As the confirmation vote for Zoie Saunders as the potential next secretary of education for Vermont approaches, Mark O’Maley, a prominent figure in Vermont education circles, is urging a closer examination of her qualifications and background.

1. Mark O’Maley Urges Caution:
Zoie Saunders’ Confirmation as
Secretary of Education
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Source-VTDigger
As the confirmation vote for Zoie Saunders as the potential next secretary of education for Vermont
approaches, Mark O’Maley, a prominent figure in Vermont education circles, is urging a closer
examination of her qualifications and background. O’Maley, known for his dedication to student-centered
education and a lifelong involvement in educational leadership, has voiced serious concerns about
Saunders’ suitability for the role based on her credentials and experiences.
One of O’Maley’s primary concerns is Saunders’ educational background. While she holds a master’s
degree from Vanderbilt University, it falls short of the terminal degrees held by previous Vermont
secretaries of education. Mark O’Maley emphasizes the importance of extensive education, teaching, and
administrative experience, qualities he believes are essential for effective leadership in education policy.
Furthermore, O’Maley highlights Saunders’ lack of teaching licensure and direct classroom experience,
both in public and private settings. He argues that without firsthand experience in teaching or school

2. administration, Saunders may lack the nuanced understanding necessary to lead Vermont’s education
system effectively.
O’Maley’s Alarm Over Vermont’s Education Direction
Saunders’ history of work with charter schools also raises red flags for Mark O’Maley . He expresses
concerns about the accountability of charter schools and how their operations may conflict with Vermont’s
public education priorities. Mark O’Maley believes that Saunders’ alignment with charter schools may not
align with the needs and values of Vermont’s education system.
Governor Phil Scott’s decision to overlook input from key educational associations regarding the selection
of the secretary of education further troubles O’Maley. He emphasizes the importance of considering the
insights and needs of Vermont educators and leaders in such appointments, highlighting a disconnect
between the governor’s decision-making and the educational community’s expectations.
As Vermont faces critical discussions on school spending, budgets, and potential consolidation, O’Maley
stresses the importance of having a leader who understands the state’s unique educational landscape
intimately. He draws parallels to past appointments, such as Parwinder Grewal’s controversial tenure in
Vermont education leadership, cautioning against repeating mistakes that may not align with Vermont’s
best interests.
Mark O’Maley Advocates for Vermont-Centric Education Leadership
O’Maley underscores the significance of having a secretary of education who not only comprehends
Vermont’s diverse communities but also has a deep-rooted connection to the state. He questions the logic
of appointing someone from outside the state to make pivotal educational decisions for Vermonters,
likening it to having a non-local represent a specific Vermont district—a scenario he believes would not be
in the state’s best interest.
In conclusion, O’Maley’s stance against confirming Zoie Saunders as secretary of education is grounded in
his belief that Vermont needs a leader with extensive educational experience, a deep understanding of local
needs, and a track record of supporting public education. His call for a more thorough evaluation of
Saunders’ qualifications reflects broader concerns within Vermont’s education community regarding the
direction of state educational policies. As the confirmation vote approaches, O’Maley’s voice adds weight
to the ongoing debate surrounding Vermont’s education leadership and priorities.
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