Vergennes has always been proud of its education system Three years before the city was incorporated, the first school was established. Since then, there have been special schools, a French school, graded schools, kindergartens, private and public, and small private schools. In 1854, the Vergennes Grades School District was established. The legend says that the land for the school was purchased in bushels of corn. While that may be fiction, what is true is that a school, three stories tall, was built in the center of Vergennes. This school was to serve as the primary center of education for Addison, Panton, Ferrisburgh, Waltham, and Vergennes. The school also served as the social and recreational center for the area as well. Oratorical contests, dramatic events, musical events, and athletic contests served as the core of activities for the communities. In the mid 1950's, it became apparent that the "old" school could no longer serve the needs demanded of it. A new union high school was built on Monkton Road and opened in the fall of 1959.

Today, Vergennes Union High School, with a population of 535, continues to serve as the educational, social, and recreational center for the area. Oratorical contests, dramatic events, musical events and athletic contests receive outstanding community support and have provided hundreds of students with opportunities beyond the norm. The size of the school and the support of the community makes it one of the best! Over half of its graduates go on to complete education at a higher level and the rest find employment. The drop-out rate is one of the lowest in the State. What is the key for this success? Community support has always been an intregal part, size also plays a role. Faculty turn over is very low and academic aims are very high! A major factor in recent years is the industrial support from BF Goodrich. This "connection" has provided our school with the latest in technology, and a sharing of mutual resources. Together the community, the school, and Industry works together to provide our students with the best education possible. With our rich cultural heritage propelling us into the 21st Century, we will continue to work towards our goal, "Excellence in Education".

by Ann Sullivan