“It’s important that we understand how students see their options as they prepare to graduate high school,” said Sanders, who serves on the Senate education committee.

“Do they have adequate information to determine the best college for them and how they can finance a higher education? If they are not going to college, do they know how to get training to secure the best jobs that are out there?” Sanders said.

Sanders was joined by Vermont Agency of Education Secretary Rebecca Holcombe, Vermont Department of Labor Commissioner Lindsay Kurrle, local business owners, and other state and regional education and workforce development leaders. 

“The economic return to education is increasing. Students need to understand — and need help leveraging — the benefit of some post-secondary credential, whether it is an industry recognized credential in a trade or a college degree,” Holcombe said, adding, “And, particularly in some of our rural communities, wouldn’t it be great if some of our students grew up to be the doctors, skilled tradespeople and other professionals their communities desperately need to grow a more prosperous future?  We need to work together to make this happen.”

Sanders visited the Vermont high school to seek candid input from young Vermonters to help inform his work in the Senate.

Philip Grant, principal of Peoples Academy, said high schools throughout Vermont have become “increasingly more collaborative and creative to help prepare students for their path beyond graduation.”

“Increased and flexible opportunities, such as early college, dual enrollment, online learning, internships, and expanding tech centers are also greatly improving students’ focus and access to postsecondary aspirations. As a result, seniors are becoming more prepared for what they want to do in life,” Grant said.

In October, Sanders held a series of college fairs in Vermont to help high school students and their families learn about higher education options. Next spring, Sanders will host additional resource fairs with information about higher education and career opportunities.