Slate Valley District Newsletter for February 6, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/1a88fa7ae27d/slate-valley-district-newsletter-262026
2 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.
3 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!
3 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!
3 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!
3 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
4 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.

5 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.
5 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!
6 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!
7 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.
7 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.
District Newsletter: January 30, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/82c6c6cc4bc0/slate-valley-district-newsletter-january-30-2026
9 days ago, Slate Valley
Slate Valley Unified USD newsletter header dated January 30, 2026, featuring the district logo above a winter scene of people ice fishing on a frozen lake with mountains in the background.
The halls turned into a stadium today for Sports Jersey Day! From the NFL to the NBA, and even some local favorites, it was amazing to see so many of you repping your teams.
9 days ago, Slate Valley
Group of middle school students in a classroom smiling while holding a classmate horizontally, with a teacher standing behind them near a whiteboard.
Teacher and student smiling in a classroom, both wearing sports jerseys, with shelves of games and supplies in the background.
Two adults posing together indoors, wearing a Yankees baseball jersey and a Rangers hockey jersey.
Teacher kneeling behind two young students wearing sports shirts, all smiling on a classroom rug.
Two elementary students standing side by side in front of shelves filled with math manipulatives and classroom supplies.
Two students standing in front of a classroom smartboard, wearing sports-themed shirts, with classmates visible in the background.
Student in a Red Sox jersey standing in front of a classroom display showing a to-do list and lesson materials.
Group of students and two teachers in a classroom wearing sports jerseys, with one student playfully posing on the floor in front.
Our January OVS Specials Awards were given out today at our Assembly with Kindergarten receiving the PE award, 5th Grade receiving the Art award, 1st grade receiving the Leadership award, 6th Grade receiving the music award, and 2nd receving the Library award! Congratulations everyone!
9 days ago, Slate Valley
A group of elementary students stand in a line on a school stage with a teacher, smiling after a recognition event, with band students and instruments in the background.
A student in a green jersey holds a decorated art palette while standing between a staff member and another student in a sports jersey, posing in a school gym.
A young student stands beside a staff member while holding a small award, with a rack of colorful basketballs and gym windows behind them.
A student holds a small ukulele next to a smiling teacher giving a thumbs-up, with band equipment visible on the stage behind them.
A student holding a gold-wrapped prize stands beside a teacher, both smiling during a school recognition event in the gym.
A huge congratulations to Mrs. Laslocky on receiving the OVS Stewardship Award!
The student speech at our assembly: "This person keeps encouraging their students. They are kind and always empathetic. They are even cooler because they've lived around the world. As you may have guessed, this month's stewardship award goes to Miss Laslocky!"
9 days ago, Slate Valley
Adult and five elementary students stand side by side on a gym floor in front of a stage, smiling for a group photo, with music stands and instruments visible in the background.
Today’s PBIS Assembly was all about celebrating success in every form. We recognized OVS students not just for grades, but for kindness, grit, leadership, and creativity. So proud of these kiddos for excelling in so many different ways. You make our school shine!
9 days ago, Slate Valley
Student and teacher stand together in a gym, smiling as the student holds an orange recognition certificate; other students sit on a stage behind them.
Adult and student pose side by side indoors, both smiling; the student holds a printed certificate while the adult gives a thumbs-up.
Two students and an adult stand together on a gym floor, smiling; one student holds a bright yellow certificate while the other holds a green paper.
Student and adult stand close together in a gym, smiling; the student holds a green recognition certificate.
Student and adult smile for the camera; the student holds a pink certificate while the adult holds a folder.
Student and adult pose together in a gym with a stage in the background; the student holds a green certificate and smiles.
Student and adult stand side by side, smiling; the student holds a yellow certificate while music stands and other students are visible behind them.
Our January Students of the Month!! Congratulations everyone on your creativity and hard work!
9 days ago, Slate Valley
Student with long hair wearing a pink hoodie stands in front of a school stage while other students with band instruments sit in the background.
Smiling student in a blue fleece holds a certificate in front of a stage where classmates and music stands are visible behind them.
Student wearing a black graphic T-shirt stands facing the camera in a school gym or auditorium with seated students in the background.
Young student in a green and black winter jacket stands on a gym floor with a school band seated on a stage behind them.
Young student in a green and black winter jacket stands on a gym floor with a school band seated on a stage behind them.
Join Us for our next Community Advisory Council Meeting — Monday, February 2!

We hope you’ll join us for the next Community Advisory Council (CAC) Meeting on Monday, February 2, 2026, from 6:00–7:30 PM in the Library at Fair Haven Union Middle & High School.

We’ll be welcoming our local legislators for an important conversation and updates on Act 73. This is a great opportunity to stay informed, ask questions, and share your perspective as we work together to support our schools and community.

🗓 Monday, February 2, 2026
⏰ 6:00–7:30 PM
📍 FHUMHS Library

Come be part of the conversation — we’d love to see you there!
9 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.
A group of community members sit around tables in a school library, listening to a man speaking at the front, with bookshelves lining the walls behind them.
OVS Newsletter: January 2026
PDF version at https://aptg.co/hKdvXn
11 days ago, Slate Valley
“Orwell Village School January 2026 newsletter featuring photos of OVS students skiing at Pico Mountain, a welcome message, and upcoming events including ski days, a half day on February 20, and February break dates.”
Orwell Village School newsletter page highlighting classroom activities, including first graders reading with flashlights, third graders learning about pollination, fifth graders reading with preschool buddies, and an announcement about Chess Club.
Mrs. Broughton and Mr. Madore definitely hit all the right notes. 🎵 From dancing the day away to unleashing the power of the Boomwhackers (you know those are a hit!), the rhythm was unstoppable. Whether it was playing in a band or getting some one-on-one coaching, our students didn't miss a beat. Keep on rocking, everyone!
12 days ago, Slate Valley
Elementary students sit in rows playing flutes and trumpets during a music class while a teacher conducts from the front of the room.
A music teacher conducts a seated student band, including flutes, clarinets, and brass instruments, inside a well-stocked music classroom.
Students play flutes while watching their teacher conduct, with music stands and sheet music visible in the foreground.
Young students sit in chairs holding colorful rhythm tubes as a teacher demonstrates a percussion activity in a music room.
Elementary students hold rhythm tubes upright while following instructions during a group music lesson.
A group of young children sit cross-legged on the floor listening to a teacher holding a ukulele in a music classroom.
Children hold hands and move in a circle during a movement activity in music class, guided by two adults.
Students walk and dance in a circle during a music and movement activity in a classroom filled with instruments.
Two students practice trombone facing each other at music stands while a teacher observes in the background.