Bill H.168 aims to enhance academic freedom for educators in Vermont's public schools from prekindergarten through grade 12 by ensuring that instruction on social equity and justice is both required and protected. The bill prohibits any restrictions on teaching these topics and mandates that public schools adopt policies affirming the dignity of both educators and students. It also seeks to eliminate the influence of privately funded groups on curriculum development and requires the Agency of Education to create resources for LGBTQIA+ students and their families. Additionally, the bill protects educators from adverse actions for teaching in accordance with state or federal law.

Key provisions of the bill include the addition of social equity and justice to the minimum course of study, the establishment of guidelines to ensure inclusive curricula, and the affirmation of educators' rights to integrate their identities and experiences into their teaching. The bill also emphasizes the importance of maintaining professional autonomy for educators and mandates that curriculum development remain under the control of supervisory unions, free from external influences. Overall, H.168 seeks to create a more inclusive and equitable educational environment in Vermont.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 16-165, 16-164, 16-261a, 16-906, 16-42