Please, Kids, Stop Ordering Pizza. South Burlington High School’s principal recently asked students not to order delivery from Starbucks, Dunkin’ Donuts, Denny’s, and iHOP because of on-going disruptions to classes. Besides, he points out: “All students have access to free breakfast and lunch.” – source: 802 Ed Newsletter reporting on VTDigger news story.

Balint “stunned and furious” about federal judge ban on abortion pill – Rep. Becca Balint (D-VT) indicated her extreme displeasure at a Texas federal judge’s decision to ban Mefistoprone, a drug that induces abortion:

“Like many Vermonters and Americans, I’m stunned and furious by the news that a federal judge has ruled against the personal medical decisions that should be made between a patient and their doctor. This decision sets a dangerous precedent. Mifepristone is safe and effective and has been for more than two decades. What other safe and effective drugs will be removed because of political and ideological extremism? This is an assault on reproductive rights and women’s freedom. Right wing extremists will stop at nothing short of a national abortion ban. I will continue to fight back against this alarming and dangerous attack on our freedom, our choices, and our healthcare.”

If the district court decision overturning Food and Drug Administration of the drug survives challenges in higher federal courts, its use would be banned nationwide, experts say. 

Vermont takes the lead in ‘Community Schools’ – what are they? Created by the Community Schools Act in 2021, this three-year grant program using pandemic relief funds has been awarded to five projects serving 16 schools. Recipients have used funds to hire community school coordinators and are in the process of developing and implementing community school models with site-based leadership teams, as reported in a report by the Education Commission of the States. 

Community schools offer a variety of services for students and families catered to the unique needs of the local community. Among the selected projects, new and expanded services include health and wellness centers, mentoring, farm-to-school instruction, telehealth, healthy meals, clothing, outdoor learning opportunities and career planning. – Source: 802 Ed Newsletter.

Bullhead fishing clinics – the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department is holding a series of introductory bullhead fishing clinics this spring, highlighting a seasonal opportunity to target one of Vermont’s most overlooked fish species.

“The arrival of spring brings increased opportunities to catch bullhead as they begin moving into their spawning grounds,” said Education Specialist Corey Hart.  “In addition to be being a blast to catch, bullhead—or ‘horned pout’ as they are also known—are excellent table fare.”

Each clinic will explore different fishing styles used to target brown bullhead, which are found in many of the shallower, muddier lakes, ponds and rivers of Vermont.  Bullhead, like other species in the catfish family, are nocturnal bottom feeders.  So, the clinics will take place in the evening to take advantage of increased bullhead activity.

These clinics are open to people of all ages and levels of experience, including those who are completely new to fishing.  Equipment will be provided, but participants are encouraged to bring their own rods as well.  Participants should also dress for the weather and bring a flashlight or headlamp.

Space is limited to the first 30 registrants and seminars fill up quickly, so sign up as early as possible.  Pre-registration is required and can be completed on Vermont Fish and Wildlife’s website.

Directions to the meeting spot will be given upon registering. Dates & Locations:

April 20, Hoyts Landing, Springfield ,VT : Start time 6:30 p.m.

April 28,: Sumner Falls, Hartland, VT Start time 6:30 p.m.

May 4, Dead Creek WMA, Panton, VT: Start time: 6:30 p.m.