Naming policy update: District committee mulls details

The American flag flies at Woodstock Union High School & Middle School last summer. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

A proposed facility naming policy for the Windsor Central Unified Union School District is not yet ready for the full board’s consideration, a local committee decided on Monday night. But several key details were discussed and will be revisited at the Policy Committee’s next meeting on May 17.

That’s the latest development for a policy proposal that sparked great concern among Woodstock Union High School & Middle School alumni recently. The proposal is one idea on the table connected to raising money for the proposed $73.3 million new WUHSMS building. But earlier this month, alumni circulated a petition online to preserve legacy names on fields and facilities, and ensure they aren’t re-named. District school board leaders responded with a statement saying, in part, that the new policy would aim to preserve names of beloved teachers, coaches and community members on existing facilities. They said the previous mention of the football field during a renaming discussion at a March meeting was only an example, and no policy had been finalized. Earlier this month, following the petition, the district board sent the policy back to the Policy Committee for further discussion.

At Monday’s Policy Committee meeting, which was held on Zoom, Maura McLaughlin Tynes, a WUHS alum, said she appreciated board leaders’ recent assurances that there had been a misunderstanding. The high school football field carries the name of her father, James T. McLaughlin. 

“I'm hopeful the policy will give us some assurances that places will not be renamed," Tynes said. She also noted the policy “needs to be worded very carefully,” noting the level of concern about the renaming issue.

One new part of the proposed policy, under the section “Named Funding Opportunities,” states: "It is the intent of this policy that past legacy dedications will be honored."

Later in the current draft, a procedure is outlined for how to handle any proposal for the “re-naming of an existing dedication”. The Fundraising Work Group and the superintendent would have to create a report about the details, including the individual proposed for naming and the donation’s impact. A public meeting is required, and any renaming proposal would need an affirmative vote of 60% of the board or more.  

Policy Committee member Kelly Welsh was concerned that including a procedure for renaming “undermines” the stated intent of protecting legacy dedications. 

“I'm very concerned about having anything built into this about how we would rename things,” Welsh said. 

However, committee member Sam DiNatale, herself a former WUHS Yoh Theatre Player, noted that having some kind of language about renaming not only makes a stronger policy, but does more to protect past dedications. She pointed out that renaming would require 60% of the board’s votes. That’s much “better than not putting something in there at all,” she added.

Keri Bristow, the vice chair of the district board, was chairing Monday’s committee meeting and said she’d spoken to Committee Chair Lou Piconi, who couldn’t make the meeting, about that same issue. 

“There are all kinds of reasons why if nothing's in there, it probably opens it up to more of an attack,” Bristow said. Policies are also reviewed regularly per state guidelines, especially if there’s a challenge. 

Welsh said she’d be more comfortable with the policy if this language was strengthened: "It is the intent of this policy that past legacy dedications will be honored.” She suggested language such as, "except for unusual and extraordinary circumstances", would offer better protection.

Committee member Clare Drebitko said having a procedure is helpful, in looking toward the future. There may be an extraordinary coach or educator the school wants to honor 50 years from now, for example.

“You don't want to make it impossible for people to honor them, but I do think it's really important to honor legacy names always, and I do think it's really important for people in the future to do that," Drebitko said.

There was also no objection to another idea offered: increasing the threshold for the board to approve renaming, from a 60% to a 75% vote. 

Faith Hendricks Stevens, head of the WUHS Alumni Association, also weighed in. 

“I am totally against renaming … (but) I do agree there needs to be a policy,” she said. 

Stevens said a totally different situation could merit renaming something quickly. For example, a future name may need to be removed from a facility because of some wrongdoing that comes to light and could “shame the school.” 

Woodstock resident Jeff Kahn said that in such a case, he’d imagine 75% of the board would easily agree to a renaming proposal. 

Also, regarding the renaming procedure, DiNatale suggested that just the superintendent should be responsible for submitting the required report to the board. She noted there may not always be a Fundraising Work Group, since this group is linked to the proposed new school project.

The Policy Committee will continue to work on the facility naming policy during their May 17 meeting, also to be held on Zoom. The policy’s first reading would be done at the full board meeting in June, if the proposal is ready at that time.

— Gareth Henderson

Vermont COVID-19 aid bill becomes law

The hills around Woodstock, Vermont, last summer. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

A $104 million COVID-19 relief bill has become law without Vermont Gov. Phil Scott's signature. The legislation includes $10 million in grants for struggling businesses, along with aid for housing, mental health services, and a range of infrastructure needs.

Scott reportedly declined to sign the bill, in part, because one of its provisions taxes some business loans under the federal Paycheck Protection Program. But the governor allowed the plan to become law because it "contains urgently needed funds for Vermonters," Vermont Public Radio reported. One part of the bill excludes the first $10,200 of unemployment benefits from 2020 from taxation, in accordance with a federal tax change this year.

In other Tuesday news, the state reported its COVID positivity rate has further dropped to 1.5%. Daily case counts are on the decline, in large part because the cases among younger age groups in Vermont recently dropped by one-third. Cases on college campuses are also down.

Additionally, federal officials hope to have some recommendations on Friday about resuming the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, with some restrictions. A pause in administration of that vaccine has continued this week in Vermont, as health experts are looking into the implications of six cases of rare blood-clotting in people who had the vaccine.

This week, Vermont's supply of the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines will be level, while pharmacies in the federal pharmacy program will see an increase in those doses across the country. That means 8,000 more doses for pharmacies in Vermont.

On Monday, all Vermonters age 16 and older became eligible for COVID vaccinations, and 47,000 Vermonters age 16-29 had signed up to get their shots as of Tuesday morning.

— Gareth Henderson

Senior center eyes reopening

The Thompson Senior Center in Woodstock. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

The Thompson Senior Center in Woodstock, Vermont, has been holding bingo by phone for some time now, and one of the big topics of late, not surprisingly, has been getting vaccinated for COVID-19. 

Deanna Jones, the center’s executive director, remembered a recent discussion in one of the bingo calls, with one of the ladies who had just gotten her second shot. At the site where she got her second dose, others had done so, as well. A great sense of relief was in the air.

“She said people were jumping, high-fiving and so glad; it was like a celebration as people were coming out of the vaccination site,” Jones said. “It was really clear who had been vaccinated already.” 

Like senior centers throughout the region, The Thompson has been closed to in-person activities due to the pandemic, while holding some activities or events over the phone or online. The state of Vermont recently announced senior centers can start reopening for group activities, but The Thompson Senior Center is waiting until all staff are fully vaccinated. Another key factor is the spacing requirement for such organizations in Vermont: one person per 100 square feet. 

Right now, Jones said the goal is to reopen for in-person activities around June 1, with some capacity restrictions. 

“We'll be opening our tent for outside group programs at that time as well as activities indoors that meet capacity guidelines,” Jones said. 

Looking forward into May, The Thompson Senior Center will continue its curbside meals, online programs, and will still do one-on-one services, such as foot care (the nurse administering that program has been vaccinated). Virtual programs planned for May include the spring tea, intergenerational programs, and a private tour with Art in Bloom from the Museum of Fine Art, arranged through the Woodstock Garden Club.

Per the state’s reopening plan, senior centers will switch to the state’s “universal guidance” after July 4. That guidance has no capacity limits and requires basic precautions like masks and six-foot social distancing. 

No senior center in the state has opened yet for congregate dining, according to Jones, who is also co-chair of the Vermont Association for Senior Centers and Meal Providers. Jones said she and her staff at The Thompson are also keeping a close eye on case numbers.

“We will continue to proceed with caution and monitor the current active cases in our area, even as restrictions ease,” Jones said.   

As of Friday, the state’s overall COVID-19 caseload remained steady, while the 7-day case average continued to trend downward. That daily average was 140 at the end of last week. On Monday, the state reported 93 new cases. Vermonter’s positivity rate has remained at 1.9%, one of the lowest in the country. 

On the vaccine front, the state recently surpassed 50% of its adult population having received at least one dose of the COVID vaccine. Over one-third of adult Vermonters are fully vaccinated.

It’s been a very long year, Jones said, but the community has gotten the senior center through these tough times, with lots of volunteering and other support. For example, the Woodstock Farmers’ Market raised $8,700 for the senior center through its “Round Up” campaign. Whenever things were particularly discouraging, something wonderful would happen that lifted their spirits, Jones recalled.

“In so many ways, our community stepped up to support us and keep us going,” she said.

— Gareth Henderson

New funding aims to provide healthy food for students

A school bus heads through Woodstock Village in Vermont recently. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

A new program is being launched to ensure students continue to have access to healthy meals during the pandemic. 

The federal government recently allowed 34 states, including Vermont and Massachusetts, to provide a temporary food benefit to pre-K-12 students who would normally receive free and reduced-price meals at school. This new Pandemic-EBT (P-EBT) benefit is meant to replace the value of school meals that children would have received earlier in the year, had they been at school.

In Vermont, households eligible for this funding should receive it by April 29. At the state’s press briefing on Friday, Education Secretary Dan French thanked the many people who helped get this program off the ground.

“This has been a very complex program to implement, and I want to thank the many school staff around the state who worked quickly to collect the required data from households and submit it up to the state level,” French said. “This quick work on their part made it possible for us to turn this program around fairly quickly and get the benefits deployed, and we really appreciate their efforts.”

The amount of the P-EBT benefit is based on the student’s mode of learning in the months covered. For example, the amount is $119.35 per student for a remote learning month, $70.61 per student for a hybrid learning month, and no benefit for an in-person learning month. The money is provided through an electronic benefit card to be used for food purchases at participating grocery stores, convenience stores, online retailers and farmers markets. This program has no impact on eligibility for the free meals currently available through schools. 

“Families are encouraged to use both resources to make sure students have access to healthy meals,” French said. 

About $14.7 million in P-EBT benefits will soon be issued to 21,844 Vermont households for the time period of September 2020 through February 2021. That impacts about 33,000 students, nearly 42% of the state’s public school population. Vermont had 78,928 students in pre-K-12 as of February.

Another P-EBT benefit will be provided in July, to cover the months of March through June 2021.

— Gareth Henderson

Vt. vaccine sign-ups expand to ages 16-18

Cars roll along Route 4 by the Ottauquechee River in Bridgewater, Vt. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Friday was a day with important news to announce, but the state of Vermont’s press briefing wasn’t all formality. There was a moment of levity in the question-and-answer session, when a reporter asked about the state’s catchy phrases, “Six-Foot Spaces, Masks On Faces, Uncrowded Places,” meant to promote public health guidance. Tom Davis, of Compass Vermont, wondered whether Health Commissioner Dr. Mark Levine was the creator of those rhymes.

“The answer is ‘no,’” Levine said, sporting a wide grin. “It takes a village to come up with things that are that powerful, and we have an excellent communication and marketing team who all contribute to that effort.” 

“So it’s a product of Vermont?” Davis asked. Levine quickly confirmed, “Oh I would say. Yes.”

The more serious remarks focused in part on a change in COVID-19 vaccine eligibility. As of today, Vermonters ages 16-18 can sign up, as the state looks to accelerate the vaccination of the high-school population. All people age 16 and older become eligible Monday. 

On Friday, Gov. Phil Scott announced the change, noting his priority of getting kids back to school. Pfizer is the only COVID vaccine approved for 16-18-year-olds. 

“This step will help give those kids the opportunity to register for Pfizer doses two days early — which is their only option at this time — and possibly enjoy the end of the school year in a much more normal way,” Scott said. 

Those younger than 18 will need to have a parent or guardian help them complete the registration. Vaccination appointments can be made by going to healthvermont.gov/myvaccine or calling 855-722-7878.  

The governor also offered an update from federal officials on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. On a federal recommendation, Vermont paused administration of that vaccine this past week. Health experts are looking into six cases of rare a blood-clotting issue which occurred after taking the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. None of the cases are in Vermont. 

On Friday, Scott said administration of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine in Vermont will be paused for another week. This is to give health experts time to further investigate the issue, as about half of available Johnson & Johnson doses were administered in the past few weeks. 

“They’ll be meeting again next week, where they will learn more and hopefully we’ll be able to return to distribution of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine very soon,” Scott said. Further guidance from the federal government may not be available until late this coming week.

Though all adult Vermonters will be vaccine-eligible soon, Scott urged people to continue to follow the public health guidance, including mask-wearing and social distancing. 

“It’s still important that folks follow the guidelines in place,” he said. “Doing so will help get us back to normal faster, help get our kids back to school, and more.” 

— Gareth Henderson

Mud season — with a touch of snow

River Road in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

It's one of the ironies of living in New England: With spring barely a month old, there's still a chance winter may come back, just a little. And it looks like Friday may be that kind of day in Vermont.

Nature's latest weather show opened with rain on Thursday evening. But parts of southern Vermont, including the Woodstock area, are expected to see 6 to 12 inches of snow over the course of the day Friday. A winter storm warning is in effect until 8 p.m. Friday evening for Windsor County, and the eastern portions of Rutland and Addison Counties.

During any storm warning, caution is always best. The National Weather Service is warning about hazardous travel conditions on Friday, especially on roads in higher elevations — which would include that Killington overpass along Route 4. Even if weather in the lower valleys is minimal, it can be a very different scene in areas like Killington.

Speaking of changing conditions, it's always a slight risk to write about specific weather events — because they can disappear from the forecast in the blink of an eye. With temps above freezing, Friday's weather could result in little more than slush. But however it pans out, the warm season will march confidently onward, with this storm being a blip on the radar in the grand scheme of spring.

To that end: Any snow is expected to taper off by Friday evening, followed by a quick jump back to 50-degree weather on Saturday and some 60s next week. True, vestiges of winter may try to creep in, but spring wastes no time in getting back to business. And all who've been enjoying the warmer weather are glad to know it.

— Gareth Henderson

WUHS to expand in-person instruction soon

The main entrance of Woodstock Union High School & Middle School in Woodstock, Vt. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

When they return from April break, Woodstock Union High School students will return to more in-person learning. 

The administration is implementing four days of in-person instruction at WUHS, effective April 19. This change is made possible by the state’s updated guidance that calls for three-foot physical distancing in school, rather than the previous rule of six-foot distancing, according to WUHSMS Principal Garon Smail. In changing that rule, Smail said, state education officials cited research from other states and Europe, saying there was no significant difference between the impact of the two distances in schools during the pandemic.

The in-person instruction will be on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Wednesday will remain a day when most students are off-campus, and the morning remote class schedule on that day will be replaced with teacher office hours. The remote clubs and activities will continue on Wednesday afternoon, as well as driver’s education. 

The middle school has already switched to the four-day in-person format — the 7th grade on Feb. 1, and the 8th grade on March 18. High school students had still been operating under a hybrid learning model, a blend of in-person and remote instruction.

When this change occurs for the high school, students will follow their established in-person schedules, masks will still be required, and no congregating will be allowed in the hallways, which is the case now. Strict cleaning protocols remain throughout the day. 

“I believe we have the systems and routines in place to take on this capacity,” Smail said, in making this announcement at a recent school district board meeting.

In a Friday interview, Smail said he’s heard from parents who are happy with making this change at WUHS, and a few were concerned. He noted that this recent announcement was made the same week as the state’s new phased reopening plan, which aims to lift all state pandemic restrictions by July 4. 

“The governor releasing his return-to-normal plan on the heels of this, puts this (announcement) in the context of the state moving in this direction, and it feels right that way,” Smail said. 

He also noted that the increase in in-person learning does not mean a doubling of the student workload. He echoed the sentiment of a teacher, who recently told him, “We’re doubling the amount of connection.” 

“That’s kind of the focus,” Smail said. 

Smail pointed out that the in-person format provides more access to teachers and will add more student interactions with other students, a clear improvement, he added, over the remote days that used to take up some of the week. 

“It’s just not really how we operate as people, to be that isolated,” Smail said.  

He said the change will also allow teachers to plan for just one type of class, rather than having to make plans for remote and in-person instruction. 

At the recent school district board meeting, in which this change was announced, one question was raised about what accommodation could be made for a family uncomfortable sending their student to four days of in-person instruction.

“We do work with individual cases the best we can, to be supportive of people,” Smail said. 

Another question concerned whether it was wise to move back to a heavier in-person schedule this close to the end of the school year, which might not work for some students.  

Superintendent Sherry Sousa noted research showing that “re-establishing what is normal” is key for students’ mental health. 

This change is part of making sure WUHSMS is ready for five days a week by August, Smail added.

Additionally, the school has done $320,000 worth of HVAC work to improve air flow. Outside spaces will be available to use for classes and lunch.

— Gareth Henderson

Gov. Scott outlines relief plan; lawmakers await details

Downtown Woodstock, Vermont, on Friday evening. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Vermont is getting over $1 billion in COVID-19 relief funding from the federal government, and Gov. Phil Scott laid out his priorities for it this week. 

These include $250 million to expand broadband coverage in the state; $250 million for housing; $200 million to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance climate change resiliency; $170 million for major water, sewer and stormwater system upgrades; and $143 million for economic development including helping small businesses rebound from the pandemic. 

The governor placed a strong emphasis on the state’s significant housing needs, noting that because of the pandemic, nearly 2,000 Vermonters experiencing homelessness have been living in hotels and motels over last year. 

“My plan would significantly increase shelter capacity and construct permanent housing for those in need,” Scott said at his Friday press briefing. “It also builds more than 5,000 housing units to help middle-income families who’ve been priced out of the market.”

Scott said there are many priorities he and the Legislature agree on regarding this money, but he said lawmakers will also be offering their own ideas about how to spend it. 

“I look forward to working with them in order to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make monumental and transformative investments to build a stronger future,” he said.  

In a Saturday interview, Senate President Pro Tempore Becca Balint said there was a “fair amount” in Scott’s plan that lawmakers supported, including broadband, housing and climate change. 

“But of course we want to know more about the details,” Balint said. 

She said one concern from the Senate side was that the governor didn’t include workforce training, though it’s been a concern of his in the past. Balint specifically mentioned those workers who need access to certificate programs or skills training to advance their careers, but not a full degree. 

“We have a worker shortage pretty acutely here in Vermont,” she said. “There are a lot of jobs that are going unfilled.” 

Balint also said adding funding for mental health services and more targeted help for businesses should be part of the plan. She often hears from hospitality and tourism businesses who are worried about how much longer they can hang on, despite Scott’s phased reopening plan which aims to lift all pandemic restrictions by July 4. Balint said those businesses were expecting more from the new federal COVID relief dollars.

“For the most part, what I’ve been hearing is that people are comfortable with this (reopening) timeline,” Balint said. “They just want to make sure that when the spigot is fully open, they’re still going to have a business.” 

One bill looking to help with that is a $100 million coronavirus relief spending package previously passed out of the Senate, which includes $10 million for business grants. The House hopes to get that bill to the governor’s desk on Friday, Balint said.

— Gareth Henderson

Vt. grants coming to expand summer programs for youth

Federal relief money is fueling an expansion of summer programming for youth in Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Funding is on the way to expand summer programs for youth in Vermont, as the state continues its effort to help kids reconnect with their communities and recover from the impact of the pandemic. 

In partnership with the nonprofit Vermont Afterschool, the Agency of Education is organizing the $1.5 million grant program for those camps and organizations not connected with a school, so they can be a part of the overall state effort to enhance these summer experiences. More details will be rolled out in the coming weeks, including eligibility requirements. A strong emphasis is being placed on applications that make the programs more affordable for students and families, according to Heather Bouchey, Vermont’s deputy secretary of education. 

“We want all children and youth to participate in something great this summer, no matter their age, their family background or financial resources, their primary language, geographic location, ability status, or specific interests,” Bouchey said at the state’s Friday press briefing. 

The state and Vermont Afterschool have launched a “Summer Matters” web page, summer opportunities are listed and kids can look for summer jobs. The site also has a state map showing where participating summer programs are located. A few areas in the state don’t have many local opportunities, and the state is reaching out to those communities to help change that.

To make this statewide effort possible, the Agency of Education is also collaborating with the state departments of health, mental health, vocational rehabilitation, and fish and wildlife, as well as educators and practitioners in the field. The grants are backed by federal COVID-19 relief funding, and all types of nonprofit organizations, community collaboratives and school-community programs will be able to apply. 

The state is encouraging local school districts and organizations to collaborate on this effort.   

“We know that everyone is tired and certainly needs a rest after navigating this year, but this summer also presents a critical, critical, opportunity for us to further assist students and their families in healing and well-being,” Bouchey said. 

Speaking on Friday, Gov. Phil Scott said this is not only a great opportunity for students, but also a chance for communities to get creative. 

“Working together, we can have a huge impact and help our kids in so many ways,” Scott said. 

The U.S. has tripled federal funding for after-school and summer programs over the next three years, thanks to the recent federal COVID relief bill. On Friday, U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, of Vermont, highlighted the importance of that funding and the state’s efforts, as he spoke at the briefing by video. 

“It is absolutely essential that we do everything we possibly can to support Vermont students in the coming months and years as we recover from these challenges, and that work must start this summer,” Sanders said. 

— Gareth Henderson

State to host Teen Conservation Weekends this summer

The Green Mountains as seen from Woodstock, Vermont, in summer. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Young outdoor enthusiasts will get a chance to experience Vermont’s natural environment and learn together this summer during the state’s Teen Conservation Weekends. 

Announced this week, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department is offering two new Teen Conservation Weekends to be held at the Edward F. Kehoe Conservation Camp in Castleton this August.

“We are pleased to announce a fun and exciting opportunity for teens ages 15 to 17,” said Hannah Phelps, camp coordinator. “The new Teen Conservation Weekends will allow us to provide teens with an exciting weekend of quality environmental education. Campers will arrive Saturday morning and immediately begin participating in Hunter Education programing, before backpacking out to a remote pond for an evening of camping and fishing.”

It’s also a welcome opportunity to connect with peers and enjoy the last days of summer, Phelps added.

“Teen Conservation Weekends are the perfect way for teens to unplug and engage with peers outdoors before heading back to the classroom,” she said.

Each weekend is limited to 25 participants.  Girls can attend on Aug. 14 and 15, and boys will be there Aug. 21 and 22. All participants are required to complete their Hunter and Bowhunter certificates ahead of time to allow for more hands-on fun throughout the weekend, state officials said. Teens will also be expected to only bring gear they can carry themselves while backpacking.

For registration, cost and other details, go to Vermont Fish and Wildlife’s Teen Conservation Weekend web page, where an application can be downloaded. Sponsorships are available on a limited basis. Any questions can go to Phelps at Hannah.phelps@vermont.gov or 802-249-3199. 

— Gareth Henderson

Vt. bill eyes growing school construction needs

The American flag moves in a summer breeze at Woodstock Union High School & Middle School. (Gareth Henderson File Photo)

School construction needs in Vermont are adding up fast, and a current bill moving through the Legislature seeks to assess the situation. 

The Vermont House of Representatives has passed a $2.5 million bill that calls for a statewide assessment of public education facilities, and this legislation is now in the Senate. The point is to get a full understanding of the condition of these buildings and determine which projects are most urgent, according to State Rep. Charlie Kimbell, representing Woodstock, Reading and Plymouth. 

A state program used to be in place to help fund school construction projects, but that ended in 2007. Statewide, school districts have identified $560 million worth of needed building projects, involving either new buildings or major renovations, Kimbell said. Eventually, the hope is to prioritize those projects and figure out how to fund them. State-based funding methods for school building projects vary, like in Massachusetts, which Kimbell said uses a “straight allocation of its sales tax,” while other states take the money right out of their General Fund.

“We’re going to have to figure out what the right mechanism is, because it’s a lot of money,” Kimbell said.

However, the first step is the assessment, which is the main function of the bill the House just passed, bill H. 426. Specifically, the bill allocates the $2.5 million and authorizes the state to put out a request for proposals for the assessment. The bill also directs the Agency of Education to update school construction facility standards, and requires each school have a school facilities manager.

Many of the Vermont school building projects being considered today involve schools originally built in the 1950s and 60s. One of those projects is a proposed $73.3 million project for a new Woodstock Union High School & Middle School building. Federal, state, local and private sources will be explored to raise some of the funding for the project, and a Fundraising Working Group is currently being formed. A bond vote is targeted at some point within the time range of 2022-2024.

It’s unclear whether the Woodstock project would be able to use whatever funding mechanism the state may eventually implement. If the bill gets final legislative approval, the state is expecting a January 2023 report that will include a recommendation on funding, Kimbell said.

Once completed, the Senate version of the bill H. 426 is likely to come back to the House for amendments.

— Gareth Henderson

Vt. plans to lift all pandemic restrictions by July 4

After over a year of statewide restrictions, Vermont’s governor has unveiled a plan to ease those limits over the next three months and have the Green Mountain State fully reopened by July 4.

But Gov. Phil Scott said this roadmap depends on the state hitting certain COVID-19 vaccination milestones, and is subject to change.

“Our goal with this plan is to give Vermonters a transparent look at how we’ll be able to work our way out of this pandemic, moving forward together at a time when we can manage this virus like we do the flu, with simple, every-day measures, rather than the state of emergency we’ve been in for over a year,” Scott said at Tuesday’s press conference.

He said Vermont’s in a strong position to meet the July 4 goal, with a robust testing and contact tracing, and one of the most successful vaccination programs in the U.S. 

“We’re in the last laps of this very long and difficult race, and this plan shows how we’ll finish strong,” Scott said. However, for that reopening effort to work, the governor noted people must continue to get vaccinated when their age band becomes eligible. 

The newly announced “Vermont Forward” plan includes three steps, and in each of those steps, it focuses on moving more businesses and organizations into “universal guidance,” instead of the sector-specific rules that have been in place. State officials hope this will provide more flexibility and predictability for sectors in Vermont. 

This universal guidance includes five main tenets that employers, workers and customers should follow: stay home when sick; wear a mask; ensure six-foot social distancing; practice good hygiene; know the travel restrictions. The social distancing and mask requirements will remain in place until July 4.

In Step 1 of the plan, “Group A” moves to universal guidance on Friday, which includes mainly low-contact businesses, such as outdoor businesses, outdoor recreation, farmers markets, campgrounds and others.

Also beginning Friday, the state will use COVID-19 testing instead of quarantining as the main requirement of its travel guidance. This means people will need to be tested within three days of returning to Vermont, and visitors will need to have a negative COVID test within three days of their arrival. Fully vaccinated people can continue to travel freely. 

In Step 2, “Group B” moves to universal guidance on May 1. This will eliminate capacity restrictions on all businesses, including restaurants and bars, and also takes away those restrictions for houses of worship and art centers.

In discussing the plan, Secretary of Commerce Lindsay Kurrle said businesses have the right to enact rules that go further than the universal guidance or address specific safety needs. 

“We hope all Vermonters will continue to honor and practice the mitigation measures that we have in place,” Kurrle said. “We all need to work together with our business community to ensure interactions are respectful and understanding of the changing dynamics we will see in the months ahead as Vermonters are vaccinated.” 

Additionally, indoor and outdoor gathering sizes will be relaxed in May and June as Steps 2 and 3 go into effect, and events and gatherings must also follow the universal guidance until July 4. State officials are hoping this can allow for high school and college graduations to take place in some form, and will allow for event planners and organizations to plan further into the year.

— Gareth Henderson

WUHS alumni weigh in on facility naming, board responds

The main entrance at Woodstock Union High School & Middle School last summer. (Gareth Henderson File Photo)

A facility naming policy is one idea on the table connected to raising funds for the proposed new Woodstock Union High School & Middle School building. But some have raised concerns about the idea, since a petition to maintain legacy names on facilities quickly gained well over 750 signatures after starting last week. 

Though the idea has been discussed at the committee level, the policy has not been finalized, district board leaders have said. It will come before the board’s Policy Committee on April 19, followed by a first reading before the full board next month. Another important element is the Fundraising Working Group, which the board is currently forming. 

A group of WUHS alumni circulated a petition on Facebook late last week, after a presenter at a March 29 district board Zoom meeting about the project mentioned the football field. The main concern for petitioners was keeping longstanding, legacy names of buildings and fields intact.

“We have started a petition in an effort to show the board that legacy naming, including that of the Yoh Theater and James T. McLaughlin field, to just name two, should not, now or ever, be part of the naming options,” the petition read. “Our beloved teachers and coaches and librarians have dedicated decades to growing and educating the children of this community and they deserve their names to be known for future generations to learn about the foundation on which this school has stood.” 

On Saturday, Windsor Central Unified Union School District board leadership responded to clarify the situation, in a message on the Woodstock listserv from Chair Bryce Sammel and Vice Chair Keri Bristow. They wrote that the presenter at the March 29 meeting was merely giving an example, and the board has made no decisions about re-naming any of the facilities mentioned in the petition. Furthermore, Sammel and Bristow noted “‘naming’ is a common mechanism to raise private funds which are critical for the new school to come to fruition.” 

“We are confident that we can use such a program to help secure our school's future while still honoring the past,” they wrote. “Please be reassured that the goal will be to preserve past dedications to beloved coaches, teachers, and community members.”

The board is aiming to have a mix of fundraising sources, including federal, state, local and private funds, for the proposed $73.3 million project. It’s been widely acknowledged that a new school is needed. The current school building was built in 1957, with a 1960s addition, and with a “functional lifespan of perhaps 30-40 years,” as the school website states. There is also emphasis on having a building which serves the educational needs of today’s students. The $73.3 million number includes about $2 million in contingency costs and is adjusted up for inflation over the next two years, Sammel noted.

At an district board meeting Monday on Zoom, Sammel, a fourth-generation Vermonter, encouraged everyone to avoid an “us vs. them” approach. 

“I don’t want this board to be ‘them’, because we’re all in this together, we’re all part of the same community,” he said. 

Sammel also said the strength of the 18-member district board “comes from its diversity”, and everyone brings something different to the table. 

“I would ask everyone to consider this and to try to assume best intentions of our board members, but please, please ask tough questions and hold us accountable,” he said. “I would ask our board members to not take these questions or comments personally, but to recognize that they’re usually coming from a place of trying to preserve a certain set of values. Values we probably all share and hold dear.”

On Monday night, several alumni spoke. Maura McLaughlin Tynes is a 1994 graduate of WUHS and a district-level school administrator in Newton, Massachusetts, who has been involved with five school building projects. The WUHS athletic field bears the name of her father, longtime football coach James McLaughlin, and her sisters, Meg McLaughlin Roylance and Abby McLaughlin Kachura, graduated from WUHS. Tynes was particularly concerned that the concept of renaming was mentioned in March 15 Policy Committee minutes and the March 29 board meeting on Zoom.

“I must say that I find it particularly offensive that the board would come close to entertaining this — especially when two of these individuals live right down the street, both of which had successful coaching careers. And if you are not familiar with them you can go into Dailey Gym to see a fair share of field hockey and football banners,” Tynes said, referring to her father and Yvonne Frates, longtime WUHS field hockey coach. “They and their families are still right here in the community.”

Tynes and WUHS alum Dean Corkum both acknowledged the significant need for a school upgrade, but urged the board to preserve prior dedications. Corkum, who spearheaded the petition, noted these names as ones which should remain intact on school fields and facilities: coaches McLaughlin, Frates, and Robert Dailey; theater director Robert Yoh; librarian Rhoda Teagle; and horticulture teacher Arnie Howe.

“We’d like to have the new proposal be written so these names will not be changed,” Corkum said.

On Monday night, the board was originally going to hold the first reading of the facility naming policy, but the matter was sent back to the Policy Committee to allow this group time to gather feedback from the community. The next discussion about the policy will be at the committee’s next meeting on April 19. The full board meets May 3.

In a Tuesday interview, Sammel said he was confident any differences about the issue could be resolved. 

“I have no concerns that we're going to be able to come up with a solution that satisfies both sides,” he said. 

He also noted that a policy can always be changed by the board in the future, adding he would be concerned about a policy saying a particular change can “never” occur. 

“I'd rather have something that embraces both sides and has a proper mechanism in place to make change, or not make change, so that it holds up” over the long term, Sammel said. 

Perrin Worrell, a WUHS alumni and former district board member, said she, too, supports the board’s efforts on the project and the fundraising, and said a new school is greatly needed. 

“I don't think people object to using naming rights as a fundraising effort," Worrell said. “We know that fundraising is necessary for any of this to work." 

At the same time, she said, “You have to have the buy-in of the alumni, and you're going to ostracize the alumni if you don't protect the legacy naming.”

Multiple people at Monday’s meeting said they were encouraged by the level of participation in the petition, and that it bodes well for the overall project. Anyone wishing to share feedback is encouraged to email Policy Committee Chair Lou Piconi, Sammel, or Bristow, or attend the April 19 Policy Committee meeting.

— Gareth Henderson

Go to these links for further information about the WUHS/MS new school project design and background.

The Windsor Central Unified Union School District includes the towns of Barnard, Bridgewater, Killington, Plymouth, Pomfret, Reading and Woodstock.

60-degree temps are returning; so is hiking

Flowers shine in the sun in Killington, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

We haven’t been able to say this in a while: We have four days of over-60-degree weather in the Woodstock, Vermont, forecast from Wednesday to Saturday. Tuesday is close, expected to hit 57.

The increasing warm weather has meant more time outside, more sports, more wildlife — all the things we love about the warmer season. It also means mud season, which requires some careful attention when planning hiking trips. The Green Mountain Club, which maintains the Long Trail, asks people to avoid using trails with mud, even if they’re not officially closed (as many state forest trails are, due to the conditions). 

But lower-elevation trails dry out faster, and the club has some suggestions for what trails to hike that are below 2,500 feet. Mount Ascutney in Windsor, Mount Philo in Charlotte, and “dirt roads statewide” are on the list of staff favorites. Also on the site are suggested day hikes by location and mileage, as well as state-owned trails that are open by location and mileage. The Green Mountain Club has some words of wisdom for hikers at its website, under their “Other things to consider” section.

The group also correctly states, “Mud season is also the time when the natural world comes alive.” They provide some additional ways to explore the natural world, such as this article on spring peepers or their video on Alpine plant communities. For those history-lovers, the video shares some historical notes on the Green Mountain Club and its many contributions to Vermont.

The joy of such familiar outdoor activities, like the gladness of seeing old friends again, adds a certain freedom to life. It’s a freedom that a sunny spring day with a calm breeze uniquely provides, with its natural atmosphere of progress. That uplifting feeling supports us as we continue through 2021, it helps sustain hope, and it reminds us that so many of the things we love about the Green Mountains are still there to greet us in the outdoors. That’s a comforting thought — one that makes the sun shine a little brighter.

— Gareth Henderson

Ushering in the spring, with ‘MUD (season)’

At right, "Bernie" by Marilyn Syme is shown at ArtisTree Gallery's "MUD (season)” show. At left are Syme's "Classic Jeans Jacket" and "Muck Boots" and Sarah Wesson's "Spade." (Gareth Henderson Photo)

ArtisTree Gallery’s annual springtime show is ushering in the light of spring as the region enthusiastically salutes this hopeful new season.

In this year’s “MUD (season)” exhibit, artists are also reflecting on the pandemic, portraying what they’ve missed most and what they’ve learned. The show at the Pomfret, Vermont, gallery runs until April 17 and is open for public viewing, Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Art enthusiasts can also experience the show online. It features paintings, drawings, mixed-media collage, photographs, sculptures and ceramics from 65 local artists, for a total of 180 pieces.

Deborah Goodwin, exhibits coordinator at the gallery, said not all the work is related to COVID-19, and bright, spring-themed work has the strong presence it always does. But it's a year that drove lots of creativity among all artists.

"I think most people would say it's a solace to them, to make artwork during this weird, terrible time," Goodwin said.

The theme of looking back during this spring of hope is alive and well at this brilliant new show, which notes several topics that will be very familiar. Marilyn Syme's pieces include three works of trompe l'oeil (French for "fool the eye") acrylic painted on masonite, one of which shows U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders wearing his world-famous mittens. "Meet Me on Zoom", by Amy B. Schachter, reflects the all-too-familiar Zoom experience, from happy to tired faces, portrayed with acrylic paint and graphite on a wood panel. Photographer Nicholas Gaffney shows memories from the Tunbridge World’s Fair, juxtaposed with a picture of the empty, sunlit fairgrounds from 2020.

Part of the “MUD (season)” show at ArtisTree Gallery in Pomfret, Vt. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Being several weeks into the new season, MUD also beautifully presents the spring flowers we all love, adding to the many bright expressions of life, ranging from the realistic to the abstract. Christine Hawkins, showing her work at ArtisTree for the first time, has several abstract paintings on paper with the varied colors of spring.

"It really does make you smile," Goodwin said of the show. "It's very cheery, the colors are wonderful. In general we've seen artists get extremely creative this year."

Speaking of creativity, the recent months have also brought some great artistic successes: Katie Runde, whose work "What I Miss" is part of the ArtisTree show, was recently selected to paint a portrait of Alexander Twilight to hang in the Vermont State House. Twilight was the first African American elected to a U.S. state legislature; he was elected to the Vermont House of Representatives in 1836.

While many of these artists have displayed work at ArtisTree before, Goodwin said, a number of new artists have also submitted their creations since ArtisTree reopened last June. Many people have come by to see the work displayed in the gallery as well, though the typical openings for shows have not been possible during the pandemic.

"We've had a lot of traffic and a lot of newcomers to the area," Goodwin said.

Given this very welcome start to the spring season, it's fitting to echo the announcement for the show: "Come see more than 180 pieces of remarkable and varied artwork — you will leave with a smile, feeling more-than-cautiously optimistic!"

— Gareth Henderson

ArtisTree Community Arts Center & Gallery is located at 2095 Pomfret Road in Pomfret, Vermont. For more information, call 802-457-3500, email info@artistreevt.org, or go online at www.artistreevt.org.

Vt. vaccination rate among seniors is highest in U.S.

Sun shines through the trees by the Ottauquechee River in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Vermont's vaccination rate among people over age 65 is the highest in the U.S., standing at 85%, state officials said Friday in their COVID-19 update.

With that, Vermont is planning to allow adult day centers to open soon.

“Adult day centers and senior centers are vital providers in our aging services network,” said Human Services Secretary Mike Smith at Friday's press briefing. “With most older Vermonters now vaccinated, we are now ready to allow these centers to re-open for group activities such as exercise, the arts and social groups."

Masks and social distancing will still be required, and Smith said many centers will operate at reduced capacities.

Though much anticipated for Friday, the unveiling of the state's "blueprint" to ease statewide restrictions has been delayed a week. Overall, Gov. Phil Scott urged Vermonters to still mask up and practice social distancing, noting the work isn't over.

"Regardless of our success, we still have some work to do over the next four weeks when everyone is eligible, because even though we've protected those at the greatest risk of hospitalization and death, increased cases can still cause disruption in the classroom, at the office, or on the job site," the governor said. Vermont plans to have all its adult residents vaccine-eligible by April 19.

Friday's news came at a time when Vermont has seen a recent uptick in COVID-19 cases in the past couple of weeks, especially among younger age groups. This pattern has been true of other New England states as well.

In his weekly data update, Mike Pieciak, commissioner of the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation, said among the more troubling regional signs have been the increase in hospitalizations seen in Massachusetts and Connecticut. In the past, such trends have led to a regional rise in hospitalizations and also deaths, he noted.

"But with much progress being made with the vaccination programs in Vermont and across the other Northeast states, we hope to see a change in that progression (in cases) in the weeks ahead," Pieciak said.

To date, over 40% of all Vermonters over age 16 have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and about 80% of school employees statewide have been vaccinated.

Scott acknowledged how tired people are of following the public health guidance for over a year. The governor, a longtime stock car racer, said he thinks of the current situation in terms of racing, and how important it is to keep following the path that leads to a win, especially near the end.

"I've been in some long races, and when there's 10 to go, and if I'm doing fairly well or leading the race, and there's a caution, I don't take those caution laps and take off my helmet and release my five-point harness," Scott said. "I buckle up, I actually get back into control, I pay attention and focus on the last 10 laps, and that's where I feel like we are right now. As tired as you are of going through this and all the restrictions and everything that comes along with it, now's not the time to let up."

— Gareth Henderson

New life: Baby animal celebration coming up

A lamb is greeted by mom at Billings Farm & Museum in Woodstock, Vermont, recently. (Photo Courtesy of Billings Farm & Museum)

What’s the cutest sign of spring? Billings Farm & Museum knows, and it’s about to celebrate.

The historic Woodstock, Vermont, farm will have its lambs, chicks and calves ready for its annual Baby Farm Animal Celebration next weekend. The bunnies, piglets and kid goats will be there, too. 

This year, people are encouraged to reserve their entry time for the April 10-11 celebration, as there is limited site capacity. An online version of the event is available April 9 for those who can’t join in person. April 9 happens to be the same day Billings Farm & Museum will open for the 2021 season.

Every spring, nothing charms the crowds like baby animals, which makes this celebration a much-anticipated event. It didn’t take long for Billings’ baby animal photos to get popular on social media this week.

“Those babies just melt your heart. They're always a hit, with all ages,” said Marge Wakefield, public relations and community relations coordinator. 

Plus, it’s one sign of a new season many have been waiting for. 

“It's letting you know that spring is here,” Wakefield said. 

Along with an up-close visit with the farm’s baby animals, visitors will also be able to plant an heirloom seed, participate in fun craft activities and more, during Billings’ most popular event. 

The in-person celebration takes place on April 10 and 11, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with reservations available at billingsfarm.org/special-events. The Virtual Baby Farm Animal Celebration on April 9 is at 12 p.m. This 30-minute program will be live via Zoom, and the fee is $5.  Register at billingsfarm.org to receive the Zoom link. 

A special Baby Farm Animal Celebration preview for Billings Farm & Museum members will take place on April 8 at 4 p.m. Members should contact membership@billingsfarm.org to reserve their spot.

— Gareth Henderson

At Billings Farm & Museum, face coverings are required for all visitors over age 2, including outside, and contact tracing information and temperatures are taken for all visitors. For more information about health and safety standards, visit billingsfarm.org/safety.

State: Brake for frogs and salamanders

Vermont wildlife officials are looking to protect early-spring amphibian road crossings important to salamanders and frogs, like this wood frog shown above. (VTF&W Photo / John Hall)

Roadways near ponds and wetlands are about to get a lot more traffic, but not the human kind. 

Every year, salamanders and frogs cross these roads during their breeding season, and Vermont wildlife officials are asking people to slow down while traveling them at night in early spring, or find alternate routes. 

These amphibian highways, if left mostly undisturbed in the evening hours, can offer a chance to observe some creatures rarely seen by the human eye.

“One of the benefits of checking out amphibian road crossings is that you can see many individuals and species in a short period and small area, and some species may not be seen the rest of the year," said Luke Groff, a herpetologist with the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, in a statement. "The spotted and blue-spotted salamanders, for example, belong to a group called the 'mole salamanders,' because after breeding, they retreat underground or under logs or stumps, and are rarely seen until the next spring.”

Biologists rely on these road crossings for data collection on otherwise hard-to-find species. For example, the four-toed salamander is rare in Vermont, and its distribution is not well understood. This information is used by Fish & Wildlife, the Agency of Transportation and other conservation partners to assess the need for wildlife passages and barriers in road construction plans that allow all wildlife, not just frogs and salamanders, to more safely cross roadways. 

In these opening weeks of spring, wildlife officials are also asking for the public's help in identifying amphibian road crossings. Groff is encouraging Vermonters to report these crossings by sending him an email (Luke.Groff@vermont.gov). If people can safely take photos of these animals crossing the road, officials will gladly receive the pictures as well.

— Gareth Henderson

Vt. adjusts rules on hospital visits, vaccine eligibility

A view of the Ottauquechee River in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Vermont’s progress on COVID-19 vaccination has led to further easing of statewide restrictions, this time for hospitals.

Hospitals can now allow fully vaccinated Vermonters to visit patients, provided all visitors show proof of vaccination, according to Human Services Secretary Mike Smith, who spoke to the media Tuesday. That proof includes showing the vaccination card provided to every immunized person.

This marks the first change to statewide hospital rules since Vermont banned hospital visits amid a spike in COVID cases last November. Hospitals can create stricter guidelines around visitations, Smith clarified Tuesday, as long as they comply with applicable laws and regulations. Basic safety protocols are still required, such as all visitors wearing masks for their entire visit.

State officials also announced changes meant to improve vaccine access for two groups: parents and caregivers of children with serious medical conditions who are too young to be vaccinated; and Vermont’s BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and people of color) population.  

“Each of these adjustments are designed to provide greater access for all Vermonters,” Smith said. 

Starting Wednesday morning, the state is opening up vaccine eligibility for all parents and caregivers of children with serious medical conditions who are too young to be vaccinated, and require a high level of care. Health Commissioner Dr. Mark Levine said this will ensure that these parents can stay healthy and continue to provide the care their children need.

The state is also opening up vaccine eligibility for all BIPOC Vermonters age 16 and older, as well as their family members, effective Thursday. Levine said Vermont’s BIPOC population continues to be at double the risk of complications that require hospitalization for COVID, and have been vaccinated at a far lower rate than non-Hispanic white Vermont residents (20.2% compared to 33.4%). 

“And this is in spite of our ongoing efforts to offer vaccination of multi-generational households within the current age-banding strategy and to engage our community partners in setting up community-based clinics,” Levine said. “Nonetheless, it is unacceptable that this disparity remains for this population placed at higher risk.” 

As vaccine access expands in Vermont, the number of vaccination sites is also on the rise, particularly in the federal pharmacy program. CVS is adding three sites this week, including in Rutland, and 12 Hannaford locations in Vermont will offer vaccine doses as of April 5. Links to the pharmacy websites are at healthvermont.gov/myvaccine. That’s also the website for eligible Vermonters to sign up for appointments at the state-run clinics, and they can also call 855-722-7878. 

Though vaccination progress continues, so does the need to stay vigilant, state officials said. Levine on Tuesday addressed the state’s high daily case counts ranging in the 100s and 200s, and explained this is due to “varied reasons.” He noted that more people are traveling and not adhering to the state’s strict quarantine guidance, which remains in effect for Vermonters who are not fully vaccinated. 

Levine pointed out that recent strides in vaccination, the onset of spring, and increasing hope may be “enticing us to take increasing risk.”

“Wanting the pandemic to be over, and it actually being over, are not the same thing,” he said. “We still need to do everything we can to reduce spread of the virus, while we vaccinate more and more Vermonters.” Wearing masks, practicing social distancing and keeping gatherings “small and safe” are still recommended, Levine emphasized.

Vermont’s positivity rate remains one of the nation’s lowest, at 2%, with a small number of hospitalizations which has stabilized in recent days, Levine noted. 

As of Tuesday morning, 35% of Vermonters have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Broken down by age, that same statistic is close to 90% for the state’s 70+ age group, and almost 75% for those aged 65-69.

The state remains on-pace to make all adult Vermonters vaccine-eligible by April 19. Vermonters age 50 and older became eligible for vaccine appointments on Monday, and registration opens for the 40+ age group next Monday.

— Gareth Henderson

Vt. eyes ‘more normal’ summer, focuses on helping youth

Summer skies from 2020 as seen from Pomfret, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson File Photo)

Vermont Gov. Phil Scott said a plan to more greatly ease statewide pandemic restrictions in the coming weeks is on its way. At a Friday press conference, Scott said he expected July 4th will mark a new phase, "a time when things will look and feel more normal."

"In the next 10 days, we'll detail the path ahead and show you a blueprint of how we expect to ease restrictions based on the level of vaccinated Vermonters," he said. The approach will remain strategic and closely tied to the advice of health experts, the governor added.

As that plan is finalized, another statewide initiative focuses on the needs of youth. Efforts are underway to organize a statewide program to provide wider access to 2021 summer programs for Vermont students, to help them recover from the impact of the pandemic. The announcement comes at a time when COVID-19 vaccinations are steadily increasing and restrictions are gradually being eased, opening up possibilities for in-person activities this summer.

With the start of spring, there has been a greater emphasis nationwide on the return to in-person learning and the importance of summer programming for K-12 students. Students are eager to reconnect on an in-person level with their friends and school communities, after what has been a year of remote and hybrid learning for many. In the latest U.S. COVID relief package, increased federal funding for youth summer programs is coming to states.

Speaking to the media Friday, State Education Secretary Dan French said planning for the statewide effort is well underway, and it's a high priority for the Vermont Agency of Education.

"In conjunction with the governor's office, we're working with a variety of stakeholders, programs and service providers to design a statewide summer initiative that expands capacity for these programs and extends their availability for all families to participate," French said. "Our hope is to provide a fun, engaging experience open to all students, regardless of ability or economic circumstance."

Currently, the state is working out the details on funding, resources and how to integrate the initiative with what schools are planning. The public can expect more details from French in the coming weeks as plans and partnerships develop.

— Gareth Henderson