Proposed Change for the Department of Education
Barbara Postman
Voices for Vermont's Children –
Legislative Coordinator, Kids are Priority One Coalition
The Senate has passed a bill (S. 371) that would abolish the State Board of Education and put the Department of Education directly under the control of the governor.
In Vermont, the Commissioner of Education (currently Richard Cate) is appointed by the State Board of Education, rather than the Governor, who appoints other Commissioners and Secretaries.
Those who favor the change suggest that there would be more accountability if the Commissioner answered directly to the Governor, who hears from the public and has to run for re-election every two years. Those who favor of the current arrangement feel that it helps prevent education from becoming too political.
The bill now goes to the House for consideration. For the text of the bill as introduced, click here.
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