PLEASE check out the latest Slate Valley District Newsletter! https://mailchi.mp/0936e2d3fb42/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-15-13836831
Each week, we share student achievements, classroom highlights, upcoming events, staff and alumni spotlights, and important district news from across Slate Valley. It's also where Superintendent Brooke Olsen-Farrell regularly shares updates on educational initiatives and state-level developments that may impact our schools.
We encourage families and community members to take a few minutes to open the newsletter and scroll through. You might discover a student success story, learn about an upcoming event, or gain insight into the work happening throughout our district.
Thank you for helping us celebrate, support, and stay connected to the Slate Valley community!
Each week, we share student achievements, classroom highlights, upcoming events, staff and alumni spotlights, and important district news from across Slate Valley. It's also where Superintendent Brooke Olsen-Farrell regularly shares updates on educational initiatives and state-level developments that may impact our schools.
We encourage families and community members to take a few minutes to open the newsletter and scroll through. You might discover a student success story, learn about an upcoming event, or gain insight into the work happening throughout our district.
Thank you for helping us celebrate, support, and stay connected to the Slate Valley community!
Middle School students in Mr. VanDerKern’s Design Lab are wrapping up the school year with a real-world engineering challenge: designing and building a better birdhouse.
Throughout the project, students followed the same design process used by scientists, engineers, and conservation professionals—brainstorming ideas, creating prototypes, testing designs, solving problems, and making improvements along the way. The result? Dozens of unique birdhouses built through creativity, teamwork, perseverance, and innovation.
This exciting STEM experience was made possible through a $2,000 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF), providing students with the tools, materials, and opportunities to turn their ideas into reality.
Throughout the project, students followed the same design process used by scientists, engineers, and conservation professionals—brainstorming ideas, creating prototypes, testing designs, solving problems, and making improvements along the way. The result? Dozens of unique birdhouses built through creativity, teamwork, perseverance, and innovation.
This exciting STEM experience was made possible through a $2,000 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF), providing students with the tools, materials, and opportunities to turn their ideas into reality.
Friday Focus: Field Trips - Learning Beyond the Classroom
As the school year begins to wind down, students across Slate Valley have been taking their learning on the road through a variety of engaging field trips and off-site educational experiences. These opportunities provide valuable hands-on learning, real-world connections, and memories that often last long after the school year ends.
Field trips allow students to explore concepts beyond textbooks and classroom walls while building curiosity, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of the world around them. Whether visiting museums, historical sites, local businesses, or participating in special events, students gain experiences that enrich and extend classroom learning.
Over the past several weeks, students throughout the district have been busy exploring:
- Benson Village School and Orwell Village School students spent a day at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, learning about Vermont's rich maritime history and the importance of Lake Champlain.
- Castleton Elementary School first graders visited the Wonderfeet Kids' Museum, where they enjoyed hands-on exploration and participated in an engineering activity focused on the importance of bees and pollination.
- Fair Haven Union Middle School students and Castleton Elementary fourth graders attended Patriots on the Mount at Mount Independence, a special event commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and bringing history to life through immersive experiences.
- Fair Haven Grade School Band and Chorus students showcased their talents at the High Notes Music Festival in Lake George before celebrating their hard work with a visit to The Great Escape.
- Fair Haven Union High School Career Exploration students toured Telescope Casual Furniture in Granville, gaining firsthand insight into manufacturing careers and the many opportunities available within our local workforce.
These experiences require significant planning, coordination, and teamwork behind the scenes. As we celebrate the learning that takes place beyond the classroom, we also want to extend our sincere thanks to our teachers, support staff, administrators, community partners, families, and transportation teams who help make these opportunities possible.
As the school year begins to wind down, students across Slate Valley have been taking their learning on the road through a variety of engaging field trips and off-site educational experiences. These opportunities provide valuable hands-on learning, real-world connections, and memories that often last long after the school year ends.
Field trips allow students to explore concepts beyond textbooks and classroom walls while building curiosity, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of the world around them. Whether visiting museums, historical sites, local businesses, or participating in special events, students gain experiences that enrich and extend classroom learning.
Over the past several weeks, students throughout the district have been busy exploring:
- Benson Village School and Orwell Village School students spent a day at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, learning about Vermont's rich maritime history and the importance of Lake Champlain.
- Castleton Elementary School first graders visited the Wonderfeet Kids' Museum, where they enjoyed hands-on exploration and participated in an engineering activity focused on the importance of bees and pollination.
- Fair Haven Union Middle School students and Castleton Elementary fourth graders attended Patriots on the Mount at Mount Independence, a special event commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and bringing history to life through immersive experiences.
- Fair Haven Grade School Band and Chorus students showcased their talents at the High Notes Music Festival in Lake George before celebrating their hard work with a visit to The Great Escape.
- Fair Haven Union High School Career Exploration students toured Telescope Casual Furniture in Granville, gaining firsthand insight into manufacturing careers and the many opportunities available within our local workforce.
These experiences require significant planning, coordination, and teamwork behind the scenes. As we celebrate the learning that takes place beyond the classroom, we also want to extend our sincere thanks to our teachers, support staff, administrators, community partners, families, and transportation teams who help make these opportunities possible.
🏈⚽🏑📣 Attention Slate Valley student-athletes and families! 📣🏑⚽🏈
Planning to participate in a fall sport during the 2026 season? Join us for the Slate Valley Fall Athletics Informational Meeting on Tuesday, June 16 at 5:30 PM in the FHUMHS Gym.
This meeting is for students entering grades 7–12 and their families and will cover important information including:
✅ Athlete registration updates
✅ Fall start dates and heat acclimatization requirements
✅ Summer training opportunities
✅ Athletic schedules and sports physicals
✅ ParentSquare communication tools
✅ Concussion and injury communication protocols
✅ Booster Club support
📌 Please note: This meeting replaces the traditional August athletic meeting.
🏃♀️🏈⚽ All athletes must have an updated sports physical on file at school.
Questions? Contact Athletic Director Eric Ramey at eramey@svuvt.org.
Planning to participate in a fall sport during the 2026 season? Join us for the Slate Valley Fall Athletics Informational Meeting on Tuesday, June 16 at 5:30 PM in the FHUMHS Gym.
This meeting is for students entering grades 7–12 and their families and will cover important information including:
✅ Athlete registration updates
✅ Fall start dates and heat acclimatization requirements
✅ Summer training opportunities
✅ Athletic schedules and sports physicals
✅ ParentSquare communication tools
✅ Concussion and injury communication protocols
✅ Booster Club support
📌 Please note: This meeting replaces the traditional August athletic meeting.
🏃♀️🏈⚽ All athletes must have an updated sports physical on file at school.
Questions? Contact Athletic Director Eric Ramey at eramey@svuvt.org.
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Serena Wasilesky ✨🎓
📸🎓 Throwback Thursday: FHUHS Graduations Through the Years! 🎓📸
From 1976 to 1993 to 2006 — a lot may have changed at Fair Haven Union High School over the years… but some things never do: the excitement of graduation day, proud families in the crowd, and Slater pride shining through.
What differences do you notice between these graduation photos from the last 50 years? 👀
What feels exactly the same?
Do you recognize anyone in these throwback snapshots? Tag them in the comments or share a favorite graduation memory from your time at FHUHS!
And Slater Alumni — 🎓⬇️ Drop the year you graduated from FHUHS in the comments and see who else from your class is here!
(Photos courtesy of The Rutland Herald Archives)
From 1976 to 1993 to 2006 — a lot may have changed at Fair Haven Union High School over the years… but some things never do: the excitement of graduation day, proud families in the crowd, and Slater pride shining through.
What differences do you notice between these graduation photos from the last 50 years? 👀
What feels exactly the same?
Do you recognize anyone in these throwback snapshots? Tag them in the comments or share a favorite graduation memory from your time at FHUHS!
And Slater Alumni — 🎓⬇️ Drop the year you graduated from FHUHS in the comments and see who else from your class is here!
(Photos courtesy of The Rutland Herald Archives)
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Asher Oberkirch ✨🎓
🏃♀️🏃♂️ Looking for a fun way to stay active this summer?
The Slate Valley Efts Running Group is welcoming youth athletes interested in cross country or cross-training for other sports! No registration, no commitment—just drop in when you can.
Join local USATF SafeSport-certified coaches for age-appropriate workouts and group runs every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00–7:30 p.m., beginning June 16, at the R&H Rail Trail entrance on South Street in Castleton.
Whether you're training for a sport or simply enjoy running, come check it out!
Questions? Contact Dan Verrington at dan.verrington@svuvt.org
The Slate Valley Efts Running Group is welcoming youth athletes interested in cross country or cross-training for other sports! No registration, no commitment—just drop in when you can.
Join local USATF SafeSport-certified coaches for age-appropriate workouts and group runs every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00–7:30 p.m., beginning June 16, at the R&H Rail Trail entrance on South Street in Castleton.
Whether you're training for a sport or simply enjoy running, come check it out!
Questions? Contact Dan Verrington at dan.verrington@svuvt.org
🌲🚣 Current 7th & 8th Graders - Looking for an Adventure This Summer? Join GAP 2026! 🚣🌲
The Great Adventure Project (GAP) returns the week of June 22–26, and it's shaping up to be another unforgettable week of outdoor exploration!
For those unfamiliar with GAP, this is a week-long day camp based out of Fair Haven Union Middle & High School that gives current 7th & 8th grade students the opportunity to explore some of the best natural areas in our region—both on land and on water. Participants alternate between hiking and kayaking throughout the week while learning about the South Lake Champlain Drainage Basin and the impact humans have on the natural environment.
🥾 Hike scenic trails
🚣 Kayak local waterways
📊 Collect environmental data
📸 Document your discoveries
🌎 Explore, learn, and adventure with friends
This is an active program, so come prepared to work hard, get outside, and experience the outdoors in a whole new way!
⚠️ Space is limited to just 16 students due to the number of kayaks available, and spots are already filling quickly.
Interested? Connect with Mr. Clark as soon as possible to pick up a permission slip and reserve your spot.
The Great Adventure Project (GAP) returns the week of June 22–26, and it's shaping up to be another unforgettable week of outdoor exploration!
For those unfamiliar with GAP, this is a week-long day camp based out of Fair Haven Union Middle & High School that gives current 7th & 8th grade students the opportunity to explore some of the best natural areas in our region—both on land and on water. Participants alternate between hiking and kayaking throughout the week while learning about the South Lake Champlain Drainage Basin and the impact humans have on the natural environment.
🥾 Hike scenic trails
🚣 Kayak local waterways
📊 Collect environmental data
📸 Document your discoveries
🌎 Explore, learn, and adventure with friends
This is an active program, so come prepared to work hard, get outside, and experience the outdoors in a whole new way!
⚠️ Space is limited to just 16 students due to the number of kayaks available, and spots are already filling quickly.
Interested? Connect with Mr. Clark as soon as possible to pick up a permission slip and reserve your spot.
💙🧺 Community Kindness in Action! 🧺💙
A huge thank you to our incredible community for helping make the 4th Annual Blanket Drive a tremendous success!
Fair Haven Union High School seniors Riley and Theresa recently delivered more than 100 blankets to the Medical Oncology Unit at Rutland Regional Medical Center. Thanks to the generosity of students, staff, families, and community members, these donations will help provide comfort, warmth, and care to patients during difficult times.
Projects like this remind us of the power of coming together to make a difference in the lives of others. Thank you to everyone who donated and supported this meaningful effort. Your kindness will have a lasting impact on those who need it most.
❤️ Way to go, Riley and Theresa, for leading such a compassionate and successful community service project!
A huge thank you to our incredible community for helping make the 4th Annual Blanket Drive a tremendous success!
Fair Haven Union High School seniors Riley and Theresa recently delivered more than 100 blankets to the Medical Oncology Unit at Rutland Regional Medical Center. Thanks to the generosity of students, staff, families, and community members, these donations will help provide comfort, warmth, and care to patients during difficult times.
Projects like this remind us of the power of coming together to make a difference in the lives of others. Thank you to everyone who donated and supported this meaningful effort. Your kindness will have a lasting impact on those who need it most.
❤️ Way to go, Riley and Theresa, for leading such a compassionate and successful community service project!
Where Are They Now Wednesday: June Alumni Feature - Jeffrey Jr. York, FHUHS Class of 2016
From the football field at Fair Haven Union High School to building a career and family-centered life, this month’s alumni spotlight features Jeffrey Jr. York, a proud member of the Class of 2016 whose journey highlights hard work, perseverance, and dedication.
During his time at FHUHS, Jeffrey participated in football and was also involved in the school’s work study program, an experience that helped prepare him for life beyond graduation. Looking back, those experiences helped provide practical skills and a foundation that carried into adulthood.
After graduating Jeffrey entered the workforce and gained experience across several professions. Shortly after high school, he and his family welcomed their first daughter, Piper, while he worked in construction and explored different career opportunities.
Today, Jeffrey works at Doran brothers, and is enrolled in classes earning his CDL. Reflecting on the teachers who made a difference in his life, Jeffrey shared that choosing just one was difficult, but he credits Mr. Blackbird as someone who had a meaningful impact on him.
"He never treated anyone differently no matter the reason and always kept it straight with us no matter the situation. He also showed me that no matter what stands in your way, you can achieve what you want."
Outside of work, Jeffrey says his greatest joy comes from being a husband, father, and provider for his family. He is the proud father of three daughters and hopes they will one day enjoy the same experiences and memories at FHUHS that he did.
When asked for a favorite quote, Jeffrey shared words from Tupac Shakur that continue to inspire him:
"Through every dark night, there's a bright day after that. So no matter how hard it gets, stick your chest out, keep your head up... and handle it."
Jeffrey’s advice for today’s Slate Valley students is simple but meaningful:
"Focus — high school isn’t forever. Enjoy your time while you're there and absorb as much knowledge as possible. You’ll be surprised by how much you carry with you into the real world and how much the decisions you make now can impact your future."
We thank Jeffrey for sharing his story and wish him continued success in his career, family life, and future endeavors.
From the football field at Fair Haven Union High School to building a career and family-centered life, this month’s alumni spotlight features Jeffrey Jr. York, a proud member of the Class of 2016 whose journey highlights hard work, perseverance, and dedication.
During his time at FHUHS, Jeffrey participated in football and was also involved in the school’s work study program, an experience that helped prepare him for life beyond graduation. Looking back, those experiences helped provide practical skills and a foundation that carried into adulthood.
After graduating Jeffrey entered the workforce and gained experience across several professions. Shortly after high school, he and his family welcomed their first daughter, Piper, while he worked in construction and explored different career opportunities.
Today, Jeffrey works at Doran brothers, and is enrolled in classes earning his CDL. Reflecting on the teachers who made a difference in his life, Jeffrey shared that choosing just one was difficult, but he credits Mr. Blackbird as someone who had a meaningful impact on him.
"He never treated anyone differently no matter the reason and always kept it straight with us no matter the situation. He also showed me that no matter what stands in your way, you can achieve what you want."
Outside of work, Jeffrey says his greatest joy comes from being a husband, father, and provider for his family. He is the proud father of three daughters and hopes they will one day enjoy the same experiences and memories at FHUHS that he did.
When asked for a favorite quote, Jeffrey shared words from Tupac Shakur that continue to inspire him:
"Through every dark night, there's a bright day after that. So no matter how hard it gets, stick your chest out, keep your head up... and handle it."
Jeffrey’s advice for today’s Slate Valley students is simple but meaningful:
"Focus — high school isn’t forever. Enjoy your time while you're there and absorb as much knowledge as possible. You’ll be surprised by how much you carry with you into the real world and how much the decisions you make now can impact your future."
We thank Jeffrey for sharing his story and wish him continued success in his career, family life, and future endeavors.
🎓 Trivia Tuesday – June Edition! 🎓
School is winding down, graduation celebrations are approaching, and we have an end of year question to test your knowledge!
Do you know?
Approximately how many days does a student spend in school from kindergarten through Grade 12?
Drop your guess in the comments below.
School is winding down, graduation celebrations are approaching, and we have an end of year question to test your knowledge!
Do you know?
Approximately how many days does a student spend in school from kindergarten through Grade 12?
Drop your guess in the comments below.
🎓 Congratulations to Our Stafford Technical Center Graduates! 🎓
On Friday, Fair Haven Union High School students who completed their studies at Stafford Technical Center were recognized during the annual Stafford Technical Center Awards Ceremony alongside graduates from all of the center’s sending schools.
Throughout their time at Stafford, these students gained valuable hands-on experience, industry-specific skills, certifications, and real-world learning opportunities.
We are proud of the dedication, hard work, and accomplishments of each student and congratulate them on this important milestone. We look forward to seeing all they achieve in the future!
👏 Join us in celebrating these outstanding students and their achievements!
On Friday, Fair Haven Union High School students who completed their studies at Stafford Technical Center were recognized during the annual Stafford Technical Center Awards Ceremony alongside graduates from all of the center’s sending schools.
Throughout their time at Stafford, these students gained valuable hands-on experience, industry-specific skills, certifications, and real-world learning opportunities.
We are proud of the dedication, hard work, and accomplishments of each student and congratulate them on this important milestone. We look forward to seeing all they achieve in the future!
👏 Join us in celebrating these outstanding students and their achievements!
🌱🍅 Free Plants for the Taking! 🍅🌱
Looking to add a few plants to your garden this season? FHUHS has you covered!
The Horticulture Program has a selection of free plants available outside the greenhouse, with mostly tomato plants ready for new homes.
Stop by, pick up a few plants, and give them a place to grow.
📍 Outside the FHUHS Greenhouse
🌱 Free and available while supplies last!
Happy planting! 🍅☀️
Looking to add a few plants to your garden this season? FHUHS has you covered!
The Horticulture Program has a selection of free plants available outside the greenhouse, with mostly tomato plants ready for new homes.
Stop by, pick up a few plants, and give them a place to grow.
📍 Outside the FHUHS Greenhouse
🌱 Free and available while supplies last!
Happy planting! 🍅☀️
🐾🔍 Students Get a Nose for Detection Work! 🔍🐾
On Friday, May 29, Law Enforcement and Career Exploration students had the opportunity to learn from a true canine professional when Kristie Adams and her dog, Stevie, visited campus.
Kristie shared insights into the world of dog training, with a special focus on nose work—the specialized training that teaches dogs to locate specific scents using their powerful sense of smell. Students learned about the dedication, patience, and partnership required to train working dogs for detection tasks.
After the presentation, Stevie put her skills on display, demonstrating how she searches for and identifies target scents. Students watched as she worked through scent-detection exercises, showcasing the focus, precision, and teamwork that make detection dogs such valuable partners.
Thank you to Kristie and Stevie for providing our students with an engaging, hands-on look at canine scent detection and the many career pathways that involve working with animals and public safety.
On Friday, May 29, Law Enforcement and Career Exploration students had the opportunity to learn from a true canine professional when Kristie Adams and her dog, Stevie, visited campus.
Kristie shared insights into the world of dog training, with a special focus on nose work—the specialized training that teaches dogs to locate specific scents using their powerful sense of smell. Students learned about the dedication, patience, and partnership required to train working dogs for detection tasks.
After the presentation, Stevie put her skills on display, demonstrating how she searches for and identifies target scents. Students watched as she worked through scent-detection exercises, showcasing the focus, precision, and teamwork that make detection dogs such valuable partners.
Thank you to Kristie and Stevie for providing our students with an engaging, hands-on look at canine scent detection and the many career pathways that involve working with animals and public safety.
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday: June Spotlight
This month, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on someone who truly represents dedication and commitment within Slate Valley—Ann Pelkey, our Payroll Specialist and the district’s longest-serving employee with an incredible 44 years of service!
For more than four decades, Ann has been an essential part of the Slate Valley family, beginning her career shortly after graduating from Castleton State College with a degree in Business Administration. Forty-four years is a remarkable milestone and a reflection of the care, consistency, and heart she brings to her work every day.
While many people may not realize it, Ann’s role impacts every employee across the district. In fact, if you work in Slate Valley and haven’t yet had the pleasure of meeting Ann personally, you’ve certainly benefited from her hard work behind the scenes. Every time a paycheck arrives accurately and on time, Ann makes that happen — and that’s definitely something worth being thankful for!
Outside of work, Ann enjoys karaoke, reading, mini golf, and spending time with family and friends. She loves going for walks and rides with her loyal and friendly dog, Belle. She is a volunteer at the Fair Haven American Legion, and also serves as secretary of the American Legion Auxiliary Fair Haven Unit 49.
Ann’s favorite saying perfectly reflects her fun spirit and sense of humor: “It’s never late till midnight — it’s early after that.”
When asked to share anything else, Ann simply said, “I so enjoy working and being a part of the Slate Valley family.” After 44 years of dedication, we can confidently say that the feeling is mutual.
Thank you, Ann, for your years of service, your commitment to the district, and for helping keep everything running behind the scenes. Slate Valley is fortunate to have you!
This month, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on someone who truly represents dedication and commitment within Slate Valley—Ann Pelkey, our Payroll Specialist and the district’s longest-serving employee with an incredible 44 years of service!
For more than four decades, Ann has been an essential part of the Slate Valley family, beginning her career shortly after graduating from Castleton State College with a degree in Business Administration. Forty-four years is a remarkable milestone and a reflection of the care, consistency, and heart she brings to her work every day.
While many people may not realize it, Ann’s role impacts every employee across the district. In fact, if you work in Slate Valley and haven’t yet had the pleasure of meeting Ann personally, you’ve certainly benefited from her hard work behind the scenes. Every time a paycheck arrives accurately and on time, Ann makes that happen — and that’s definitely something worth being thankful for!
Outside of work, Ann enjoys karaoke, reading, mini golf, and spending time with family and friends. She loves going for walks and rides with her loyal and friendly dog, Belle. She is a volunteer at the Fair Haven American Legion, and also serves as secretary of the American Legion Auxiliary Fair Haven Unit 49.
Ann’s favorite saying perfectly reflects her fun spirit and sense of humor: “It’s never late till midnight — it’s early after that.”
When asked to share anything else, Ann simply said, “I so enjoy working and being a part of the Slate Valley family.” After 44 years of dedication, we can confidently say that the feeling is mutual.
Thank you, Ann, for your years of service, your commitment to the district, and for helping keep everything running behind the scenes. Slate Valley is fortunate to have you!
NOTICE: Today's MS Baseball game at Christ the King has been cancelled.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: May 29, 2026 - https://mailchi.mp/3636bf31d624/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-15-13836785
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Erica Stoliker ✨🎓
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Bella Manley ✨🎓
