This commentary is by Sean Montague of West Burke. He is a remote federal employee with the Smithsonian Institution and parent of two — one attending St. Johnsbury Academy and another soon to enroll.
Gov. Phil Scott recently signed H.454, legislation with profound implications for independent schools, particularly here in the Northeast Kingdom. Institutions like St. Johnsbury Academy and Lyndon Institute aren’t merely schools — they are fundamental economic engines sustaining our local communities.
It’s clear to me that many people from Vermont’s population centers to the west don’t fully grasp how deeply intertwined these academies are with the economic vitality and demographic stability of our region.
St. Johnsbury Academy, for instance, is more than an educational institution; it’s a magnet attracting young families and professionals who contribute significantly to our local economy. Vermont faces well-documented demographic challenges, with an aging population and difficulty attracting younger residents. The Academy’s appeal counters these trends, bolstering our communities with newcomers who bring energy, skills, and economic resources.
Moreover, these academies offer invaluable educational opportunities to socially disadvantaged students who otherwise might never have access to such high-quality education, typically available only to higher-income families. While recognizing that other regions of Vermont may not have this option, it remains crucial to acknowledge the transformative impact these institutions have on the lives of many students in our community.
Anecdotally, many families I know have openly stated they would consider leaving Vermont if their children could no longer attend St. Johnsbury Academy. The ripple effect would be devastating — not just academically, but economically — leading to fewer local businesses, declining property values, and diminished regional vibrancy.
Furthermore, our state senator faces unfair criticism alleging a conflict of interest due to his employment at St. Johnsbury Academy. Yet he was elected precisely to represent and advocate for the economic well-being of the Northeast Kingdom.
The Academy isn’t a private interest — it’s the cornerstone of our economic and social fabric. His support of it aligns entirely with the interests of the constituents who elected him.
This issue starkly highlights the disconnect between the more urban and liberal centers of central and western Vermont and our predominantly rural and conservative communities.
While I consider myself politically liberal, if there is one thing liberals and conservatives in this part of Vermont can agree on, it’s this: we deserve policies and legislation informed by genuine understanding and respect for our unique circumstances, not assumptions made from afar.
