Dear Slate Valley,

We want to inform you on the recent school budget vote that, unfortunately, did not pass. The vote was 789 yes to 1107 no. The article transferring money to a reserve account was successful. We understand that this news may be disappointing for some of you, as it is for us.

The proposed budget primarily maintained level services, with a reduction in funding for the afterschool program as well as a redistribution of programming throughout the district. We understand this outcome may be disappointing, but we respect the democratic process and appreciate the community’s thoughtful participation.

Despite this setback, our commitment to providing the best possible education for our students remains unchanged. We will explore alternative solutions to meet student needs within our financial constraints. We value your input and encourage open dialogue as we navigate this challenge together.

In the coming weeks, we will hold board meetings to discuss the budget, gather feedback, and explore next steps. Your participation is essential, and we welcome your ideas and concerns.

Thank you for your continued support and collaboration as we work towards our shared goal of delivering exceptional education to our students.

Sincerely,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
Superintendent

Slate Valley Unified Union School District is committed to maintaining a high level of transparency in the development and management of our school budget. We believe that open communication and accountability are essential to fostering trust within our community. The school board recognizes the importance of providing clear and accessible information about their budgetary decisions. Please use this page as a resource to better understand the FY26 School Budget.

Annual Meeting: February 24, 2025

Annual Meeting Minutes: February 24, 2025

FY26 Budget Report Detailed Expenditures

FY26 Budget Presentation

FY26 Tax Rate Estimate

FY26 SV Budget Development Guide

Vermont's Education Funding System: Explained and Compared to Other States

December 1, 2024 Education Tax Rate Letter

SVUUSD Federal Compliance Audit 2024

Click here to see the full PDF version of the Annual Report & FY26 Proposed Budget.

To see the report in flip book format click here or the cover image below.

Dear Slate Valley,

I wanted to take a moment to share some thoughts on Governor Scott’s bold and ambitious plan for the future of education in Vermont. If you haven't heard about it, I have provided the links below. Like many of you, I recognize the urgent need to address key issues of equity, opportunity, and affordability across the state. Meaningful change in these areas will require significant effort and thoughtful reform, and this plan represents an important step forward in that process.

On Wednesday, January 22nd, the Governor introduced his vision for Vermont’s education system. While this proposal offers a high-level framework, ambitious goals, and substantial changes, many details will need to be worked through. The plan will ultimately require legislative approval, and as the process unfolds, adjustments will likely be made to reflect input from various stakeholders.

This is just the beginning of what will undoubtedly be a collaborative and evolving process. I want to assure you of my ongoing commitment to transparency throughout. I will continue to share updates and pertinent information with you as it becomes available, ensuring that you remain informed every step of the way.

As always, if you have questions, please feel free to reach out.

Warm regards,

Brooke 

Links to Governor Scott’s Plan:

Recording of Legislative Briefing: Governor Scott’s Education Transformation Proposal

Governor Scott’s Education Transformation Proposal One Pager

Governor Scott’s Education Transformation Proposal Policy Brief

Slides: Governor Scott’s Plan to Support Vibrant Communities

Click here to see the full PDF version of the FY 26 Budget Presentation or click the image below.

The above tax rates shown are estimates because the final yield has not yet been determined by the legislature. To view the most up-to-date tax rate estimates, click on “FY26 Tax Rate Estimate” under resources on this page. Alternatively, you can visit bit.ly/SVFY26PrelimTaxRates

The Slate Valley Unified Union School District is actively planning and discussing the FY26 Budget, which will be presented to our community for a vote on March 4, 2025. We welcome your suggestions and questions regarding this budget as it evolves.

Your input will be shared with the school board and administration for consideration, discussion, and response. We will post answers and updates on our website, through local news outlets, and on social media platforms.

Click Here to submit a suggestion or question concerning the FY26 Budget.

Your opinion matters to us, and we greatly appreciate your time in sharing your thoughts.

Please consider attending other venues to express your thoughts, questions and concerns. Four Coffee and Conversation events happened in the mornings around the district. Budget Listening Forums happened in the evenings at district schools from the end of October to the end of November. School board meetings are all public and can be attended both in person and virtually, to see when and where the board meets, click here.