Vermont’s education secretary defends record amidst pushback/tumultuous week [Video]

Vermont’s new top education figure was announced back in March and began her new role in mid-April.However, it hasn’t been all smooth sailing. Zoie Saunders narrowly passed a key vote in the Senate’s Committee on Education 3-2 on Wednesday, and her appointment has gotten rather political in Montpelier. “I’m not sure I expected this level of media engagement and attention. I do think the reason for that is Vermont really prioritizes education and it’s an important role, and I’m coming into the state of Vermont at a very critical time,” Saunders said. Much of the pushback is due to her history working in charter schools, something Vermont doesn’t have, but she says in Florida charter schools are a part of public education and that experience will pay dividends in Vermont. “I’m very strong on including data into decision-making, including the community, and identifying the priorities for education in our community,” …