Bill > H0630

This bill aims to improve access to high-quality education through community collaboration. The key provisions include: 1. Allowing and encouraging supervisory unions to create Boards of Cooperative Education Services (BOCES) to provide shared programs and services on a regional and statewide level, with the goal of maximizing the impact of available funding, reducing duplication, and equalizing educational opportunities. 2. Establishing a BOCES grant program to provide start-up funding for newly formed BOCES. 3. Amending existing laws to integrate BOCES into the education system, such as defining BOCES as public employers and allowing for employee organization. 4. Requiring supervisory unions to consider establishing BOCES by 2026, with the Secretary of Education reviewing the BOCES landscape by 2028 and making recommendations on potential expansion. 5. Providing additional funding and evaluation for the community schools program, which aims to coordinate comprehensive programs and services to meet student and family needs. The overall intent is to transform Vermont's educational system to ensure high-quality education for all students, sustainable and transparent use of public resources, and appropriate support from the Agency of Education.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2024/H.630