Reminder: This Wednesday...
Public Hearing Notice: Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force
The Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force invites community members to attend one of its public hearings to share perspectives and priorities that will help shape proposals for Vermont’s future school district boundaries. The hearing closest to us is:
Wednesday, October 22 | 6:00–8:00 PM at Rutland High School, in Rutland.
These hearings are a chance to learn about the Task Force’s purpose and process, share your ideas and concerns, and offer public testimony (2 minutes per speaker; written comments welcome if time runs short).
Your voice matters—help guide the future of Vermont’s schools!
Public Hearing Notice: Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force
The Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force invites community members to attend one of its public hearings to share perspectives and priorities that will help shape proposals for Vermont’s future school district boundaries. The hearing closest to us is:
Wednesday, October 22 | 6:00–8:00 PM at Rutland High School, in Rutland.
These hearings are a chance to learn about the Task Force’s purpose and process, share your ideas and concerns, and offer public testimony (2 minutes per speaker; written comments welcome if time runs short).
Your voice matters—help guide the future of Vermont’s schools!
Slate Valley District Newsletter: October 17, 2025
https://mailchi.mp/d574ac7a76a0/slate-valley-district-newsletter-october-17-2025
https://mailchi.mp/d574ac7a76a0/slate-valley-district-newsletter-october-17-2025
On Wednesday, October 15th, Slate Valley UUSD had the great honor of hosting the Vermont State Board of Education Meeting — a first for our district!
Among those in attendance were Secretary of Education Zoie Saunders, State Board Attorney and Slater alum Sarah Buxton, Esq., and Board Member Lyle Jepson, who many will remember as the FHUHS Principal in the 1990s.
The day began with a tour of Fair Haven Union Middle and High School, led by building administrators, followed by a presentation from Superintendent Brooke Olsen-Farrell and faculty members who showcased the innovative and unique classes offered throughout Slate Valley.
It was a busy, exciting, and truly proud day for our district—highlighting the incredible learning, collaboration, and community that define Slate Valley.
Update from Principal Patrick Walters:
Power has been restored! Dismissal will take place as usual.
Power has been restored! Dismissal will take place as usual.
From Principal Patrick Walters: OVS Elementary Power Outage Update
This is an important update regarding the power outage at OVS Elementary School.
• All students and staff are safe and secure.
• We are currently hunkering down for the rest of the afternoon.
• Restroom facilities are functioning, and we have plenty of hand sanitizer available.
• Normal dismissal will proceed at our regular scheduled time.
This is an important update regarding the power outage at OVS Elementary School.
• All students and staff are safe and secure.
• We are currently hunkering down for the rest of the afternoon.
• Restroom facilities are functioning, and we have plenty of hand sanitizer available.
• Normal dismissal will proceed at our regular scheduled time.
OVS Booster Club Fundraising Event
Notice: Today's 5/6 Boys Soccer game vs Brandon Rec scheduled for 4:30 @ FHGS has been CANCELED.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: October 10, 2025
https://mailchi.mp/412ddc0cb9f9/slate-valley-district-newsletter-october-10-2025
https://mailchi.mp/412ddc0cb9f9/slate-valley-district-newsletter-october-10-2025
Public Hearing Notice: Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force
The Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force invites community members to attend one of its public hearings to share perspectives and priorities that will help shape proposals for Vermont’s future school district boundaries. The hearing closest to us is:
Wednesday, October 22 | 6:00–8:00 PM at Rutland High School, in Rutland.
These hearings are a chance to learn about the Task Force’s purpose and process, share your ideas and concerns, and offer public testimony (2 minutes per speaker; written comments welcome if time runs short).
Your voice matters—help guide the future of Vermont’s schools!
The Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force invites community members to attend one of its public hearings to share perspectives and priorities that will help shape proposals for Vermont’s future school district boundaries. The hearing closest to us is:
Wednesday, October 22 | 6:00–8:00 PM at Rutland High School, in Rutland.
These hearings are a chance to learn about the Task Force’s purpose and process, share your ideas and concerns, and offer public testimony (2 minutes per speaker; written comments welcome if time runs short).
Your voice matters—help guide the future of Vermont’s schools!
Friday Focus: Celebrating Our Library & Media Specialists! 📚💻
This week’s Friday Focus shines on the incredible Library/Media Specialists who bring learning, literacy, and technology together across Slate Valley!
Mrs. Annie Crumb – Fair Haven Union Middle & High School
Mrs. Tina Rampone – Castleton Elementary & Orwell Village School
Ms. Rebekah Williams – Fair Haven Grade & Benson Village School
Our library/media specialists do so much more than manage books—they inspire curiosity, guide research, and empower students to become thoughtful, tech-savvy learners. From storytime and research projects to digital citizenship and coding, they balance traditional library services with ever-evolving technology integration.
Their work ensures that our students have the resources, skills, and confidence to thrive in an information-rich world.
Thank you, Mrs. Crumb, Mrs. Rampone, and Mrs. Williams, for all that you do to keep our students reading, thinking, and growing every day!
This week’s Friday Focus shines on the incredible Library/Media Specialists who bring learning, literacy, and technology together across Slate Valley!
Mrs. Annie Crumb – Fair Haven Union Middle & High School
Mrs. Tina Rampone – Castleton Elementary & Orwell Village School
Ms. Rebekah Williams – Fair Haven Grade & Benson Village School
Our library/media specialists do so much more than manage books—they inspire curiosity, guide research, and empower students to become thoughtful, tech-savvy learners. From storytime and research projects to digital citizenship and coding, they balance traditional library services with ever-evolving technology integration.
Their work ensures that our students have the resources, skills, and confidence to thrive in an information-rich world.
Thank you, Mrs. Crumb, Mrs. Rampone, and Mrs. Williams, for all that you do to keep our students reading, thinking, and growing every day!
🚗 Throwback Thursday! 🚙
We’re cruising back to the early '90s—when boxy cars, big smiles, and Slater pride ruled the parking lot!
If you recognize anyone, feel free to tag them and drop some memories in the comments!
We’re cruising back to the early '90s—when boxy cars, big smiles, and Slater pride ruled the parking lot!
If you recognize anyone, feel free to tag them and drop some memories in the comments!
PLEASE Join Us for Coffee & Conversation!
Community members are warmly invited to our final Fall Coffee & Conversation, tomorrow, Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 9:00 AM at the Benson Town Hall.
Come share your questions, ideas, and feedback with district leadership in a relaxed, friendly setting. We value your voice and look forward to the conversation!
Everyone’s welcome! Bring a friend, grab a cup, and let’s talk.
Community members are warmly invited to our final Fall Coffee & Conversation, tomorrow, Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 9:00 AM at the Benson Town Hall.
Come share your questions, ideas, and feedback with district leadership in a relaxed, friendly setting. We value your voice and look forward to the conversation!
Everyone’s welcome! Bring a friend, grab a cup, and let’s talk.
Where Are They Now Wednesday: Christopher Hanson, Class of 1991
This week, we’re proud to spotlight Christopher Hanson, a 1991 graduate of Fair Haven Union High School, whose journey has taken him across the country—and around the world!
After starting at Northeastern University in Boston, Christopher completed both his undergraduate and master’s degrees through the University of Nebraska while serving in the U.S. Army, and later earned his doctoral degree from National University. He’s worked as a paramedic in Boston, a Physician Assistant in both military and civilian settings, and now serves as an innovation leader in healthcare quality in Texas. His career has taken him to over a dozen states and numerous countries—truly living the Dr. Seuss quote: “Oh, the places you’ll go!”
Christopher credits several FHUHS teachers for shaping his path:
- Mr. Whalen (Social Studies) – taught him the value of seeing other perspectives and engaging in thoughtful debate.
- Mr. Hier (History) – showed him that studying history helps us learn from the past.
- Mr. Ollie Allen (Substitute Teacher) – encouraged him to take calculated risks, a lesson that guided his life and career.
During his FHUHS days, Christopher wrestled his junior year and served his community as a volunteer firefighter and EMT.
Today, he continues to impact lives through health leadership and quality improvement. Outside of work, Christopher enjoys woodworking, painting, travel, pickleball, and playing the bagpipes. He’s also a proud father of two and grandfather to four granddaughters—“there isn’t quite anything like the love of grandkids,” he says.
His advice to current Slate Valley students?
“Never give up. It’s okay to not know what you want to be when you grow up—some days I still don’t. But never, ever give up trying to make yourself a better person.”
Thank you, Christopher, for sharing your journey and reminding us that learning, growth, and service never stop!
This week, we’re proud to spotlight Christopher Hanson, a 1991 graduate of Fair Haven Union High School, whose journey has taken him across the country—and around the world!
After starting at Northeastern University in Boston, Christopher completed both his undergraduate and master’s degrees through the University of Nebraska while serving in the U.S. Army, and later earned his doctoral degree from National University. He’s worked as a paramedic in Boston, a Physician Assistant in both military and civilian settings, and now serves as an innovation leader in healthcare quality in Texas. His career has taken him to over a dozen states and numerous countries—truly living the Dr. Seuss quote: “Oh, the places you’ll go!”
Christopher credits several FHUHS teachers for shaping his path:
- Mr. Whalen (Social Studies) – taught him the value of seeing other perspectives and engaging in thoughtful debate.
- Mr. Hier (History) – showed him that studying history helps us learn from the past.
- Mr. Ollie Allen (Substitute Teacher) – encouraged him to take calculated risks, a lesson that guided his life and career.
During his FHUHS days, Christopher wrestled his junior year and served his community as a volunteer firefighter and EMT.
Today, he continues to impact lives through health leadership and quality improvement. Outside of work, Christopher enjoys woodworking, painting, travel, pickleball, and playing the bagpipes. He’s also a proud father of two and grandfather to four granddaughters—“there isn’t quite anything like the love of grandkids,” he says.
His advice to current Slate Valley students?
“Never give up. It’s okay to not know what you want to be when you grow up—some days I still don’t. But never, ever give up trying to make yourself a better person.”
Thank you, Christopher, for sharing your journey and reminding us that learning, growth, and service never stop!
Trivia Tuesday!
Did you know? The name October comes from the Latin word “octo,” meaning eight—but it’s actually our tenth month of the year!
Trivia Question:
Why is October named for “eight” even though it’s our tenth month?
Drop your answer in comments...
... or scroll down for the Answer!
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Answer:
Because in the original Roman calendar, the year began in March, making October the eighth month! When January and February were added later, October shifted to tenth place—but kept its original name.
Did you know? The name October comes from the Latin word “octo,” meaning eight—but it’s actually our tenth month of the year!
Trivia Question:
Why is October named for “eight” even though it’s our tenth month?
Drop your answer in comments...
... or scroll down for the Answer!
⬇️
⬇️
⬇️
⬇️
⬇️
⬇️
Answer:
Because in the original Roman calendar, the year began in March, making October the eighth month! When January and February were added later, October shifted to tenth place—but kept its original name.
Please Join Us Tomorrow for Coffee & Conversation!
Tuesday, October 7, 2025, 8:00 - 9:30 AM at the Fair Haven Wooden Soldier.
Come share your questions, ideas, and feedback with district leadership in a relaxed, friendly setting. We value your voice and look forward to the conversation!
Everyone’s welcome!
Bring a friend, grab a cup on us, and let’s talk.
Tuesday, October 7, 2025, 8:00 - 9:30 AM at the Fair Haven Wooden Soldier.
Come share your questions, ideas, and feedback with district leadership in a relaxed, friendly setting. We value your voice and look forward to the conversation!
Everyone’s welcome!
Bring a friend, grab a cup on us, and let’s talk.
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday: CES Pre-K Teacher, Ms. Laura Daily
This month we’re excited to highlight Ms. Laura Daily, who is now in her third year at Slate Valley—though she’s no stranger to our district! After working here previously, Laura returned about ten years later, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a deep passion for early childhood education.
Before returning to Slate Valley, Laura worked in several roles across the region, including opening the preschool program at Wells Village School and serving in West Rutland School, the Bennington Rutland Supervisory Union, and the Early Childhood Education Department at Bennington College. She’s also worked with HeadStart and as a curriculum coordinator for a private preschool. Laura has been studying and working in education since the 1990s, with her true calling centered around Early Childhood Development and Learning.
When she’s not in the classroom, Laura loves spending time with her family, enjoying nature, gardening, horseback riding, yoga, and taking walks with her dog and three children.
Her favorite quote?
“It is what it is, and it will be what you make of it.”
Laura dreams of one day opening her own hands-on learning program that partners closely with families and includes an equine therapy component—an inspiring vision that perfectly reflects her dedication to learning through experience.
Thank you, Ms. Daily, for your passion, creativity, and dedication—and for being such a valuable part of the Slate Valley community!
This month we’re excited to highlight Ms. Laura Daily, who is now in her third year at Slate Valley—though she’s no stranger to our district! After working here previously, Laura returned about ten years later, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a deep passion for early childhood education.
Before returning to Slate Valley, Laura worked in several roles across the region, including opening the preschool program at Wells Village School and serving in West Rutland School, the Bennington Rutland Supervisory Union, and the Early Childhood Education Department at Bennington College. She’s also worked with HeadStart and as a curriculum coordinator for a private preschool. Laura has been studying and working in education since the 1990s, with her true calling centered around Early Childhood Development and Learning.
When she’s not in the classroom, Laura loves spending time with her family, enjoying nature, gardening, horseback riding, yoga, and taking walks with her dog and three children.
Her favorite quote?
“It is what it is, and it will be what you make of it.”
Laura dreams of one day opening her own hands-on learning program that partners closely with families and includes an equine therapy component—an inspiring vision that perfectly reflects her dedication to learning through experience.
Thank you, Ms. Daily, for your passion, creativity, and dedication—and for being such a valuable part of the Slate Valley community!
Board Meeting Tonight - October 6, 2025
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Orwell Village School Gym (Town Hall).
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/sri-euji-itv
Or dial: (US) +1 484-746-4332 PIN: 841 923 393#
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. at the Orwell Village School Gym (Town Hall).
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/sri-euji-itv
Or dial: (US) +1 484-746-4332 PIN: 841 923 393#
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.
October 3, 2025: Slate Valley District Newsletter
https://mailchi.mp/fa2659ed6054/district-newsletter-october-3-2025
https://mailchi.mp/fa2659ed6054/district-newsletter-october-3-2025
📢 Please join us for our next Community Advisory Council (CAC) Meeting of the school year!
🕔 Time: 5:45–7:00 PM
📍 Location: Fair Haven Union Middle & High School – Central Office Conference Room
This is a great opportunity to connect with district administration, share community concerns, and hear updates on Act 73 as well as how the school year is going and our hopes moving forward.
All are Welcome! We look forward to seeing you there! 💙
🕔 Time: 5:45–7:00 PM
📍 Location: Fair Haven Union Middle & High School – Central Office Conference Room
This is a great opportunity to connect with district administration, share community concerns, and hear updates on Act 73 as well as how the school year is going and our hopes moving forward.
All are Welcome! We look forward to seeing you there! 💙
OVS September PBIS Assembly
