District Newsletter - May 22, 2026: https://mailchi.mp/330cab433461/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-15-13836741
about 2 hours ago, Slate Valley
Graphic header for the Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter dated May 22, 2026. The design features a Memorial Day theme with patriotic imagery, including American flags, red poppies, a bugler silhouette playing a trumpet, and a military figure saluting. “Memorial Day” appears in the center beneath red, white, and blue banner decorations, with Slate Valley branding elements incorporated into the design.
Exciting news — tickets for the VPA State Championship Track & Field events are now available through GoFan!

🏃 HOW TO PURCHASE TICKETS

Visit: https://gofan.co/app/school/VPA

A few reminders:
• Tickets must be purchased in advance through GoFan, there is a cash option at the door.
• Digital tickets will be scanned at entry, so spectators should have their phone.
• For any ticketing questions, please direct families to the GoFan Help Center or reach out to the VPA office.
about 3 hours ago, Slate Valley
Graphic promoting VPA State Championship Track & Field ticket information for FHU Slaters. Large text reads “VPA State Championship Track & Field – Event Tickets Are Now Available Through GoFan!” A side panel includes instructions for purchasing tickets through GoFan with a website link and QR code. Reminder text notes that tickets should be purchased in advance, digital tickets will be scanned at entry, and families with ticket questions can contact the GoFan Help Center or VPA office. The design features blue, green, and orange geometric accents and the FHU Slaters logo.
This morning, Fair Haven Union Middle & High School gathered for a meaningful Memorial Day program dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.

The program featured moving performances by the Middle & High School Band, the proud participation of the Fair Haven American Legion Post 49 Color Guard, and a powerful address by guest speaker Mr. Greg Parke of Fair Haven, a retired Lt. Col. of the United States Air Force. His words served as a meaningful reminder of the sacrifices made by our nation’s heroes and the importance of remembering their service.

As we head into Memorial Day weekend, may we pause to reflect on the true meaning of this day and honor those who gave everything for the freedoms we enjoy today. ❤️🤍💙
about 5 hours ago, Slate Valley
Members of the Fair Haven American Legion Post 49 Color Guard stand in formation holding flags and ceremonial rifles during the Memorial Day program.
Guest speaker Mr. Greg Parke, a retired United States Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, stands at a podium speaking to students and staff during the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Memorial Day program.
A wide view of the school gymnasium shows students gathered for the Memorial Day program while members of the Fair Haven American Legion Post 49 Color Guard stand with flags at the front.
Members of the Fair Haven American Legion Post 49 Color Guard march into the gymnasium carrying flags and ceremonial rifles during the Memorial Day ceremony.
📣 Reminder for Students & Families 📣

Please note the upcoming schedule changes for the Memorial Day holiday weekend:

🕒 Friday, May 22 – Early Release Day
🇺🇸 Monday, May 25 – No School in recognition of Memorial Day

As we enjoy the long weekend, we also take time to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

Please plan accordingly, and we wish everyone a safe and meaningful holiday weekend. ❤️🤍💙
1 day ago, Slate Valley
Patriotic school reminder graphic with red, white, and blue borders, stars, and an American flag design. The graphic announces an Early Release on Friday, May 22 and No School on Monday, May 25 in recognition of Memorial Day. A Vermont school logo appears at the top.
📣 Game Update | FHU JV Slaters ⚾

Due to field conditions, today's JV Baseball game at Rutland has been postponed.

Coaches will communicate practice plans directly with players as updates become available.
2 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic with the FHU Slaters logo at the top and a red, blue, and gray wavy border with decorative yellow stars. The text announces that the JV Baseball game at Rutland has been postponed due to field conditions and states that coaches will communicate practice plans directly with players.
📚⛰️ History came to life for our 8th graders at Mount Independence!

Yesterday, our 8th grade students participated in The Patriots of Mount Independence Education Day, a special program celebrating the 250th anniversary of Mount Independence State Historic Site in Orwell, Vermont. Designed as an experiential, outdoor, hands-on learning opportunity, the event gave students the chance to step back in time and discover the people who built Mount Independence into one of the largest Revolutionary War fortifications in the United States.

Throughout the day, students rotated through interactive stations led by interpreters dressed in period attire and historical experts who highlighted different aspects of daily life and work at Mount Independence in 1776. Students explored the historic grounds, visited museum exhibits, learned about Revolutionary War life, participated in demonstrations, and experienced history in a way that extended far beyond the classroom.

Experiences like these help bring the past to life and create meaningful connections between learning and the world around us. 🇺🇸✨
2 days ago, Slate Valley
Students pose and interact around a large sculpture display of Revolutionary War figures inside a museum exhibit at Mount Independence.
A large group of 8th grade students and staff gather outside near the Mount Independence sign for a class photo at the conclusion of their field trip.
An 18th-century reenactor dressed in a bright red military uniform speaks with a group of 8th grade students gathered outdoors on a grassy area surrounded by trees during a visit to Mount Independence.
A historical interpreter demonstrates a cloth bandage or fabric activity with a student while other students watch nearby outdoors.
Students stand together outdoors listening to a historical interpreter dressed in colonial clothing speaking beside a wooden table under large green trees at Mount Independence.
Students walk along a wooden boardwalk trail surrounded by green trees and grass while exploring the Mount Independence grounds.
A student dressed in colonial-style clothing holds up a folded paper letter sealed with red wax while standing under a tented area.
A historical interpreter dressed in black colonial-era clothing stands beside a wooden table and speaks to students in a grassy wooded area during a Mount Independence presentation.
Students sit on the grass listening to a Revolutionary War reenactor dressed in a red military coat speaking beneath tall trees.
Two adults smile while posing behind painted historical character cutout boards at Mount Independence, creating a fun photo opportunity.
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Riley Babbie ✨🎓
2 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic celebrating Fair Haven Union High School Class of 2026 graduate Riley Babbie. The graphic features a senior portrait of Riley standing outdoors on grass with trees and natural scenery in the background, wearing a red long-sleeve top and dark jeans. Text states that Riley plans to attend Vermont State University–Castleton to study Nursing. FHU Slaters, Vermont State University–Castleton, and Slate Valley logos are included in the design.
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Savannah Wilkinson ✨🎓
3 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic celebrating Fair Haven Union High School Class of 2026 graduate Savannah Wilkinson. The graphic features a senior portrait of Savannah standing beside a wooden railing outdoors, smiling and wearing a light blue sweater and jeans, with autumn trees in the background. Text states that Savannah plans to attend Suffolk University to study Radiation Therapy. FHU Slaters, Suffolk University Boston, and Slate Valley logos are included in the design.
🏆 Saddle up for a huge congratulations to Maddy Helm as she wraps up an incredible high school rodeo career filled with determination, talent, and unforgettable accomplishments!

Maddy and her horse, Eddie, rode their way to being named the 2025–2026 Barrel Race Champions, while Zack finished 4th overall in the Goat Tying standings. Together, Eddie and Zack helped Maddy qualify for Nationals — an accomplishment reserved for only the top four competitors in the standings.

As a testament to her hard work and dedication, Maddy also earned two separate scholarships, opening even more doors for her future.

Maddy has chosen not to attend Nationals this year as she shifts her focus to competing on the APRA rodeo circuit throughout the Northeast before heading off to college this fall.

Congratulations, Maddy! We’re proud of all you’ve accomplished and can’t wait to see where the next ride takes you. 🤠🐎💙
3 days ago, Slate Valley
A smiling student wearing a white cowboy hat and denim shirt stands behind a decorated championship saddle while holding an award plaque and belt buckle display. The saddle is engraved with “Champion High School Barrel Racer,” recognizing a rodeo accomplishment. The photo was taken indoors against a wooden wall backdrop.
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Taylor Lesan✨🎓
3 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic celebrating Fair Haven Union High School Class of 2026 graduate Taylor Lesan. The graphic features a senior portrait of Taylor sitting on a large rock beside a pond or stream, wearing a burgundy sweater, jeans, and sneakers, with trees and autumn colors in the background. Text states that Taylor plans to attend Vermont State University–Castleton. FHU Slaters, Vermont State University–Castleton, and Slate Valley logos are included in the design.
Congratulations to legendary Slaters Track & Field coach Dave Heitkamp! Dave was inducted into the VPA Hall of Fame on Friday evening at the Delta Marriott in South Burlington. He is the 9th Slater to be honored in the VPA Hall. (List of previous inducted Slaters below).

2007-Thomas LaPlaca
2007-Fran LaPlaca
2008-Bill Ryan
2009-Ralph Kehoe
2014-Robert " Squeak" Gregory
2014-Scott Reed
2020-Tom Blackbird
2024-Bob Prenevost
2026-Dave Heitkamp

For more information visit https://vpaonline.org/athletics/vpa-hall-of-fame/
3 days ago, Slate Valley
Two men stand side by side indoors holding a framed certificate and smiling for a photo during an awards presentation. One man is presenting the certificate while the recipient wears a boutonniere.
A group of award recipients and honorees pose for a group photo in front of a banner at an indoor recognition event. Several individuals are seated in the front row while others stand behind them, many wearing boutonnieres or corsages.
Session 2 of Middle School Lifetime Activities kicked off to a great start last Friday! Students jumped right into hands-on experiences and new adventures, from testing their balance and teamwork on outdoor ropes activities to learning climbing skills and spending time with horses.

These experiences build confidence, encourage students to try something new, and create memories that last far beyond the classroom. We can’t wait to see what the rest of Session 2 has in store! 🧗🐎🌲
3 days ago, Slate Valley
Students participate in an outdoor ropes challenge in a wooded area, balancing and holding ropes while navigating the activity course.
group of students stands together in a wooded area during an outdoor learning activity, listening and exploring the surroundings.
Students at an indoor climbing gym learn rope and harness techniques while an instructor points and provides guidance.
A student climbs a bright green indoor rock wall while wearing a harness and climbing shoes.
A student climbs a blue indoor rock wall while another student watches from below.
A student brushes a horse inside a stable while another person stands nearby.
A student stands beside a light-colored horse in a stable aisle holding the reins and smiling for a photo.
A student rides a white horse in an indoor arena while an instructor walks beside them and other riders practice in the background.
A student rides a white horse in an indoor arena while an instructor walks beside them and other riders practice in the background.
A student rides a horse in an indoor riding arena while wearing a helmet and holding the reins.
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Olivia Paige ✨🎓
3 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic celebrating Fair Haven Union High School Class of 2026 graduate Olivia Paige. The graphic features a senior portrait of Olivia standing on a bridge, smiling with one hand on her hip while wearing a green patterned top and light blue ripped jeans. Text states that she plans to attend the University of New England to study Nursing. FHU Slaters, University of New England, and Slate Valley logos are included in the design.
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Victoria Kelly ✨🎓
4 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic celebrating Fair Haven Union High School Class of 2026 graduate Victoria Kelly. The graphic features a senior portrait of Victoria standing outdoors near a lake with mountains in the background, smiling while holding a strand of her long blonde hair. Text states that she plans to attend Keene State College, where she will study Sports Management and play Basketball. FHU Slaters, Keene State, and Slate Valley logos are included in the design.
For many years, Slate Valley Unified Union School District has proudly participated in the USDA Summer Food Service Program, providing free, nutritious meals to children throughout our community during the summer months. As we begin planning for Summer 2026, we want to hear from you!

We are gathering feedback about the SFSP non-congregate meal program, which offers free multi-day meal boxes for children 18 and under. Each box includes 7 breakfasts and 7 lunches, can be picked up by a parent or guardian, and requires no application or income qualification.

We are especially hoping to connect with families whose children are not enrolled in the Castleton Recreation Camp or the Boys and Girls Club camp at Castleton Elementary School, as those programs will continue providing free summer meals on site.

Please take a few moments to complete this anonymous survey—
https://bit.ly/SVSummerMeals2026Survey

your feedback will help us make the program as accessible and convenient as possible for Slate Valley families. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and helping us better serve our community. Please complete one survey per household.
4 days ago, Slate Valley
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Megan Wetmore✨🎓
4 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic celebrating Fair Haven Union High School Class of 2026 graduate Megan Wetmore. The graphic features a senior portrait of Megan standing outdoors in a grassy field, smiling over her shoulder while wearing a blue top and light blue ripped jeans. Text states that she plans to attend Vermont State University–Castleton, where she will study Nursing and play Field Hockey. FHU Slaters, Castleton, and Slate Valley logos are also included in the design.
Special Board Meeting - May 18, 2026 - Notice Earlier Start
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:00 p.m. in the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/mcd-hhri-num
Or dial: (US) +1 470-839-8350 PIN: 521 928 888#


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.
4 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic announcing a Slate Valley Unified Union School District Special Board Meeting. The graphic features teal and green text on a light gray background with the Vermont Slate Valley logo. Text reads: “Please Join Us Tonight,” “Special Board Meeting,” and lists agenda items including consent agenda, executive session for a student matter, continuous improvement planning, end-of-year goal sharing, elementary reorganization committee formation, Stafford update, committee reports, and public comment. Meeting details at the bottom read: “May 18, 2026 – 6:00 PM, Fair Haven Union Middle & High School – Band Room.”
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Isabella Zellars ✨🎓
7 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic celebrating Fair Haven Union High School Class of 2026 graduate Isabella Zellars. The graphic features a portrait of Isabella seated in front of a brick wall, smiling at the camera and wearing pink glasses, a black cardigan, and a pink patterned dress. Text reads “Congratulations Class of 2026” and “Isabella Zellars – Entering Workforce.” The FHU Slaters logo, graduation cap with blue and silver balloons, and Slate Valley logo are also included in the design.
FHUHS Newsletter: May 15, 2026
https://app.smore.com/n/pg1wej
7 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic for the “Slater Nation Newsletter,” the official Fair Haven Union High School newsletter. The design features large teal outlined lettering on a dark green background with the subtitle: “The Official FHU High School Newsletter – May 8, 2026.” A faint image of a school building appears behind the banner.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: May 15, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/d52b3bb6eed0/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-15-2026
7 days ago, Slate Valley
Banner graphic for the Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter dated May 15, 2026. The top of the graphic features the title “Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter” in large dark teal lettering with the date centered below. The lower portion includes the Slate Valley logo surrounded by hexagon-shaped school icons representing schools across the district. Decorative spring flowers and green leaves frame the sides, with the slogan “Our Schools, Your Future” in the bottom right corner.