The bill H.179, introduced by Representative McCann, seeks to transform the Agency of Education into the Department of Education, which will be governed by the State Board of Education. Key changes include the elimination of the Secretary of Education position and the creation of a new Commissioner of Education role, who will act as the chief executive officer of the Department and report directly to the State Board. The bill also proposes to increase the membership of the State Board from ten to eleven, incorporating two secondary student members appointed by the Governor. Additionally, it mandates the Board to prepare a biennial budget for the Department and establishes an information clearinghouse for educational resources.

The bill outlines a structured appointment process for Board members, detailing the appointing authorities and their respective terms. Appointments for terms expiring on February 28, 2027, will be made by the Vermont Superintendents Association, Vermont Principals Association, and Vermont School Boards Association, while subsequent appointments will involve the Vermont Independent Schools Association, the Governor, and the Speaker of the House for later terms. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, allowing for a transition period to implement the new appointment structure and ensuring a smooth transition for the new Commissioner to assume responsibilities by January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 16-164, 16-163, 3-212, 3-256(b), 3-256, 3-49, 16-161