The bill H.480 introduces various amendments to Vermont's education law, focusing on school safety, postsecondary education, nutrition contracts, virtual learning, and the appointment process for the Secretary of Education. Notably, it repeals the requirement for the Agency of Education to establish data collection guidelines for behavioral threat assessment teams, which supervisory unions and independent schools were to comply with starting in the 2023-2024 school year. Additionally, the effective dates for certain sections have been adjusted, with significant changes pushing deadlines from 2024 to 2025 and 2027.

The bill also includes provisions for virtual learning, establishing that students enrolled in Vermont public schools can participate in virtual learning opportunities under specific conditions. It defines virtual learning as an intentionally designed online environment and ensures that students in virtual programs are counted in their school district's average daily membership. Furthermore, the bill modifies the process for the Secretary of Education's appointment, mandating a national search for candidates and allowing the State Board of Education to seek external resources for this process. Overall, H.480 aims to enhance educational opportunities and administrative processes within Vermont's education system.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 16-176(d), 16-176, 16-559, 16-942(13), 16-942, 16-941, 3-2702
As Passed By the House -- Official: 16-176(d), 16-176, 16-559, 16-942(13), 16-942, 16-941, 3-2702
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 16-176(d), 16-176, 16-559, 16-942(13), 16-942, 16-941, 3-2702