We are living in extraordinary times. In the face of a pandemic, our nation has adapted to stay safe. Our education community has found ways to remain connected as they support remote learning for students and families. And as the challenges presented by the equity of access and capacity in education were amplified, the killing of George Floyd necessarily turned the attention and passion of our nation to the ongoing crisis of systemic racism and the grossly inequitable treatment of people of color in our country.
The Vermont State Board of Education denounces racism and affirms its commitment to equity and excellence for all students regardless of race, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, color, disability, religion, or socioeconomic status.
The schools of this nation are charged with the maintenance and strengthening of democratic life and governance. In addressing systemic racism, all efforts must include education, and the Vermont State Board of Education is committed to listening, learning, and advocating for action and progress on this journey to equity, diversity, and inclusion for all Vermonters.