Slate Valley District Newsletter: February 13, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/d1e32e42eac9/district-newsletter-february-13-2026
1 day ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter” dated February 13, 2026, with a Presidents Day themed banner showing a patriotic design and an illustration of George Washington. Text states that all Slate Valley schools will be in session on Monday, February 16, 2026 (Presidents Day), and it is a regular school day for students and staff.
There is nothing quite like watching a student master a new skill. Our 4th, 5th, and 6th graders spent their day at Pico Mountain conquering trails and building confidence, all thanks to some stellar coaching. So proud of their persistence and spirit!
2 days ago, Slate Valley
Students in helmets and ski gear stand in a line on a groomed ski slope while an instructor in a red jacket on skis gives directions.
Two elementary students wearing helmets and green bibs stand on skis facing the camera on a sunny slope with other skiers behind them.
Three young skiers in helmets and numbered bibs stand together on skis near the base area with a chairlift and trail in the background.
An instructor on skis speaks with a young student in a helmet and green bib, both standing on a gentle slope during a lesson.
A small group of students in helmets and orange bibs gather around an instructor on skis near a boundary rope at the ski area.
Two students in helmets and red training bibs ski slowly past a lodge building with long icicles hanging from the roof.
Students wearing helmets and winter gear ski slowly down a gentle snowy trail bordered by trees, practicing control and spacing.
Two young skiers sit on a snow-covered picnic table holding their skis and poles, resting near equipment, cones, and a plowed area.
A small group of students on skis glide across a flat area near the base of a ski hill with lift towers and buildings in the background.
Wide view of a ski slope with several skiers descending at different distances, lift poles and cables running up the right side, and wooded hills beyond.
Today's Rutland Herald: Scan the QR Code in the photo or go to https://bit.ly/SVULTA to see the accompanying video.
4 days ago, Slate Valley
Poster for Slate Valley Unified USD promoting the Lifetime Activities program. The graphic includes the district logo and text listing the towns served, with multiple photos of students participating in activities such as woodworking, hiking, ice skating, ice fishing, martial arts training, treadmill fitness, fishing, cooking, and horseback riding. A central text block explains the history and purpose of the Lifetime Activities program and notes winter and late spring sessions. The poster includes a video link and QR code, the slogan “Our School, Your Future,” and district contact information with website and social media icons.
Science or Magic? Ask the First Graders! ❄️🧤

After hopping aboard the Magic School Bus to learn how animals stay toasty in the Arctic, our little scientists put Ms. Frizzle’s lessons to the test.
We set up a "Blubber Lab" with bowls of ice water and a big question: Can "blubber" really keep our hands from freezing?

*The Prediction: Students made their best guesses (there were some skeptics!).
The Experiment: One hand in plain ice water, the other protected by a "blubber glove."
The Discovery: The "Aha!" moments were everywhere as they realized their predictions were (mostly!) spot on.

It turns out, polar bears really do know what they’re doing! 🐻‍❄️✨
4 days ago, Slate Valley
Group of elementary students standing together on a classroom rug wearing colorful safety goggles, posing and smiling during a science activity.
Two students wearing safety goggles place a sealed plastic bag into a large red bowl filled with ice, conducting a classroom science experiment.
Two students in goggles lean over a teal bowl of ice water while holding a plastic bag, smiling during a hands-on experiment.
Three students in safety goggles watch as another student lowers a sealed bag into a metal bowl of ice for a science experiment.
Three students wearing red goggles lean closely over a red bowl filled with ice water, carefully observing the experiment.
Five students in goggles gather around a metal bowl of ice while one student dips a measuring strip or paper into the water as others watch.
Two students wearing goggles look into a teal bowl of ice water while one holds a test strip above the surface.
Three students in goggles observe a metal bowl filled with ice water as one student places a test strip into the bowl.
Four students around a lab table with goggles and materials prepare for an ice-bath science activity in a classroom.
Four students wearing safety goggles stand around a lab table with a red bowl of ice and experiment supplies, smiling at the camera.
The OVS March Madness Chess Tournament is BACK!
For a decade, our students have battled it out on the 64 squares—and this year is set to be our biggest yet. Last year we saw a massive turnout with 91 games and 41 players, but the 10th-anniversary trophy is up for grabs and the stakes have never been higher.

Will our defending OVS champion hold the line, or will a new strategist rise to the top? Expect clever plays, intense checkmates, and world-class sportsmanship.
4 days ago, Slate Valley
Colorful poster titled “OVS March Madness Chess Tournament 2026” with paw print accents and a chess knight graphic. Text reads: “Play Fair, Play Hard,” orientation on 3/9, starts March 10th, held during lunch and recess. Open to grades 2–6. Features a double-elimination bracket and the message “Win with grace, lose with dignity.”
OVS Family Folk Dance - Wednesday, February 18th starting at 6:30!
5 days ago, Slate Valley
Bright yellow and orange flyer for Orwell Village School Family Folk Dance featuring silhouettes of children holding hands in a circle. Text reads: “Orwell Village School Family Folk Dance, Wednesday February 18, 2026, starts at 6:30–7:30. Easy dances first. Band: Red Dog Riley. Sponsored by Orwell Booster Club. Refreshments in the cafeteria following dance.”
🚨 All Slate Valley Afterschool Activities & Athletics Are Cancelled – Tuesday, February 10, 2026 🌨️

Due to the impending weather, all afterschool activities and athletics are cancelled today, Tuesday, February 10, 2026. This also includes Boys & Girls Club programs.

Please plan for students to go home at regular dismissal time. Thank you for your understanding, and please stay safe.
5 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic with a snowy background and the Slate Valley logo that reads: “Tuesday, February 10, 2026 — All Slate Valley After School Activities & Athletics Are Canceled. This includes Boys & Girls Club Programs.”
ATTENTION: Tonight’s School Board meeting has been moved to the Orwell Village School library.
6 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic announcing a Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting on February 9, 2026 at 6:30 PM at Orwell Village School, with the location updated from Town Hall Gym to Library. Agenda items listed include Consent Agenda, Board Reorganization, and Finance Committee Report, with district and Vermont-style logos displayed.
Board Meeting - February 9, 2026
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Orwell Village School – Town Hall/Gym.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/fxz-sazi-cds
Or dial: (US) +1 567-234-0136 PIN: 731 443 207#

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.
6 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic announcing a Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting with text “Please Join Us Tonight,” agenda highlights (consent agenda, board reorganization, finance committee report), scheduled for February 9, 2026 at 6:30 PM at Orwell Village School Town Hall/Gym, with district logo and people icons in a circle.
Slate Valley District Newsletter for February 6, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/1a88fa7ae27d/slate-valley-district-newsletter-262026
9 days ago, Slate Valley
Header graphic for the Slate Valley Unified USD Newsletter dated February 6, 2026, showing a cartoon groundhog popping out of a snowy burrow with the sun behind it, flanked by two worried-looking cartoon children, with school branding elements in the corners.
It’s been a vibrant, messy, and totally inspired week in the OVS art studio! Our young artists have been busy exploring a world of color and texture using everything from Sharpies and oil pastels to chalk and paint.
9 days ago, Slate Valley
Student painting a multicolored handprint artwork with a brush and watercolor palette in the foreground while classmates work at tables behind.
Several young students stand around a classroom art table painting colorful handprint-style designs with watercolor paints and brushes near a window.
Smiling student seated at a classroom table coloring a handprint art page with oil pastels, with a container of pastels and pencils nearby.
Students lined up at an art table carefully painting bright, layered handprint artwork, with paint palettes and water cups spread across the surface.
Student in a red shirt coloring a handprint-themed worksheet with a pencil while classmates work quietly at tables in the background.
Group of elementary students working at a table, some coloring handprint drawings with oil pastels while others paint with watercolors on similar hand-themed art projects.
Older students at an art table shaping and pressing small colorful pieces of modeling material onto purple paper while working on a mixed-media project.
Small group of students gathered around an art table outlining and coloring handprint designs with markers and crayons on large sheets of paper.
Nothing says "Vermont PE" like a fresh dusting of snow and a sled! ❄️🛷

Our OVS students traded the gym floor for the sledding hill today, making the most of this winter weather. There’s no better way to get moving and work on those "downhill skills" than a day in the snow with friends.

Check out these smiles!
9 days ago, Slate Valley
Six children in winter coats, hats, and mittens smile and wave while sitting together on a green sled at the top of a snowy schoolyard hill.
Two children ride a sled downhill while another child runs and pushes from behind on a snow-covered school field, with houses and playground equipment in the background.
Child in winter gear sits on a blue sled partway down a snowy hill while other students with sleds stand and prepare behind them.
Two children share an orange sled on the snow, one seated and smiling at the camera while another leans forward behind them, with more students and sleds nearby.
Wide view of a snowy sledding hill with several children climbing up and sliding down on colorful sleds near a playground and neighborhood homes.
Group of children in winter clothing gather at the top of a snowy hill with green, blue, and orange sleds, getting ready for their next runs.
Morning meetings, games, and new skills on display! It was "First Friday" at OVS, and our K-3 classrooms were buzzing with parents and guardians joining the fun.

While the younger crews were busy at school, our 4-6th graders hit the road for Pico!

We love our OVS community. Happy Friday!
9 days ago, Slate Valley
Elementary classroom circle time with a teacher seated at the front and young students sitting on a colorful rug, some holding up papers, while a few adults observe from chairs along the wall.
Several adults and young students gathered on a classroom rug working together on a hands-on activity, with shelves of supplies and play materials in the background.
Teacher leaning over a table helping two students assemble a jigsaw puzzle, with puzzle pieces spread across a black tabletop.
Teacher assisting two students sorting and fitting together jigsaw puzzle pieces at a classroom table near a window.
Small group of students and an adult smiling at a classroom table with laptops, notebooks, and a headset, working collaboratively on an activity.
Four upper elementary students seated around a table working on a paper activity with markers and worksheets, while other groups work in the background.
Wide classroom view with students seated at desks raising their hands while a teacher leads a lesson at the front near a large display screen.
🌟 Friday Focus: Celebrating Our School Board 🌟

Happy Friday, Slate Valley! This month’s Friday Focus is dedicated to a very special group of people who work tirelessly behind the scenes. February is School Board Appreciation Month, and we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to the members of the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board.

Our board members are more than just policy-makers; they are dedicated volunteers, parents, and neighbors who invest countless hours to ensure every student in our community has the tools they need to succeed. From navigating complex budgets to championing innovative programs, their leadership keeps our district moving forward.

To our Board Members: Thank you for your time, your passion, and your unwavering commitment to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District. We appreciate everything you do!
9 days ago, Slate Valley
A social media graphic for "Friday Focus." The top section is teal with the text "Friday Focus" and a script overlay "February is School Board Appreciation Month." Below this is a photograph of ten people, the Slate Valley Unified Union School Board, seated around a long table with laptops and papers. Below the photo, the text reads, "We extend heartfelt appreciation to the esteemed members of the Slate Valley Unified Union School Board for their dedication and service to our community's students." To the right is a circular green and white logo for "SLATE VALLEY VERMONT - A UNIFIED FOCUS ON LEARNING" with stylized mountains and a figure. In the bottom left corner, in a script font, are the words "Thank You!"
🏛️✨ Throwback Thursday — Going Back to 2016! ✨🏛️

This week we’re heading back 10 years to 2016 to celebrate an impressive student achievement from Castleton Village School. Students in Ms. White’s 7th–8th grade JUMP enrichment group — a cross-grade period where middle schoolers collaborated on special projects — competed in the 3D Vermont Olympiad, a statewide, project-based learning competition combining local history, research, design, and engineering.

As part of the Olympiad, students researched historic buildings in their town, studied their historical significance, created multimedia reports, and constructed detailed, to-scale 3D models for judging and presentation.

That year, CVS students formed two teams. One group focused on the Federated Church of Castleton, while the other researched the Castleton Medical College Chapel. Both teams performed phenomenally at the state competition, showcasing outstanding research, craftsmanship, and presentation skills. The Medical College Chapel team earned first place statewide — an incredible accomplishment.

Experiences like the 3D Vermont Olympiad highlighted how hands-on, place-based learning helps students connect history, creativity, and problem-solving.

👀 Throwback bonus question: Do you recognize one of our district’s current second grade teachers in this group?

See a video recap of the Olympiad at: https://youtu.be/8lwxrfgUJSI
10 days ago, Slate Valley
Throwback Thursday graphic celebrating Castleton Village School’s 2016 3D Vermont State Champions, showing photos of 7th and 8th grade students and advisors at the 3D VT Olympiad with their display table and two detailed scale building models, plus Slate Valley logo and text noting the competition and year.

Where Are They Now Wednesday: Derek Eagan, Class of 2018

This month’s Where Are They Now Wednesday spotlight features Fair Haven Union High School alumnus Derek Eagan, Class of 2018, who has turned his early interest in public safety into a meaningful and fast-paced career in emergency services.

While in High School, Derek pursued training through the Stafford Technical Center Public Safety/Criminal Justice program, building the skills that would launch him into the field. Today, he works full time at Community Health Brandon as a Medical Assistant and also serves per diem with Wallingford Rescue Squad, Brandon Area Rescue Squad, and Regional Ambulance Service. His work keeps him actively engaged in caring for and supporting people across the region when they need it most.

While at FHUHS, Derek was a member of the FHUHS Cadets, an experience that helped shape his career direction and commitment to service. He credits several educators with having a lasting influence on his success, including Mrs. Margret Hayward, Mrs. Sheila Nicholes, and Scott Alkinburgh, whose support and guidance helped him along the way.

Outside of his professional life, Derek stays busy with a wide range of interests. During the summer months, he spends time at Pond Hill Ranch and also enjoys fishing, hiking, and just being outdoors. He values time with family and friends—especially his high school best friend, Adam—and is excited to now be a first-time uncle. He has also developed a passion for photography and recently launched his own business, Derek Eagan Photography.

A quote that continues to motivate him is, “Getting back up is the only back up plan you need,” by Bailey Zimmerman.

His advice to today’s Slate Valley students is simple but heartfelt: Don’t rush your four years. Make friends, and take part in the clubs and sports that interest you.

11 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Where Are They Now Wednesday” from Slate Valley featuring FHUHS Class of 2018 alumnus Derek Eagan. Text highlights that he studied Public Safety/Criminal Justice at Stafford Technical Center, works full time in the Rutland Regional Medical Center Emergency Department, serves per diem with local rescue squads, is a former FHUHS Cadet, owns Derek Eagan Photography, and recently became an uncle. The photo shows an adult man standing in front of an ambulance in uniform.
Last night, Senator David Weeks, Representative William Canfield, and Representative Zachary Harvey joined community members at a Community Advisory Council meeting at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School for a forum focused on Act 73.

We appreciate our legislators taking the time to meet with the community, answer questions, and provide thoughtful, detailed explanations about Act 73 and its potential direction and impact on education in Vermont. Their openness and engagement helped make the discussion informative and productive for all who attended.
12 days ago, Slate Valley
Three local legislators speak at a table during a community forum, with a display screen behind them reading “Legislator Perspectives on Act 73” and listing guiding questions.
Community members and local legislators sit around tables in a school library classroom during a public discussion meeting, with a presentation on a screen about Act 73 and participants taking notes.
Trivia Tuesday: Did You Know? 📊

All information about Slate Valley’s Proposed FY27 Budget is available in one convenient place on our website. Community members can review the full set of resources, including:

• Proposed FY27 Budget Presentation
• 2025–2026 Annual Report
• Warning for the Annual Meeting
• FY27 Tax Rate Estimates
• Annual Meeting details — February 19, 2026 at 6:30 PM in the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room

View everything here:
👉 https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget

🗳️ Don’t forget: Please vote on Town Meeting Day — March 3, 2026 by Australian ballot, or vote early using an absentee ballot.

Stay informed and take part in the process!
12 days ago, Slate Valley
Slate Valley Unified School District “Trivia Tuesday” graphic that reads “Did You Know?” and explains that all proposed FY27 budget information — including presentations, reports, and supporting documents — is available on one dedicated website page. Includes images of the FY27 Proposed Budget and 2025–2026 Annual Report covers, a student group photo, a QR code, and the link: slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget.
Reminder: Tonight - Act 73 Discussion with Local Legislators!
6:00 to 7:30 PM - Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Library
All are welcome!
13 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic with Slate Valley Community Advisory Council logo and text announcing the next meeting on February 2, 2026, from 6:00–7:30 PM at the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Library, featuring an Act 73 discussion with local legislators.
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday - February Spotlight

This month we’re excited to spotlight Bethany Link, a Grade 3 teacher at Benson Village School. This is Mrs. Link’s second year at BVS. Before joining the Benson community, she taught for six years at Randolph Elementary School, working with students in grades K–2.

Outside the classroom, Mrs. Link enjoys spending time with her family and going on adventures together. She also loves reading a good book, cooking and baking, getting outdoors, and a little shopping when she can fit it in.

Her classroom community is guided by this shared message:
“In this classroom, we respect each other, we never give up, we are kind, we laugh a lot, we make mistakes, we have big dreams, we are family!”

A quote that inspires her personally is:
“Be the change you want to see in the world.” — Mahatma Gandhi

Mrs. Link began the school year on maternity leave after welcoming a baby boy, Thomas Calvin Link, named in honor of both of his grandfathers. We’re so glad to have her back at Benson Village School and deeply appreciate the warmth, care, and positive energy she brings to her students each day.
13 days ago, Slate Valley
Graphic titled “Meet Monday – Slate Valley Faculty & Staff” featuring BVS Grade 3 teacher Bethany Link, with a family photo and text highlights about her experience, hobbies, classroom motto, and welcome of a new baby boy.