Vermont
Amid confusion, Vermont education officials say that masks can be required in certain school situations
Late final month, at an occasion for folks at Burlington’s Flynn Elementary College, a mum or dad distributed copies of a observe asking others to think about sending their youngsters to class in masks.
“Masking request: A scholar in your baby’s classroom has an underlying well being situation that will place this particular person at larger danger when uncovered to signs of communicable ailments,” the observe learn, based on a photograph obtained by VTDigger.
Later that day, Flynn Elementary’s principal, Nikki Ellis, despatched an electronic mail to oldsters in regards to the “state of affairs” on the occasion. The observe, Ellis mentioned, “was not sanctioned by” Burlington faculty directors.
“Whereas we encourage each household to decide about whether or not to ship their baby to high school with or with no masks primarily based on their wants and experiences, we don’t presently require college students or employees to put on masks at Flynn Elementary College,” Ellis wrote. “It is a resolution that’s left fully as much as every household relating to how they want their baby to indicate up in school.”
The Burlington incident highlights the anxiousness and uncertainty round masking, as youngsters return to colleges by which the Covid-19 security guidelines of the previous two years are largely absent.
In March, Vermont state officers rescinded their advice that colleges keep indoor masks mandates. Since then, state officers have inspired colleges — generally strongly — to keep away from masks mandates.
However final week, two days after the change in Burlington, the Vermont Company of Schooling mentioned that such a mandate could be permitted in colleges, below sure circumstances.
After state officers obtained “a number of questions” about security guidelines, Vermont Secretary of Schooling Dan French instructed superintendents on Sept. 1 that “colleges could have to implement masking or different mitigation measures as an affordable lodging for college kids who’re medically susceptible.”
The steerage got here days after the start of faculty throughout the state, amid what some advocates mentioned has been a fraught interval for college directors and fogeys of immunocompromised youngsters.
“What we had been listening to was that it was usually complicated to sq. up (U.S. Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention) suggestions, state suggestions, and steerage that had been issued by the U.S. Division of Schooling on the difficulty of how we fairly accommodate college students within the context of Covid,” mentioned Rachel Seelig, director of Vermont Authorized Assist’s Incapacity Regulation Challenge.
Ted Fisher, a spokesperson for the Company of Schooling, mentioned the announcement was not a shift in coverage. Somewhat, he mentioned, the state was merely restating present regulation: College students have the proper to an training, which may imply that colleges should make lodging in order that college students with sure medical circumstances can safely attend lessons.
“We’re noting that colleges have an obligation that predates — keep in mind, predates — the Covid-19 pandemic, to make sure this free applicable public training,” Fisher mentioned. “After which they should be attentive to the steps that they could have to take to permit college students to take part at school.”
He in contrast the state of affairs to colleges the place a scholar has a extreme allergy.
“So you might have a scholar who’s deathly allergic to peanuts,” Fisher mentioned. “You would possibly want (to ban) peanuts for the entire faculty, proper? As a result of that is how you are going to be certain that the scholar’s not going to be uncovered.”
If a scholar has a incapacity, the educators and medical professionals chargeable for that scholar can resolve whether or not or not they require an setting the place others are masked. In that case, educators can add that to a scholar’s Individualized Schooling Plan, generally known as an IEP, a doc that units out the provisions wanted for his or her training.
“College students with disabilities have the proper to take part within the normal training curriculum, and be with their identical aged friends — which we name the least restrictive setting — to the best extent potential, applicable to the scholar,” Seelig mentioned.
Alyssa Chen, a coordinator on the Schooling Justice Coalition of Vermont, mentioned the state’s new steerage was a “higher late than by no means state of affairs,” however mentioned it got here “with out a number of clear assist.” The Company of Schooling had not shared contact info for specialists or offered clear assets to officers and fogeys, Chen famous.
“There are a number of questions from dad and mom about the way to shield college students who’re medically susceptible,” she mentioned.
Chen mentioned she knew of roughly six circumstances by which dad and mom had sought so as to add a masking requirement to their youngsters’s IEPs. In at the least two of these circumstances, she mentioned, college students had been attending faculty in at the least {a partially} masked setting. In different circumstances, she mentioned, dad and mom had been instructed that masks mandates had been prohibited.
Russell Elek, a spokesperson for the Burlington College District, mentioned in an electronic mail that district officers are involved with the Company of Schooling “to hunt clarification” about French’s letter, and could be in contact with households if any insurance policies change.
He famous that directors had not but ”obtained any documentation from any medical doctors recommending full-class masking.”
“As this work continues, it is very important know that we take documented circumstances of medically-fragile youngsters and the lodging wants for these college students significantly,” Elek mentioned.
If you wish to hold tabs on Vermont’s training information, join right here to get a weekly electronic mail with all of VTDigger’s reporting on larger training, early childhood packages and Okay-12 training coverage.
UVM hockey legend Eric Perrin returns to Burlington on coaching staff
Eric Perrin, UVM hockey’s all-time leading goal scorer returns to Burlington helping out on the coaching staff for the past nine days.
Vermont basketball scored the game’s first seven points and built multiple 10-point leads early in the first half of Saturday’s America East Conference showdown at Bryant.
But everything unraveled after the Catamounts’ roaring start.
The Bryant Bulldogs seized control by the halftime horn and rolled in the second half for a 73-53 victory, handing Vermont its biggest conference defeat in two decades.
The Catamounts (9-9, 2-1) haven’t loss by at least 20 points to a league opponent in the regular season since the 2004-05 finale at Maine, 87-66, when stars Taylor Coppenrath and T.J. Sorrentine did not play. They also suffered a 22-point setback to Stony Brook in the 2011 America East semifinals.
Vermont opened a 24-14 lead on a Shamir Bogues 3-pointer with 8 minutes, 21 seconds before the break. Then the Bulldogs unleashed a 20-6 spurt to close the half. Bryant, though, kept momentum on its side, scoring 20 of the first 22 points of the second half.
The advantage ballooned to 57-32 by the 12-minute mark. All told, Bryant had a 43-8 run spanning the two halves to carve out the insurmountable advantage.
Connor Withers, who started Bryant’s comeback in the first half with a 3-pointer, paced the hosts with 19 points. Rafael Pinzon and Barry Evans each had 13 points, and Early Timberlake added a dozen points for Bryant’s first win over Vermont since joining America East ahead of the 2022-23 campaign.
For Vermont, Bogues totaled 17 points and six rebounds, and Ileri Ayo-Faleye collected 15 points. Sam Alamutu picked up 11 rebounds.
The Bulldogs scored 22 points off Vermont’s 17 turnovers. Bryant also made 11 3-pointers.
The Catamounts return to action for the league home opener Thursday night vs. Binghamton.
Contact Alex Abrami at aabrami@freepressmedia.com. Follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter: @aabrami5.
Phil Martelli, Jr.’s opening statement after Bryant’s win vs. Vermont
Phil Martelli, Jr.’s opening statement after Bryant’s 73-53 win vs. Vermont men’s basketball.
SMITHFIELD — Bryant men’s basketball’s addition to the America East three years ago didn’t alter the traditional powers.
Vermont captured the last two league titles to finish off a stretch of five crowns in six years for the Burlington program. Bryant, before joining the conference, largely had no history with its northern neighbors outside of a home-and-home series in 2013-14.
The Bryant-Vermont matchup was reintroduced in January of 2023 with Vermont winning all four meetings since they became conference foes. Bryant halted that run and redirected the league’s authority on Saturday night at the Chace Center.
Bryant (8-9, 2-0) blistered the Catamounts with an early run and thumped Vermont in the second half for a 73-53 triumph behind Connor Withers’ 19 points. The six-year guard caught fire at the end of the first half and shot 8-14 for the game. Bryant only kept that potent scoring going in the second half.
“I don’t even know my record against them,” Withers said of Vermont. “I’ve lost a lot more than I’ve won against them. And then losing in the championship, I’ve got a lot of respect for that team. They’re top of the conference every year, the team to beat every year. It does feel good.”
Withers transferred to Bryant from UMass Lowell last season. The guard lost to Vermont, 72–59, in the 2022-23 conference championship. Saturday’s win can’t erase that feeling, but his shooting can pace a conference run for Bryant this winter.
“It’s just another win and it’s just one win,” Withers said. “As good as it feels to beat them, it only counts for one win. It doesn’t count for five wins in the conference, it counts for one win. As good as it feels, it doesn’t mean too much if we don’t handle business next week and the next game that we play.”
The Bulldogs trailed, 15-5, before trading 3s with Vermont on six straight possessions. They withstood Vermont’s best punch through the first 12 minutes of the game and trailed just 24-17 on Withers’ second 3-pointer.
The shot from the wing got Withers going as he added his third trey of the contest just a few minutes later to give Bryant its first lead, 28-26, with 4:20 to play in the frame. He added another long jumper and a layup high off the glass for a personal 7-0 run.
“It’s the discipline,” Bryant coach Phil Martelli Jr. said of Vermont’s success. “I would bet there’s not a lot of games where they’ve turned it over that much (17 turnovers) and haven’t turned the opponent over. The game was played on our terms, outside of those first minutes, which is hard to do against them. They usually play it on their terms and then you get into that game trying to beat them at their game. That’s hard to do, as we’ve seen.”
Withers’ sequence started a Bryant run, 23-6, that ended only from the halftime horn. But the Bulldogs didn’t stop, and out of the break scored 20 of the first 22 points. All told, Bryant’s supremacy was a 43-8 run over 17 minutes of play.
“I was concerned about us settling,” Martelli said. “And then we came out, we got to the rim, we scored, and we’re able to get some layups and do some things. … And that goes to, we have guys that have the ability to do multiple things.
“That was key for us. I think being able to start that half and getting some layups, obviously, getting the stops along with it.”
Barry Evans and Rafael Pinzon both chipped in 13 points. Earl Timberlake added a dozen with six rebounds, four assists and four steals as Bryant shot 44.6% from the field and was 11-for-27 from beyond the arc.
“I get it, we haven’t beaten them,” Martelli said. “They are the standard. They are flat-out the standard. But it’s [only the second conference win].
“It’s good we beat Vermont because that’s who we played today. We got number two, now let’s get number three.”
Bryant vs. Vermont all-time
Nov. 16, 2013: Bryant 87, Vermont 64
Nov. 26, 2014: Vermont 73, Bryant 47
Jan. 5, 2023: Vermont 74, Bryant 64
Feb. 25, 2023: Vermont 70, Bryant 66
Jan. 27, 2024: Vermont 67, Bryant 57
Feb. 24, 2024: Vermont 65, Bryant 48
jrousseau@providencejournal.com
On X: @ByJacobRousseau
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.
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