ACT 170 - School Transformation
Act 170 of 2026 is a Vermont law focused on strengthening public education through regional collaboration, improved efficiency, and long-term planning. The law creates a framework for schools and communities to explore new ways of delivering educational programs and services while ensuring students continue to have access to high-quality learning opportunities.
As part of this work, Act 170 establishes Cooperative Educational Service Areas (CESAs) and requires regions across Vermont to study potential governance and organizational structures, including the possibility of school district mergers.
The goals of Act 170 include:
- Improving educational opportunities for all students
- Expanding access to programs, services, and specialized supports
- Promoting operational efficiency and reducing duplication of services
- Supporting the long-term financial sustainability of Vermont's education system
- Increasing equity for students across communities
Act 170 does not automatically merge school districts or close schools. Instead, it requires regional study, planning, and community engagement so that local communities can better understand the opportunities, challenges, and potential impacts of different governance and service-delivery models before any decisions are made.
Additional information, meeting materials, and updates related to Act 170 will be shared on this page as they become available.
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CCSU’s CESA representative is Assistant Superintendent Dr. Mike Moriarty
Act 170 establishes seven Cooperative Educational Service Areas (CESAs), comprised of existing SU/SDs and CTE centers, that go into effect on July 1, 2026. Formerly known as Boards of Cooperative Education Services (BOCES), CESAs are intended to “provide shared programs and services on a regional and statewide level.”
Previously, participation in a BOCES was optional. Under Act 170, SU/SDs are required to participate, although the board of an SU/SD may petition the General Assembly to switch CESAs.
Under Act 170, CESAs are funded through:
- Proportional membership fees based on student enrollment of each member SU/SD;
- Fees for services provided to members and nonmembers; and
- One-time startup grants of $15,000.
CESAs are required to hire an executive director, which was previously optional for BOCES.
Act 170 includes a minimum list of services that CESAs are required to offer when requested and approved by the CESA board.
Beginning July 1, 2026, required services include:
- Special education;
- Business, information technology, and administrative services; and
- Union school district creation consultation and facilitation.
Beginning July 1, 2027, required services will expand to include:
- Professional development;
- Curriculum coordination and development;
- Transportation; and
- Facilities master planning.
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