Superintendent Update
Tap Into Maple Run Newsletter
As we move into the seventh week of the school year, our district continues to buzz with activity and community engagement. This week, Saint Albans City School hosted a thrilling middle school cross country meet, where students from all three of our K-8 schools—Fairfield Center School, Saint Albans City, and Saint Albans Town—competed against each other. It was a wonderful display of athleticism, teamwork, and school spirit, as our young athletes pushed themselves on the course, cheered on by peers, staff, and families. Events like this help foster a healthy sense of competition while building camaraderie across our schools.
We also held a Board meeting that focused on refining and discussing the Maple Run Vision and Mission Statements. I want to take a moment to thank all of you for your valuable feedback during this process; it has been instrumental in shaping our direction and ensuring that our goals reflect our shared values.
Wednesday was National Custodian Appreciation Day, a time to recognize and celebrate the hardworking custodial staff who keep our schools safe, clean, and welcoming for all. Their behind-the-scenes efforts are critical to the success of our schools, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to them.
Additionally, BFA hosted a college application event, supporting our high school students in preparing for their futures and taking important steps toward higher education.
I encourage you to stay connected with all the incredible things happening in our district. Whether you're attending events, engaging with staff, or participating online, your involvement plays a significant role in our students' success.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we work together to build a bright future for all Maple Run students. Let’s keep this positive momentum going into the week ahead!
Introducing the NEW Maple Run Book Club: Maple Run Readers!
Are you a book lover looking for a way to connect with fellow readers outside of work hours? Do you find yourself in a reading slump or simply want to explore new stories? If so, we invite you to join our new Maple Run Book Club, Maple Run Readers!
Open to everyone in our community, the Maple Run Readers will meet once a month or bimonthly to dive into recent pleasure books—not educational workbooks! Whether you're interested in character development, mystery, or just a great story, this is the perfect opportunity to discuss captivating books with others who share your passion.
Join us as we build a community of readers, foster meaningful conversations, and reignite your love for reading. Whether you're an avid reader or looking to become one, there's a place for you in Maple Run Readers.
Please reach out with any questions, and let us know if you're interested in joining us! dstevens@maplerun.org
Desiree Stevens
In this week’s spotlight, we are excited to introduce a key figure who brings passion, dedication, and a love of reading to our Maple Run community: Desiree Stevens, a member of the School Support Team at Saint Albans City School and founder of our new Maple Run Readers book club.
Desiree has been a part of the Maple Run family since 2007, when she began volunteering in her youngest daughter’s classroom. Since then, she’s worn many hats, from substitute teacher to joining the Logistics Team in 2008. The logistics role has evolved over the years, especially with the rise of new technologies, and Desiree has adapted seamlessly. After spending time at BFA, Desiree returned to City School in 2021 and has continued making a meaningful impact every day.
Desiree’s love for reading inspired the creation of the Maple Run Readers book club, which is dedicated to fostering a love of books within our staff and community. Her passion for encouraging others to explore literature is evident in her commitment to making reading a joyful and inclusive experience for all.
Outside of work, Desiree enjoys walking her French Bulldog, Vito. A fun fact about Desiree is that she appeared in the music video for "Hole Hearted" by Extreme as a teen!
We are thrilled to have Desiree’s energy and leadership in our district, and we can’t wait to see how the Maple Run Readers book club grows under her guidance.
Wellness Tip of the Week: Healthy Meal Prep as a Family
Meal prepping together as a family is not only a great way to encourage healthier eating habits but also a wonderful opportunity for family bonding. Preparing meals in advance helps ensure everyone is eating nutritious, balanced dishes throughout the week, reducing the temptation to opt for less healthy options in a pinch.
Involving the whole family in meal prep teaches valuable life skills like meal planning, portion control, and understanding food groups. It’s also a chance to spend quality time together, fostering teamwork and creating lasting memories in the kitchen. Plus, it can make picky eaters more open to trying new foods when they’ve helped prepare them!
Take some time this week to gather your family, plan some wholesome meals, and enjoy the benefits of cooking and eating healthy together.
This week, I had the wonderful opportunity to visit the Kindergarten classrooms at Saint Albans City School. I spent 15 minutes in each classroom and was truly impressed by the energy and enthusiasm of our youngest learners.
This year, we are focusing on a significant Amplify and literacy push, and it was inspiring to see how each teacher added their own unique spin to the same material. Each classroom tailored their presentations to meet the diverse needs of their students, and it was remarkable to observe the creativity and flexibility of our dedicated educators.
What stood out to me was how well the Kindergarteners knew their routines. It was clear that these young learners thrive on structure and familiarity, and I loved witnessing their confidence as they navigated their schedules. Consistent routines help create a supportive learning environment where our students can truly flourish.
I also had the pleasure of enjoying snack and choice time with the students, which highlighted the importance of building relationships and community within the classroom. The joy and curiosity of these Kindergarteners remind us all of the essential foundation we are laying for their future academic success.
Thank you to all the Kindergarten teachers for their hard work and dedication in making learning an engaging and enjoyable experience for our students!
Catch the Latest Episode of Tap Into Maple Run!
Join me, Bill Kimball and Assistant Superintendent John Muldoon for the latest episode of Tap Into Maple Run, our weekly podcast! Each episode features district highlights, wellness tips, introductions to Maple Run staff, and a visit from a Community Corner guest.
Have a question or comment? Send it to TapIn@MapleRun.org, and you might hear it addressed on air!
Upcoming October Maple Run Events
October 9th PSATs at BFA
October 9th MRUSD Middle School Soccer - Fairfield vs City School 7th & 8th grade soccer game at Fairfield
October 9th MRUSD Middle School Soccer - Fairfield vs City School 5th & 6th grade soccer game at City School
October 9th SATEC Pre-K to 4th grade Open House
October 9th MRUSD Middle School Soccer - Fairfield vs City School 7th & 8th grade soccer game at Fairfield
October 10th Staff Inservice Day: Non-Student day
October 11th MRUSD Holiday: Non-Student Day
October 16th BFA SAT Test
October 16th MRUSD Middle School Soccer - Town School vs City School 5th & 6th grade soccer game at Town School
October 16th MRUSD School Board Meeting
October 17th Saint Albans Town Educational Center Open House 5th-8th grades
October 24th BFA ASVAB Test
October 24th MRUSD Middle School Soccer - Fairfield vs City School 7th & 8th grade soccer game at City
October 24th MRUSD Middle School Soccer - Fairfield vs City School 5th & 6th grade soccer game at Fairfield
October 24th Fairfield Center School Harvest Night
October 25th Fairfield Center School Fire Safety Day
October 25th Saint Albans Town Educational Center 5th & 6th grade Fun Night
October 25th Saint Albans Town Educational Center 5th & 6th grade Dance
October 29th Saint Albans City School Fall Sports Awards Night
October 29th Saint Albans City School 7th & 8th grade Candidate Forum
October 30th BFA Fall Concert - Instrumental / Choral
