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Press Release
Vermont Legislature Takes Steps to Reform Education Funding Amid Taxpayer Outrage
BURLINGTON, Vt. – In response to escalating frustrations over significant property tax hikes and an unprecedented number of school budget defeats this spring, Vermont lawmakers have initiated a review of the state’s education system and its funding mechanisms. The Commission on the Future of Public Education in Vermont, composed of 13 members, was established to tackle these pressing issues. Its initial findings are set to be released next week, with a comprehensive final report anticipated next year.
Commission chair Megan Roy, a former superintendent, discussed the group’s preliminary insights in an interview with Mark Johnson on 802 News. The commission is currently considering various restructuring proposals aimed at alleviating the financial burden on taxpayers, with the overarching goal of addressing the approximate $1.8 billion cost associated with educating around 83,000 K-12 students in Vermont.
Among the potential strategies mentioned is the consolidation or closure of underperforming and costly schools, a move that could significantly reduce expenses while maximizing the allocation of educational resources. This reflects a broader acknowledgment of the need for reform in how education is funded and administered in the state.
With public outcry over rising property taxes and the repeated rejection of school budgets, the commission’s work comes at a critical time. Lawmakers and educators alike are keen to find a sustainable solution that ensures quality education while balancing fiscal responsibility for Vermont residents.
As discussions continue, stakeholders await the commission’s initial report, which will serve as a foundation for future reforms aimed at revitalizing Vermont’s educational landscape.
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