A quality public education opens doors of opportunity for students, and providing it requires a dedicated team. School board members play a vital role in this effort, making informed decisions that shape the future of our schools.
During School Board Appreciation Month in February, we celebrate and honor the challenging and essential work they do for students, families, and communities. As locally elected officials, they are our neighbors, friends, and leaders, deeply invested in the success of our schools, and we recognize their vital contributions:
Community Impact: Board members help make decisions about what students learn, who teaches them, and the facilities they use.
Policy Leadership: They aid in establishing the policies that shape our schools.
Oversight: Elected by voters, they oversee public education in our district, often through long and challenging meetings.
Continuous Learning: They attend conferences and training to stay informed about educational issues and law.
Advocacy: Board members even testify before the Vermont General Assembly to represent our community’s needs.
School Boards connect community values to public education, ensuring our schools remain a pathway to opportunity. We hope our communities will take a moment this month to thank these outstanding individuals for their dedication, advocacy, and commitment to making our students' success their top priority.
Fletcher Board of School Directors (Left to Right):
David Clark (5 years of service); Stephanie Sheldon-Purinton; Jess Graff, Chair (6 years of service); Allison Stafford; & Aimee Cardinal, Clerk (8 years of service)
Fairfax Board of School Directors (Left to Right):
Alaina Geremski, Student Rep; Katie Haddock; Emily Aiken, Clerk (3 years of service); Matt Hogan (5 years of service); Tamara Revoir, Chair (3 years of service); Jennifer Patterson; & Ella Ferrone, Student Rep
[Not pictured] Georgia Board of School Directors:
Carl Laroe, Jr., Chair (16 years of service); Kate Barnes, Clerk (12 years of service); Ben Chiappinelli (12 years of service); Steve Wry; Grady Ballard
Article courtesy of VT VSBA