Leg update 1.29.11
The House Education Committee passed H.46 in an amended form. The bill requires improved protections for athletes suspected of having received a concussion. All public and independent schools must provide training for coaches, procedures for further diagnosis, and a plan to return to the activity as warranted for that specific athlete. This extends protections for athletes from the high schools to middle and elementary school athletes and has the complete support of health professional, the VPA and the Athletic Directors. There is no dollar cost for this change which will increase protections for student athletes.
We began taking initial testimony on School Governance, workforce development, financial literacy, and heard from UVM and the State Colleges about increasing college aspirations for Vermont students. We were briefed on ed. finances and the changes coming to VSAC which affects the way in which post-secondary aspirations will be addressed and student loans managed.. In addition we began hearing from sponsors of bills sent to our committee as we plan our work for this session.
Most of our time was spent learning more about the achievement gap driven by poverty. We have heard from Human Services, Educators, and Child advocacy groups. A constant theme is that schools can make serious efforts but that multiple supports, from many groups are necessary to make a systemic difference. Districts that have shown success in addressing this gap have used a wrap around service model that involves the whole community with the school at the center.
Representative Gary Gilbert
Fairfax/Georgia
