The bill H.179 proposes a comprehensive overhaul of Vermont's education governance by converting the Agency of Education into the Department of Education, which will be managed by the State Board of Education. This transformation includes the elimination of the Secretary of Education position and the introduction of a new role, the Commissioner of Education, who will act as the chief executive officer of the Department. The Commissioner will be appointed by the State Board with the Governor's approval. Additionally, the bill seeks to modify the State Board's composition by increasing its membership from ten to eleven, incorporating two secondary student members, and enhancing the Board's responsibilities, such as preparing a biennial budget and developing an information clearinghouse for educational programs.

The bill also details the appointment process for various educational positions, specifying the appointing authorities and their terms. For terms expiring on February 28, 2027, appointments will be made by the Vermont Superintendents Association, the Vermont Principals Association, and the Vermont School Boards Association, with subsequent appointments for later terms assigned to different authorities, including the Vermont Independent Schools Association and the Governor. The bill establishes an effective date of July 1, 2025, allowing for a transition period to facilitate the implementation of these changes and ensure that the new governance structure is in place by January 1, 2026.

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