Maple Run Connection

Happy Monday, Maple Run!

We’ve arrived at the final school days before Winter Break. With school in session only today (Monday) and tomorrow (Tuesday, December 23), it’s a short week and a meaningful pause before a well-earned time to rest and recharge.

As always, the days leading up to break have been full, fast-paced, and joyful across Maple Run. Even as the weather kept us guessing — bringing snow, rain, wind, bitter cold, and even some unseasonably warm moments — our schools stayed busy, connected, and focused on what matters most: supporting students as they learn, grow, and engage with one another and their community.

A Celebration of Creativity and the Arts
Last week’s spectacular dance performance at Bellows Free Academy was a powerful reminder of the creativity, confidence, and collaboration our students bring to the stage. These moments shine a light on the many ways students express themselves, take risks, and support one another and on the educators and families who make these opportunities possible.

Community Engagement and Shared Responsibility
We were also grateful for the strong community turnout at last week’s School Board meeting, where Draft 2 of the FY27 budget was presented. Your presence, questions, and engagement reflect a shared commitment to our schools and to thoughtful planning for the future of Maple Run.

Winter Athletics in Full Swing
Across the district, winter athletics are well underway, offering students opportunities to build teamwork, perseverance, and school connection. Whether competing, practicing, or cheering from the stands, these experiences matter and they contribute to a sense of belonging for so many of our students.

As Winter Break begins, we encourage families and staff to rest, slow down, and spend time doing what brings you joy. Whether that’s being outdoors, connecting with loved ones, or simply enjoying a quieter pace. These moments of rest are important for our collective well-being, and they help us return refreshed and ready to learn together again.

Thank you for everything you do, for showing up, staying connected, and supporting our students each and every day. Maple Run continues to be a place where students are seen, valued, and encouraged to thrive because of the strength of this community.

Stay informed. Stay connected. Stay engaged.
Wishing you a restful and restorative Winter Break.

At last week’s Maple Run Unified School District Board meeting, the Board reviewed Draft 2 of the proposed FY27 budget. This draft reflects careful planning, thoughtful discussion, and a continued focus on maintaining strong, stable schools while being mindful of the impact on our community.

The proposed FY27 budget represents a 4.13% increase in expenditures. This proposal is designed to maintain current programs and services, not to add new initiatives. It supports the day-to-day work of our schools and the academic, social, and emotional needs of students across the district.

It is important to note that last year’s education tax rates were temporarily reduced by one-time state funding. While that buy-down lowered rates for one year, it did not reduce the actual cost of operating our schools. Without that one-time support this year, the proposed budget results in different impacts across our communities:

• A lower tax rate in St. Albans City

• An increase of approximately 6% in Fairfield

• An increase of approximately 8% in St. Albans Town

The Board also reviewed information related to student enrollment, staffing, capital planning, and student reports. These discussions help ensure that decisions are grounded in data and aligned with the needs of students today and into the future.

The work happening in our schools continues to show positive results. Academic performance is improving, attendance is rising, and students report feeling safe, supported, and connected. These outcomes are made possible by dedicated educators, supportive families, and a community that values public education.

We remain committed to transparency and community engagement throughout the budget process. Additional drafts and opportunities for public input will continue in the months ahead. Budget materials and updates are available on the FY27 Budget section of our website.

Thank you for staying informed and engaged as we work together to support every student in Maple Run.

What is the FY27 budget?

The FY27 budget is Maple Run Unified School District’s proposed spending plan for the 2026–2027 school year. It outlines how resources will be used to support student learning, well-being, staffing, transportation, facilities, and day-to-day school operations.

What was discussed at the recent School Board meeting?
At the most recent Board meeting, the Board reviewed Draft 2 of the FY27 budget. This included updated revenue projections, enrollment information, staffing considerations, capital planning, and student reports. Community members also had the opportunity to share public comments.

How much is the proposed budget increase?

The proposed FY27 budget reflects a 4.13% increase in expenditures. This increase is intended to maintain current programs and services, not to introduce new initiatives.

Why is there an increase this year?
The proposed increase reflects the real cost of operating schools, including staffing, programming, transportation, and facilities. Last year, Vermont used one-time state funds to temporarily lower education tax rates. While that reduced rates for one year, it did not reduce the actual cost of running schools. Those one-time funds are not available this year.

How will the proposed budget affect tax rates?
Based on current projections:

• Tax rates are expected to decrease in St. Albans City

• Increase by approximately 6% in Fairfield

• Increase by approximately 8% in St. Albans Town

Tax impacts vary by community due to differences in property values and state education funding formulas.

Does this budget add new programs or positions?
No. The FY27 proposal focuses on stability and sustainability. It is designed to maintain existing programs and services that support students’ academic, social, and emotional needs.

How are students benefiting from current investments?
Data shows positive trends across Maple Run, including:

• Growth in reading, writing, and math

• Increased attendance

• Students reporting feeling safe, supported, and connected

• Improved social-emotional skills such as confidence and collaboration
  These outcomes reflect the collective work of educators, families, students, and the broader community.

How can families stay informed or share feedback?
Families are encouraged to:

• Attend School Board meetings in person or online

• Review budget materials on the FY27 Budget page of the Maple Run website

• Share questions or comments during public comment periods

Community input is an important part of shaping a budget that reflects shared values and priorities.

What happens next in the budget process?
The Board will continue reviewing and refining the budget. Additional drafts and opportunities for public engagement will be shared as the process moves forward.

As we head into the final school days before Winter Break, this week’s wellness focus is on rest and reset. The days leading up to a break can be busy and full of excitement, which makes intentional pauses even more important.

Rest isn’t just about sleep. It’s about giving our minds and bodies time to slow down, reflect, and recharge. When students, staff, and families build in moments of rest, it supports focus, emotional well-being, and resilience.

This week, consider simple ways to reset:

• Take a few deep breaths during a busy moment.

• Spend time outdoors, even briefly, to reset your energy.

• Power down screens a little earlier in the evening.

• Encourage students and colleagues by acknowledging effort, not just outcomes.

• Make space for quiet moments that allow reflection and gratitude.

Taking time to rest helps us return feeling refreshed, connected, and ready to learn and grow together. As Winter Break begins, we encourage everyone to prioritize what helps you feel balanced and well.

A rested community is a stronger community and it’s one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves and each other.

This week brings just two school days before Winter Break begins, and even these short weeks matter. Showing up on Monday and Tuesday helps students maintain routines, stay connected to classmates and educators, and close out this learning stretch with a sense of accomplishment.

Attendance isn’t about perfection, it’s about presence. Each day at school offers students the opportunity to reflect on their learning, strengthen relationships, and feel supported as they transition into a break from school.

We also recognize that Winter Break can look different for every student and family. While time away from school can bring rest and joy, it can also be challenging for some. Please remember that Maple Run Community Resources remain available while our schools are closed, and support is always within reach. Families are encouraged to visit our website or contact their school for information about resources and assistance.

Thank you to our families, students, and staff for making attendance a shared priority — even during a short week. Ending strong helps students step into Winter Break feeling connected, supported, and cared for.

Be Here. Be Engaged. Be Inspired.
Be well. Be kind to one another.

Maple Run MISSION Statement

Maple Run ensures a meaningful, flexible, rigorous, and safe education for all to thrive and excel.

Maple Run VISION Statement

At Maple Run Unified School District, we are committed to cultivating a welcoming environment where our students and community can tap into their love of learning.

OUR CORE VALUES

In partnership with our families and community we value:

Children, first and foremost;
Safety and security;
Collaboration and relationships,
Joy and curiosity;
Relevance and rigor;
Independence and perseverance;
Flexibility and adaptability;
Respect and diversity;
Accountability and integrity;

And commit to provide equity in access to a quality education.