The bill H.89 proposes to establish a School Choice program in Vermont, allowing parents and their children in grades prekindergarten through 12 to select any public or approved independent school to attend, irrespective of their district of residence. The program will be funded through a School Choice Grant issued by the Agency of Education, which will be drawn from the Education Fund payment due to the student's home school district. The bill outlines the process for parental selection of schools, the acceptance of students by schools, and the conditions under which schools may decline acceptance due to capacity issues. It also mandates that public schools accept the tuition paid under the School Choice Grant as full payment, while independent schools may charge additional fees.

Additionally, the bill requires the Joint Fiscal Office to prepare a report by January 15, 2026, with recommendations for integrating the School Choice program into Vermont's existing education funding structure. The act will take effect upon passage, with the School Choice provisions specifically commencing on August 1, 2026. This legislation aims to enhance educational opportunities for Vermont students by providing greater flexibility and choice in their schooling options.