Code of Vermont Rules Agency 22 - DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Agency 22 of the Code of Vermont Rules is entirely dedicated to the Department of Education. These regulations are crucial for implementing state and federal laws related to public education in Vermont, ensuring quality, equity, and consistency across school districts.
The Vermont Agency of Education (AOE) promulgates these rules under the direction of the Vermont State Board of Education and the Secretary of Education.
Here's a breakdown of the broad categories of regulations you would find within Agency 22:
I. General Administration and Governance:
Organization and Procedures: Rules governing the structure and operation of the Department of Education, including administrative procedures for rulemaking, hearings, and appeals.
District Quality Standards (Series 100): These are fundamental rules aimed at ensuring that all Vermont children have access to educational opportunities that are "substantially equal in quality." They describe core elements of a quality education delivery system and the AOE's role in support and oversight.
Relationship with Public, Other Agencies, and Institutions (Chapter 016): This covers how the Department interacts with other state agencies (e.g., Department of Motor Vehicles for school bus regulations, Department of Health for school health issues), as well as post-secondary institutions and recognized accrediting agencies.
Reporting Requirements: Rules for schools and districts to submit various reports to the AOE, including student enrollment, academic progress, and financial data.
Data Collection and Privacy: Regulations concerning the collection, maintenance, and privacy of student records, often aligning with federal laws like FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act).
II. Academic Standards and Curriculum:
Education Quality Standards (e.g., Chapter 003, Section 22 000 003 - STATE BOARD RULE 2000 EDUCATION QUALITY STANDARDS): These rules set forth the academic standards and expectations for all students, ensuring they are afforded equitable, anti-racist, culturally responsive, anti-discriminatory, and inclusive educational opportunities.
Minimum Course of Study: Requirements for public and approved independent schools to provide a minimum course of study in core subjects (e.g., basic communication, citizenship, history, science, physical education, health).
Curriculum Development and Instruction: Broad guidelines for curriculum development, instructional methods, and assessment practices.
Flexible Pathways Initiative (Act 77): Regulations supporting various pathways for students to achieve graduation, including personalized learning plans, independent study, and dual enrollment.
Career Technical Education (CTE): Rules governing CTE programs, including curriculum, facilities, and partnerships with industries.
III. Student Support and Services:
Special Education (Series 2360): A very significant and detailed set of rules ensuring that eligible Vermont students with disabilities receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment. This includes regulations on:
Child Find procedures.
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
Related services.
Parental rights and procedural safeguards.
Eligibility criteria for various disabilities.
Transition services for students moving into post-secondary education, employment, or independent living.
Attendance and Compulsory Education: Rules regarding student attendance, truancy, and the legal requirements for children between certain ages to attend school or participate in approved alternative programs (e.g., homeschooling, approved independent schools).
Health and Safety: Regulations concerning:
Immunization requirements for school entry.
Emergency preparedness and disaster plans.
Policies on harassment, hazing, and bullying (often reflecting the "Safe Schools Bill" and advisory council recommendations).
Physical restraint and seclusion policies.
Alcohol and drug abuse policies in schools.
Concussion guidelines (e.g., Act 58 of 2011).
Student Discipline: Regulations outlining fair and consistent disciplinary practices, due process rights for students, and alternatives to suspension.
Guidance and Counseling Services.
IV. School Personnel:
Educator Licensing and Certification (Series 5000): Requirements for licensing teachers, administrators, and other school personnel, including educational qualifications, examinations, and continuing education.
Interstate Agreements: Regulations related to reciprocal agreements for educator licensure with other states (e.g., New Hampshire, New York).
Personnel Qualifications: Standards for faculty qualifications in public and independent schools.
V. School Finance and Facilities:
School Finance: Regulations related to state aid to education, school district budgeting, and financial reporting.
School Facilities and Environment: Standards for school facilities, including safety, health, and architectural requirements, as well as maintaining a safe, orderly, civil, flexible, and positive learning environment.
The Department of Education's rules are continuously updated to reflect new legislation, educational best practices, and the evolving needs of Vermont's students and school communities. For the most precise and up-to-date information, it is always best to consult the official publications of the Vermont Agency of Education website (which provides a dedicated "AOE Rules" section) or the Vermont Secretary of State's Office that compiles the Code of Vermont Rules.
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