Democrat Stephanie Zak Jerome of Brandon was born in Burlington and grew up in Mendon. She received a BA in history from the University of Vermont, a master’s in public policy and administration from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and a Presidential Management Fellowship. Before returning to Vermont, Jerome served as a policy analyst at NASA Headquarters.
She is the co-owner of Visual Learning Systems, publisher of a video-based K-12 science curriculum.
She is a current member of the Brandon Planning Commission, Brandon Revolving Loan Fund, and UVM Cancer Advisory Board. She has been a resident of Brandon since 1997.
She is running unopposed in the newly formed Rutland County District 9 for what would be her third term in the State House.
Prop 5/Article 22
“I am in support of Article 22, the constitutional amendment to enshrine reproductive rights in the VT Constitution. Under Vermont law, decisions related to reproductive autonomy are currently left to the patient and their medical provider. Article 22 would not change that.”
Mental-health services
“This summer, during a community crisis, Brandon saw firsthand the need for more funding for mental health services and more mental health beds. There needs to be a full range of statewide mental health and recovery services, from community-based counseling and support programs to in-patient treatment facilities.”
Workforce development
“I am proud of the work that I have done to build our workforce in Vermont. I played a key role in S.11, a $113M bill that helped move Vermont forward past COVID-19, getting workforce and businesses on a sound footing. It will increase workforce participation in the areas of nursing, mental health, and the trades.
The bill funds scholarships, student loan repayments, upskilling, internships, and education incentives. It also provided forgivable loans for businesses and supports for non-profits and municipalities. I will continue to work on investments in the trades, and career and technical education, so Vermonters can earn higher wages and live better lives.”
Equity/Inclusivity
“Vermont will have a stronger economy when all people are provided with equal opportunities. Going forward, I believe that equity and inclusivity will be woven into all our legislation. If our rural towns are to grow and become economically stronger, they need to be welcoming communities for all people.”
Public Education
“I am a strong supporter of public education. Quality schools help our kids, our families, and help our community grow. I believe that we must invest in our children by committing to fund equitable, high-quality pre-K to post-secondary education.”
Gun control
“I respect Vermont’s long tradition of safe and responsible gun ownership and our hunting culture. I am in favor of common sense gun legislation.”
Business development
“I support universal broadband throughout rural Vermont as it is key to business growth and job development. Through my work in the Commerce and Economic Development Committee, I have worked diligently to get businesses on sound footing past COVID-19 and provide area businesses with information about training, forgivable loans, and economic incentives.
“I will continue to work with the Vermont Economic Development Authority, VT Small Business Administration, as well as state agencies to assist small businesses and their employees.”
Agriculture
“Our working lands play a critical role in climate change mitigation, regional food security, and the state’s economy. By making investments in our farms, we have the ability to transform our rural communities. I support providing capital, technical support, and education to our farms and forestry enterprises so that we keep the working landscape of Vermont vibrant and vital.”
Immigration to Vermont
“Because of the pandemic, we have seen a large influx of new Vermonters to Brandon and to our state. We welcome these new residents and value what they bring to make our community stronger. Vermont must be welcoming to all and embrace the energy, creativity, and culture they bring to our economy. These new Vermonters will help our communities grow and thrive.”
Police Reform
Brandon has had an excellent police department, and we were sad to see the Chief and Lieutenant retire this past year. We are fortunate to have hired a new police chief who is already making a positive impact on our community by winning grants for new equipment and programs. This is a time for creative policing, and we need to provide them with the resources to do their job well.”
