Vermont Public Radio is an independent and non-partisan news organization that subscribes to the highest standards of journalism. The public radio journalism guidebook "Independence and Integrity" summarizes our goals eloquently: "Reporting that is fair, accurate and balanced is true to the ideals of journalism. Such reporting filters out bias in the traditional spirit of objectivity, while allowing reporters to apply their personal insights and engagement with the issues they cover. It results in the healthy skepticism, tempered by the positive pursuit of truth that marks the best journalists."

Story selection is determined by a number of factors, including public service, a system of topical coverage, news value, geographic balance, listener interest, and commitment to diversity.

To maintain its independence and integrity, which is paramount, VPR has established a firewall so that VPR News is free from influence to select and report the news fairly and accurately.

VPR News utilizes the codes of ethics of Public Radio News Directors Inc., the Radio-Television News Directors Association, and the Society of Professional Journalists.

VPR News stories and programs advance no political point of view. This standard also applies to talk shows, where Vermont Public Radio believes that the public trust is best served with a non-partisan host, who is a professional journalist and whose goal it is to shine a bright light on important topics of the day. VPR supports energetic examination of issues, robust questioning and balance.

Regional point of view and opinion is provided in VPR's Commentary Series. This series illuminates the diverse points of view of our region. A variety of voices is sought to represent a broad spectrum of ideas. New voices are added regularly to provide continuing new insight and creativity in the series. The goal is to encourage an energetic and civil dialogue without personal attacks. The series strives for balance of opinion immediately and over time. Commentators must make their point with the highest regard for the facts.

VPR News attempts to provide an intelligent approach to news, talk shows and opinion. Ultimately, VPR recognizes that in reporting the news there is more than one side to any story, and listeners expect that VPR, as a public radio station, will always strive for an honest and accurate presentation of the facts in every circumstance.