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This will likely come as welcome news to property taxpayers, who saw bills rise an average of almost 14% this year. But the use of $118 million one-time funds to buy down rates is a risky move � and one that could set schools and taxpayers up for a financial cliff in the following year.

Like most school districts across Vermont, Essex Westford is facing dwindling enrollment and intense inflationary pressure, mostly notably in health care. Insurance costs are projected to reach approximately $16 million next year � about 14% of the district’s total budget.

After a tax revolt at the ballot box last year, schools were warned by Gov. Phil Scott, and education officials to do everything they could to keep school budget spending in check. Despite financial pressures, notably from health premiums, school districts appear to be trying to do just that.

The 2024 election results set the stage for a big shakeup in Vermont’s state government.

Next week, the Department of Taxes will issue a highly anticipated letter that will give lawmakers, school boards and the public their first look at how much property taxes are expected to rise next year.

The skyrocketing cost of health care is a key cost driver for Vermont school budgets. And for the third year in a row, premiums for school employees will rise by double digits.

Education is a top issue for Vermonters this election. Here's how your vote can impact future decisions about Vermont's education system.

More than 100 people eventually showed up for a meeting to voice anger and frustration about taxes � and seek answers.

Gov. Phil Scott warned that, absent intervention, property taxes could spike again next year. Scott’s letter � and reactions to it � have underlined how little agreement or trust exists between the parties involved in trying to solve the problem.

The school board has once again trimmed its spending plans for the year, and scheduled a fourth budget vote for Sept. 17. Early voting has begun.