The bill H.122 seeks to reform the governance of school districts in Vermont by consolidating existing districts into a maximum of 25 unified union school districts by July 1, 2030. It establishes a framework for the Secretary of Education to evaluate current governance structures and develop a final plan for realignment if needed. The bill also allows for the designation of independent schools for students facing long travel times to public schools, while eliminating the independent school approval process. Key provisions include the formation of the Commission on the Sustainable Realignment of Vermont School Districts to oversee the merger process, as well as new requirements for class sizes and average daily membership, with exemptions for schools serving students with individualized education plans.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws regarding independent schools, introducing new requirements such as filing an enrollment notice with the Secretary of Education and providing detailed information about educational programs. It establishes a Council of Independent Schools to advise on policies and outlines procedures for addressing harassment, hazing, and bullying. Significant deletions from current law include the removal of provisions allowing approved independent schools to receive tuition payments from public school districts and criteria for maintaining approved status. The bill also clarifies conditions for designating schools for resident students based on transportation times and mandates the Office of Legislative Counsel to draft technical amendments by January 15, 2026, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 16-11, 16-166, 16-21