Zoie Saunders, Secretary | Vermont Agency of Education
The National Center on School Infrastructure (NCSI) has launched a new website aimed at supporting school facilities managers, administrators, and board members. The updated site features a searchable resource library with materials categorized by topic and state, as well as centralized state policies and facilities data. These resources are intended to help schools modernize infrastructure and make informed decisions.
A workshop on Crisis Prevention & Intervention will be held for educators, school teams, administrators, and support staff. The training focuses on equipping participants with skills to respond appropriately to crises while prioritizing safety. It covers recognizing crisis stages, evidence-based de-escalation techniques, safe physical interventions, and fostering a safer learning environment. The event is scheduled for August 25 at the Hampton Inn in Colchester. Registration closes August 11.
Another upcoming workshop titled "Building Bridges and Calming Conflict" targets administrative assistants in schools. This session aims to improve communication skills for those who are often the first point of contact for students, staff, families, and community members. Topics include relationship-building, conflict resolution strategies, and collaborative problem-solving. The workshop will take place at Lake Morey Resort on August 12 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with registration open until August 5.
The Vermont Agency of Education is organizing Special Education Knowledge Week from August 18 to 21. This virtual event offers 52 sessions covering various topics relevant to superintendents, special education directors, principals, and educators. The program includes a keynote address by the State Director of Special Education and features partnerships with organizations such as the Vermont Child Health Improvement Program (VCHIP), Developmental Disabilities Services Division, and Vermont Pathways to Partnerships.
Starting July 17, 2025, changes will affect the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline’s services for LGBTQIA+ youth. The “Press 3” option specifically for LGBTQIA+ callers will be discontinued; however, support remains available through all standard methods of contacting the lifeline—by phone, text, or chat—with trained crisis counselors continuing to provide assistance.
“While this option is ending, the Lifeline remains available to everyone. LGBTQIA+ callers will still receive support from trained crisis counselors through any of the usual ways to contact 988—by phone, text, or chat,” according to Alexandra Frantz.
The Department of Mental Health has prepared a fact sheet explaining these changes for broader distribution within school communities.
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