Many smaller Vermont towns do not operate a local high school and some towns do not operate a local elementary or middle school. Families of tudents in these towns may choose from among public and independent schools in other towns (even outside of the state or nation).
The term "vouchers" commonly is used to refer to the system by which money follows the student, though in Vermont no actual voucher is issued or needed. Instead, receiving schools send an invoice to students' home districts. The home district verifies eligibility and pays the invoice.