Governor Scott Makes Controversial Appointment to State Board of Education
In a surprising move, Governor Phil Scott has appointed former state senator Brian Campion to the 10-member State Board of Education. This decision comes as Campion replaces Kim Gleason, who served a six-year term on the board. Campion, a Democrat from Bennington, brings a wealth of experience from his 14 years in the legislature, where he chaired the Senate Education Committee.
A Unique Perspective
One of Campion’s notable actions during his time in the legislature was his support for Zoie Saunders as education secretary, despite opposition from his party. Campion’s decision to back Saunders, a move that ultimately led to her appointment by the governor, sparked controversy among Democrats. Many argued that Saunders’ background in a for-profit charter school company was not aligned with Vermont’s values. However, Campion saw her as an exceptional candidate with vast experience and dedication to expanding opportunities.
A Personal Touch
Campion’s willingness to go against the grain and support Saunders demonstrates his commitment to considering multiple perspectives. Amanda Wheeler, the governor’s spokesperson, highlighted Campion’s deep understanding of Vermont’s education system, praising his ability to address issues with attention to various viewpoints. Wheeler’s sentiments echo the sentiments of many who see Campion as a thoughtful and inclusive leader in the education sector.
Navigating Education Policy
In his tenure, Campion has shown a particular interest in the regulation of independent schools. His efforts in 2016 to transfer rulemaking authority from the State Board of Education to the Agency of Education reflected his stance on empowering local entities in the education landscape. This move came in response to the state board’s push for stricter regulations on independent schools. Campion’s strategic decisions around rulemaking authority and the selection of the education secretary have raised eyebrows among critics, who fear a shift in power dynamics within the education sector.
Campion’s Agenda
As chair of the Senate Education Committee, Campion was instrumental in steering discussions around education policy. His decision not to advance a bill imposing stricter regulations on independent schools accepting public funds showcased his stance on preserving autonomy within the education system. However, this move was met with mixed reactions, with some questioning the focus on independent schools over public education.
A Divided Response
The appointment of Campion to the State Board of Education has elicited diverse reactions from stakeholders. Critics, including Rep. Rebecca Holcombe and Friends of Vermont Public Education, have raised concerns over Campion’s track record of supporting policies favoring private institutions. Calls for a greater focus on public school leadership have emerged, with advocates emphasizing the need for boots-on-the-ground experience to address the challenges facing Vermont’s education system.
In Conclusion
Governor Scott’s decision to appoint Brian Campion to the State Board of Education has sparked debates and raised questions about the future of education policy in Vermont. Campion’s background in the legislature and his unique perspectives on education reform provide an interesting lens through which to view the evolving landscape of education in the state. As Campion steps into his new role, all eyes will be on him to see how he navigates the complex terrain of education policy and advocates for the diverse needs of Vermont students.
