Education system and best schools in Vermont: Diverse public and private school options. High graduation rate. Focus on personalized education. Strong emphasis on STEM and arts. Act 77 for flexible pathways. Statewide dual enrollment programs. Renowned colleges include UVM and Middlebury. Rural and community-driven schools. Advanced placement courses available. Various extracurricular opportunities.
Diverse public and private school options
Vermont's education system encompasses a varied selection of public and private institutions, featuring 250 public schools and 28 union high schools, alongside numerous private colleges and universities. Prominent higher education establishments include the University of Vermont and Middlebury College. The state is characterized by intricate school district structures and provides school choice options for towns lacking comprehensive public school services. For further insights into the state's educational landscape, you can explore the detailed article on Education in Vermont.
High graduation rate
In the state of Vermont, the average public school graduation rate stands at an impressive 83% for the academic year 2024-25. Among the schools leading the way with the highest graduation rates are Mt. Mansfield Union High School with a rate of at least 95%, South Burlington High School also boasting a 95% graduation rate, and Colchester High School with a range between 90-94%. These statistics underscore the strength and consistency of Vermont's educational institutions. For more information and detailed statistics, visit the Public School Review.
Focus on personalized education
Vermont has implemented a comprehensive statewide approach to personalized, proficiency-based learning through Act 77 and the Vermont State Board of Education's Rule 2000, which includes personalized learning plans for students in grades 7-12, proficiency-based graduation requirements, flexible learning pathways, and ongoing professional development for educators to support student-centered learning environments. This approach aims to enhance student engagement and prepare students for success in college, the workplace, and life. For more details on this initiative, you can visit the Aurora Institute to learn about the role of personalized learning in transforming education in Vermont.
Strong emphasis on STEM and arts
Vermont's education system strongly emphasizes both STEM and arts, with the National Core Arts Standards guiding arts education and programs like STARBASE Vermont focusing on hands-on STEM learning, ensuring a well-rounded education that prepares students for college, career, and life.
Act 77 for flexible pathways
Act 77, the Flexible Pathways Initiative in Vermont, aims to enhance educational experiences by expanding dual enrollment programs, career technical centers, early college programs, personalized learning plans, and work-based learning opportunities, all designed to promote postsecondary readiness and individualized learning paths for high school students. This initiative supports students in achieving secondary school completion and postsecondary continuation through flexible and high-quality educational experiences. To learn more about this transformative initiative, visit the Vermont Family Network website for further details and resources.
Statewide dual enrollment programs
The Vermont Dual Enrollment program enables high school juniors and seniors to participate in up to two college courses, with tuition fully reimbursed via a voucher system. These courses are available through various approved colleges and universities, offering both on-campus and online options. The entire program is conducted under the supervision of the Vermont Agency of Education, ensuring a structured and supportive learning experience for students seeking to advance their educational journey.
Renowned colleges include UVM and Middlebury
Vermont's education system is highlighted by renowned colleges such as the University of Vermont (UVM) and Middlebury College, both known for their academic excellence and strong professional outcomes for graduates. UVM, located in Burlington, and Middlebury College, a private liberal arts college, are among the top institutions in the state, offering a range of majors and high student-to-faculty ratios.
Rural and community-driven schools
The Vermont Rural Education Collaborative (VREC) supports rural schools in advancing equity and inclusive practices, promoting place-based learning, and fostering community partnerships to enhance educational outcomes in Vermont's rural areas. VREC works with multiple school districts to provide innovative learning opportunities, professional development, and advocacy for Rural Education needs.
Advanced placement courses available
Vermont's education system emphasizes academic performance and equity, focusing on preparing students for college success. Top-rated schools in Vermont, such as those recognized by the College Success Award, prioritize equipping students for higher education, which often includes access to advanced courses. Although specific details on advanced placement courses are not explicitly mentioned, these schools are renowned for their commitment to educational excellence. For more information on Vermont's schools and their approach to student success, you can visit the GreatSchools website.
Various extracurricular opportunities
In Vermont, school boards are required to adopt rules that integrate home study students into public school courses, co-curricular, and extracurricular activities, as well as the use of facilities, ensuring broad access to various extracurricular opportunities for all students, including those in Home Study Programs.