Maple Run Connection

Happy Monday, Maple Run!

As we move further into October, the energy in our schools continues to be inspiring. It’s been wonderful to see students engaged in learning, participating in fall sports, and celebrating their achievements through PBIS celebrations across our schools. PBIS, or Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports, is our way of recognizing and encouraging positive behavior, helping students feel safe, supported, and motivated to do their best. Our staff and students have been working hard to build a culture of respect, responsibility, and kindness. It’s exciting to see that effort in action!

Last week was full of meaningful moments. Across the district, students completed the Fall SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) Survey, giving us valuable insight into their well-being and helping us ensure every student feels supported. On Wednesday, we celebrated School Principal Day, a huge thank you to our principals for their leadership, dedication, and the countless ways they support students and staff every day. That same day, our School Board met at Central Office, continuing important conversations about the future of our schools.

At BFA, I had the pleasure of hosting the first “Conversations with Bill” session. This is a chance to connect directly with staff members. I’ll be holding these four times this year at each of our schools, and I look forward to continuing these informal, meaningful discussions throughout the school year.

Meanwhile, school photos and vision screenings have been happening across the district, capturing our students’ bright smiles and ensuring their health and well-being. And last week, the NCTC Fall Advisory Meeting brought together educators, students, and community members to review program goals and ensure our students have strong pathways to success.

I’m grateful for the care, curiosity, and commitment that everyone brings to Maple Run each day. Here’s to a week full of learning, connection, and celebrating the hard work and achievements of our students and staff!

The Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force invites community members to share their perspectives on school district boundaries. These hearings are an opportunity to learn about the Task Force’s work and provide input that will help guide their proposals to the legislature.

While none of the in-person hearings are very close to our area, the Winooski High School session is the closest option, and all hearings offer virtual participation via Microsoft Teams.

Upcoming Hearings (In-Person & Virtual Options):

• Oxbow High School, Bradford: Friday, Oct. 10 | 4:30–6:30 PM

• Leland & Gray High School, Townshend: Thursday, Oct. 16 | 6:00–8:00 PM

• Rutland High School, Rutland: Wednesday, Oct. 22 | 6:00–8:00 PM

• Winooski High School, Winooski (closest to us): Tuesday, Oct. 28 | 6:00–8:00 PM

Community input will be summarized and included in the Task Force’s official report. For more information, including links to participate virtually and accessibility options, visit the Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force website or contact ADM.Redistricting@vermont.gov.

Share Your Voice: Quick Survey on Vermont Schools

Vermont leaders are working on ways to strengthen our public education system, manage costs, and improve opportunities for all students. To do this well, they want to hear directly from you.

The Commission on the Future of Public Education invites you to take 8–10 minutes to complete this survey and share your perspective. Your input will provide critical guidance as the Legislature, the Commission on the Future of Public Education, and the School District Redistricting Task Force consider the best path forward. https://bit.ly/3KYelgp

Episode 4 of Season 2 is now live! This week, Superintendent Bill Kimball and Assistant Superintendent Megan Grube are joined by Christopher Moore, BFA Social Studies teacher, to explore Rigor and Relevance in the classroom.

Enjoy music by Gabrielle Dubie, BFA senior, and get inspired by the voices shaping learning in our schools.

Listen now on:

• Spotify: Tap Into Maple Run – Episode 4

• Apple Podcasts: Tap Into Maple Run – Episode 4

• MapleRun Link: Tap Into Maple Run – Episode 4

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If you have suggestions, questions, or ideas you’d like featured on the podcast, reach out at TapIn@maplerun.org.

Maintaining energy and focus throughout the day starts with smart snacking and proper hydration. A balanced snack combines protein like nuts, cheese, or yogurt with fruits or vegetables to help sustain energy, keep your brain sharp, and prevent mid-day fatigue.

Try these ideas:

• Apple slices with peanut butter

• Carrot sticks with hummus

• Yogurt with berries

Plan ahead: Pack or prep small snacks to enjoy during busy work or learning days.

This week’s challenge: Include at least one balanced snack each day and notice how it impacts your energy and focus!

Dr. Tina H. Boogren, a wellness advocate and educator, encourages us to “Drink the stupid water.” She emphasizes that staying hydrated is a simple yet effective way to boost energy and mental clarity. Even mild dehydration can lead to fatigue and brain fog. Dr. Boogren suggests setting small hydration goals, like drinking a glass of water before your morning coffee, to build the habit.

Remember: Drinking water is a small step that can make a big difference in how you feel throughout the day.

Families, to receive important school updates and emergency alerts via text, you must opt in. Messages are not sent automatically, and our ability to reach you quickly depends on the information you provide. Please make sure your contact information is current and accurate.

Two ways to opt in:

• Text Method: Text YES to 79041 to receive messages. To opt out, text STOP to the same number.

• Web-Based Method: You can use BrightArrow’s web-based opt-in by clicking the link below:
Click here to opt-in to BrightArrow for text messages.

Messaging Number: All BrightArrow text messages come from 79041.

Why this matters: Families are responsible for ensuring our communications work. In an emergency, we want to reach you immediately, but only if your contact information is correct and you are opted in. Due to legal requirements, families must have explicit opt-ins on file.

Need help or have questions? Email MRUSDHelpDesk@MapleRun.org.

Thank you for taking a few minutes to make sure you’re opted in and helping us stay informed and connected!

Each year, Maple Run Unified School District asks every family to complete the Household Income Form. While Vermont’s Universal Meals Program ensures that all students receive free breakfast and lunch, this form is about much more than meals.

The anonymous information collected through this form helps Maple Run and schools across Vermont:

• Access millions of dollars in federal education funding

• Support after-school and summer programs

• Improve technology and broadband access

• Strengthen special education and classroom resources

• Keep the cost of Universal Meals affordable for everyone

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Even if you know you don’t qualify for free meals, completing this form still makes a big difference. The data is confidential, anonymous, and used only in aggregate; it cannot be traced back to individual families.

It’s quick. It’s easy. It supports students, families, and schools across our entire district.

Fill out the form here: https://education.vermont.gov/householdincome/2025-2026-household-income-form

Questions? Contact your school office or reach out directly at TapIn@MapleRun.org.

Every family. Every year. Please fill out the form. Thank you!

Be Here

• Show up every day ready to learn.
• Arrive on time to make the most of each class.
• Value the importance of being part of the school community.

Be Engaged

• Participate actively in discussions and activities.
• Ask questions and seek understanding.
• Support classmates and contribute to a positive learning environment.

Be Inspired

• Discover new ideas and opportunities through learning.
• Find motivation in teachers, peers, and experiences.
• Use education as a pathway to future goals and dreams.

The Impact of Attendance

• Higher achievement in academics.
• Stronger connections with teachers and peers.
• Greater readiness for future education and career opportunities.

Attendance is more than just being present: it’s about being engaged and inspired every day.

School Start Times:
• Bellows Free Academy: 8:10 AM
• Fairfield Center School: 8:20 AM
• Northwest Career & Technical Center: 8:00 AM
• Saint Albans City School: 7:30 AM
• Saint Albans Town Educational Center: 8:15 AM

October 13th

• SACS vs SATEC 7/8 soccer

October 14th

• SACS vs SATEC 7/8 soccer

October 15th

• Walking Wednesday SACS
• ASVAB Testing BFA

October 16th

• Inducation Ceremony - Champlain Chapter of the National Honor Society

October 18th

• Franklin County XC Championship @ Fairfield Center School

October 22nd

• Walking Wednesday SACS
• BFA College Financial Aid Night
• MRUSD Board Meeting
• MRUSD Family Movie Night
• SACS Fall Sports Awards Night

October 23rd & 24th

• Non-Student Days

October 26th

• XC State Championship @ Hard'Ack