Vermont Agency of Education Holds Statewide Strategic Planning Retreat

Montpelier, Vt. - On November 4, the Vermont Agency of Education (AOE) convened more than 300 educators, students, school and district leaders, legislators, AOE staff, and education partners for a Strategic Planning Retreat in Killington. The all-day event focused on shaping a statewide vision for education and advancing goals across the Agency's five strategic pillars:

1. Elevating academic excellence
2. Expanding college and career readiness
3. Promoting safe and healthy schools
4. Improving operational effectiveness
5. Enhancing special education and differentiated support for all learners

Secretary of Education Zoie Saunders opened the retreat by emphasizing collaboration and action. "This planning retreat is not a one-and-done session - it's part of a continuing effort to build on what we've learned, evaluate where we are today and where we must focus next, and create a call to action with clear, collective steps forward," she said. "Together, we will give every child roots to grow, wings to soar, and a system that supports their success along the way."

The morning keynote addressed the current strengths and challenges of Vermont's education system, highlighting both the dedication of educators and the opportunities to build a more coordinated, future-focused system.

A mid-morning panel discussion on "Roots and Wings" brought together State Board of Education member Mohamed Diop, 2026 Teacher of the Year, Linda Alvarez , and Olympic gold medalist Barbara Ann Cochran . Together the three panelists shared their personal stories and visions for giving all students the foundation and confidence needed to succeed.

The "Roots and Wings" message resonated with many participants. Chris Young, principal at North Country Union High School, reflected, "I feel deeply connected to my school and deeply connected to Vermont." But in order to ensure all students feel this way, Young unscored the need to "help them define what a successful future looks like in Vermont."Throughout the afternoon, participants joined breakout sessions on statewide graduation requirements, special education strategic planning, educator workforce development, safe and healthy schools, and other essential components of shaping a statewide vision for education. Each session generated practical input and collaborative conversations to move Vermont closer to building the best education system in the country.

Governor Phil Scott joined during the lunch hour to thank participants and underscore the importance of an education system that focuses on quality, equity and sustainability. "I believe having the best education system in America is a powerful tool so we can grow the economy, keep and attract young families, revitalize communities, refill schools, and build a better future for all of us," said Governor Scott.

The Agency will compile input from the retreat to guide development of its strategic planning process. Follow-up work groups and further engagement will continue in the months ahead. For more information about the day, visit the Agency's website.