Vermont
A standardized test is keeping potential teachers out of the workforce. Vermont wants to make it optional.
“Nima is planning a trip. The full value of his trip, c, in {dollars}, for n nights of keep at a lodge might be estimated by the equation c = 375n + 1,700. If Nima can spend not more than 4,000 {dollars} on his trip, what’s the best variety of nights he can keep on the lodge?”
If you happen to discover issues like this tough, you’re not alone. That’s a pattern check query from the Praxis Core, a standardized check for potential Ok-12 academics. The query comes from a apply check posted on-line by the academic nonprofit Khan Academy.
The Praxis is a standardized check that potential academics in Vermont and different states are required to cross, meant to measure academics’ proficiency in fundamental educational topics.
However state and native training officers say that many aspiring academics have struggled to cross it — making a hurdle to the occupation that may preserve educators out of the workforce.
Now, Vermont officers hope to eliminate that requirement.
Officers have been contemplating modifications within the Praxis check requirement since earlier than the Covid-19 pandemic.
However amid a nationwide trainer scarcity, the problem “was one thing that we paid nearer consideration to throughout the pandemic, as a result of the challenges in staffing simply actually elevated,” stated Amy Minor, the chair of the Vermont Requirements Board for Skilled Educators, a state physique that oversees licensure {and professional} requirements for academics.
“We had been shedding good potential instructing candidates due to (the check) as a sole requirement,” stated Minor, who can be superintendent of the Colchester Faculty District.
She famous that many potential academics had been falling wanting the required check scores by solely a few factors.
‘It’s an actual problem’
To turn into a licensed trainer in Vermont — in any grade or topic space — candidates should obtain a passing grade on the Praxis Core check.
Praxis exams “measure educational expertise in studying, writing and arithmetic deemed by trainer educators to be important for all candidates getting ready to be academics, it doesn’t matter what content material space or grade-level they aspire to show,” in accordance with the web site of Praxis’ writer, Academic Testing Companies. The standardized testing large additionally administers the Graduate File Exams, required for admission to many graduate faculties, and TOEFL exams that gauge English-language proficiency.
Vermonters who are usually not licensed to show might be granted non permanent licenses, with the objective of passing the Praxis check whereas they educate. Lecturers can try the check a number of occasions.
However most non permanent licenses are legitimate for under as much as three years, after which era they can’t be renewed. If candidates don’t cross the Praxis check inside that interval, they’re ineligible to turn into a trainer.
“It is an actual problem,” stated Brooke Olsen-Farrell, superintendent of Slate Valley Unified Faculty District, of potential academics struggling to cross the examination. “I might say we in all probability have about 10 academics in that boat proper now.”
The Praxis check consists of questions in three areas: math, studying and writing. Candidates are required to interpret passages, appropriate grammatical errors, and clear up phrase issues.
To show in particular topic areas or grade ranges, candidates could also be required to take further Praxis exams, comparable to chemistry, French, or elementary training.
Present guidelines enable state officers to waive the check in particular circumstances. However that, too, generally is a burden: Native officers should “display that not being given a waiver would considerably inhibit the district’s potential to hold out its domestically established goals.”
And the candidate should have taken the check 3 times and failed to realize the required scores.
For a lot of potential academics, these exams are tough. Candidates could also be quizzed on topics outdoors their specialty that they haven’t studied for years. And candidates whose first language will not be English additionally battle with the studying and writing sections.
“We have had a subgroup of our new educators that actually battle,” stated Lynn Cota, superintendent of Franklin Northeast Supervisory Union. “And sadly, they are often actually nice within the classroom. But when they cannot cross (the check), they cannot get their educator license, which is unlucky.”
‘A component of bias’
The full passing price for all Praxis exams taken in Vermont is roughly 70%, in accordance with an Company of Training spokesperson. That determine, nevertheless, doesn’t keep in mind folks taking the check a number of occasions, so the true passing price is probably going larger.
“I can definitely say that, for a lot of aspiring educators, the Praxis has been a hurdle,” stated Don Tinney, president of the Vermont chapter of the Nationwide Training Affiliation, the academics union.
Tinney famous that each one standardized exams include “a component of bias.”
“We’re happy that the (Company of Training) is exploring various pathways to educator licensure in order that the Praxis examination will not be an unfair barrier to of us attempting to enter the occupation,” he added in a follow-up textual content message.
As an alternative of passing the Praxis check, proposed modifications in state guidelines would enable candidates to “display competency with fundamental expertise by means of a technique decided by the Requirements Board.”
Most candidates would probably nonetheless take the check, however others may substitute related coursework, or sure grades.
The proposed change was “a response to work we’ve been doing to raised perceive which obstacles to licensure are extra reflective of privilege and that are reflective of fine instructing,” Suzanne Sprague, a spokesperson for the Company of Training, stated in an e mail.
“The Praxis Core turns into an evaluation of how good your highschool was,” stated Patrick Halladay, director of the Training High quality Division on the Company of Training. “And so, if I got here from a much less advantaged neighborhood and went to a much less advantaged highschool, I in all probability did not do as effectively on the Praxis Core.”
Earlier this yr, the Requirements Board submitted the proposal to the Interagency Committee on Administrative Guidelines, which oversees the rulemaking course of. The committee is scheduled to think about the proposal Aug. 8, and it may go into impact in November or December, state officers say.
However the Requirements Board has given the company the inexperienced gentle to start out implementing the brand new guidelines even earlier than the proposal formally turns into a rule.
As faculties throughout the state grapple with extreme trainer shortages, the proposal may supply a software — nevertheless small — to handle them.
“I really am hopeful that it’s going to get extra folks which might be keen about instructing into the classroom quicker,” stated Minor, the Colchester superintendent and chair of the Requirements Board. “And that is precisely what we want proper now.”
If you wish to preserve tabs on Vermont’s training information, enroll right here to get a weekly e mail with all of VTDigger’s reporting on larger training, early childhood applications and Ok-12 training coverage.
Vermont, the Green Mountain State, is known for its mountain ranges, which tourists can appreciate at popular parks, such as Smuggler’s Notch State Park. However, with over 800 lakes in the state, you can’t discount the plentiful water bodies available for recreation. Vermont is a haven of nature with lakes such as Arrowhead Mountain Lake, Lake Memphremagog, and Lake Champlain, which are tourist and resident favorites due to their historical legends and thrilling water activities. This state is filled with more beautiful lakes and communities by the water than you can imagine, from the shire town of Newport to the historic terrains of Whitingham. Discover the best lakeside towns to visit in Vermont on your next vacation.
Shelburne
Shelburne is one of Vermont’s most visited locations, just seven miles to the south of Burlington. It is set along the shores of Lake Champlain and got its name as a form of tribute to a great British Parliamentarian and Prime Minister, William Petty, 2nd Earl of Shelburne. The community is known for its early agricultural enterprise before diversifying into shipping following the War of 1812. The Shelburne Museum documents the events of the war and other happenings that shaped the area’s development. It also houses thousands of decorative items, steamboats, and carriages that paint a vivid picture of its past.
Stroll in the cool of the day to Shelburne Farms, where you can find much more information about the storied agricultural essence that formed Shelburne. The Farmer’s Market is just a short walk away, and the same goes for Shelburne Vineyards and Orchards, which supply the Farmer’s Market. To get close views of Lake Champlain, take a trip to Shelburne Town Beach, where you can enjoy evening strolls and picnics. Hike across the Shelburne Bay Park hiking area to get more scenic views of the creek.
Whitingham
Whitingham outwits you with all its charm, from its lakeside views to its serene outdoors. It is known as the birthplace of Brigham Young, the second president and prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, who was born in 1801. The community has a monument erected to this effect, the Brigham Young Monument.
The atmosphere that envelopes Whitingham is truly lovely, and there are opportunities to get a whiff of the natural environment. Take the historic tour for an eye-opening experience. What is even more interesting about the historic tour is that you can take it by car or bike. Learn more about Whitingham at the Whitingham Historical Society before taking a hike at the Catamount Trail.
Fairfield
Fairfield is a brimming lakeside community on Fairfield Pond lake with a rich heritage. It is a 446-acre body of water on the northwest of Fairfield. The Fairfield area is known as the birthplace of Chester A. Arthur, the 21st President of the United States, Fairfield celebrates its presidential legacy at the Chester A. Arthur Historic Site. This preserved homestead offers visitors insight into the life of one of America’s lesser-known leaders and the region’s history during the mid-19th century.
The Fairfield Community Center, housed in a 19th-century school building, is another noteworthy site. It reflects the town’s enduring dedication to community engagement and historic preservation. For those interested in Vermont’s rural heritage, Fairfield Pond provides a serene escape, surrounded by open fields that are reminiscent of the city’s agricultural roots. Apart from the ancient landmarks, you can also explore natural settings that make the community more fun. These include the Metcalf Pond and the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail.
Charlotte
Along the eastern shores of Lake Champlain, one of Vermont’s picturesque lakeside towns, seizes the attention of many. Charlotte is a quaint Vermont settlement that is rich in historical significance and natural allure. It is perhaps best known for the Charlotte-Essex Ferry, which has connected Vermont to New York since the early 19th century, with breathtaking views of the water and the Adirondack Mountains. Charlotte’s history is documented at the Old Brick Store, a famed general store that has served as a community hub since 1853 and continues to provide locally crafted goods and treats.
The agricultural economy that once shaped Charlotte is still very much alive. Philo Ridge Farm and Adam’s Berry Farm are two of the most popular, and they serve local produce to the market. The farms are quite serene and are maintained by very hospitable families who are willing to indulge in conversations about Charlotte’s early days. While you are out, be sure to check out Mount Philo State Park. The park has a reputation that speaks for itself. It is Vermont’s oldest state park, and you can also enjoy stunning views of the Adirondacks and Lake Champlain. The spaces are equipped with benches and rails where you can just unwind and take pictures while enjoying the view.
Newport
Newport is a unique settlement in Vermont. Although it is located on the shores of Lake Memphremagog, Newport is the shire town of Orleans County with the second largest population in the county with just over 4,000 people and also has the smallest geographical area in the county (19.68 square kilometers).
The community’s crown jewel, the Goodrich Memorial Library, is a stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture and a repository of ancient information. Visitors can explore its intricate design and learn about Newport’s cultural heritage through its archives.
Lake Memphremagog itself is steeped in legend, with tales of Memphré, the creek’s mythical creature, adding an air of mystery. Waterfront attractions like the Gateway Center celebrate the river’s significance, while outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic vistas and hiking trails along the Beebe Spur Rail Trail and the Prouty Beach and Campground.
Addison
If you are wondering what early New England life felt like, then you need to add Addison to your list of lakeside Vermont places to visit. Addison greets you with New England charm and a whole lot of options on where to tour. The city’s crown jewel is the Chimney Point State Historic Site, located where Lake Champlain narrows at the Crown Point Bridge. This site highlights the area’s significance during the French and Indian War and its role in early European settlement.
Snake Mountain Trail is always a point of interest for travelers because of its picturesque setting and location, and it is easily accessible to all. The trail is flanked by trees that cover hikers from the sun and form a beautiful picture backdrop of leaf canopies. It is good for evening strolls and hangouts. Additionally, the D.A.R. State Park is a great spot for wildlife and nature lovers. The park has open spaces for picnics and extensive hiking trails, and its proximity to the lake makes it ideal for water and winter sports. The reflection of trees on the waters creates a picture-perfect view and allows for a connection to Vermont’s natural heritage.
Ferrisburgh
Ferrisburgh is near Lake Champlain, Little Otter Creek, and Kingsland Bay, which makes a no-brainer when mentioning the best lakeside town in Vermont. Founded in 1762, Ferrisburgh is steeped in history and complemented by commercial landmarks.
Rokeby Museum, the most documented underground railroad and also a National Historic Landmark, stands as a poignant reminder of Vermont’s abolitionist movement and its role in the Underground Railroad. The museum’s preserved buildings and exhibits give an intimate look at the lives of the Robinson family, who championed social justice causes. Dakin Farm is another attraction with cultural significance. It is a family-owned, multi-generational business that has been running since 1792. Visitors will enjoy a trip to Kingsland Bay State Park, where they can spend the afternoons just chilling or having great conversations in a nice and cozy environment.
Whether you are visiting to learn more about the famed stories of Shelburne or exploring history at Fairfield, Vermont is replete with attractions that can help you declutter and feel at ease. Each area has its own heritage, creating diversity at every turn, from the pristine waters of its lakes to the picturesque backdrop of its parks. Vermont caters to the feelings of every traveler and creates a wonderful experience for anyone looking to relish the charm of a lakeside town.
The 2024-2025 Vermont high school winter season has begun. See below for scores, schedules and game details (statistical leaders, game notes) from basketball, hockey, gymnastics, wrestling, Nordic/Alpine skiing and other winter sports.
TO REPORT SCORES
Coaches or team representatives are asked to report results ASAP after games by emailing sports@burlingtonfreepress.com. Please submit with a name/contact number.
►Contact Alex Abrami at aabrami@freepressmedia.com. Follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter:@aabrami5.
►Contact Judith Altneu at jaltneu@gannett.com. Follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter: @Judith_Altneu.
SATURDAY, JAN. 11
Boys basketball
Games at 2:30 p.m. unless noted
Hartford at Middlebury, 12:30 p.m.
Missisquoi at Lake Region, 1:30 p.m.
Milton at BFA-St. Albans
Williamstown at Northfield, 6:30 p.m.
Girls basketball
Games at 2:30 p.m. unless noted
Danville at Winooski, 11 a.m.
Spaulding at Milton, 11:30 a.m.
Mount Mansfield at Colchester, 12:30 p.m.
Otter Valley at Mount Abraham, 12:30 p.m.
Montpelier at Stowe, 1 p.m.
Richford at Enosburg
Peoples at Twinfield/Cabot
Brattleboro at South Burlington
Burr and Burton at Champlain Valley
Rutland at St. Johnsbury
Williamstown at BFA-Fairfax, 3:30 p.m.
Boys hockey
Essex at Hartford, 2 p.m.
Burlington at U-32, 2:30 p.m.
Mount Mansfield at St. Johnsbury, 3 p.m.
Milton vs North Country at Jay Peak, 4 p.m.
Harwood at Stowe, 4:15 p.m.
South Burlington at Champlain Valley, 4:45 p.m.
Brattleboro at Woodstock, 6:45 p.m.
Rice at Burr and Burton, 7 p.m.
Spaulding at Middlebury, 7 p.m.
Rutland at Colchester, 7:30 p.m.
Girls hockey
Spaulding at Rutland, 11 a.m.
Woodstock at Brattleboro, 4:45 p.m.
Harwood at Burr and Burton, 5 p.m.
Rice at Burlington/Colchester, 5 p.m.
Stowe at Middlebury, 5 p.m.
Essex at BFA-St. Albans, 7 p.m.
U-32 at Kingdom Blades, 7 p.m.
Gymnastics
Harwood at Burlington, 2 p.m.
Montpelier, St. Johnsbury at South Burlington, 7:30 p.m.
Wrestling
Michael J. Baker Classic at Essex
MONDAY, JAN. 13
Boys basketball
Games at 7 p.m. unless noted
Randolph at North Country, 6:30 p.m.
Harwood at U-32
Winooski at Twinfield/Cabot
Northfield at Milton
Brattleboro at Champlain Valley
Thetford at Williamstown
Oxbow at Hazen
Girls basketball
Vergennes at BFA-Fairfax, 7 p.m.
Essex at Burlington, 7:30 p.m.
(Subject to change)
MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) – Vermont educators are leery of plans from Gov. Phil Scott to control costs in Vermont’s education system. In Thursday’s inaugural address, Scott pitched sweeping plans to rein in spending which has led to skyrocketing property tax rates.
Last year, one-third of Vemont’s school budgets failed and voters sent more Republicans to Montpelier in years in what some dubbed a tax revolt.
Democrats say everything should be on the table to fix the tax troubles, but some in the education community remain wary.
In his address, the governor outlined a multiyear plan to overhaul how we fund public schools and rein in the cost of spending which has skyrocketed to $2.3 billion.
“In too many districts, teachers aren’t paid enough, administrators are tied up in bureaucracy, schools have too much empty space and many are in disrepair,” said Scott, R-Vermont.
He proposes consolidating dozens of school districts and supervisory unions, putting guardrails on local school spending and completely rewriting the school funding formula with the aim of cutting back on staff and the 80% of school costs that go to wages and benefits.
But some in Vermont’s education community see it another way.
“We have to be clear what is the problem we’re trying to solve. We’re not spending too much money in public education; we’re having a difficult time funding it,” said Don Tinney the executive director of the Vermont NEA.
The Vermont teachers union contends the state has enough taxing capacity to fund schools and students’ complex needs. But they say the state should instead fund schools through state and income tax instead of a property tax.
“We believe the income tax is the fairest way of doing that because people are paying what they can afford to pay,” Tinney said.
As for the funding formula, Scott argues more affluent towns that can afford higher property taxes spend more and approve their local budgets, which drives up costs in the statewide education fund.
“Those higher spenders can actually increase the rates of those districts whose kids and teachers are getting less,” Scott said.
The governor is expected to introduce a formula where districts are paid a flat rate and any additional spending would have to be raised locally.
But some worry that will lead to inequitable opportunities for kids.
“There are states that use foundation formulas to keep poor people poor and drive down public education costs and allow for more opportunities for private schools and school choice schemes. I can’t see Vermont allowing that to happen,” said Jay Nichols of the Vermont Principals’ Association.
Vermonters are still staring down a 6% property tax increase if school budgets as drafted pass on Town Meeting Day.
Scott says in the weeks ahead, he will unveil ideas to hold taxpayers harmless and keep taxes flat.
Copyright 2025 WCAX. All rights reserved.
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