Maple Run Connection

Happy Monday, Maple Run!

What an incredible and inspiring week it’s been across our schools!

We are in the heart of an exciting stretch for Vermont Principals’ Association Playoffs, and our BFA Comets and Bobwhites have been making us so proud. Last week, boys soccer, girls soccer, boys volleyball, girls volleyball, and our cross country team all competed in VPA playoff action showcasing teamwork, perseverance, and true school spirit.

Our cross country runners had an outstanding showing at the Vermont State Championships held at Thetford Academy, and many will advance to the Meet of Champions at Hard’Ack this Saturday, followed by the New England Championships on November 8th. We’re so proud of these student-athletes and their remarkable accomplishments!

The girls and boys soccer teams, golf teams, and boys volleyball teams have wrapped up their seasons after months of hard work, effort, and determination. You’ve represented BFA and Maple Run with pride, on and off the field. Meanwhile, our football team continues their playoff journey this week, and our girls volleyball team has advanced to the VPA Semifinals, playing tomorrow (Tuesday) with their sights set on the Championship Finals at Saint Michael’s College on Sunday. What an exciting time for fall sports across Maple Run!

Our middle school athletes have also concluded their soccer and cross-country seasons, and we are so proud of their enthusiasm, teamwork, and Maple Run pride shown at every practice, meet, and game. From our youngest competitors to our varsity teams, our students truly shine both on the field and in the classroom each and every day.

Last Wednesday, the Maple Run Board met at NCTC, and we’re thankful for everyone who attended, whether in person or remotely. Your engagement and partnership mean so much. A reminder that the first FY27 Budget meeting will take place at the next Board Meeting on November 5th.

Thursday was a day of professional growth for our staff. It was an in-service day full of energy, collaboration, and learning. It was inspiring to see our educators so engaged in their own professional development across all of our buildings. Then, Friday offered a well-deserved non-work day, and I hope everyone found time to rest, recharge, and do something that brings them joy.

Every week, I’m reminded how lucky we are to be part of such a dedicated, compassionate, and connected community. Thank you to our students, families, and staff for all you do to make Maple Run such a special place to learn and grow.

First FY27 Budget Forum

Wednesday, November 5th at 6:00 p.m.
Saint Albans City School Library

The Maple Run Unified School District invites families, staff, and community members to join us for our first FY27 Budget Forum. This is your opportunity to take part in the important conversations that shape the future of our schools.

During the forum, the Maple Run Board of Directors will begin discussing priorities and ideas for the upcoming FY27 budget. Community input plays a vital role in ensuring that our budget reflects the shared values, needs, and aspirations of our district—supporting strong academic programs, safe and welcoming learning environments, and opportunities for all students to thrive.

We encourage you to come with your questions, suggestions, and perspectives. Your feedback helps guide thoughtful, informed decisions that impact every school and every student in Maple Run.

Questions? Email TapIn@MapleRun.org

Our Students. Your Voice. Your Vote.

Town Meeting Day: March 3, 2026

As our days get busier and stress can build, taking a moment to reset can make a big difference. This week’s wellness tip focuses on managing stress and finding calm with a simple technique called 4-7-8 breathing.

Why it matters:

• Slows your heart rate and signals your body that it’s safe to relax.

• Eases tension and helps clear your mind.

• Boosts focus and mental clarity almost immediately.

How to do it:

1. Inhale quietly through your nose for 4 seconds.

2. Hold your breath for 7 seconds.

3. Exhale slowly through your mouth for 8 seconds.

Practical use:

You can try this anytime—before a meeting, after a stressful moment, or even first thing in the morning to start your day centered. Just a few rounds can help you feel calmer and more focused.

This week’s challenge: Practice 4–7–8 breathing once or twice a day and notice how it affects your stress levels, focus, and overall sense of calm.

Remember: Managing stress doesn’t have to take long—small habits like mindful breathing can make a big impact on your daily well-being.

Adapting & Growing Season 2, Episode 5

In this episode, Superintendent Bill Kimball and Assistant Superintendent Megan Grube welcome Kate Howrigan, MSW, Social Worker and Home-School Coordinator at Fairfield Center School. Together, they explore Maple Run’s Core Value of Flexibility & Adaptability, discussing how students and staff grow stronger when they learn to adjust to challenges and embrace change.

Discover practical strategies for supporting student well-being, building resilience, and managing stress. Plus, try this week’s wellness tip: the 4-7-8 breathing technique to calm your mind and refocus your energy.

Celebrate the ways our staff nurture emotional health and help students thrive, and hear shout-outs from the Maple Run community recognizing the positive impact of social-emotional learning initiatives.

Listen now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and send your questions or shout-outs to TapIn@MapleRun.org—your voice could be featured in an upcoming episode!

Attendance Matters – Every Day Counts!

At Maple Run, we know that being present isn’t just about sitting in a classroom—it’s about fully engaging, learning, and growing each day. Our district goal is for students to have 9 or fewer absences so they can stay on track for success and reach their full potential.

Why good attendance matters:

• Students who attend school consistently perform better academically.

• They develop stronger relationships with teachers and classmates.

• They are more prepared for future learning opportunities and career paths.

We understand that life sometimes gets in the way, and students may miss school. That’s why we are committed to supporting families and students with wrap-around services that remove barriers and keep students on track. Whether it’s transportation, health needs, or other challenges, please reach out—our team is here to help.

We closely monitor attendance to ensure every student receives the support they need. By connecting attendance with social-emotional learning data, we gain insight into how students are feeling and can provide timely assistance. Attendance isn’t just about showing up—it’s about being engaged, inspired, and ready to grow 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

Let’s work together to make every school day meaningful!
Be Here. Be Engaged. Be Inspired.

Congratulations to MaryEllen Tourville and Jennifer Champagne!

Each year, the College of Education and Social Services at the University of Vermont partners with supervisory unions, school districts, the Vermont Agency of Education, and the Vermont NEA to honor educators whose dedication and excellence make a lasting difference for Vermont students.

This year, two outstanding Maple Run educators—MaryEllen Tourville and Jennifer Champagne—were chosen by their peers at Bellows Free Academy and Northwest Career & Technical Center to receive this honor. They will be recognized today at UVM’s 45th Annual Outstanding Educator Awards Celebration.

MaryEllen Tourville – Bellows Free Academy’s 2025 Teacher of the Year
MaryEllen, an English teacher at BFA, is celebrated for her creativity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to her students. Her engaging lessons and thoughtful approach to education inspire both learners and colleagues, embodying the spirit of excellence that defines BFA.

Jennifer Champagne – 2025 NCTC Teacher of the Year and Vermont Outstanding Educator
Jennifer, Student Support Coordinator at NCTC, has been named a Vermont Outstanding Educator for her exceptional dedication to student success. Her empathy, advocacy, and ability to build meaningful connections ensure every student feels seen, supported, and capable of achieving their goals.

Please join us in congratulating MaryEllen Tourville and Jennifer Champagne on these well-deserved recognitions. Their leadership, heart, and passion for education shine brightly throughout Maple Run and beyond.

Stay Informed – Opt In for School Alerts!

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 contact information you provide. With winter weather approaching in Vermont, it’s more important than ever that you stay connected.

Two ways to opt in:

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

• Web-Based Method: Opt in online through BrightArrow: Click here to opt in for text messages

All BrightArrow messages come from 79041.

Why it matters: Families are responsible for ensuring they can receive our communications. In an emergency—or during sudden weather changes—we want to reach you immediately. Legal requirements also mean 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 opt in—your participation helps us keep every family informed, safe, and connected this winter and all year long!

Maple Run Unified School District asks every family to complete the Household Income Form each year. While Vermont’s Universal Meals Program ensures that every student receives free breakfast and lunch, this form does far more than support meals—it helps our schools and students thrive.

The information you provide, which is confidential and anonymous, allows Maple Run and schools across Vermont to:

• Access millions in federal education funding

• Support after-school and summer programs

• Enhance technology and broadband access

• Strengthen special education and classroom resources

• Keep the Universal Meals Program affordable for all students

Even if your family doesn’t qualify for free meals, completing this form still has a real impact. The data is used only in aggregate, so individual families cannot be identified.

It’s quick, easy, and makes a big difference for students, families, and schools throughout our district.

Fill out the form here: 2025–2026 Household Income Form

Questions? Contact your school office or email TapIn@MapleRun.org.

Every family. Every year. Your participation matters—thank you for taking a moment to help our schools!

October 27th & 31st

• Red Ribbon Week

October 28th

• Vermont School District Redistricting Task Force Public Hearing
• BFA Comets Volleyball VPA Semifinal game @ BFA

October 29th

• SACS Walking Wednesday
• BFA SATs (12th grade students) & PSATs (10th & 11th grade students)
• BFA Fall Instrumental / Choral Concert
• BFA Bobwhites VPA Playoff game @ Middlebury

• NCTC Advisory Night
• FCS Harvest Night
• SACS Family Report Card & PBiS Night

• Fairfied Fire Safety Day

• BFA Dance
• Meet of Champions - BFA Cross Country @ Hard'Ack

• District String Festival at BFA

• MRUSD Board Meeting @ SACS

• NCTC Fall Advisory Meeting
• SACS Band Concert
• SATEC Fall Band Concert

• BFA P1 Progress Reports Published

• Veterans Day Celebration