Statement from Governor Phil Scott on School District Redistricting Task Force

Montpelier, VT - Governor Phil Scott on July 31 issued the following statement:

“After a clear call from Vermonters for change, this past legislative session, my team and I worked with the legislature to pass a bill that will transform our education system, stabilize property taxes, and reverse the growing inequality in our current system to unlock more opportunities and better results for our kids.

“The next major step in this process is establishing new districts to consolidate unnecessary administration and operate more effectively. And tomorrow, the School District Redistricting Task Force will begin that work. Having bigger districts, and fewer superintendent offices, is critical to getting more of the money we invest in education to be spent on our kids in their classrooms. 

“Right now, from town to town and district to district, our system is not equitable. This reform will give us an opportunity to change that, if we stay focused on the fundamentals and follow through.

“This work will be criticized by some, who continue to advocate for the status quo, despite the clear need for change. But the fact is, for the money Vermonters are spending, we’re not getting the results we should in key areas, including elementary grade reading and math, where we’re average or below average when compared to other states.

“We owe it to our students to make sure kids in places like Sutton have the same educational opportunities as those in places like Shelburne – and that their teachers are also paid comparably, and most Vermonters agree. 

“Together, we can build the best education system in the nation, and I’m hopeful this Task Force will rise above the politics and keep moving this essential transformation forward.”