by Guy Page
A bipartisan bill to “simplify” home schooling was introduced Jan. 13 into the Vermont House and referred to the House Education Committee for further study.
At first glance, H608 seems to provide more independence from State of Vermont oversight. According to the bill’s introductory paragraph, it would “simplify the home study program by changing the role of the Agency of Education from an oversight role to a support role.”
“Instead of an application that would be reviewed and approved by the Agency, a notice of home study would be submitted to the Agency on an annual basis. The notice would require an attestation to certain conditions and processes. Annual reports and hearings challenging a program’s minimum course of study would be eliminated.”
The bill is sponsored by an eclectic group of lawmakers: lead sponsor Rep. Larry Cupoli (R-Rutland) and hang glider and fireworks expert Rep. John Arrison (D-Weathersfield), both members of the House Education Committee; Republicans Felisha Leffler, Woodman Page, Joseph Parsons, James Harrison and Terri Williams; and Democrats Peter Anthony and David Yacovone.
Rep. Vicki Strong and Vermont home schooling advocate Retta Dunlap will review H.608 today (Monday) at 1 pm, discussing what it could mean for homeschooling in Vermont. See link to register to register for the Zoom meeting. https://us02we
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. For ongoing information check the Facebook page for home school legislation updates.