The Issue

In Vermont, some private/independent schools receive public funding, but aren’t required to follow the same rules as public schools.

 

That means public money can be used at schools that do not guarantee the most basic guardrails like qualified teachers or fair discipline policies. Some are allowed to deny admission to students with disabilities or expel them without clear process or oversight.

 

It’s inconsistent.
It’s irresponsible.
It’s dangerous.
And most Vermonters don’t even know it’s happening.

 

If public dollars are paying for a child’s education, that school should follow the same basic rules we expect of every public school.

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What We Believe

This campaign is based on one simple idea:

 

All schools receiving public funds should follow the same rules.

 

We believe all children, no matter where they go to school, deserve the same protections, transparency, and accountability, especially when taxpayer dollars are involved.

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• We are not against private or independent schools.

• We are for consistency.

• We are for making sure public dollars serve the public good.

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What Needs To Change

Right now, many publicly funded private/independent schools in Vermont are not required to:

• Accept all students

• Follow nondiscrimination laws

• Hire licensed educators

• Report on how public funds are spent

• Provide due process for student discipline

• Meet statewide academic and accountability standards

 

We’re working to change that.

 

We’re calling on lawmakers to pass a bill in 2026 to require the same baseline standards for any school receiving taxpayer money.

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Who We Are

The Same Dollars Same Rules Coalition is led by Friends of Vermont Public Education and supported by Vermonters who care about fairness, transparency, and protecting all students.

 

Our coalition includes a growing list of Vermont education organizations, advocates, and citizens. Together, we’re pushing for common-sense changes in policy that reflect Vermont values.

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How You Can Help

Sign the Petition
Add your name to show support for consistent standards in all publicly funded schools.

 

Share Your Story
Have you seen the impact of unequal rules? Were you or your child denied access, support, or fair treatment at a publicly funded private/independent school? Your voice matters.

 

Support this work by making a donation to Friends of Vermont Public Education. Every dollar helps us power the Same Dollars Same Rules campaign, from outreach to organizing to legislative action.

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Stay Connected

Sign up on our mailing list and we’ll keep you informed about progress, stories, events, and ways to take action as the campaign moves forward.

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