🍁 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!
⛳️ Free Girls Golf Clinic Opportunity!
The Vermont State Women’s Golf Association (VSWGA) is hosting a FREE golf clinic for girls ages 12–18 on May 30 (rain date May 31) at Ralph Myhre Golf Course in Middlebury!
This is an incredible opportunity for middle and high school girls of all skill levels to try golf, build confidence, and learn from an amazing lineup of LPGA & PGA instructors—including former collegiate and professional golfers from Vermont.
🏌️♀️ What’s included:
• Free instruction
• Lunch
• Swag
• Fun, supportive environment
Spots are limited and first-come, first-served, so don’t wait!
👉 Register here: https://vswga.org/junior-clinic/
The Vermont State Women’s Golf Association (VSWGA) is hosting a FREE golf clinic for girls ages 12–18 on May 30 (rain date May 31) at Ralph Myhre Golf Course in Middlebury!
This is an incredible opportunity for middle and high school girls of all skill levels to try golf, build confidence, and learn from an amazing lineup of LPGA & PGA instructors—including former collegiate and professional golfers from Vermont.
🏌️♀️ What’s included:
• Free instruction
• Lunch
• Swag
• Fun, supportive environment
Spots are limited and first-come, first-served, so don’t wait!
👉 Register here: https://vswga.org/junior-clinic/
📣 Reminder: Budget Information Meeting TONIGHT & Vote TOMORROW
Join us this evening to learn more and get your questions answered ahead of tomorrow’s vote:
🗓 Tonight – Monday, March 30, 2026
⏰ 6:30 PM
📍 FHUMHS School Band Room
💻 Virtual option available: https://meet.google.com/bic-zkty-xmx
📞 Or dial: (US) +1 240-812-1886 PIN: 193 973 799#
🗳 Vote Tomorrow – March 31st
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
For more details, visit: www.slatevalleyunified.org
Your voice matters—stay informed and be sure to vote!
Join us this evening to learn more and get your questions answered ahead of tomorrow’s vote:
🗓 Tonight – Monday, March 30, 2026
⏰ 6:30 PM
📍 FHUMHS School Band Room
💻 Virtual option available: https://meet.google.com/bic-zkty-xmx
📞 Or dial: (US) +1 240-812-1886 PIN: 193 973 799#
🗳 Vote Tomorrow – March 31st
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
For more details, visit: www.slatevalleyunified.org
Your voice matters—stay informed and be sure to vote!
🎟️🎉 Happening TOMORROW! 🎉🎟️
Join us for a Basket Raffle to support the Class of 2026 Project Graduation!
📅 Saturday, March 28, 2026
📍 Fair Haven Union High School
🕚 Doors open at 11:00 AM
🎟️ Drawings begin at 1:00 PM
💲 $5 entry (includes one sheet of tickets)
➕ Additional tickets: $2 per sheet
Come check out a variety of raffle baskets, try your luck with 50/50 tickets, and enjoy concessions!
Don’t miss this fun event for a great cause—see you there! 💙
Join us for a Basket Raffle to support the Class of 2026 Project Graduation!
📅 Saturday, March 28, 2026
📍 Fair Haven Union High School
🕚 Doors open at 11:00 AM
🎟️ Drawings begin at 1:00 PM
💲 $5 entry (includes one sheet of tickets)
➕ Additional tickets: $2 per sheet
Come check out a variety of raffle baskets, try your luck with 50/50 tickets, and enjoy concessions!
Don’t miss this fun event for a great cause—see you there! 💙
Slate Valley District Newsletter: March 27, 2026 https://mailchi.mp/6c2b1eb06ee9/slate-valley-district-newsletter-32726
🌱💚 FHUMHS Students Giving Back for Green-Up Day! 💚🌱
On May 1st, students from Fair Haven Union Middle & High School will be out in the community celebrating Green-Up Day—and they’re ready to lend a helping hand!
From spring yard clean-ups to other small outdoor tasks, our students are excited to support members of the Slate Valley community. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, give back, and make a positive impact together.
If you or someone you know could use a little extra help this spring, please fill out the quick form below. FHUMHS principals and assistant principals will review submissions and follow up directly.
👉 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfHYQ48U-NIH-q2A1cECoC8cBXMl0eQSxBGHs8ZvZqpa98wow/viewform?usp=dialog
Thank you for being part of our community—and for helping our students make a difference! 🌎✨
On May 1st, students from Fair Haven Union Middle & High School will be out in the community celebrating Green-Up Day—and they’re ready to lend a helping hand!
From spring yard clean-ups to other small outdoor tasks, our students are excited to support members of the Slate Valley community. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, give back, and make a positive impact together.
If you or someone you know could use a little extra help this spring, please fill out the quick form below. FHUMHS principals and assistant principals will review submissions and follow up directly.
👉 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfHYQ48U-NIH-q2A1cECoC8cBXMl0eQSxBGHs8ZvZqpa98wow/viewform?usp=dialog
Thank you for being part of our community—and for helping our students make a difference! 🌎✨
🚍💙 Off they go!
Some of our students are headed to Rhode Island for an exciting college exploration trip sponsored by GEAR UP! Along the way, they’ll visit campuses—including Lincoln Technical Institute and Rhode Island College—take part in team-building activities, and continue exploring additional colleges on their return journey.
This is an incredible opportunity for our students to learn, grow, and start envisioning their futures beyond high school. 🎓✨
A big thank you to Rachel Casey (GEAR UP), Kaycee Eastman (FHUMHS counselor), and Zack Belden (History teacher) for chaperoning and making this experience possible!
Have fun and safe travels! 🚍💙
Some of our students are headed to Rhode Island for an exciting college exploration trip sponsored by GEAR UP! Along the way, they’ll visit campuses—including Lincoln Technical Institute and Rhode Island College—take part in team-building activities, and continue exploring additional colleges on their return journey.
This is an incredible opportunity for our students to learn, grow, and start envisioning their futures beyond high school. 🎓✨
A big thank you to Rachel Casey (GEAR UP), Kaycee Eastman (FHUMHS counselor), and Zack Belden (History teacher) for chaperoning and making this experience possible!
Have fun and safe travels! 🚍💙
Pampered Chef Bingo for Middle School Yearbook is tomorrow Night (Friday, March 27)! Please join us if you are able. Doors open at 5:30pm, to get your seat and refreshments (pizza, popcorn, baked goods, and drinks for sale.) Bingo will start at 6pm. There will be 10 rounds of Bingo with Pampered Chef Prizes. 10 rounds for $20. “Made in Vermont” raffle tickets will be available for purchase and the winners will be drawn before the evening ends. 50/50 tickets available as well. We hope to see you there!
🏃♂️⚾🥎 Fair Haven Union Middle School Spring Sports Meeting 🥎⚾🏃♀️
Families and student-athletes—don’t miss this important informational meeting as we gear up for the spring season!
📅 Tuesday, March 31st
⏰ 5:30 PM
📍 Fair Haven Union Middle & High School
(Meeting location will be posted in the lobby)
We’ll cover everything you need to know, including:
✔️ Physicals & registrations
✔️ What to bring to practices
✔️ School & team expectations
✔️ Practice & game schedules/locations
✔️ Roster sizes
✔️ Transportation for baseball & softball games
🏃♀️ Practices begin Wednesday, April 1st!
• Track & Field: 3:30 PM (on the track)
• Baseball & Softball: Location TBD (based on field conditions)
Let’s get ready for a great season! 💙
Families and student-athletes—don’t miss this important informational meeting as we gear up for the spring season!
📅 Tuesday, March 31st
⏰ 5:30 PM
📍 Fair Haven Union Middle & High School
(Meeting location will be posted in the lobby)
We’ll cover everything you need to know, including:
✔️ Physicals & registrations
✔️ What to bring to practices
✔️ School & team expectations
✔️ Practice & game schedules/locations
✔️ Roster sizes
✔️ Transportation for baseball & softball games
🏃♀️ Practices begin Wednesday, April 1st!
• Track & Field: 3:30 PM (on the track)
• Baseball & Softball: Location TBD (based on field conditions)
Let’s get ready for a great season! 💙
Slate Valley Estimated Tax Rates Remain Stable - Decreases Expected in Largest Towns
As we approach the FY27 budget revote on March 31, 2026, here are a few key highlights:
• Education spending (budget less local revenue) increase: just 0.86%
• Per-pupil increase (2.7%) is due to declining enrollment—not new spending
• No estimated tax rate increases at or above 7%
• Estimated decreases in our largest towns:
Castleton: –3.44% | Fair Haven: –0.56%
By the numbers:
• $32M budget supports all five schools
• Among the lowest per-pupil spending in Vermont
• Estimated equalized tax rate: $1.2955 (down 5¢ from last year)
What this means:
• 62% of taxpayers pay based on income sensitivity—many may pay less than property-based estimates
• Local tax trends continue to differ from statewide headlines
📍 Informational Meeting: March 30 | 6:30 PM | FHUMHS Band Room
🗳 Budget Revote: March 31, 2026
For even more detailed information, visit www.slatevalleyunified.org
As we approach the FY27 budget revote on March 31, 2026, here are a few key highlights:
• Education spending (budget less local revenue) increase: just 0.86%
• Per-pupil increase (2.7%) is due to declining enrollment—not new spending
• No estimated tax rate increases at or above 7%
• Estimated decreases in our largest towns:
Castleton: –3.44% | Fair Haven: –0.56%
By the numbers:
• $32M budget supports all five schools
• Among the lowest per-pupil spending in Vermont
• Estimated equalized tax rate: $1.2955 (down 5¢ from last year)
What this means:
• 62% of taxpayers pay based on income sensitivity—many may pay less than property-based estimates
• Local tax trends continue to differ from statewide headlines
📍 Informational Meeting: March 30 | 6:30 PM | FHUMHS Band Room
🗳 Budget Revote: March 31, 2026
For even more detailed information, visit www.slatevalleyunified.org
We are so proud of our Fair Haven drama students for their performances at the Vermont Drama Council Regional Festival this weekend! 🎭👏
Our cast delivered outstanding performances on both Friday and Saturday. While we did not place in the top two and will not be advancing to the state festival, our students truly shined on stage.
The group was honored with a Cast Award for Comedic Energy around a gravy boat, recognizing their creativity, timing, and teamwork.
We also celebrate three students for their individual acting achievements:
✨ Burton Pelletier as Audience Member
✨ Shira Hertzberg as Carrie
✨ James Shorey as Ralph
A special congratulations to James Shorey, who was named to the All-Star Cast and will perform at the state festival this year—an incredible honor!
A heartfelt thank you to Mr. Muller, who leads this talented group and supports our students every step of the way. We are so proud of all involved!
Our cast delivered outstanding performances on both Friday and Saturday. While we did not place in the top two and will not be advancing to the state festival, our students truly shined on stage.
The group was honored with a Cast Award for Comedic Energy around a gravy boat, recognizing their creativity, timing, and teamwork.
We also celebrate three students for their individual acting achievements:
✨ Burton Pelletier as Audience Member
✨ Shira Hertzberg as Carrie
✨ James Shorey as Ralph
A special congratulations to James Shorey, who was named to the All-Star Cast and will perform at the state festival this year—an incredible honor!
A heartfelt thank you to Mr. Muller, who leads this talented group and supports our students every step of the way. We are so proud of all involved!
FHUMS Newsletter: March 23, 2026 https://app.smore.com/n/t459r
Off-season Cheer conditioning starts soon! 📣✨
This is the perfect opportunity to build strength, sharpen skills, and get a head start before the regular season begins❗️
Whether you’re already part of the team or interested in cheer but want to grow your skills first, this is for you❗
Open to grades 7–12 for the 2026/2027 academic year, so don’t wait—be sure to fill out the Cheer Interest Form to get started. Let’s put in the work now and shine later! 💪🎀
Link to Fall Cheer Interest Form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc7tvX_UuE20GTJrB0Gy0bxAN9F9erQxhQjZllh7ASZ6_nG5w/viewform?usp=header
This is the perfect opportunity to build strength, sharpen skills, and get a head start before the regular season begins❗️
Whether you’re already part of the team or interested in cheer but want to grow your skills first, this is for you❗
Open to grades 7–12 for the 2026/2027 academic year, so don’t wait—be sure to fill out the Cheer Interest Form to get started. Let’s put in the work now and shine later! 💪🎀
Link to Fall Cheer Interest Form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc7tvX_UuE20GTJrB0Gy0bxAN9F9erQxhQjZllh7ASZ6_nG5w/viewform?usp=header
📣 Date Change Announcement 📣
Please note an important update for the Diane Flood Memorial Basketball Game 🏀💗
The event has been rescheduled:
➡️ NEW DATE: April 9, 2026
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM
📍 Fair Haven Union High School Gymnasium
Join us as seniors take on staff in this meaningful game hosted by the FHU Student Council. Proceeds will fund a scholarship in Diane’s name—making this a special night of community, remembrance, and support.
🎟 Tickets:
Students/Seniors: $3
Adults: $5
We hope to see you there!
Please note an important update for the Diane Flood Memorial Basketball Game 🏀💗
The event has been rescheduled:
➡️ NEW DATE: April 9, 2026
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM
📍 Fair Haven Union High School Gymnasium
Join us as seniors take on staff in this meaningful game hosted by the FHU Student Council. Proceeds will fund a scholarship in Diane’s name—making this a special night of community, remembrance, and support.
🎟 Tickets:
Students/Seniors: $3
Adults: $5
We hope to see you there!
