Zoie Saunders, Secretary | Vermont Agency of Education
The Vermont Agency of Education is dedicated to keeping the public informed about federal policy changes affecting schools and students. The agency strives for a disciplined and factual approach when evaluating these changes, emphasizing Vermont's core values.
Recently, several federal directives have been issued impacting diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), immigration enforcement in schools, gender-based discrimination, and federal funding. Notably, President Biden's Executive Order on K-12 schooling tasks various federal agencies with advising the President on future policy implementation.
The Department of Education has expanded its guidance on Title VI enforcement through a Dear Colleague Letter and FAQ. These documents clarify actions that might trigger investigations by the Office of Civil Rights (OCR) into racial discrimination or harassment. While the First Amendment protects local curricular decisions, schools must comply with Title VI obligations to prevent racially hostile environments.
A new webform allows complaints of discrimination to be reported to OCR. However, executive orders cannot override existing laws or precedents; therefore, some may face legal challenges.
Vermont's Attorney General and counterparts from 13 states plus Washington D.C., issued Multistate Guidance emphasizing that recent federal letters do not alter established legal principles promoting educational opportunities for all backgrounds. They remind schools of state civil rights protections which often surpass federal ones.
Regarding immigration enforcement, guidelines restricting operations in sensitive locations like schools were rescinded in January 2025. The Vermont Agency advises school boards to consult legal counsel about policies related to student information requests during such activities.
On gender-based discrimination under Title IX, recent executive orders affect transgender individuals by rescinding specific guidance. OCR will enforce Title IX using 2020 regulations rather than those vacated by court order in January 2025. Protections for LGBTQIA+ students remain strong under Vermont law despite these federal changes.
Federal funding for programs such as ESEA and IDEA remains secure through a continuing resolution passed by Congress for the current school year (24-25). Anticipated budget proposals may suggest cuts for FY26 but specifics are pending.
Finally, staffing reductions at the U.S. Department of Education initiated on March 11 did not impact personnel supporting key educational programs monitored by the Vermont Agency.
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