The Commission on the Future of Public Education in Vermont, formed under Act 183 in 2024, is now grappling with its own relevance as sweeping education reform progresses without its substantial involvement. Initially tasked with evaluating the state’s public education system and offering cost-cutting recommendations while ensuring equity, the 13-member commission has faced internal disengagement and external challenges. Governor Phil Scott’s January 2025 proposal to consolidate Vermont’s Education Commission 119 school districts into five major administrative regions has sidelined much of the commission’s work, members say.
Chair Meagan Roy acknowledged the political tensions that have affected the commission’s direction, noting the significance of the commission being born from a vetoed law. Since then, the body has struggled to define its function while being bypassed in critical legislative actions. Some commission members have stopped attending meetings, and recent listening sessions have drawn minimal public turnout. Despite these issues, Roy insists that the commission plays a crucial role in ensuring any major transformation of the public education system includes thorough, informed oversight.
Vermont’s Education Commission Public Feedback, Low Turnout, and Frustration
In a recent virtual meeting hosted by the commission, only a dozen participants joined but those who did were vocal. Attendees emphasized the importance of small community schools and cautioned against expanding school choice. Many criticized the rapid pace of reform, arguing that decisions were being made without adequate public consultation. Keri Bristow, chair of the Mountain Views Supervisory Union board, described the current process as inequitable and detrimental to Vermont’s public schools.
The meeting concluded a five-session public engagement effort led by consulting firm Afton Partners, hired to gather citizen input on the future of education. However, attendance at these sessions remained low, with only 18 people participating across four May events. While the firm has received over $24,000 for its work, the limited engagement raised concerns about whether the public truly understands the depth of proposed changes or feels adequately informed.
Commission member Jay Nichols said many residents feel the commission is their only outlet to be heard and called for real work to be done rather than maintaining a symbolic presence. Still, the commission has avoided making firm short-term cost-cutting recommendations, citing the complexity of the issue.
Legislative Direction Still Pending
As lawmakers deliberate the future of Vermont’s Education Commission in Montpelier, the commission’s role remains “up in the air.” A revised version of bill H.454 proposes a narrowed focus for the group, studying governance in larger districts and clarifying the roles of school boards and voters. If passed, the bill will reshape the commission’s mandate going forward.
House Education Committee Chair Peter Conlon expressed hope that the commission can refocus its outreach to deliver valuable insights by January. He acknowledged past shortcomings in publicizing sessions but believes there’s still time to make the commission effective. Roy echoed that sentiment, arguing the commission is needed now more than ever to ensure reforms are not just swift, but also smart, inclusive, and sustainable.
As Vermont navigates dramatic changes to its education system, the very body meant to guide the future is still fighting to secure its place in shaping it.
