VSBA Strategic Plan

On September 9, 2026, the Vermont School Boards Association (VSBA) Board of Directors approved a new strategic plan. Developed over the course of six months, the strategic plan charts a course forward to ensure the effectiveness of the association and school boards throughout the state of Vermont. We are grateful to our members for the insights and ideas they provided to inform the goals, objectives, and initiatives outlined in the plan.

Our Vision

The VSBA is the trusted leadership organization advancing the essential work of Vermont school boards so that each and every student is supported in their educational journey.

Our Mission

To develop and provide systems and resources that support school boards and their members, informed through inclusive community engagement.

Public education is the foundation of and for democracy.

The VSBA represents school boards in Vermont.

Public education in Vermont is critically important for a healthy democracy, is the engine that drives economic development, and is the core of a strong community.

School boards and their communities need to understand the jobs, roles, and responsibilities of school boards and their members; and boards need to have professional development to be effective and efficient in their roles.

Public education is the greatest equalizer.

Education is a fundamental right.

Vermont is a state where every student has equitable access to a world class public education, and our students are driven by their aspirations, through empowered school boards, who are ensuring student success.

The VSBA is the glue that ties together local school boards, and is respectful of different positions of school boards.

Our Beliefs

Our Goals & Objectives

GOAL: Remain Responsive and Effective

VSBA will regularly evaluate and adapt its services, partnerships, and approaches to meet the evolving needs of school boards.

Objectives:

Strengthen member feedback and refine needs assessment.
Identify gaps in our services and resources to improve responsiveness.
The VSBA Board of Directors annually completes a self-evaluation, then develops and implements goals with support of the staff.

GOAL: Strengthen Local Board Capacity

VSBA will provide school boards with the knowledge, guidance, and resources to respond and govern effectively through change.

Objectives:

Deliver timely, relevant professional development aligned to the challenges boards face.
Ensure boards have access to a choice of tools, resources, and expert consultation to make informed decisions.
Strengthen school boards' capacity to engage effectively with their communities.
Provide information, resources, and support as boards navigate Vermont's public education transformation.

GOAL: Lead Advocacy in Support of Public Education

VSBA will advocate for policies that strengthen public education and elevate the voice of school boards.

Objectives:

Develop and advance a member-informed legislative platform that reflects the priorities of school boards and promotes effective public education policy.
Strengthen the capacity and influence of school boards by expanding advocacy engagement, policy communications, and leadership opportunities.
Build collaborative relationships with policymakers, educational organizations, and community partners to advance shared priorities for public education.

GOAL: Strengthen Collaboration and System Alignment

VSBA will foster regional collaboration and constructive dialogue among school boards, and constructively engage with statewide educational organizations, agencies, and policymakers in support of student success and effective governance.

Objectives:

Coordinate/support regional gatherings across the State of Vermont.
Maintain strong relationships with education coalition members (VSA, VASBO, VPA, VTCLA, VCSEA, VSBIT) and education agencies (AOE and SBOE) as reported to the board.
Develop and implement a thorough communication plan.