Zoie Saunders, Secretary | Vermont Agency of Education
The Vermont Agency of Education has released several updates and resources for educators, administrators, and school staff across the state. The agency is conducting a beta-test self-assessment of District Quality Standards and Education Quality Standards as part of its responsibility under 16 V.S.A. §165 to ensure all Vermont students have equal access to high-quality education. Refined self-assessment rubrics are now available on the agency’s website, and office hours will be held on October 1, 8, 15, and 22 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. for further discussion.
A two-part training focused on developing simple Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA) and Student Support Plans (SSP) is being offered to help school teams identify behaviors and create plans that support student success. Registration is open until October 20.
The annual Vermont Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (VTPBIS) Forum will take place on October 14 at the Killington Grand Resort Hotel. The event offers workshops, networking opportunities, and professional development for educators, support staff, and leadership teams. Registration closes September 30.
Middle level educators can access the latest monthly newsletter from the Vermont Association for Middle Level Education (VAMLE), which provides tools, strategies, and learning opportunities tailored to students aged 10–15.
In collaboration with the Vermont 250th Anniversary Commission, Vermont Public has developed educational resources for schools related to the upcoming statewide commemoration of Vermont’s founding. These materials focus on history, citizenship, democracy, and independence.
The Early Education Team at the Agency of Education has published an impact report highlighting how Early Multi-Tiered System of Supports (Early MTSS) and Pyramid Model practices are improving outcomes for children in early childhood programs throughout Vermont by promoting inclusive learning environments.
A new School Behavioral Threat Assessment Best Practices Guide is now available on the Agency’s BTA webpage to assist threat assessment team members in schools with best practices.
The Governor’s Annual School Safety Conference will be held in person at Killington Grand Resort Hotel on October 28. Organized by the Agency of Education along with other state partners such as the Department of Public Safety and the Vermont School Safety Center, this conference aims to provide up-to-date safety practices for professionals including educators, law enforcement officers, first responders, mental health professionals, and others involved in school safety efforts.
Additionally, Behavioral Threat Assessment Team workshops are scheduled for October 7 in Townshend and October 8 in Colchester to help current or prospective team members strengthen their programs; these sessions are optional but separate from required annual training.
Behavioral Threat Assessment open office hours resume September 16 for current team members. Sessions will occur every Tuesday and Thursday during the school year from noon until one p.m., covering topics such as hazing prevention; screening cases; gathering information; supporting students with autism; interviewing techniques; and developing safety plans.
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