Maple Run Connection

Happy Monday, Maple Run!

We are now just 2.5 weeks, only 12 school days away from Winter Break, and there is so much excitement happening across all of our schools. Even with the bitter cold settling in, I hope everyone is finding moments to enjoy the beauty of winter in Vermont. I’ve certainly been taking advantage of the season myself; Nordic skiing is one of my favorite ways to get outside, and I spend a lot of time on the trails—skiing, helping with grooming, and coaching. Winter brings a special kind of energy, and I’m always grateful for it.

This past week was another wonderful reminder of how vibrant and engaged our Maple Run community truly is:

Celebrating student performances
Saint Albans City School put on a fantastic production of Pirates Past Noon. Thank you to everyone who attended and supported our hardworking students and staff who brought the show to life.
At the Festival of Trees, musicians from the Saint Albans Town Educational Center Modern Band and the BFA Modern Band delivered impressive performances at the Band Showcase in City Hall. We’re deeply grateful for the strong community turnout—your presence shows our students just how much their efforts matter.

Winter sports are underway
Across the district, winter athletics have officially begun. It’s inspiring to see students active, engaged, and building connections with one another beyond the classroom. Thank you to our coaches, families, and volunteers who make these opportunities possible.

District leadership and planning
At Wednesday’s School Board meeting, we presented the first draft of the FY27 School Budget. Our goal remains clear: to support student learning, maintain strong programs, and continue building a safe, welcoming, and sustainable district for our families and staff.

As we move further into this busy season, I want to extend my appreciation to our entire Maple Run community. Your continued support, involvement, and partnership strengthen our schools every day. Whether you’re attending events, communicating with teachers, cheering from the bleachers, or helping your child stay engaged in their learning—your efforts make a meaningful difference.

Thank you for being part of Maple Run. Together, we create a place where students can learn, grow, and thrive.

Stay informed. Stay connected. Stay engaged.

Last Wednesday, December 3, the Maple Run School Board reviewed the first draft of the FY27 budget. Superintendent Bill Kimball presented key information to help the community understand the planning process and decisions ahead.

Highlights from the meeting:

• Mission, Vision, Goals, and Objectives – Bill reviewed the district’s priorities and this year’s Objectives and Key Results.

• Cost Analysis – Shared programs were analyzed, showing that internally staffing these services is more cost-effective than outsourcing.

• Student Success Measures – Two years of data on attendance, behavior, grade-level performance in literacy and math, and social-emotional learning were shared.

• Enrollment and Demographics – Projected enrollment declines and an increase in students experiencing poverty were reviewed.

• Feedback from November 5 Budget Forum – Community input was shared, including ranking of district goals, priorities, and budget questions.

• Budget Models – Staffing and program adjustments required to achieve 5%, 4%, and 3% budget increases were outlined.

Stay Involved
You can review all materials and the draft budget on the FY27 Budget page on our website. Your thoughts and questions are always welcome, please reach out anytime at TapIn@MapleRun.org.

Thank you for your continued engagement and support. Your voice helps ensure our budget reflects the needs and priorities of all students, families, and our community.

Our Students. Your Voice. Your Vote.
Be Involved. Be Engaged. Make a Difference.

At Maple Run, every day matters. We know that being at school isn’t always easy, life can throw challenges in the way, from anxiety, illness, or feelings of not belonging, to complex family situations, or other barriers. Sometimes, showing up can feel harder than it should.

We want every student and staff member to know: you belong here, and we are here to help. Your presence makes a difference not just in your learning, but in the life of our school community. We notice when you’re not here, and we miss you.

Being present is about more than attendance: it’s about connection, growth, and opportunity. Each day is a chance to learn, collaborate, explore, and be inspired. For staff, being present means supporting students, each other, and the mission that brings our schools to life.

Ways to support attendance and engagement:

• Reach out if mornings or routines feel challenging—we can help problem-solve together.

• Stay connected—talk with teachers or staff about what your student needs to feel safe, included, and excited to learn.

• Celebrate small wins—arriving on time, completing a class, or simply being present counts.

We’re all part of this community together. Every day students and staff show up, they build skills, relationships, and memories that last a lifetime. Let’s support each other in making every day count.

Remember: You belong. We are here for you.

Be Here. Be Engaged. Be Inspired.

With just 12 school days until Winter Break, December can feel like a whirlwind. Between school events, community activities, work, and family commitments, it’s easy to get pulled in a hundred directions. Add in the cold, the early darkness, and the shorter days, and it can be tough to take care of yourself.

Now more than ever, prioritizing wellness helps you stay energized, focused, and present for your students, colleagues, and family. Small, intentional choices make a big difference:

Move your body: Even in the cold, keep active! Try a short walk outside to get fresh air, a few quick stretches during breaks, or dance around at home. Movement helps boost energy, mood, and focus.

Eat to fuel your body: Cold weather can make us crave comfort foods but aim to include balanced meals with protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Your body needs fuel to manage stress and stay warm!

Sleep and recharge: Early darkness can trick our bodies into slowing down—or staying awake too late. Set consistent bedtimes, wind down with a screen-free routine, and aim for enough sleep to feel rested.

Remember: you don’t need big changes. Small, daily choices: moving, eating well, and resting add up to more energy, better focus, and a calmer mind as we finish the year.

Take a breath. Move. Nourish. Rest.
You’ve got this. Let’s finish December strong.

As winter continues to settle in, cold temperatures, snow, and ice are part of our daily routine here in Vermont. At Maple Run, student safety is always our top priority, and we want families and staff to stay informed and prepared when weather impacts school.

How we communicate:

• Notifications for delays or closures are sent via email, text, phone calls, and posted on our official social media accounts and school websites.

• To ensure you receive alerts, keep your contact information up to date and opt in for text messages by texting YES to 79041.

Why delays happen:
Delays are chosen when road conditions or weather make travel unsafe early in the morning, but improve later. A delayed start allows students to safely arrive at school, access warm meals, learning, and connection with caring adults. Every day students are in school safely matters for their learning, well-being, and sense of stability.

Your role:

• Use your best judgment if travel conditions are unsafe.

• Encourage safe alternatives for students who drive.

• Check official channels for updates and share information with your family or neighbors if needed.

Thank you to our custodial and maintenance teams who work early to make our buildings safe, and to all staff and families for your flexibility during winter weather. Every member of our community plays a role in keeping students safe and engaged.

Be prepared. Be informed. Be connected.
We’re in this together. Your care, attention, and involvement make a real difference every snowy day!

December 8th

• SACS Healthy Relationships Project Caregiver Information Night

• BFA Fine Arts Night

• SACS Walking Wednesday