MONTPELIER — The Vermont School Boards Association (VSBA) has expressed strong opposition to Governor Phil Scott’s proposal for changing public education in Vermont.
The main concerns revolve around the school choice aspect and plans to reduce the number of school districts and boards.
The VSBA argues that instead of supporting robust public schools, the proposal seems aimed at expanding school vouchers and cutting funding for public schools. They warn that increasing the number of students eligible for vouchers could drive education costs up, leading to budget shortfalls and cuts in essential state services.
Support for Scott’s plan comes from Americans for Prosperity, a political advocacy group associated with the Koch brothers. They have praised the proposal, especially during School Choice Week, advocating for educational freedom that provides all students with options, regardless of their background.
Scott’s plan proposes to eliminate non-operating districts and establish attendance zones, assigning students to public schools from Kindergarten through 12th grade. Each district would have at least one designated School Choice School (SCS). Students could select an SCS, with the chance of a lottery determining placements.
The governor’s office emphasized how this plan enhances the public education system by improving quality and promoting equity. They suggest that it’s not a voucher system, insisting that public funds will remain within Vermont, maintaining accountability across both public and independent schools.
Importantly, the plan aims to raise teacher salaries to ensure fair pay across the state.
Scott and Education Secretary Zoie Saunders have been advocating for this plan. They recently explained how it would work in public appearances and testified before legislative committees. Saunders addressed misconceptions, stating that the intention is to invest in Vermont’s public schools and create meaningful educational options for students.
The VSBA also criticized the proposal to reduce 119 school districts down to just five, claiming it doesn’t reflect Vermont’s values. They worry that this change would politicize school boards, making it difficult for ordinary citizens to participate, as they would need to compete in costly elections.
The plan, termed “Stronger Schools, Stronger Students,” argues for urgent action in light of rising property taxes and a wave of budget failures across schools. It proposes a new budgeting approach that guarantees funds for districts and includes specific funding for programs like special education.
Currently, Vermont has 52 supervisory unions and districts serving about 83,733 publicly funded students. The new plan would also introduce school advisory councils at each school, aimed at representing various stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and students.
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