Slate Valley Annual Report and F : simplebooklet.com

Tom SpangenbergElisabeth MacKay, CastletonDawn Custer, HubbardtonModeratorClerkTreasurerdistrict officersBensonPatricia Beaumont-Stannard, ChairJamie KingRebeckah St. Peter CastletonJulie FinneganTim SmithSusan TraverseFair HavenCurt HierSabina PeerChristopher StantonHubbardtonMatthew BravoJanis ReinkeChristina Ryan, ClerkOrwellGlen CousineauPeter Stone, Vice ChairJohn WurzbacherWest HavenOpen SeatOpen SeatOpen Seatpatricia.beaumont@svuvt.orgjamie.king@svuvt.orgrebeckah.stpeter@svuvt.orgjulie.finnegan@svuvt.orgtimothy.smith@svuvt.orgsusan.traverse@svuvt.orgcurtis.hier@svuvt.orgsabina.peer@svuvt.orgchristopher.stanton@svuvt.orgmatthew.bravo@svuvt.orgjanis.reinke@svuvt.orgchristina.ryan@svuvt.orgglen.cousineau@svuvt.orgpeter.stone@svuvt.orgjohn.wurzbacher@svuvt.orgSchool BoardMembers andAdministrationat one of their Coffee & Conversationevents.2Return to Table of Contents

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February 26, 2024 - Unapproved MinutesAttendance:SVUUSD Board Members: Peter Stone, Julie Finnegan, Glen Cousineau, Christie Pouliot, Janis Reinke, Toni Lobdell, Rebeckah St. Peter, Christina Ryan, Tara Buxton, Chris Stanton, Curtis Hier, and Jaime King.Public Present (that signed the attendance sheet): Brooke Olsen-Farrell, Kris Benway-Fisher, Chris Cole, Cheryl Scarzello, Liz MacKay, Walter Ripley, Paul Stone, Jen Paquette, Tom Spangenberg, Ben Worthing, Margaret Hayward, Glen Traverse, Patrick Walters, Amy Roy, Kim Prehoda, LisaCacciatore,Wendy Foran, MaryAnn Munger, Rose Anne VanLew, Robert Crowley, Katy Thornblade, Nick Thornblade, Michael Finnegan, Joe Bystry, Senator Terry Williams, and Senator Dave Weeks.People Present via Google Meet: Helen Alexander, Vanessa Almony, Patricia Beaumont, Scott Folmsbee, KristaGlover, Deborah Infurna, Bonnie Lenihan, Theresa Nolan, Jennifer Oberkirch, Walter Ripley, Matthew Ryan, TimSmith, Susan Traverse, John Wurzbacher, +1 802-***-**33.Call to Order: The annual meeting of the Slate Valley Unified Union School District was called to order by Tom Spangenberg at 6:30 PM.Pledge of Allegiance: Tom Spangenberg led the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.Article 1: Glen Cousineau moved to elect Tom Spangenberg to serve for a term of one (1) year as moderator.Seconded by Julie Finnegan. Motion carried. Julie Finnegan moved to elect Liz MacKay to serve for a term of one (1) year as clerk. Seconded by Peter Stone. Motion carried. Peter Stone moved to elect Dawn Custer toserve for a term of one (1) year as treasurer. Seconded by Glen Cousineau. Motion carried.Article 2: Peter Stone moved to accept the reports of the school district officers. Seconded by Glen Cousineau.Motion carried.Article 3: Glen Cousineau moved to approve the annual salaries for the School Directors and other electedofficers of the School District. Seconded by Peter Stone. Motion carried.Article 4: Julie Finnegan moved that the voters of the school district authorize the Board of School Directors to borrow money by issuance of bonds or notes in excess of anticipated revenues for the next fiscal year.Seconded by Peter Stone. Motion carried.Article 5: Julie Finnegan (due to absence because of illness of Board Chair, Tim Smith) led a presentation inwhich all the information that was presented is available to the public at www.slatevalleyunified.org. (When youget to the website click on “Click Here for FY25 Budget Information”.) Curtis Hier moved to allow school districtofficials to speak during the presentation. Seconded by Peter Stone. Motion carried. The public was able to askquestions after each slide was presented and explained. There is a recording of all questions and answers on the Slate Valley Unified School District website when you click on the link titled: Slate Valley UUSD Feb. 26, 2024Annual Meeting Video. Senators Senator Terry Williams and Senator Dave Weeks also spoke about the stateeducation budget and state acts that have affected education.Article 6: Julie turned the meeting back over to Tom after the presentation was over. Tom asked if there was anyother business. Bob Crowley asked if specific questions may be asked about the budget. Tom said yes, andsome questions were asked and answered by Brooke Olsen-Farrell, Kris Benway-Fisher, Julie Finnegan, andCheryl Scarzello. There was no other business brought forward.6Return to Table of Contents

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Adjournment: The annual meeting of the Slate Valley Unified Union School District adjourned at 7:50 PM to continue the business of Articles 7, 8, and 9 on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 for the purpose of voting on the above articles at the usual polling places in the member districts by Australian ballot and said ballots being brought to Fellowship Bible Church following the closing of the polls where they will be commingled and counted by the Board of Civil Authority of the constituent districts. Moved by Peter Stone and seconded by Glen Cousineau.Article 7: Shall the voters of the School District authorize a transfer from the general fund surplus balance in theamount of $500,000 to the capital improvements and repairs reserve fund?Article 8: Shall the voters of the school district approve the school board to expend Thirty-One Million, Twenty-One Thousand, Six Hundred Thirty-Five Dollars ($31,021,635.00) which is the amount the school board hasdetermined to be necessary for the ensuing fiscal year?Article 9: To elect the following officers to serve from their election and qualification until March following theelection and qualification of their successors:A. School Director, Benson for a term of three (3) yearsB. School Director, Benson for a term of two (2) yearsC. School Director, Castleton for a term of three (3) yearsD. School Director, Fair Haven for a term of three (3) yearsE. School Director, Hubbardton for a term of three (3) yearsF. School Director, Orwell for a term of three (3) yearsG. School Director, West Haven for a term of three (3) yearsH. School Director, West Haven for a term of one (2) years of three (3) yearsI. School Director, West Haven for a term of one (1) year of three (3) yearsRespectfully submitted,Liz MacKaySchool District ClerkFHGS studentsenjoying lunch with SuperintendentBrooke Olsen-Farrell and Director of Curriculum Casey O’MearaCommunityAttending Last Year’sAnnual MeetingSuperintendent Brooke Olsen-Farrell lending a hand with a craft activity in FHGS Pre-K7Return to Table of Contents

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Dear Slate Valley Community,It is with profound pride, heartfelt gratitude, and a deep sense of togetherness that I present the 2024 Annual Report—a celebration of a year defined by shared progress, unwavering dedication, and the collective vision we hold for the future of Slate Valley schools. Guided by our enduring theme, “Our School, Your Future,” we have advanced through the strength of our community partnerships, celebrated remarkable achievements, and created opportunities that empower our students and enrich the vibrantcommunity we all cherish.At the heart of our district’s success lies an unshakable commitment to building and nurturing connections—connections between our schools, families, and the broader community. Together, we have prioritized flexiblepathways to education, providing our students with personalized learning experiences that help them discovertheir unique potential and prepare for a wide range of post-graduation pursuits. These efforts reflect the sharedbelief that every student deserves the tools and support to thrive in the present and the future.In 2024, we embraced new ways to foster open communication and mutual understanding, including initiativeslike Coffee and Conversations, Listening Tours, and the ongoing work of the Community Advisory Council.These programs have strengthened our sense of unity, encouraged meaningful dialogue, and providedinvaluable perspectives that shape the direction of our schools.This year has been an extraordinary journey of growth—academic, personal, and collective. Together, wecelebrated significant milestones:Elementary students achieved impressive gains in English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics, withsome grades performing among the highest in the region, even surpassing state averages.Chronic absenteeism dropped dramatically, and an outstanding 92% of our students graduated - eachembarking on clear and purposeful post-graduation paths.Our staff retention rate soared from 78% to 93%, reflecting the strength of our district and the dedication ofour exceptional educators.Slate Valley schools are more than places of learning—they are vibrant hubs of creativity, leadership, andgrowth. Our students’ successes extend beyond academics, with achievements in the arts, athletics, andcommunity service reflecting the values of resilience, compassion, and innovation that define our district.Recognizing the vital contributions of our educators, we’ve invested in their well-being through competitivecompensation, professional development, and wellness initiatives—all of which enrich our collective ability toserve our students.As we look toward the future, our commitment to preparing students for an ever-changing world remainssteadfast. Through strategic investments in facilities, technology, curriculum, and partnerships with localindustries, we are equipping learners with the skills and confidence needed to navigate the challenges andopportunities ahead. Despite operating with one of Vermont’s lowest per-pupil spending rates, we continue toprioritize quality education while navigating fiscal challenges with care and foresight.Reflecting on this past year, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the educators who inspire, the families whosupport, and the students who amaze us every day. Together, we have shown the incredible power ofcollaboration and the strength of a shared purpose.Thank you for your unwavering partnership, trust, and belief in the limitless potential of our students andschools. As we move forward, I am excited by the journey ahead and the promise of what we can achievetogether. With your continued support, we are not just building a brighter future—we are creating a legacy ofexcellence, connection, and opportunity for generations to come.Warm regards,SuperintendentSlate Valley Unified Union School District8Return to Table of Contents

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Dear Citizens,Serving as the Chair of the SVUUSD School Board over the past year has been an honor. This role has provided me the opportunity to work closely with our dedicated school employees, incredible volunteers, and the diverse families and students of our member towns of Benson, Castleton, Fair Haven, Hubbardton, Orwell and West Haven. This work has consistently reinforced my pride in our community and reaffirmed my optimism about the future of Slate Valley. I am grateful for the opportunity to provide this report on behalf of the School Board to accentuate some of the most noteworthy highlights, achievements and challenges seen in our school district throughout the past year.We have an incredibly talented administrative team who have developed a robust strategic plan for our schooldistrict. We are proud to report that goals met this year include an increase in teacher retention and studentattendance, working to establish Slate Valley as the education choice for students in the surrounding area,and establishing ways to encourage community engagement, service, and partnerships within SVUUSD andthe greater Rutland County.I want to thank all of our school board members and central office staff for their commitment to creating,supporting, and promoting our budget this year. Although we needed five votes to pass a budget, we didaccomplish our goal, fulfilling our school board duty to pass a budget! We are not looking for a repeatperformance this year, which is why we began budget conversations earlier than usual, eliciting input frommember towns beginning in September with our Coffee & Conversation gatherings, and continuing dialoguethrough our listening tours and Suggestions & Questions boxes and online form. Our hope is that citizens willattend meetings, ask questions, and cast their budget vote with a thorough understanding of what we do, anddo not, locally control.I am proud of the amazing accomplishments of our faculty, staff and students! Although it would be impossibleto recognize everyone, here are a few examples of those recognitions:University of Vermont Teacher of the Year: Ms. Jenna Laslocky, Orwell Village School 4th Grade Teacher Mr. Justin Merrill, Fair Haven Union Middle School TeacherBest Teacher of the Lakes Region contest: Ms. Aliyah Edmonds: Castleton Elementary School, 2nd place Mrs. Tricia Doran: Fair Haven Union Middle High School, 3rd place Ms. Courtney Grenier: Fair Haven Graded School, top 5 Mr. Jared Danyow: Fair Haven Graded School, top 5Vermont NEA-ESP of 2025: Ms. Linda CorlissVermont State Athletic Director's Association Student-Athlete Leadership Scholarship recipient: Asa YoungJunior Classic Equitation World Champion of the Morgan Grand National and World Championship Horse Show: Avery AudetDivision 2 State Football Championship TeamDivision 2 State Girls Basketball Championship TeamRutland Herald student-athlete Players of the Year: Maddy Perry and Leigha Kretzer sharing the honor in Girls' Soccer Max Kyhill for his recognition in Football Jack Spaulding in Boy’s SoccerDivision 2 Football Coach of the Year: Adam PerryCONGRATULATIONS to Linda Corliss, who has beenhonored as the 2025 Vermont-NEAESP of the Year! (National EducationAssociation Educational SupportProfessional) As an instructionalassistant at Castleton ElementarySchool, Linda has earned thisprestigious recognition for hersteadfast dedication to supportingstudents and her outstandingadvocacy for her fellow unionmembers.12Return to Table of Contents

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The Slate Valley Unified Union School Board works closely with the district’s administration to carefully present a fiscallyresponsible budget to our community while reacting to the increasing pressure from state and federal regulations. Honestcommunication with the community regarding our budget is critical. Misinformation and misunderstanding have dominatedmuch of the contention around budgetary issues. We continue to work diligently to provide you with multiple opportunities to offer suggestions about ways to stay fiscally responsible while ensuring we provide an exceptional education to each one of our students. We encourage you to go to our website for specifics regarding these opportunities.We, as a school board, remain committed to the duty of providing a quality education and expanding opportunities for ourstudents, while providing value and transparency to the taxpayers. We thank you for your continued support.Respectfully,Pati BeaumontChairperson We live in a society that poses many challenges to public education:fiscal, academic, student mental health, emotional health, social media, andapathy, to name a few. We know the importance of excellent teachersameliorates the negative impacts of these challenges. Great teachers are thebackbone of a great school! To this end, one of our district goals is to recruit,hire, retain, and promote exemplary teachers, however, we continue to strugglewith the lack of professional educators available in our state, and in our country.Many of our teachers are in their first few years of their profession, requiringmentoring and professional development to ensure they have the necessarytools to do their job, which our budget supports. Please join me in helping thesenewbies however we can!I would be remiss not to recognize the amazing educators who have been withour district for numerous years, and have made the decision to retire last yearor have announced their retirement for the end of the current school year. Weextend our heartfelt thanks to these people for their dedication and commitmentto the students and staff of SVUUSD:Ruzanne Behrens, Guidance Counselor, BVS - FY24Wendy Cameron, Instructional Assistant, FHUMHS - FY24Dale Coombs, Special Education Teacher, FHUMHS - FY24Debra Robbins, Special Education and Medicaid Clerk - FY24Lynn LaClair, Proficiency Based Learning Coach - FY25Veronica Lambert, Instructional Assistant, FHUMHS - FY25Bonnie Lenihan, Assistant Principal, CES - FY25Kim Prehoda, Principal CES - FY25Clay Williams, Maintenance Tech., BVS - FY25Deb Williams, School Nurse FHUMHS - FY25Kim PrehodaBonnie LenihanRuzanne Behrens Wendy Cameron Dale CoombsVeronica Lambert Clay Williams Deb WilliamsDeb RobbinsMr. Justin Merrill,Fair Haven UnionMiddle SchoolTeacher OVS 4th GradeTeacherUVM Teachers of the YearMs. JennaLaslocky13Return to Table of ContentsLynn LaClair

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5.21%5.56%Supports the recruitment, development and retention of our educatorsProvides resources for valuable, relevant, engaging and inclusive learningexperiencesContributes to the mission of increasing measurable student learning andreduce achievement gapsContinues to address deferred maintenance and infrastructure needs in all 5 buildings in the districtContinues to support flexible pathwaysFY2026 Budget OverviewBUDGETTOTAL$32,086,270PERSTUDENT COST$11,782.98How this Budget Reflects the District’s Goals SPENDINGINCREASESSPENDINGDECREASESReduction of 2 FTE Instructional AssistantsReduction of 2 FTE Elementary TeachersBudget No Longer Subsidizes Boys & Girls Club (the program will continue to run)Wages Based on Negotiated ContractsHealth Insurance Premiums and Other Payroll Related BenefitsIncrease of 4 FTE Student Behavioral Support in the Elementary Schools (2 support staff and 2 teachers)Contracted Services such as TransportationContinued Investments in Buildings and Grounds14Return to Table of Contents

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Comparisonsto FY25$ Change$1,589,035$ Change$620.99Tax RatesAt this time, we estimate that 4 of our 6 towns will experience a tax rate decrease, while 2 will see a minimal increase. On December 1st , the Tax Commissioner provides the legislature with forecasted rates and yields intended to set tax rates so that all taxpayers statewide experience the same average change to their tax bills from the previous year. Thehomestead property yield, the non-residential tax rate and income yield are set annually by theVermont Legislature during each legislative session. Typically, the legislature recalibrates the ratesand yields based on updated education fund data gathered by the Agency of Education. School districts provide the AOE with preliminary budget datain early February, after most school boards have signed their budgetwarning. The Tax Commissioner’s letter, the preliminary budget data and the condition of the education fund are considered by thelegislature when they finally set the yields and rates.Since the final yield has not been set by the legislature, we are not including tax rate estimates in this report. However, you can viewthe current estimate of tax rates by visiting www.slatevalleyunified.org,clicking on “FY26 Budget Information” from the homepage, and then selecting “FY26 Tax Rate Estimate”under resources. Another option is to go to: bit.ly/SVFY26PrelimTaxRates or scan the QR Code.Preliminaryestimates suggestthat most towns arelikely to experiencea REDUCTION intax rates5.56%5.21%FY26Proposed Budget$32,086,270FY25 Budget$30,497,235EducationSpending perWeighted Pupil$11,782.98FY25 Budget$11,161.99FY26 Proposed15Return to Table of Contents

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Expenditures by Functional AreaExpenditures by AccountAuditor’s Report LetterThe firm of RHR Smith & Company ofBuxton, Maine was engaged tocomplete the annual audit of thefinancial statements of thegovernmental activities, any businesstype activities, any discretelypresented component units, any majorfund, and any aggregate remainingfund information, including the relatednotes to the financial statements whichcollectively comprise the basicfinancial statements of the Slate ValleyUnified Union School District as of andfor the year ending June 30, 2024.The audits include the financialstatements for the school district’snon-major governmental, non-majorenterprise, and fiduciary funds for thesame period. The audit report includesManagement’s Discussion andAnalysis, fund balances and budget toactual comparison information for theyear ended June 30, 2024.RHR Smith & Company has statedthat the audit was conducted inaccordance with auditing standardsthat require them to plan and performthe audit in order to obtain reasonableassurance whether the financialstatements are free of materialmisstatement.The audit was conducted for thepurpose of forming an opinion on thefinancial statements that collectivelycomprise the Slate Valley UnifiedUnion School District basic financialstatements. A copy of the annual audit can beobtained by contacting the SlateValley Unified Union School District at33 Mechanic Street, Fair Haven, VT or by visiting the website atwww.slatevalleyunified.org.20Return to Table of Contents

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This past school year saw the highest number of Slate Valley students achieving their expected rate of growth in literacy and math through our internal screener and benchmarking assessment Star 360. The results of “just in time” instructional strategies in literacy, resulted in 56% of our Kindergarteners, 62% of students in Grade 1, 67% in Grade 2, 69% in Grade 3, 62% in Grade 4, 56% in Grade 5, and 67% in Grade 6 meeting their expected rate of growth during the 2024 school year. Instructional coaching focused on early grade phonics, along with the purchase of decodable texts have resulted in improved student literacy outcomes across Slate Valley elementary schools. Our district instructional coaches, academic interventionists, and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)Coordinator are critical components of our district educational infrastructure. The ongoing and job embeddedinstructional improvement they provide not only supports the implementation of certain initiatives, but also builds thecollective capacity of all of our educators and administrators. These federally funded roles provide a range of servicesfrom large group workshops to one-on-one coaching cycles. Slate Valley coaches and our Multi-Tiered Systems ofSupport (MTSS) Coordinator also provide leadership to support coordination across the district through their ongoingrevisions to our curriculum in ELA, mathematics, science, and social studies. Slate Valley elementary schools are experiencing improved student outcomes in literacy as a result of Science ofReading strategies implemented in all Slate Valley schools since 2021. We are seeing improved student outcomes inmathematics in Slate Valley’s school due to implementation of new elementary math strategies (Math LearningCenter’s Bridges K-5 and Open Up Math for Grade 6). The systems and structures supported by Slate Valleyinstructional coaches, interventionists, and MTSS Coordinator implement a framework designed to provide allstudents with the academic and social-emotional support they need to succeed. By providing a layered system ofsupport, Slate Valley ensures that students are the recipients of instructional strategies at just the “right time”, leadingto improved academic outcomes and increased student success.Assessments are a critical part of our teaching and learning system. It is important to distinguish between the varioustypes of assessments and the purpose that each serves. Most important are classroom-level “formative” and“summative” assessments, which are created by teachers or teams of teachers. These assessments provideclassroom teachers, interventionists, instructional coaches, and others with valuable data that can be used to providetimely, targeted supports and interventions, in addition to informing instructional shifts. It is important to note that anyassessment, be it a state level standardized test or an end of unit assessment, are imperfect and not the onlymeasurement of students’ proficiency. We do not rely on any one type of assessment, but instead utilize acomprehensive assessment system that aims to leverage a wide variety of data to paint a broad picture of studentsuccess. In addition to our local assessments, there are the nationally administered and federally mandated VermontComprehensive Assessment Program (VTCAP) tests that assess student proficiency on Common Core StateStandards (CCSS) in English Language Arts and mathematics in Grades 3-9. Additionally, students take the VermontScience Assessment (VTSA), which assesses proficiency of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) ingrades 5, 8, and 11. These assessments are administered each spring, with results becoming available in early fall.Slate Valley students in grades 3-5 scored at or above the Vermont average in both literacy and math. 42.75% ofSlate Valley elementary students scored proficient or higher in mathematics when comparing 2023 to 2024. In EnglishLanguage Arts (ELA), 52.5% of our elementary students scored proficient or above when comparing the two schoolyears. Students who took the SAT during the 2023-2024 school year, and reported their scores to Fair Haven Union HighSchool, compiled an average score of 1119. This compares to the Vermont average of 1097, and a national average of 1024 according to the College Board for the 2023-2024 school year.Respectfully, Casey O’MearaDirector of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment21Return to Table of Contents

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The Special Services Team of the Slate Valley Unified Union School District is committed to ensuring equitable access to education for all students. Our mission is to support the academic, behavioral, social, and emotional growth of students with diverse learning needs by ensuring access to to a comprehensive system of supports so that every student has the opportunity to develop the skills and talents necessary to obtain their educational goals, as well aspursue post-secondary training or meaningful employment. SVUUSD is steadfast in its commitment to theprovision of high quality first (universal) instruction by classroom teachers. We utilize data-based decisionmaking based on predetermined benchmarks to ensure that students have access to a tiered system ofinterventions that are scientific, research based, progress monitored and adjusted based on studentoutcomes. The implementation of academic and behavioral interventions and documentation of a studentsresponse to intervention is essential for determining those students who are in need of specialized instructionto address the presence of an identified disability that is impacting their ability to access the general educationprogram. The Special Services team throughout Slate Valley continues to work in collaboration with the buildingleadership and local support teams to ensure that a continuum of services and programming is available tosupport ALL students in pursuit of their goals. In addition to the supports available to all students, this isaccomplished through the oversight of Special Education for students ages 3-21, including the provision ofearly childhood special education, specialized instruction for grades K-12, physical therapy, occupationaltherapy, school psychology, speech and language therapy, school counseling and implementation andoversight of the School-Based IEP Medicaid Services Program. Additionally, the Special Services officeadvises the support of Section 504 protections and accommodations in each of the district schools; the DistrictDirector of Special Services also serves as the liaison for McKinney-Vento Act for the Education of HomelessYouth and those experiencing transitional housing issues, coordinates the assessment and instructionalservices for English Language Learners (ELL) and the Migrant Education Program, supports home-schoolcoordination efforts and supervision of the home to school liaison, and supervises the implementation ofSVUUSD’s Universal Preschool Programs through the oversight of three school-based universal preschoolclassroom programs as well as establishing and monitoring partnerships with nearly a dozen eligible privatepreschool providers who are serving resident students of SVUUSD through the Act 166 Public PreK TuitionPartnership Program.In SVUUSD, we are currently providing Special Education Services to 215 students on Individual EducationPlans (IEP’s) in special education. Of these students, 17 of them are served through early childhood specialeducation (ECSE) at the preschool level (ages 3-5). There are 143 students on IEP’s who are served at the K-8 level and another 55 students are on IEP’s in grades 9-12. We are providing special education services to17.5% of our school population across the gradespan of kindergarten through grade 12. As represented in thefollowing table, the number of students eligible for special education and accessing services in SVUUSD hasbeen relatively consistent over many years.While the overall student enrollment has decreased, the number of special education students has remained consistent. It is frequently noted that although the numberof special education students may be similar from year to year, the needs of the students have drastically increased with more students exhibiting significant mental health needs and requiring intensive specialized supports and intensive service needs. 24Return to Table of Contents

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Current and Anticipated Challenges for Special ServicesStaffing Shortages: Recruiting and retaining qualified special education personnelremains a critical challenge. Options for alternative routes to certification andprovisional licenses in general and special education have filled some of the open positions. However, the level of administrative support, on the jobtraining, supplemental coursework, mentoring and supervision is increased while theability to effectively differentiate to ensure access to all students is impacted. Rising Needs: An increase in the number of students requiring significant mentalhealth support and intensive educational services has strained existing resources inthe schools, designated agencies and with community partners. Since theentitlements for children’s mental health services rests only in education law, theschools remain responsible for meeting the needs of all students even when otheragencies are unable to provide the required services. Compliance and Funding: Navigating new state and federal regulations whilemanaging limited funding continues to be a balancing act. SVUUSD has consistentlybeen ranked as a LOW SPENDING district in special education as evidenced byaverage per pupil special education student spending. SVUUSD has averaged15.13% BELOW THE STATE AVERAGE for the last six years in per pupil spending inspecial education. The most recent statewide data shows our per pupil spending inspecial education is 18.48% BELOW the state average per pupil.SVUUSD Average Per Pupil Spending in Special EducationYEAR % BELOW STATE AVERAGE RANK by DistrictFY22 -18.48% BELOW 43rd lowest spender of 53 FY21 -20.44% BELOW 41st lowest spender of 53 FY20 -10.97% BELOW 37th lowest spender of 53 FY19 -13.89% BELOW 39th lowest spender of 53 FY18 -17.07% BELOW 48th lowest spender of 53FY17 -9.92% BELOW 44th lowest spender of 53The Special Services Department remains committed to its mission to provide high-quality support and resources to students with diverse needs. As we look to thefuture, we will continue to advocate for inclusive practices, equitable funding, andinnovative solutions to meet the challenges ahead. We extend our gratitude to the dedicated staff, families, and community partners who support our students each day. Their unwavering commitment ensures thatevery child in the Slate Valley Unified Union School District has the opportunity tothrive. Special acknowledgement and thanks to Bonnie Lenihan who will be retiringat the end of the school year. Bonnie has been a committed SVUUSD administratorwho has dedicated many years of service to the students and families of Slate Valley.We wish Bonnie a wonderful and well deserved retirement from public service! Respectfully submitted, Kristin H. Benway Director of Special ServicesLast Spring, students with Ms.Cosey started their own herb andflower gardens, raised butterfliesto release, and planted awildflower garden for thebutterflies! 26Return to Table of Contents

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Class of 2024 Post Graduation PlanColleges Attendedby the Classes of 2023 & 2024Advanced Welding InstituteAlbany College of Pharmacy andHealth SciencesClarkson UniversityCommunity College of VermontDartmouth CollegeDean College - DanceDuquesne UniversityEast Stroudsburg UniversityEndicott CollegeHusson UniversityKeene State CollegeMaine College of Art & DesignMcGill UniversityMerrimack CollegeMiddlebury CollegeMount Holyoke CollegeNorwich UniversityPaul Smiths CollegePlymouth State UniversityPurdue UniversitySouthern Maine CommunityCollege - Fire ScienceSUNY CobleskillUniversity of ConnecticutVT State University - CastletonVT State University - LyndonVT State University - Randolph -Mechanical EngineeringTechnologyUniversity of New HampshireUniversity of Northwestern Ohio University of VermontWashington and Lee UniversityWyoming Technical Institute -Automotive Collision RepairCLASSESOF 2023 & 2024APPRENTICESHIPSLong Trail ElectricalRV FirefighterSoutheast Lineman Training CenterCLASSESOF 2023 & 2024EMPLOYMENTAlderman’s Toyota, Bayada Home Health Care,Browns Auto Salvage, Castleton Veterinary Office, Cutting Hill Beef Company, Fabian Earth Moving, General Electric,Gilmores, Helen Porter Hospital,Homestead, Howards Garage, Ignite Nutrition, Jiffy Lube,Lazy Dog Farm LLC, Lowells Landscape & Fence Company,Maple Wood Ice, Monroe Tractors,Peak Performance Builders,Sodexho - Food Service, Stonewood Farms, Winmill Equipment,Woodard Marine Boats,Woof Pack27Return to Table of Contents

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School ClimateBenson Village School started 2024 with 16 new Kindergarten students and a new 3rd-grade teacher, Mrs. Bethany Link. BVS is running single-grade classrooms K - 3rd and our 4th, 5th & 6th grades are having their ELA and math delivered at their grade levels through the departmentalization of Mrs. Miller and Mrs. Schuyler who helped develop this schedule in 2023 to ensure students were being challenged by single-grade instruction.This fall, thanks to a grant secured by Nurse Claire Officer, our Prek - 6 students have participated in qualitypresentations from VINS (Vermont Institute of Natural Science). Students have connected with numerous birdsfrom Vermont and learned about their specific habitats and characteristics.Benson teachers continue to modify lessons and work with students to meet them where they are academically.Mrs. Amanda Eddy (Special Education/Interventionist) spends considerable time embedded in the classroomsworking with students to help bridge gaps in understanding and shore up strategies that may need more practice.Our teachers are taking full advantage of the SVUUSD District Coaches and their expertise in modeling lessonsand reviewing student data. This coaching work allows teachers to watch a lesson in action and collectobservational information on their students to better their instructional practices.The professionals at BVS continue to amaze me with their dedication to teaching. Every day they provide a caringenvironment that nurtures our young learners and takes the social-emotional aspect of what it means to be astudent during these times into consideration.Benson Village School remains a close-knit professional community where staff model positive behaviorexpectations and offer robust support for students and families. Shared staff members, including Mrs. Parrott (Art& STEAM), Ms. Knockenhauer (PE & Health), Ms. Nadler (Library), Ms. Broughton (Music & Instruments), andMrs. McKee (SLP), ensure smooth operations across sister schools.Student Growth and AchievementAs the principal of Benson Village School, my primary goal is to foster student growth and achievement in reading and math by implementing targeted strategies and building strong connections with caregivers and the community. To support high-risk students with the most intensive special education and academic needs, we are working with their families, ensuring open communication and collaboration in addressing student growth. Using inquiry-based approaches, instructional practice data will be collected and analyzed as evidence of student learning gaps to guide professional development and enhance teacher capacity.Meeting regularly with teachers, we review student progress, identify skills and strategies affecting access and engagement, and develop individualized plans in partnership with our Special Educator, School Counselor, Coaches, and caregivers. These plans will align with IEPs, ESTs, and 504s, ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing gaps in literacy. Dedicated time for teachers to assess data and co-create strategies willempower them to implement effective instructional opportunities and engage caregivers in supporting theirchildren’s success.Additionally, we take advantage of opportunities to partner further with the Benson community to emphasize thevalue of education and foster a supportive learning environment. Through these efforts, Benson Village School will continue to prioritize academic excellence and community collaboration, creating a foundation for sustainedgrowth and achievement for every student.28Return to Table of Contents

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2024 Community Engagement Community engagement remains a cornerstone of Benson Village School's commitment to fostering strong connections between families, students, and the broader community. This fall, the school hosted both informal and formal Open House events, providing a warm and inclusive welcome to new and returning families while showcasing the vibrant learning environment that defines our school. The 5th Annual Trunk-or-Treat event was a season highlight, breaking our 2023 attendance record and uniting communitymembers, staff, and families for a night of festive fun and creativity.In November, the cherished Thanksgiving Luncheon brought together over 230 students, family members, and staff,exemplifying the spirit of gratitude and connection that characterizes Benson Village School traditions. These events notonly celebrate our shared commitment to education but also strengthen bonds across the community, creating lastingmemories and reinforcing the importance of collaboration in nurturing student growth and well-being. Through theseinitiatives, Benson Village School continues to thrive as a hub of learning, support, and togetherness, where every memberof the community plays a vital role in our students' success.Curriculum and Professional DevelopmentProfessional development at Benson Village School is thriving under the guidance of our dedicated academic coaches inliteracy and math. Teachers engage in ongoing, targeted training designed to enhance instructional practices, addressstudent learning gaps, and refine strategies for fostering academic growth. In math, the school continues to excel with theBridges Math Program, which provides a hands-on, inquiry-based approach that builds deep conceptual understanding.This program has become a cornerstone of our success, helping students make remarkable progress in mathematicalthinking and problem-solving.In literacy, the Zoo-Phonics program is making a significant impact, especially in the early grades, by integrating movement,music, and visual cues to strengthen foundational reading skills. These tools, combined with the expertise of our academiccoaches, empower teachers to deliver highly effective, research-based instruction tailored to students’ diverse needs.Together, these initiatives are transforming classrooms, supporting teacher growth, and driving exceptional outcomes forstudents at Benson Village School.Physical PlantBenson Village School celebrated the retirement of Mr. Clay Williams on December 6th, honoring his dedication andcontributions to our school community. Before stepping into his well-earned retirement, Mr. Williams left new equipment onthe PreK playground that was installed and he oversaw the addition of woodchips to the K-6 playground, ensuring bothareas are safe, compliant, and ready for our students to enjoy.We’re excited to see the school receive a fresh look when the scraping and painting project kicks off in April 2025.Points of PrideIn 2024, Benson Village School proudly earned the prestigious title of a PBIS School of Recognition, a testament to ourunwavering dedication to promoting positive behavior and citizenship. By the end of December, over 300 Pawsitive OfficeAwards had been celebrated, each one a shining example of our students’ kindness, effort, and growth.Four of our 6th-grade students took on developing 2 separate programs this year, BVS Safety Officers and Junior LibraryAssistants. BVS continues to be a beacon of happiness and success, where a nurturing environment inspires students to embrace theirunique interests, unleash their creativity, and prioritize well-being. Here, purpose fuels passion, and students radiate hope,confidence, and determination, rising to meet challenges with resilience. In my 7th year as BVS Principal, I am proud of the progress and adaptability shown over the past several years.Transitioning to a PreK-6 model feels natural now, and the pandemic-era adjustments have positively influenced studentwell-being and daily routines. The Benson staff is steadfast in their mission to provide a space where students work hard,have fun, and be nice.Sincerely,Amy RoyPrincipal29Return to Table of Contents

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Castleton Elementary School is proud to share all we are doing this year! As we have in years past, this report addressesthese five key areas: School Climate, Student Growth/Achievement Community Engagement, Physical Plant, Curriculum and Professional Development and Points of Pride/Celebrations. School Culture/ClimateAs always, our Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) expectations remain the same:Responsible & SafeRespectfulReady to LearnOur monthly newsletter has included pieces on these expectations throughout this year to keep our familiesinformed. The monthly character trait remains in place and we celebrate those students who show that trait monthlyat our assemblies. We added a piece to our school celebrations this year to include recognition of those students who consistentlymeet behavior expectations. Thanks to our Latitudes team as well as our Positive Behavior Interventions andSupport (PBIS) team for making this happen! This year, we have also added a Wellness Team to focus on our staff's wellness. We know when our staff is well, ithelps our students be well. This team has done some fun and special things for our staff that have made adifference in our school culture. Student Growth/Achievement We are so proud of our students at Castleton Elementary School! The data that we see shows growth, and seeing student growth is our goal. Our special education and intervention teams at CES are the best you can get! Their support of student needs and their teamwork help our students to achieve all they can achieve. Seeing that growth continues to amaze us all! This past school year saw the highest number of Slate Valley students achieving their expected rate of growth in literacy and math through our internal screener and benchmarking assessment Star 360. The results of “just in time” instructional strategies in literacy, resulted in 56% of our Kindergartners, 62% of students in Grade 1, 67% in Grade 2, 69% in Grade 3, 62% in Grade 4, 56% in Grade 5, and 67% in Grade 6 meeting their expected rate of growth during the 2024 school year. Instructional coaching focused on early grade phonics, along with the purchase of decodable texts have resulted in improved student literacy outcomes across Slate Valley elementary schools. Slate Valley students in grades 3-5 scored at or above the Vermont average in both literacy and math. 42.75% ofSlate Valley elementary students scored proficient or higher in mathematics when comparing 2023 to 2024. InEnglish Language Arts (ELA), 52.5% of our elementary students scored proficient or above when comparing thetwo school years. Data examination has always been key to addressing student growth. This year, we included even more time for oureducators to do that examination. This examination looks at academic data as well as social and emotional data.Needs are analyzed and interventions are implemented. We feel very confident our students are getting what theyneed. And, their progress shows us they are!CarlCougar wasawarded the2024 Winner of SlateValley’s Mascot Madness30Return to Table of Contents

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Our thanks goes out to Walter Ripley and Casey O'Meara, who have provided significant data to our community this year. Presentations at the school board meetings, in particular, have provided the opportunity for folks to understand more clearly about the data we gather and examine what we do with that data. Community Engagement In October, we held our first annual Curriculum Extravaganza! We didn't know what to expect, and wewere so pleased with the community turnout! Our Boys & Girls Club held a Trunk or Treat this year. What a fun time that was! Some of our teachers participated and agood time was had by all! We hope this event will continue in the future.This year, we have seen an increase in families supporting their students at home with academics. While this has alwaysbeen present, we have certainly seen it increase. Way to go, families! Partnering with you continues to be a gift for ourstudents.May's all school field trip was during the annual Clean-Up done in May. Our students split up the areas of our community to include greening up Crystal Beach, Dewey Field, the library, the Community Center, and of course, our school. Weappreciate the support from everyone during this field trip and our students loved it!Physical PlantThe major change to our school this year was surely the removal of some of our trees. At first glance, it was quite a shock! Thesetrees were moved to improve security, as they were so mature, they blocked adequate lighting. New lighting was also addedand new trees were planted. Also focusing on security, the first door as you enter our building will now remain locked. This helpsus to see each and every person who enters the building, before they enter. We appreciate our families supporting this change.Curriculum & Professional DevelopmentAs noted under Community Engagement, this year we had our Curriculum Extravaganza. This was well-received andstudents were proud to show their families what they are working on at school. Showing the specific curriculum pieces toour community was very well received.We are fortunate to be in a district that supports the professional development of our staff. We continually team with ourcolleagues in other schools to develop curriculum and skills needed to tackle the ever changing needs of our students.Our new supervision and evaluation system is in place for all staff this year. This change has gone well, and theconversations we are having are deeper and richer when it comes to curriculum and, most importantly, student learning.Points of Pride/Celebrations! Carl the Cougar has helped us celebrate lots of things this year! We are proud to say our school won the first district widemascot competition! This means Carl participated in events at CES more than any other mascot in any other school.Students are the ones who wear the costume, and they are having the best time!Linda Corliss has received the Vermont Instructional Assistant of the year award! What an honor for her, and so welldeserved. As a recipient of this award, Linda is placed in the national contest as well. This drawing will be held in Louisville,Kentucky in March. As the VT recipient, Linda has received an all expenses paid trip to Kentucky to participate at thenational level for the prestigious Instructional Assistant of the Year for the entire nation. We are so proud of this recognition!Congratulations to Bonnie Lenihan, our Assistant Principal for Special Services, who is retiring at the end of this schoolyear! We thank her for her dedication to Castleton Elementary School for sixteen years. Bonnie has surely left her markhere, and she will be missed!I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Castleton Elementary School community for supporting me as your principalthese past seven years. As many of you know, I will be retiring at the end of this school year. I have felt so privileged toserve this learning community and I wish you all the very best in the coming years!Sincerely,Kim E. PrehodaPrincipal31Return to Table of Contents

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As principal of Fair Haven Grade School, I am honored to share highlights from another productive and inspiring year. Our school continues to thrive as a hub of learning, growth, and community connection.School Culture and ClimateFair Haven Grade School is a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment where staff are coached and supported to be the best they can be for the students they serve, and students are challenged andsupported to be the best learners they can be, academically, socially and emotionally. Through initiatives like ourmonthly assemblies celebrating students who exemplify our core values (Safety, Ownership, Acceptance, andResponsibility) and activities like our daily Falcon News, we have fostered a strong sense of belonging amongstudents and staff. Our efforts to promote positive behavior through our PBIS framework continue to bebeneficial, as the majority of our students successfully manage their behavior and demonstrate our core values,highlighting the growing strength of our school community.Student Growth and AchievementWe are proud to report consistent academic growth in literacy skills at FHGS. Our benchmark assessment data(Star 360) has shown consistent growth for the past three years in literacy. Star 360 Spring 2024 data indicatedover 70% of students met or exceeded their individual growth targets. The Fall 2024 Star 360 data showed lesssummer regression from years past. We are excited to see what growth will be evident at the end of the year. Allof the professional development, coaching support, and programs like Lexia, Reading Simplified, targetedintervention groups, and enrichment opportunities have played a key role in supporting student literacy success. The implementation of Bridges Math last year has had a positive impact on student engagement. Students aremuch more active in their mathematical learning and we look forward to seeing the longitudinal impact on studentgrowth.Community EngagementOur school remains a hub of connection for families and the broader community. This year’s Applefest marked its34th successful year, drawing hundreds of participants and raising funds directly benefiting our students. Familynights, including Open House, Celebration of Learning, literacy and STEM-focused events, saw recordattendance and strengthened the partnership between home and school. Additionally, our collaboration withlocal organizations, such as the Boys and Girls Club, Caring Canines, Fair Haven PTO, Fair Haven RecreationProgram, Ross Chevrolet, Shaws, and Slate Valley Cares enriched our students' learning experiences. Physical PlantMaintaining a safe, clean, and functional learning environment is a priority. This year, we completed generalmaintenance tasks such as window repair, roof repair, general cleaning, and upkeep. We also have a theatrecurtain being installed that will be used for our drama program. In addition, planning is underway to reconstructthe walkway and stairs on the Dollar General side of the building. The job will go out to bid in the spring. Thesetasks certainly enhance our facilities to better meet the needs of students and staff, ensuring our school remainsa space that promotes learning and well-being.Studentsreceiving recognition......at the monthlyFalcon Gathering32Return to Table of Contents

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Curriculum and Professional Development Our staff have engaged in professional development, through our district coaching model, in the areas of literacy and math. K-3 teachers have received embedded coaching in the science of reading to strengthen sound-based decoding instruction and use of Reading Simplified to differentiate the teaching of phonological awareness, phonics, and fluency, which has shown strong student growth in these areas of literacy. In addition, grades 3-6 teachers of literacy have received embedded coaching on evidence-based high-leverage practices and data-driven instruction. The use of Units of Study to support the writers workshop model inpartnership with the Writing Revolution has further enriched our grades 3-6 literacy program.The implementation of Bridges Math in grades K-5 last year has already shown promising results, with increased studentengagement and understanding. Coaching continues to focus on using precise math language and conceptualunderstanding. This year we are implementing Open Up Math program for grade 6 as a stepping stone from Bridges Math to middle-level math. In addition, at FHGS we continue to grow our teaming skills through finishing our book study on building resilience andproviding training in professional learning communities (PLCs), where teachers work together to analyze data, share bestpractices, and develop differentiated instructional plans that are clear about what we want students to learn, the successcriteria for learning and what we will do if students don’t meet the success criteria. This work furthers our collective goal of meeting the needs of every learner.Points of Pride and CelebrationAs we reflect on the year, there is much to celebrate. Our school was recognized as a Vermont PBIS "School of Recognition"for our commitment to social-emotional growth and implementing PBIS (Positive Behavioral Intervention Systems). Severalstudents received regional recognition for their art and music skills. Our general music, band, and choir programs deliveredoutstanding performances at their concerts. Our drama program and athletic teams worked hard and provided greatentertainment for our community. We are blessed with dedicated educators who have continued their learning, from thosewho took a course, to those who have entered and finished Masters programs. Most importantly, we celebrate the everydayachievements of our students, from mastering new skills to demonstrating kindness and leadership in their classrooms andbeyond.Looking AheadAs we look toward the upcoming year, our focus will remain on fostering a culture of continuous improvement, supportingstudent achievement, and strengthening community connections. Together, we will continue to build on the successes ofthis year and create even more opportunities for our students to shine.Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in making our school an exceptional place to learn and grow.Deborah InfurnaPrincipalFHGS AppleFest 202433Return to Table of Contents

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It is with great enthusiasm that we present the FHUMHS 2024-2025 Annual Principals’ Report, celebrating the incredible growth and achievements within our school community. From enhancing our physical infrastructure to fostering innovative student engagement initiatives, this report showcases the collective dedication and efforts that drive our mission of student success.School ClimateAt FHUMHS, creating a positive school climate is key to improving our school. This year, we built on past programsand added new ones to make our school community stronger and more inclusive. Middle school students now havea Student Voice program, where they can share their ideas to help shape school culture. At the high school, aStudent Lunch Committee works with the Abbey Group to improve lunch based on student suggestions.We also started a Peer Mediation Group, where students are being trained to help solve conflicts and supportunderstanding among classmates. Our staff continues to focus on building strong relationships with every student,helping each individual to feel valued and supported. These efforts continue to show our commitment to makingFHUMHS a welcoming place for all.Community EngagementAt FHUMHS, community engagement is at the heart of our mission to connect students with the world beyond theclassroom. Our Family and Consumer Science classes continue to collaborate with Slate Valley Cares to providemeals for families in need, showing students how their education can positively impact the lives of others. TheAnnex program enriches students' lives through weekly activities that build lasting connections, such as swimmingat Castleton University and gleaning at local orchards. Our Outdoor Pursuits program connects students toVermont's natural resources, teaching them skills to enjoy and protect the environment as future stewards.Our arts, music, and theater programs also play an essential role in connecting students to the local community.Through performances and partnerships with organizations like the Chaffee Art Center and Southern Vermont ArtCenter, students both enrich local culture and experience opportunities within their community. In social studies,students meet guest speakers from diverse cultural backgrounds, engage with local law enforcement, and explorereal-world topics. The Middle School Lifetime Activities program creates many connections between our studentsand local businesses including Fair Haven Fitness, Tom’s Bait and Tackle Shop, and Sol Luna Yoga, to name a few.Additionally, our middle school science students participate in the Trout in the Classroom program, helping topromote Vermont’s trout population. During the summer, the Great Adventure Project has students exploring localwaterways and hiking trails while collecting water samples and observing wildlife. The information gathered duringGAP is shared with a variety of audiences. Green Up Day involves all students in beautifying our local community.With plans for more service days in the future, FHUMHS is proud to foster a culture where community engagementis a shared experience and a cornerstone of our school.FHUMHS Music, Artand Theatre Programs34Return to Table of Contents

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Physical PlantFHUHS continues to prioritize upgrades to our facilities to ensure a safe, modern, and welcoming environment for all. Thisyear, we have enjoyed the benefits of the new pump station installed last spring, which has significantly reduced plumbingissues throughout the school. In addition, we’ve upgraded our PA system to include enhanced safety alerts, providing clearinternal warnings for situations like “lock in place” or “hold,” aligning with our ALICE and fire safety protocols.Looking ahead, we are excited about several upcoming improvements. Plans are underway for the installation of newbleachers in the high school gym, which will create a better experience for students and spectators during events. We arealso updating our kitchen with a new walk-in cooler and freezer. Future plans involve replacing the existing elevator as wellas continued replacement of the steam heating system. These upgrades reflect our commitment to providing a safe andinnovative space that meets the needs of our growing school community.Curriculum & Professional DevelopmentFHUMHS continues to prioritize professional development to improve the quality of education for our students. This year,the high school has focused on deepening instructional rigor as part of its Rigor, Relevance, and Relationships vision.Teachers have embraced research-based strategies from John Hattie's educational work, implementing practices likefocusing on academic vocabulary, asking deeper questions, and providing better feedback on formative assessments.These strategies help ensure students are challenged and supported in their learning.Meanwhile, the middle school team has developed their "Three C's" vision: Curiosity, Connection, and Community. Thisframework encourages staff and students to ask questions, express themselves respectfully, include others, and build trustwithin the school community. The work to expand Lifetime Activities, create the framework for and implement student-ledconferences while also rebuilding Personalized Learning Plans at the middle school level is grounded in the 3 C’s. The goalis to inspire curiosity, foster meaningful relationships, and create a strong sense of belonging. With these shared visions,both the middle and high school teams are empowering students and staff to grow, learn, and become the best versions ofthemselves.Points of Pride/CelebrationsFHUMHS takes immense pride in the continued growth and success of our school community. We are diligently working tocommunicate and clarify our eligibility process for extracurricular activities, ensuring a balanced approach that prioritizesacademics while promoting student engagement in these enriching opportunities. Our extracurricular programming hasshown remarkable resilience and growth post-COVID, providing students with meaningful ways to connect, explore theirpassions, and thrive beyond the classroom.At the middle school level, our team is proud of the ongoing development of routines and expectations that foster a positiveand productive learning environment, setting the foundation for student success. Meanwhile, our high school celebrates thediverse opportunities available to juniors and seniors, including work-based placements and early college programs. Theseinitiatives empower students with real-world experiences and prepare them for future academic and career pathways.These achievements reflect our unwavering commitment to fostering an environment where every student can grow,succeed, and reach their full potential.Sincerely,Jennefer Paquette & Ben WorthingFHUMHS Co-PrincipalMiddle School Students in Project BuildWelcome Home Parade for our D2Football State Champions35Return to Table of Contents

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School ClimateOrwell Village School is dedicated to cultivating well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to our society. We prioritize connection, character development, content appreciation, creativity, and community building. Our core values of safety, respect, responsibility, and kindness guide our efforts to foster harmonious relationships within our school community.We employ restorative practices to create an equitable and respectful learning environment. Instead of punitivemeasures, we focus on repairing harm and transforming attitudes. We believe that by teaching students to addressconflicts constructively and build strong relationships, we are empowering them to become responsible andempathetic citizens.Our innovative approach to community building shifts the focus from power struggles and exclusion to collaborationand inclusion. By providing opportunities for students to "do things right," we are fostering a positive school culturewhere everyone feels valued and supported.Community EngagementThroughout the year, we foster a strong sense of community through various initiatives. Our monthly PBISassemblies recognize students who exemplify our core values. We collaborate with Middlebury College internationalstudents to broaden our cultural horizons. Our students also actively engage with local organizations, hostingveterans' luncheons, welcoming guest readers during Literacy Week, and learning valuable fire safety tips fromOrwell firefighters.On the first Friday of each month, Orwell Village School invites families to experience firsthand the dynamic learning environment within our classrooms. These forty-five-minute visits offer a glimpse into the diverse activities and projects that engage our students.Last year, our students embarked on a captivating dance residency with Ms. Ashley from Dance Factory. This enriching program culminated in a community performance in May. Additionally, we continued our tradition of serving a community Thanksgiving dinner in partnership with the First National Bank of Orwell, ensuring that no one went hungry. Our off-to-work breakfast and family folk dance were also highlights of the year.Curriculum & Professional DevelopmentOrwell Village School is launching a comprehensive writing initiative to cultivate passionate readers and writers. Recognizing the importance of writing instruction, we aim to align our curriculum with the science of reading, empower student agency, and incorporate high-quality texts. By viewingreading through a writer's lens, students will develop a deeper understanding of texts and strengthen their ownwriting abilities.To assess progress beyond standardized tests, we will employ various measures, including student surveys andqualitative assessments. These tools will provide valuable insights into students' attitudes toward writing and theiroverall growth as writers.Our goal is to create a supportive and engaging learning environment that empowers students to develop their ownvoices and identities as writers. By providing opportunities for self-expression and implementing effectiveassessment practices, we strive to equip our students with the skills necessary for success in the 21st century.Student Growth & AchievementThe results of our efforts to create a supportive and engaging learning environment for our young writers are evidentacross all grade levels. A strong writing community is forming within the school, fostering increased studententhusiasm and a positive attitude toward writing. Students are developing a strong sense of themselves as writers,evidenced by their increased confidence, willingness to take risks, and improved writing stamina.36Return to Table of Contents

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Classroom observations reveal significant progress. Students produce more sophisticated work with improved sentencestructure, effective use of details, and a deeper understanding of writing conventions. Collaborative learning experiences,such as partner writing and shared documents, enhance student learning and engagement. Furthermore, integrating writingacross the curriculum enriches student learning in other subjects and provides valuable real-world writing experiences.While ongoing assessment and refinement are crucial, these initial results demonstrate that our approach effectivelyempowers students to develop their voices and identities as writers. We are confident that these foundational skills willequip our students with the necessary tools for success in the 21st century.Physical PlantWe are making significant strides in improving our community spaces. The recent update to the boiler system in the TownHall ensures a more efficient and reliable heating system, providing a comfortable environment for years to come.Playground upgrades are also underway, with the addition of wood chips under the swings marking the initial phase. InApril, a new 3-rail split-rail fence with black mesh will be installed, enhancing safety and security for our children.Removable sections are planned for the fence to allow for vehicle access.A major project on the horizon is the kitchen renovation, scheduled for summer/fall. This project will significantly enhanceour food service capabilities. Detailed drawings will begin after the new year.OVS Pride * Celebrating Student LearningA key source of pride at our school lies in the genuine care, love, and dedication shown to every student. This nurturingenvironment is cultivated by the collaborative efforts of the entire staff, ensuring that all students receive the support theyneed to succeed.Furthermore, a strong sense of teamwork and shared vision permeates the school. Teachers are united in their approach towriting instruction, creating a cohesive and supportive learning environment for all students. This collaborative spirit hasfostered a growing writing community within the school, where students are enthusiastic and proud of theiraccomplishments.We are proud of our hard-working students. We observe a positive and productive learning environment throughout theschool. Classroom circles are implemented at all grade levels, fostering student social-emotional well-being and reinforcingour monthly spotlight values. These practices cultivate strong student relationships, improve communication skills, andnurture empathy.Our school's professional staff is dedicated to providing the best possible education for our students. We valuecollaboration, open communication, and a shared commitment to student success. We work effectively together to addresschallenges, support each other, and ensure a positive and enriching learning environment for all.Sincerely,Patrick WaltersOrwell Village School PrincipalStudent Council ran their own school wide campaign and election process with guidance fromRepresentative Joe AndrianoHat DayduringSpiritWeekCommunity gathering atOVS’s traditional Thanksgiving meal 37Return to Table of Contents

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Congratulations to Avery Audet! Avery was unanimouslycrowned Junior Classic Equitation World Champion at the prestigious Morgan Grand National and World ChampionshipHorse Show in Oklahoma City! Riding the exceptional DragonsmeadeSriracha under the direction of Fairview Stable, LLC. Avery's performancewas nothing short of spectacular. In addition to this incredible victory, she alsosecured an impressive 3rd place in the UPHA (United Professional HorseAssociation) Junior Challenge Cup Finals. What an outstanding achievement, Avery!Slater Nation is beyond proud to have such a talented champion among us!At Benson Village School, 6th grade students Eli Scottand Noah Laramie initiated the innovative SafetyOfficer program, while Kaylie Tursi and CassieEdwards, also 6th-grade students, establishedthe Junior Library Assistant program.At Castleton Elementary School,Principal Ms. Prehoda wants to celebrate 4th grader RJ's incredible progress! In two years, he has grown from display-ing unsafe behaviorsto none, transitioned from non-verbal to building sentences, and gained inde-pendence navigating school and community life. We are so proud of his achievements!Congratulations to Bennett Gero, the 2023-24Orwell Village School Chess Champion! Yourhard work, strategy, and skill have earned youthis well-deserved title. Way to go, BennettReturn to Table of Contents

Slate Valley Annual Report and F

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