🎓✨ Calling All Seniors — We Want to Celebrate YOU! ✨🎓
Graduation is right around the corner, and we want to help share your next chapter with the Slate Valley community! Whether you’re heading to college, entering the workforce, joining the military, pursuing a trade, taking a gap year, or following another exciting path, we want to hear your story.
Our communities love celebrating the many unique journeys our graduates take, and there is no better way to showcase the incredible accomplishments and future plans of the Class of 2026.
Please take a few moments to complete the form and help us spotlight your achievements and what comes next!
📅 Submit by May 27
🔗 Complete the form here: https://bit.ly/FHUClassof2026
📱 Or simply scan the QR code on the flyer.
We’re incredibly proud of all you’ve accomplished and cannot wait to celebrate the amazing places life takes you.
Graduation is right around the corner, and we want to help share your next chapter with the Slate Valley community! Whether you’re heading to college, entering the workforce, joining the military, pursuing a trade, taking a gap year, or following another exciting path, we want to hear your story.
Our communities love celebrating the many unique journeys our graduates take, and there is no better way to showcase the incredible accomplishments and future plans of the Class of 2026.
Please take a few moments to complete the form and help us spotlight your achievements and what comes next!
📅 Submit by May 27
🔗 Complete the form here: https://bit.ly/FHUClassof2026
📱 Or simply scan the QR code on the flyer.
We’re incredibly proud of all you’ve accomplished and cannot wait to celebrate the amazing places life takes you.
🏫➡️💙 Preparing for the next chapter!
On Friday, May 22, members of our middle school team hit the road for a special Traveling Road Show, visiting all four Slate Valley elementary schools to meet with current 6th grade students and help ease the transition to middle school.
Kim Ezzo, Archie Clark, Alex Chirgwin, and Principal Paquette spent time answering questions, sharing what students can expect, and helping future middle schoolers feel excited and confident about the move ahead.
Transitioning to a new school is a big milestone, and these visits are an important opportunity to help students learn more about middle school life, build connections, and begin seeing themselves as part of the FHU Middle School community.
On Friday, May 22, members of our middle school team hit the road for a special Traveling Road Show, visiting all four Slate Valley elementary schools to meet with current 6th grade students and help ease the transition to middle school.
Kim Ezzo, Archie Clark, Alex Chirgwin, and Principal Paquette spent time answering questions, sharing what students can expect, and helping future middle schoolers feel excited and confident about the move ahead.
Transitioning to a new school is a big milestone, and these visits are an important opportunity to help students learn more about middle school life, build connections, and begin seeing themselves as part of the FHU Middle School community.
Over the next several days, students and staff at FHUMHS will participate in the school’s final “Options-Based” safety drill of the year. This drill provides an important opportunity for our school community to review and practice safety procedures as we continue working to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment at FHU.
🏃♀️🏃♂️ Lace up your sneakers and join the fun! Slate Valley Rotary’s Annual 5K Fun Run & Walk is coming up, and every step supports a great cause.
📅 Saturday, June 27, 2026
📍 Fair Haven Park
⏰ Registration: 7:45 a.m.
⏰ Event Start: 8:30 a.m.
All proceeds will benefit the Slaters Track & Field Team, helping support student-athletes and their programs. Whether you’re running for a personal best, walking with friends and family, or simply showing your Slater spirit, everyone is welcome!
💲 Registration Fees:
• Adults: $20
• Kids under 12: $10
Pre-register on active.com and help support our Slaters while enjoying a fun community event! 🏅💙
📅 Saturday, June 27, 2026
📍 Fair Haven Park
⏰ Registration: 7:45 a.m.
⏰ Event Start: 8:30 a.m.
All proceeds will benefit the Slaters Track & Field Team, helping support student-athletes and their programs. Whether you’re running for a personal best, walking with friends and family, or simply showing your Slater spirit, everyone is welcome!
💲 Registration Fees:
• Adults: $20
• Kids under 12: $10
Pre-register on active.com and help support our Slaters while enjoying a fun community event! 🏅💙
🦋🥎 Join us as FHU Varsity Softball takes the field for a meaningful cause during the Morgan’s Message Dedication Game at Fair Haven!
📅 Wednesday, May 27
🥎 Fair Haven vs. Middlebury
Morgan’s Message is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health within the student-athlete community, normalizing conversations about mental wellness, and ensuring mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health.
This dedication game honors the mission of Morgan Rodgers and raises awareness that athletes are more than their performance — mental health matters, too. Together, we can help create a culture where student-athletes feel supported, heard, and empowered to seek help when needed.
Come support our Slaters and stand with us as we take a shot at mental health. 💙🦋
📅 Wednesday, May 27
🥎 Fair Haven vs. Middlebury
Morgan’s Message is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health within the student-athlete community, normalizing conversations about mental wellness, and ensuring mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health.
This dedication game honors the mission of Morgan Rodgers and raises awareness that athletes are more than their performance — mental health matters, too. Together, we can help create a culture where student-athletes feel supported, heard, and empowered to seek help when needed.
Come support our Slaters and stand with us as we take a shot at mental health. 💙🦋
🌿🚣 Celebrating 40 Years of Summer Environmental Projects! 🚣🌿
For four decades, students and community members in Slate Valley have explored, learned, and connected with nature through unforgettable summer environmental programs—from the original East Creek Project, to CARP & CHAMP, and today’s GAP program.
Now it’s time to celebrate this incredible milestone together!
📅 Saturday, May 30
🕙 10:00 a.m.
📍 Glen Lake
Whether you participated years ago, are involved today, or simply enjoy the outdoors, everyone is invited to join us as we celebrate 40 years of environmental learning, stewardship, and memories.
🚣 Need a kayak? Kayaks may be available to borrow! Contact cstantonvt@gmail.com
Come reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the impact these programs have had across generations. 🌲
For four decades, students and community members in Slate Valley have explored, learned, and connected with nature through unforgettable summer environmental programs—from the original East Creek Project, to CARP & CHAMP, and today’s GAP program.
Now it’s time to celebrate this incredible milestone together!
📅 Saturday, May 30
🕙 10:00 a.m.
📍 Glen Lake
Whether you participated years ago, are involved today, or simply enjoy the outdoors, everyone is invited to join us as we celebrate 40 years of environmental learning, stewardship, and memories.
🚣 Need a kayak? Kayaks may be available to borrow! Contact cstantonvt@gmail.com
Come reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the impact these programs have had across generations. 🌲
District Newsletter - May 22, 2026: https://mailchi.mp/330cab433461/slate-valley-district-newsletter-may-15-13836741
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.
🏃 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.
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. ❤️🤍💙
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. ❤️🤍💙
📣 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. ❤️🤍💙
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. ❤️🤍💙
📣 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.
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.
📚⛰️ 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. 🇺🇸✨
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. 🇺🇸✨
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Riley Babbie ✨🎓
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Savannah Wilkinson ✨🎓
🏆 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. 🤠🐎💙
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. 🤠🐎💙
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Taylor Lesan✨🎓
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/
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/
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! 🧗🐎🌲
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! 🧗🐎🌲
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Olivia Paige ✨🎓
🎓✨ Senior Spotlight: Victoria Kelly ✨🎓
