Sometimes a picture (or in this case, a graph) really is worth a thousand words. Two simple graphs tell you everything you need to know about an overlooked problem in Vermont’s education system. We are spending more but students are getting less.
The Cost Crisis
Over the past 20 years, Vermont’s education property taxes have increased by $924 million while the system educates 15,650 fewer students. Think about that: we’re spending a whole lot more to teach dramatically fewer (16% less) kids.
The situation is not getting better. Just last week, the Vermont Department of Taxes issued its “December 1” letter to Legislative leaders. In it, the Department projected a 12% average increase in Vermont property taxes next year. That would bring the five-year increase to 41%.
Vermont is one of the nation’s top education spender per pupil. You’d expect that distinction to come with results. Sadly, it doesn’t.
The Performance Problem
Vermont’s 4th grade reading scores have plummeted from consistently above the national average to below it in 2024. Meanwhile, states like Mississippi and Louisiana, which were once far behind, have now caught up to or surpassed us, according to a Boston Globe story. See graph above.
Moreover, it’s not just 4th grade reading scores. Economist Art Woolf recently outlined in his blog post the great number of Vermont students who are less than proficient in reading and math across all grade levels. Here’s his summary of the 2024-25 Vermont Comprehensive Assessment Program (VTCAP) test results.
Woolf’s summary is stark: nearly half of Vermont students cannot read at grade level, and more than half aren’t proficient in math or science.
What This Means
To be clear: this isn’t about teacher effort or dedication. And there are real cost pressures. Nevertheless, the December 1 letter puts it bluntly: “our state’s considerable investment does not achieve the quality education Vermonters expect.” And, while the Legislature focuses on reforming Vermont’s complex system of education finance, perhaps another problem is overlooked. Our education system is failing students. Spending more and getting less.
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