Vermont education spending and test scores face scrutiny

Recent educational data reveals a disparity between school spending and academic performance in Vermont. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), Mississippi’s fourth graders outscored Vermont’s students in both reading and math, despite Vermont spending approximately $28,818 per student in fiscal year 2024 compared to Mississippi’s $12,324.

In Vermont, state data also indicates a widening achievement gap. Proficiency gaps between marginalized students—including those living in poverty, students with disabilities, or racial minorities—and their peers have increased, with disparities ranging from 30 to 38 percentage points.

In response to these trends, Vermont Governor Phil Scott and Education Secretary Zoie Saunders are pursuing reforms to consolidate school districts and transition to a foundation formula funding model. This proposed model would provide districts with set amounts based on student enrollment and specific educational needs, aiming to provide more equitable resources across the state.