Vermont law (16 VSA §255) requires schools to conduct background checks on employees, but it does not extend that requirement to individuals hired by the Agency of Education who enter schools, including those contracting with the Agency. This gap leaves some children less protected and creates inconsistent safety standards across the education system. Addressing this compliance gap will strengthen Vermont’s broader efforts to reduce child maltreatment and creates safer, more equitable learning environments.

The Alliance supports Prevent Child Abuse Vermont’s efforts to amend state law to require background checks for all Agency of Education employees and contractors who enter schools. This update will close a known loophole, ensuring every adult who interacts with students in Vermont schools meets the same child safety requirements. The proposal strengthens statewide consistency, promotes equitable protection, and builds family trust in school environments.

Lead Organization: Prevent Child Abuse Vermont

Data and Talking Points

• In 2024 there were over 150 Agency of Education contractors who were not subject to background check requirements under current statute.
• Because AOE personnel and contractors routinely work in multiple districts, a single unchecked individual may interact with significantly more schools than a typical single school employee, magnifying systemic risk.
• Every school district in Vermont receives visits from Agency of Education personnel or contractors each year. Without uniform background-check requirements, children across the state experience inconsistent safety protections depending on who is entering their school on any given day.