Bill > H0089

This bill proposes a comprehensive school choice program for Vermont students in prekindergarten through 12th grade, allowing parents to select any public or independent school for their child, regardless of their district of residence. Under the proposed legislation, parents would notify the Agency of Education of their school choice by a specified date in the second semester, with public schools required to accept students unless they lack capacity, and independent schools prohibited from discriminating based on various personal characteristics. The bill establishes a School Choice Grant mechanism, where funding will be transferred from the student's home district's Education Fund payment to the chosen school. Public schools must accept the grant as full tuition payment but may assess additional fees, while independent schools can charge excess tuition beyond the grant amount. The bill also mandates that the Joint Fiscal Office (JFO) prepare a report by January 15, 2026, recommending how to integrate this new school choice program into Vermont's existing education funding structure. While the bill passes immediately, the school choice provisions will not take effect until August 1, 2026, allowing time for implementation planning and systemic adjustments.

Education

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.89