Maple Run Connection

Happy Monday! As we step into the first full week of October, it’s wonderful to see the halls and classrooms filled with bright smiles and eager learners. School picture days have been happening across the district, and it’s been so exciting to see all the combed hair, big smiles, and shining personalities captured in each photo!

Last week brought meaningful moments beyond the classroom as well. Our School Board met on Monday to discuss the Vermont Education System Reform status and the district’s position on the Redistricting Task Force survey, important conversations that help shape the future of our schools.

Thursday was a non-student day, a kind pause in the week for our staff to recharge and prepare for the weeks ahead. And what a perfect mid-week treat we had with beautiful weather for Walking Wednesday! Seeing students, staff, and families enjoying the crisp fall air is a wonderful reminder of the joy and energy in our community.

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 the simple joys of autumn!

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!

As the crisp days of October arrive, take a few moments each day to step outside and breathe in the fresh fall air. Even a short walk during a break or after school can reduce stress, increase energy, and improve focus.

Why it matters: Exposure to natural light and movement helps regulate your mood, supports mental clarity, and gives your body a gentle boost of vitamin D, especially important as the days get shorter.

Challenge for the week: Schedule at least one 10–15 minute outdoor walk each day. Notice how a few moments in nature can brighten your mind, lift your spirits, and help you feel more present.

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

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!

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

October 6th

• SATEC School Picture Day
• NCTC Fall Advisory Meeting

October 8th

• Walking Wednesday SACS
• School Principal Appreciation Day
• MRUSD Board Meeting

October 10th

• FCS Vision Screening

October 15th

• Walking Wednesday SACS
• ASVAB Testing BFA

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