Submitted by Athletic Director, Eric Ramey: Congratulations to Slater junior Anthony Szabo on being selected as the 2026 Rutland Herald Male Wrestler of the Year! Anthony continues to pile up the accoloades, and is one of Slater Nation's best ambassadores. Well done Ant!
Rutland Herald link below.
Source: Rutland Herald Szabo, Allen earn Herald honors https://share.google/xO5Dzxi7VXjLUaBhl
Rutland Herald link below.
Source: Rutland Herald Szabo, Allen earn Herald honors https://share.google/xO5Dzxi7VXjLUaBhl
Board Meeting - April 6, 2026
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Benson Village School Gym.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: link: https://meet.google.com/tbg-nhei-qjq
Or dial: (US) +1 484-321-6815 PIN: 473 638 758#
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 Benson Village School Gym.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: link: https://meet.google.com/tbg-nhei-qjq
Or dial: (US) +1 484-321-6815 PIN: 473 638 758#
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.
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday — April Spotlight
This month, we’re excited to highlight Becky Hughes, who has been a dedicated Instructional Assistant at CES for the past 5 years!
Becky brings nearly 20 years of experience in education, and her journey began in a meaningful and unexpected way. During a conference for her youngest child, a pre-K teacher encouraged her to consider substitute teaching—and that conversation sparked a career. Within six months, Becky transitioned from subbing to a full-time teaching assistant.
She spent 12 years at Saratoga County Head Start, followed by three years as a paraeducator in an autism classroom at Rutland Intermediate School. Wanting to be closer to home, Becky joined Slate Valley—and we’re so glad she did!
When she’s not at school, Becky enjoys spending time with her family and going camping whenever she can. She also keeps busy working a second job—and has a fun and unique hobby… she collects cows!
Becky lives by a message that reflects both her work and her heart:
“It’s okay to be different, and be kind to others.”
Thank you, Becky, for the care, compassion, and positivity you bring to CES each day!
This month, we’re excited to highlight Becky Hughes, who has been a dedicated Instructional Assistant at CES for the past 5 years!
Becky brings nearly 20 years of experience in education, and her journey began in a meaningful and unexpected way. During a conference for her youngest child, a pre-K teacher encouraged her to consider substitute teaching—and that conversation sparked a career. Within six months, Becky transitioned from subbing to a full-time teaching assistant.
She spent 12 years at Saratoga County Head Start, followed by three years as a paraeducator in an autism classroom at Rutland Intermediate School. Wanting to be closer to home, Becky joined Slate Valley—and we’re so glad she did!
When she’s not at school, Becky enjoys spending time with her family and going camping whenever she can. She also keeps busy working a second job—and has a fun and unique hobby… she collects cows!
Becky lives by a message that reflects both her work and her heart:
“It’s okay to be different, and be kind to others.”
Thank you, Becky, for the care, compassion, and positivity you bring to CES each day!
Submitted by coach Ramey: The Slaters Unified Basketball team played its first ever game on Tuesday, traveling to Mill River to take on the Minutemen. After a close first half, the home team had a big 3rd quarter to get the win.
The leading scorer for the Slaters was Brett Hazen with 16 points. He was followed by his brother Troy Hazen with 8pts, Jaden Bots and Selina White with 4pts, and Nate Moulton, Travis Alger and Jordan Alger each scored 2pts.
The Slaters mentors were outstanding keeping the game at a fast pace, and all of our athletes scored in the game, and played their best from start to finish!
The Slaters will be back in action on Tuesday April 7th, traveling to Springfield to take on the Cosmos at 5:30pm.
The leading scorer for the Slaters was Brett Hazen with 16 points. He was followed by his brother Troy Hazen with 8pts, Jaden Bots and Selina White with 4pts, and Nate Moulton, Travis Alger and Jordan Alger each scored 2pts.
The Slaters mentors were outstanding keeping the game at a fast pace, and all of our athletes scored in the game, and played their best from start to finish!
The Slaters will be back in action on Tuesday April 7th, traveling to Springfield to take on the Cosmos at 5:30pm.
🎨 FHU Students Shine at Southern Vermont Art Center! 🎨
We’re excited to share that Fair Haven Union Middle & High School students are having an amazing showing at the Southern Vermont Art Center this spring!
There are two exhibits featuring our talented students:
🖼️ High School Show: March 13 – May 3, 2026
🖼️ Middle School Show: April 3 – May 17, 2026
✨ Opening Reception:
📅 Friday, April 3
⏰ 4:00–7:00 PM
🎟️ Free and open to all!
After opening night, admission is free for those under 18, and $15 for adults.
👏 We are proud to have 10 high school students and 30 middle school students represented in these exhibits—an incredible showcase of creativity and hard work!
This is a wonderful opportunity to support our student artists and experience their work in a professional gallery setting. If you’re able, we encourage you to stop by and celebrate their achievements!
We’re excited to share that Fair Haven Union Middle & High School students are having an amazing showing at the Southern Vermont Art Center this spring!
There are two exhibits featuring our talented students:
🖼️ High School Show: March 13 – May 3, 2026
🖼️ Middle School Show: April 3 – May 17, 2026
✨ Opening Reception:
📅 Friday, April 3
⏰ 4:00–7:00 PM
🎟️ Free and open to all!
After opening night, admission is free for those under 18, and $15 for adults.
👏 We are proud to have 10 high school students and 30 middle school students represented in these exhibits—an incredible showcase of creativity and hard work!
This is a wonderful opportunity to support our student artists and experience their work in a professional gallery setting. If you’re able, we encourage you to stop by and celebrate their achievements!
🍁 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! 🚍💙
