The 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. Key provisions include prohibiting restrictions on teaching these topics, mandating the inclusion of social equity and justice in the minimum course of study, and requiring the State Board of Education and supervisory unions to develop curricula that affirm the dignity of all students and educators. The bill also seeks to prevent the influence of privately funded groups on curriculum development and to provide resources for LGBTQIA+ students and their families.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the professional autonomy of educators, allowing them to integrate their identities and lived experiences into their teaching, while ensuring that curriculum decisions remain under the authority of Vermont's public education system. It includes specific amendments to existing laws, such as adding social equity and justice to the minimum course of study and establishing protections against retaliation for educators who support students' rights or adhere to the law in their teaching practices. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

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