Slate Valley Faculty & Staff - We Appreciate You!










Slate Valley Faculty & Staff - Thank you for all you do!










Slate Valley Faculty & Staff - We Appreciate all you do!










Friday Focus - Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week
As we wrap up Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week, we want to take a moment to say thank you to the incredible faculty and staff of Slate Valley.
From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—your dedication, compassion, and hard work are truly the heartbeat of our schools. ❤️
This week may be coming to a close, but our appreciation for all that you do continues every single day. Thank you for showing up, lifting others up, and making a difference in the lives of our students and community.
As we wrap up Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week, we want to take a moment to say thank you to the incredible faculty and staff of Slate Valley.
From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices—your dedication, compassion, and hard work are truly the heartbeat of our schools. ❤️
This week may be coming to a close, but our appreciation for all that you do continues every single day. Thank you for showing up, lifting others up, and making a difference in the lives of our students and community.

✨🎉 Throwback Thursday: Prom Through the Years 🎉✨
From classic black-and-white elegance to bold colors and modern styles, take a trip through time with 50 years of FHU proms (1965–2015)! 💃🕺
What changes do you notice? The fashion? The hairstyles? And what’s stayed the same—crowns, corsages, and unforgettable memories? 👑🌹
👀 Take a closer look… do you recognize anyone? Feel free to tag them in the comments!
From classic black-and-white elegance to bold colors and modern styles, take a trip through time with 50 years of FHU proms (1965–2015)! 💃🕺
What changes do you notice? The fashion? The hairstyles? And what’s stayed the same—crowns, corsages, and unforgettable memories? 👑🌹
👀 Take a closer look… do you recognize anyone? Feel free to tag them in the comments!

Where Are They Now Wednesday: May Alumni Feature - Hannah (Korda) Ainsworth, FHUHS Class of 2009
From the halls of Fair Haven Union High School to making a meaningful impact in her community, this month’s alumni spotlight features Hannah Korda Ainsworth, a proud member of the Class of 2009.
During her time at FHUHS, Hannah was deeply involved in both academics and extracurricular activities. She played soccer, participated in indoor and outdoor track and field, and competed in softball. In addition, she was active in the rock climbing club, National Honor Society, DUO, and yearbook. Known for her enthusiasm and school pride, Hannah was a dedicated Slaterbration participant and was honored with the “Most School Spirit” award in 2009.
After graduating, Hannah attended Lyndon State College, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Human Services while also obtaining her Level 2 firefighting certification. She went on to serve her community as a member of the Lyndonville Fire Department from 2009 to 2023. After many years of dedicated service, Hannah made the decision to step away in order to focus more on her family and pursue a career path with greater flexibility.
Today, Hannah works as a Therapeutic Case Manager at Northeast Kingdom Human Services, where she continues to support and advocate for others in meaningful ways. Outside of her professional role, she has spent the past five years coaching her sons’ soccer and basketball teams, sharing her passion for teamwork, perseverance, and growth.
Hannah credits several educators who had a lasting impact on her journey, including Mrs. Dubois, Mr. Ketchum, Mr. Bruce, and Mr. Cavacas—teachers who helped guide and inspire her along the way.
At home, Hannah and her husband are busy raising their two boys, embracing the joys and challenges of family life.
Her advice to today’s students is both heartfelt and insightful:
“You meet people for a reason—either they will change your life, or you will change theirs. And remember, you never truly know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory. You’ll blink and these hallways will be behind you, so make the most of it.”
She also shares two simple but powerful reminders:
“You can do hard things” and “Be the kind you want to see in the world.”
Hannah’s journey is a wonderful example of what it means to stay connected to your roots while growing into new roles and responsibilities. Through her service, her career, and her dedication to her family and community, she continues to embody the spirit of a Slater—showing that success is not only measured by accomplishments, but by the positive impact you have on others along the way.
From the halls of Fair Haven Union High School to making a meaningful impact in her community, this month’s alumni spotlight features Hannah Korda Ainsworth, a proud member of the Class of 2009.
During her time at FHUHS, Hannah was deeply involved in both academics and extracurricular activities. She played soccer, participated in indoor and outdoor track and field, and competed in softball. In addition, she was active in the rock climbing club, National Honor Society, DUO, and yearbook. Known for her enthusiasm and school pride, Hannah was a dedicated Slaterbration participant and was honored with the “Most School Spirit” award in 2009.
After graduating, Hannah attended Lyndon State College, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Human Services while also obtaining her Level 2 firefighting certification. She went on to serve her community as a member of the Lyndonville Fire Department from 2009 to 2023. After many years of dedicated service, Hannah made the decision to step away in order to focus more on her family and pursue a career path with greater flexibility.
Today, Hannah works as a Therapeutic Case Manager at Northeast Kingdom Human Services, where she continues to support and advocate for others in meaningful ways. Outside of her professional role, she has spent the past five years coaching her sons’ soccer and basketball teams, sharing her passion for teamwork, perseverance, and growth.
Hannah credits several educators who had a lasting impact on her journey, including Mrs. Dubois, Mr. Ketchum, Mr. Bruce, and Mr. Cavacas—teachers who helped guide and inspire her along the way.
At home, Hannah and her husband are busy raising their two boys, embracing the joys and challenges of family life.
Her advice to today’s students is both heartfelt and insightful:
“You meet people for a reason—either they will change your life, or you will change theirs. And remember, you never truly know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory. You’ll blink and these hallways will be behind you, so make the most of it.”
She also shares two simple but powerful reminders:
“You can do hard things” and “Be the kind you want to see in the world.”
Hannah’s journey is a wonderful example of what it means to stay connected to your roots while growing into new roles and responsibilities. Through her service, her career, and her dedication to her family and community, she continues to embody the spirit of a Slater—showing that success is not only measured by accomplishments, but by the positive impact you have on others along the way.

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!

