to a long and successful career, Marty Vinci’s story is one of perseverance, pride, and community—qualities that continue to define Slater alumni.
💙 Class of 2029 Blanket Fundraiser! 💙
Support the Class of 2029 while showing off your Slater pride! These cozy blankets are perfect for home, games, or gifting—and each purchase helps support our students.
✨ Details:
• $30 each
• Two great design options
• Soft, vibrant, and full of school spirit
• A perfect keepsake—limited edition!
📣 We earn over 50% profit on every blanket sold, so your support truly makes a difference!
🛒 To order, see any 9th grade student or contact Kaycee Eastman or Tarah Turner
Thank you for supporting our students! 💙
Support the Class of 2029 while showing off your Slater pride! These cozy blankets are perfect for home, games, or gifting—and each purchase helps support our students.
✨ Details:
• $30 each
• Two great design options
• Soft, vibrant, and full of school spirit
• A perfect keepsake—limited edition!
📣 We earn over 50% profit on every blanket sold, so your support truly makes a difference!
🛒 To order, see any 9th grade student or contact Kaycee Eastman or Tarah Turner
Thank you for supporting our students! 💙
✨ 8th Grade Access Day at CCV Rutland ✨
We’re excited to share that our 8th grade students will be visiting the Community College of Vermont in Rutland for an Access Day experience on April 14th and 15th! Students will attend in pre-assigned groups, traveling by school bus from FHU and returning around 1:30 PM.
This annual opportunity helps students begin exploring college and career pathways as they prepare for high school. During their visit, students will:
🔹 Learn about post-secondary options
🔹 Participate in two engaging, hands-on mini classes
🔹 Experience a college campus environment
This has been a long-standing and meaningful experience for Fair Haven students, and we’re excited to continue the tradition!
🍕 CCV will provide pizza for lunch. Students may also bring their own lunch or request a bagged lunch from school.
📩 Questions? Please contact Kim Ezzo at kezzo@svuvt.org
We’re excited to share that our 8th grade students will be visiting the Community College of Vermont in Rutland for an Access Day experience on April 14th and 15th! Students will attend in pre-assigned groups, traveling by school bus from FHU and returning around 1:30 PM.
This annual opportunity helps students begin exploring college and career pathways as they prepare for high school. During their visit, students will:
🔹 Learn about post-secondary options
🔹 Participate in two engaging, hands-on mini classes
🔹 Experience a college campus environment
This has been a long-standing and meaningful experience for Fair Haven students, and we’re excited to continue the tradition!
🍕 CCV will provide pizza for lunch. Students may also bring their own lunch or request a bagged lunch from school.
📩 Questions? Please contact Kim Ezzo at kezzo@svuvt.org
Due to illness, tonight’s Slate Valley Community Advisory Council (CAC) meeting has been cancelled. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to connecting at our next meeting on May 5, 2026. Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school community!
🇺🇸 Trivia Tuesday 🇺🇸
Question:
How did Mount Independence in Orwell, Vermont, get its name?
Answer:
Mount Independence was named in 1776 by American troops stationed there during the Revolutionary War. The name honored the colonies’ declaration of independence from Great Britain, which had just been adopted that summer.
🇺🇸 Did You Know?
As we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States, Mount Independence stands as a powerful local reminder of that pivotal moment in 1776. Even more meaningful, it remains a popular field trip destination for many Slate Valley students—giving them the opportunity to walk the very grounds where history was made and connect classroom learning to real-world experiences.
🔗 Learn more: https://historicsites.vermont.gov/mount-independence
Question:
How did Mount Independence in Orwell, Vermont, get its name?
Answer:
Mount Independence was named in 1776 by American troops stationed there during the Revolutionary War. The name honored the colonies’ declaration of independence from Great Britain, which had just been adopted that summer.
🇺🇸 Did You Know?
As we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States, Mount Independence stands as a powerful local reminder of that pivotal moment in 1776. Even more meaningful, it remains a popular field trip destination for many Slate Valley students—giving them the opportunity to walk the very grounds where history was made and connect classroom learning to real-world experiences.
🔗 Learn more: https://historicsites.vermont.gov/mount-independence
Submitted by Athletic Director, Eric Ramey: Congratulations to Slater junior Anthony Szabo on being selected as the 2026 Rutland Herald Male Wrestler of the Year! Anthony continues to pile up the accoloades, and is one of Slater Nation's best ambassadores. Well done Ant!
Rutland Herald link below.
Source: Rutland Herald Szabo, Allen earn Herald honors https://share.google/xO5Dzxi7VXjLUaBhl
Rutland Herald link below.
Source: Rutland Herald Szabo, Allen earn Herald honors https://share.google/xO5Dzxi7VXjLUaBhl
Board Meeting - April 6, 2026
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Benson Village School Gym.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: link: https://meet.google.com/tbg-nhei-qjq
Or dial: (US) +1 484-321-6815 PIN: 473 638 758#
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 Benson Village School Gym.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: link: https://meet.google.com/tbg-nhei-qjq
Or dial: (US) +1 484-321-6815 PIN: 473 638 758#
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.
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday — April Spotlight
This month, we’re excited to highlight Becky Hughes, who has been a dedicated Instructional Assistant at CES for the past 5 years!
Becky brings nearly 20 years of experience in education, and her journey began in a meaningful and unexpected way. During a conference for her youngest child, a pre-K teacher encouraged her to consider substitute teaching—and that conversation sparked a career. Within six months, Becky transitioned from subbing to a full-time teaching assistant.
She spent 12 years at Saratoga County Head Start, followed by three years as a paraeducator in an autism classroom at Rutland Intermediate School. Wanting to be closer to home, Becky joined Slate Valley—and we’re so glad she did!
When she’s not at school, Becky enjoys spending time with her family and going camping whenever she can. She also keeps busy working a second job—and has a fun and unique hobby… she collects cows!
Becky lives by a message that reflects both her work and her heart:
“It’s okay to be different, and be kind to others.”
Thank you, Becky, for the care, compassion, and positivity you bring to CES each day!
This month, we’re excited to highlight Becky Hughes, who has been a dedicated Instructional Assistant at CES for the past 5 years!
Becky brings nearly 20 years of experience in education, and her journey began in a meaningful and unexpected way. During a conference for her youngest child, a pre-K teacher encouraged her to consider substitute teaching—and that conversation sparked a career. Within six months, Becky transitioned from subbing to a full-time teaching assistant.
She spent 12 years at Saratoga County Head Start, followed by three years as a paraeducator in an autism classroom at Rutland Intermediate School. Wanting to be closer to home, Becky joined Slate Valley—and we’re so glad she did!
When she’s not at school, Becky enjoys spending time with her family and going camping whenever she can. She also keeps busy working a second job—and has a fun and unique hobby… she collects cows!
Becky lives by a message that reflects both her work and her heart:
“It’s okay to be different, and be kind to others.”
Thank you, Becky, for the care, compassion, and positivity you bring to CES each day!
Submitted by coach Ramey: The Slaters Unified Basketball team played its first ever game on Tuesday, traveling to Mill River to take on the Minutemen. After a close first half, the home team had a big 3rd quarter to get the win.
The leading scorer for the Slaters was Brett Hazen with 16 points. He was followed by his brother Troy Hazen with 8pts, Jaden Bots and Selina White with 4pts, and Nate Moulton, Travis Alger and Jordan Alger each scored 2pts.
The Slaters mentors were outstanding keeping the game at a fast pace, and all of our athletes scored in the game, and played their best from start to finish!
The Slaters will be back in action on Tuesday April 7th, traveling to Springfield to take on the Cosmos at 5:30pm.
The leading scorer for the Slaters was Brett Hazen with 16 points. He was followed by his brother Troy Hazen with 8pts, Jaden Bots and Selina White with 4pts, and Nate Moulton, Travis Alger and Jordan Alger each scored 2pts.
The Slaters mentors were outstanding keeping the game at a fast pace, and all of our athletes scored in the game, and played their best from start to finish!
The Slaters will be back in action on Tuesday April 7th, traveling to Springfield to take on the Cosmos at 5:30pm.
🎨 FHU Students Shine at Southern Vermont Art Center! 🎨
We’re excited to share that Fair Haven Union Middle & High School students are having an amazing showing at the Southern Vermont Art Center this spring!
There are two exhibits featuring our talented students:
🖼️ High School Show: March 13 – May 3, 2026
🖼️ Middle School Show: April 3 – May 17, 2026
✨ Opening Reception:
📅 Friday, April 3
⏰ 4:00–7:00 PM
🎟️ Free and open to all!
After opening night, admission is free for those under 18, and $15 for adults.
👏 We are proud to have 10 high school students and 30 middle school students represented in these exhibits—an incredible showcase of creativity and hard work!
This is a wonderful opportunity to support our student artists and experience their work in a professional gallery setting. If you’re able, we encourage you to stop by and celebrate their achievements!
We’re excited to share that Fair Haven Union Middle & High School students are having an amazing showing at the Southern Vermont Art Center this spring!
There are two exhibits featuring our talented students:
🖼️ High School Show: March 13 – May 3, 2026
🖼️ Middle School Show: April 3 – May 17, 2026
✨ Opening Reception:
📅 Friday, April 3
⏰ 4:00–7:00 PM
🎟️ Free and open to all!
After opening night, admission is free for those under 18, and $15 for adults.
👏 We are proud to have 10 high school students and 30 middle school students represented in these exhibits—an incredible showcase of creativity and hard work!
This is a wonderful opportunity to support our student artists and experience their work in a professional gallery setting. If you’re able, we encourage you to stop by and celebrate their achievements!
🍁 From Tree to Table! 🍁
Students in our Horticulture and Outdoor Pursuits classes teamed up this season to run a hands-on maple sugaring operation right here on school grounds!
Horticulture students led the way with tapping trees and managing sap collection, while Outdoor Pursuits students took over the finishing process—boiling and bottling the syrup.
Thanks to a season with high sugar content in the sap, their hard work paid off with a productive yield!
The finished maple syrup will be used in Mrs. Clement’s food classes—and students will even bring some home to share with their families.
Students in our Horticulture and Outdoor Pursuits classes teamed up this season to run a hands-on maple sugaring operation right here on school grounds!
Horticulture students led the way with tapping trees and managing sap collection, while Outdoor Pursuits students took over the finishing process—boiling and bottling the syrup.
Thanks to a season with high sugar content in the sap, their hard work paid off with a productive yield!
The finished maple syrup will be used in Mrs. Clement’s food classes—and students will even bring some home to share with their families.
🎉 Congratulations, Anthony Szabo! 🎉
We are proud to celebrate FHU junior Anthony Szabo, who was inducted into the National Technical Honor Society on March 31, 2026, in Middlebury! 👏
Anthony is a student in the Diesel Power Technology program at Hannaford Career Center, where he has demonstrated outstanding dedication, skill, and commitment to his craft. This honor recognizes not only his academic achievement, but also his strong work ethic and passion for technical learning.
We are incredibly proud of Anthony and all he has accomplished—this is just the beginning! 🚛🔧
We are proud to celebrate FHU junior Anthony Szabo, who was inducted into the National Technical Honor Society on March 31, 2026, in Middlebury! 👏
Anthony is a student in the Diesel Power Technology program at Hannaford Career Center, where he has demonstrated outstanding dedication, skill, and commitment to his craft. This honor recognizes not only his academic achievement, but also his strong work ethic and passion for technical learning.
We are incredibly proud of Anthony and all he has accomplished—this is just the beginning! 🚛🔧
In today's Rutland Herald!
Dear Slate Valley,
Thank you for your support in approving the school budget on the revote. I recognize the time, thought, and consideration that went into this decision, particularly in the context of the broader challenges facing education funding.
Your support ensures that we can continue to provide strong learning opportunities, essential services, and stability for our students and staff. It allows us to maintain the core of what we offer while continuing to move our work forward.
We are deeply appreciative of your commitment to our students and our school community. Your support makes a meaningful difference.
With sincere appreciation,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
Thank you for your support in approving the school budget on the revote. I recognize the time, thought, and consideration that went into this decision, particularly in the context of the broader challenges facing education funding.
Your support ensures that we can continue to provide strong learning opportunities, essential services, and stability for our students and staff. It allows us to maintain the core of what we offer while continuing to move our work forward.
We are deeply appreciative of your commitment to our students and our school community. Your support makes a meaningful difference.
With sincere appreciation,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
Looking for a space to share your thoughts, ask questions, and be part of the conversation in a more relaxed setting?
Join us at the next Slate Valley Community Advisory Council (CAC) meeting—an opportunity to connect directly with district leadership and help shape the future of our schools.
💬 Whether you have ideas, feedback, or simply want to stay informed, your voice matters here. This is a welcoming, less formal environment where open dialogue is encouraged and valued.
🗓 Next Meeting: April 7, 2026
🕔 Time: 5:45 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Central Office Conference Room
Fair Haven Union Middle & High School
We hope you’ll join the conversation—because strong schools start with strong community connections.
Join us at the next Slate Valley Community Advisory Council (CAC) meeting—an opportunity to connect directly with district leadership and help shape the future of our schools.
💬 Whether you have ideas, feedback, or simply want to stay informed, your voice matters here. This is a welcoming, less formal environment where open dialogue is encouraged and valued.
🗓 Next Meeting: April 7, 2026
🕔 Time: 5:45 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Central Office Conference Room
Fair Haven Union Middle & High School
We hope you’ll join the conversation—because strong schools start with strong community connections.
Today’s the day! 🗳️Please take a few minutes to cast your vote!
Slate Valley community members are encouraged to vote on the Revised FY27 Budget Proposal today, March 31st. Your voice matters in shaping the future of our schools and supporting students across the district.
📍 Polling Locations & Hours:
• 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 Office
• West Haven: 10 AM – 7 PM, West Haven Town Hall
Slate Valley community members are encouraged to vote on the Revised FY27 Budget Proposal today, March 31st. Your voice matters in shaping the future of our schools and supporting students across the district.
📍 Polling Locations & Hours:
• 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 Office
• West Haven: 10 AM – 7 PM, West Haven Town Hall
🎉 Congratulations to Trevor Kelson! 🎉
We are proud to celebrate Trevor Kelson, Physical Education Teacher at Fair Haven Union High School, for being named Physical Educator of the Year by SHAPE Vermont!
Trevor’s work reflects SHAPE Vermont’s mission to provide advocacy, professional development, and resources that promote healthy, active lifestyles for all Vermonters. His dedication to students and passion for physical education make a lasting impact both in and out of the classroom.
The award was presented on Friday, March 27 at the SHAPE Vermont Conference held at the Killington Grand Hotel.
👏 Thank you, Trevor, for inspiring our students and community every day—we are lucky to have you as part of Slate Valley!
We are proud to celebrate Trevor Kelson, Physical Education Teacher at Fair Haven Union High School, for being named Physical Educator of the Year by SHAPE Vermont!
Trevor’s work reflects SHAPE Vermont’s mission to provide advocacy, professional development, and resources that promote healthy, active lifestyles for all Vermonters. His dedication to students and passion for physical education make a lasting impact both in and out of the classroom.
The award was presented on Friday, March 27 at the SHAPE Vermont Conference held at the Killington Grand Hotel.
👏 Thank you, Trevor, for inspiring our students and community every day—we are lucky to have you as part of Slate Valley!
