Study Reveals Path to Improve Vermont Education Quality While Reducing Costs

Study Reveals Path to Improve Vermont Education Quality While Reducing Costs

A new report for the Vermont Legislative Joint Fiscal Office by Picus Odden & Associates suggests that Vermont has opportunities to enhance education quality while also reducing costs. The study uses an Evidence-Based (EB) Model that identifies the resources and programs needed to boost student performance and create a high-performing school system. The authors have used this model in over 20 states over the past 26 years.

Key Findings

  • Vermont is currently spending more than the estimated cost of providing an adequate education. Vermont currently spends $400.4 million to $426.7 above the estimated cost of providing an adequate education. This gap points to potential savings without compromising educational quality.
    • Underpopulated schools and districts: Vermont’s many small schools and districts likely drive up per-pupil costs due to diseconomies of scale.
    • Central Office Staffing: The study notes that some districts may have more central office staff than necessary based on national prototypes.
    • Instructional Aides and Special Education: Vermont’s heavy reliance on paraprofessionals, especially in special education, may increase costs without improving outcomes, as research suggests limited impact on student performance.
  • The EB Model identifies several areas where strategic investments can improve educational quality and better prepare students for the workforce.
    • Modernized Career and Technical Education (CTE): High-quality CTE programs aligned with workforce needs can prepare students for high-skill, high-wage jobs, contributing to a stronger workforce and reduce long-term retraining costs.
    • Full-day kindergarten: Full-day programs enhance academic achievement, reduce grade retention, and increase maternal employment, all of which contribute to positive economic and social impacts.

Report Recommendations

  • Evaluate Spending: Review current practices to identify cost-saving opportunities in line with EB Model suggestions.
  • Focus on Proven Investments: Prioritize funding for initiatives with a strong track record of boosting educational outcomes and workforce readiness.
  • Consider District Structure: Reassess school district organization and tuition policies to optimize costs and quality.

The study provides a valuable framework for Vermont policymakers and stakeholders to engage in informed discussions about balancing educational costs, taxes, and workforce development in the upcoming year.

Job Opportunity: Marketing and Communications Director

Job Opportunity: Marketing and Communications Director

Job Title: Marketing and Communications Director
Reports To: President, Vermont Chamber of Commerce
Employment Type: Full-Time, Salaried

Organization Overview: The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is Vermont’s leading not-for-profit business organization dedicated to advancing our state’s economy. We advocate for businesses, build community, and provide valuable resources statewide. Our enterprise includes the Vermont Chamber of Commerce 501(c)(6) and the Vermont Chamber Foundation 501(c)(3), doing business as The Vermont Futures Project.

Mission Statement: The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to advancing the Vermont economy. Trusted by the businesses that make living, working, and thriving in Vermont possible, we prioritize collaboration and uphold the core values that define our state.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Belief Statement: The Vermont Chamber of Commerce believes in supporting a vibrant economy through a lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are committed to breaking down systemic barriers, promoting acceptance, and ensuring a welcoming business environment. Vermont’s economic growth and prosperity depend on our ability to embrace all people, regardless of race, religion, national origin, geographic location, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability.

Position Overview: The Marketing and Communications Director plays a pivotal role in promoting the Vermont Chamber enterprise by ensuring clear and effective communication, high-quality content, consistent branding, and meaningful interactions with stakeholders. Reporting directly to the President, this full-time, salaried position is responsible for developing, executing, and managing an enterprise-wide marketing and communications strategy that advances our mission and goals.

The successful candidate will collaborate with the leadership team to develop and implement the strategic communications and marketing vision, leading initiatives related to the overall promotion of the Vermont Chamber. This position will be responsible for executing regular communications promoting the work of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce to our members, policy leaders, the press, and the public. We are looking for a team player with strong organizational, communication, and marketing skills who can manage multiple programs simultaneously and understands that a successful business community is important to the economic health of Vermont.

Core Competencies:

  • Strategic Thinking and Analytical Skills: Demonstrates strong strategic thinking, planning, and execution abilities to develop and implement long-term marketing and
    communications strategies aligned with organizational objectives. Uses analytical skills to
    evaluate market trends and data, informing strategies and measuring success.
  • Exceptional Communication Skills: Exhibits exceptional written and verbal communication abilities, including creating compelling content, engaging diverse audiences, and maintaining attention to detail in all aspects of work.
  • Collaboration: Possesses strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively across diverse teams and with various stakeholders.
  • Digital Marketing Expertise: Proficiency in digital marketing platforms, content creation, graphic design, and analytics.
  • Project Management: Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
  • Natural Curiosity: Displays a natural curiosity about member business operations, enhancing the ability to tailor communications effectively.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Strategy Development and Implementation
    • Collaborate with the Chamber leadership team to create and implement a comprehensive marketing and communications strategy that advances the organization’s mission and objectives.
    • Identify key messages and channels to effectively reach target audiences, including members, partners, and the broader community.
    • Lead the execution of the strategy across all platforms and channels, collaborating with the Director of Program Communications.
  • Content Creation and Brand Management
    • Create and manage content on Chamber enterprise websites, ensuring it is current, engaging, and optimized for search engines.
    • Develop and maintain a content calendar aligned with our strategic communications goals in collaboration with the Director of Program Communications.
    • Produce content and graphics for Chamber communications as needed.
    • Maintain and enhance the organization’s brand identity, ensuring consistency across all communications and promotional materials.
  • Media and Stakeholder Relations
    • Build and maintain relationships with media outlets to enhance visibility and influence.
    • Prepare and distribute news releases, op-eds, statements, and other announcements to gain positive attention for the organization, events, and advocacy work.
    • Develop and implement strategies to engage members, partners, and stakeholders through effective communication and marketing initiatives.
    • Collaborate with the government affairs team to promote legislative initiatives and policy positions by developing and managing regular communications and email alerts for our advocacy efforts.
  • Event Promotion
    • Coordinate marketing efforts for events and programs across the Vermont Chamber enterprise by developing promotional campaigns to maximize event participation and impact.
  • Analytics and Reporting
    • Monitor and analyze the effectiveness of marketing and communication efforts using key performance indicators.
    • Prepare regular reports for the leadership team to inform decision-making and strategy adjustments.
  • Quality Assurance
    • Provide proofreading support and input regarding written materials prepared by staff to ensure clear and consistent messaging.
  • Project Management and Special Projects
    • Manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring deadlines are met.
    • Undertake special projects as assigned, contributing to the organization’s overall success.

Education and Experience:

  • Preference will be given to candidates with a proven track record in marketing, communications, and graphic design work.
  • Demonstrated ability to foster strong interpersonal relationships.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft products, databases, and willingness to learn new applications.
  • Demonstrated ability to be highly organized with strong attention to detail.

Work Environment and Application:
This position is hybrid-remote with at least one day a week at the Berlin office. This position may require occasional in-state travel and work outside of traditional office hours. Interested candidates should send a cover letter with LinkedIn profile and resume to jobs@vtchamber.com.

Job Opportunity: Programming Associate

Job Opportunity: Programming Associate

Title: Programming Associate
Reports To: Senior Director of Programming
Employment Type: Full-Time, Salaried
Location: Berlin, Vermont

Organization Overview: The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is a leading not-for-profit business organization dedicated to advancing Vermont’s economy. We advocate for businesses, build community, and provide valuable resources statewide. Our enterprise includes the Vermont Chamber of Commerce 501(c)6 and the Vermont Chamber Foundation 501(c)3 dba The Vermont Futures Project, which aims to create a data-informed Economic Action Plan for the state.

Mission Statement: The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to advancing the Vermont economy. Trusted by the businesses that make living, working, and thriving in Vermont possible, we prioritize collaboration and uphold the core values that define our state.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Belief Statement: The Vermont Chamber of Commerce believes in supporting a vibrant economy through a lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are committed to breaking down systemic barriers, promoting acceptance, and ensuring a welcoming business environment. Vermont’s economic growth and prosperity depend on our ability to embrace all people, regardless of race, religion, national origin, geographic location, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability.

Position Overview: The Programming Associate provides support for the organization’s overall strategy around programming and events, ensuring that all programs and events are executed with the Chamber’s mission and industry specific objectives for members top of mind. This role provides businesses with tremendous value by producing content rich events focused on policy and industry trends. We are looking for a team player with strong organizational skills who can manage many events and programs simultaneously and understands that a successful business community is important to the economic health of Vermont.

The ideal candidate will support the Senior Director of Programming in the following ways:

  • Assist with the development of content for events, finding inspiration and ideas from local and national news, emerging trends, and other industry events and tradeshows
  • Assist with event promotion and print and digital graphics needs and web content
  • Demonstrate an ability to adhere to a budget and meet expected financial targets for attendance, ticket sales, exhibitor booths and sponsorships
  • Manage a calendar of events and work toward flawless execution
  • Work with event and program sponsors to ensure agreements are fulfilled and executed
  • Negotiate contracts with venues, service providers and other vendors as needed
  • Manage the registration process and necessary database work to ensure a clear and concise customer experience
  • Coordinate staff participation at events
  • Manage on-site event logistics and technology and respond efficiently and effectively to challenges that may arise
  • Coordinate speaker logistics to ensure content development matches the overall goal of the event
  • Assist with the development and execution of all on-site branding of the organization leading up to and during the
    event
  • Execute an effective event follow-up strategy to include surveys and other tools for continuous improvement
  • Provide specific attention and support to our manufacturing industry sector by coordinating and implementing
    manufacturing industry related programming across the enterprise

Education and Experience:

  • Experience with event management and logistics or similar field is preferred
  • Experience working in or with the manufacturing sector is preferred
  • Exceptional customer service, communication, and writing skills
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, databases, and willingness to learn new applications is required
  • Demonstrated ability to be highly organized with impeccable attention to detail

Work Environment and Application:
This position is hybrid-remote with at least one day a week at the Berlin office. This position requires occasional in-state travel and will require work outside of traditional office hours to execute events. Interested candidates should send a cover letter with LinkedIn profile and resume to jobs@vtchamber.com.

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Joins Employee Wellness Partnership

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Joins Employee Wellness Partnership

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce announced today its participation in the Employee Wellness Partnership, a statewide initiative coordinated by Workplace Compliance and Wellness Vermont (WCWV). The program brings together companies, organizations, and resource providers to reduce suicide and overdose deaths in Vermont by promoting a culture of care and empathy within workplaces and communities.

As a member of the Employee Wellness Partnership, the Vermont Chamber joins The Associated General Contractors of Vermont, Ski Vermont, Jenna’s Promise, Sana at Stowe, Invest Employee Assistance Program, and the Vermont Department of Health, to highlight the health and wellness of employees across the state. The partnership seeks to destigmatize conversations around mental health and substance abuse through training, education, and open dialogue, making workplaces safer and more supportive environments for everyone.

“We’re partnering in this effort because we recognize how critical the role of employee wellness is to retention and overall business success,” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “We’ve heard from businesses that have employees in crisis and want to help but don’t always have the tools to support them. This partnership aims to reduce stigma and provide the resources and training needed to  build on our culture of healthy and  supportive workplaces across Vermont.”

The Employee Wellness Partnership has made a significant impact since its inception, reaching approximately 150,000 Vermonters—25 percent of the state’s population—through its programs. The initiative has distributed 15,000 doses of Narcan, 25,000 harm reduction kits, and held 12 virtual discussions and 25 on-site visits to promote mental health awareness and employee well-being. The initiative’s success was recently recognized with a Power of Associations Gold Award by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE).

“By actively caring for people in the workplace, we can save lives and build stronger communities,” said Reid Wobby, a leading advocate for employee wellness and a representative from WCWV. “The Employee Wellness Partnership offers the resources and support that businesses and organizations need to make a real difference in the lives of their employees and their families.”

As part of this ongoing commitment to workplace well-being, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Solutions Summit on September 25th, a one-day conference focused on workforce development programs. Reid Wobby will present a session titled “Supporting Employees in Crisis: Mental Health and Substance Abuse Response and Support,” offering practical steps employers can take to assist employees in crisis. Registration for the event is now open, with more details available at www.vtchamber.com/workforce-solutions-summit.

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is proud to join this critical initiative to help foster healthy, supportive work environments across the state. For more information on the Employee Wellness Partnership or to learn how your business can get involved, please visit www.wcwvt.com.

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Jeremy Little as Policy and Outreach Associate

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Jeremy Little as Policy and Outreach Associate

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the addition of Jeremy Little as Policy and Outreach Associate. In this role, Jeremy will serve as a key member of the Chamber’s government affairs team, with a portfolio focused on manufacturing and environmental and energy policy.

Jeremy brings a strong background in political science, economics, and legislative processes, making him a valuable addition to the Chamber’s ongoing advocacy efforts. He holds a B.A. in Political Science, with minors in Spanish and Economics, from Saint Michael’s College, where he graduated with academic honors.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jeremy to our team,” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “Jeremy’s academic achievements, leadership experience, and deep understanding of legislative processes will bring a valuable skillset to the Chamber’s government affairs team. His work will help us continue to champion the interests of Vermont’s business community.”

Jeremy’s previous government affairs experience includes serving as a policy intern at the Vermont Chamber of Commerce where he worked directly with the government affairs team and a field manager with the Vermont Public Interest Group (VPIRG). Jeremy spent the 2023-2024 academic year as a Fulbright Teaching Assistant in Spain, further enhancing his communication and leadership skills while teaching English, History, and U.S. culture to high school students. Jeremy’s leadership extends beyond the classroom and the workplace. He is an Eagle Scout and founded the Pre-Law Society at Saint Michael’s College.

“I’m excited to rejoin the Vermont Chamber of Commerce and contribute to its important work advocating for businesses in Vermont,” said Jeremy Little. “The opportunity to focus on manufacturing, energy, and environmental policies is especially important to me, and I look forward to helping the Chamber lead in these areas.”

With the addition of Jeremy Little, the Vermont Chamber’s government affairs team continues to strengthen its advocacy efforts, prioritizing collaboration and upholding the core values that define our state. Trusted by the businesses that make living, working, and thriving in Vermont possible, the Vermont Chamber remains committed to building community and providing essential resources to ensure a vibrant and prosperous business landscape across the state.

Vermont Signature Events Award Application Open

Vermont Signature Events Award Application Open

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce and the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing (VDTM) have announced the opening of the application for the 2025/26 Vermont Signature Events program.

The Vermont Signature Events program offers an invaluable opportunity for events to garner widespread recognition. Signature events are awarded annually and showcase the rich variety of experiences that can be had in the Green Mountains. These top-rated events offer a true taste of all that is local, bringing visitors into the heart of our communities and serving as an important component in the Vermont visitor economy. In 2023, visitor spending contributed $3.0 billion to Vermont’s economy.

Eligible events must meet the following guidelines:

  • Event must take place for a specified and limited period of time.
  • Events can occur over a period of months (i.e., a special exhibit at a museum) or for just a few hours.
  • Events must have an end date.
  • If your business regularly produces events, the event must be above and beyond regular business offerings.
  • Event must be appropriate for out-of-state visitors as well as Vermont residents.
  • Event must showcase the unique character of Vermont.

Ten award recipients will receive:

Events must take place between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026. The deadline to apply for the Vermont Signature Events program is December 1, 2024. Learn more about the program and submit an application.

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Announces 2024 Manufacturing Summit

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Announces 2024 Manufacturing Summit

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce has announced the reimagined 2024 Manufacturing Summit scheduled for November 13-14, 2024, at the recently renovated Hotel Champlain in Burlington, Vermont.

With the theme of “Resilience by Design,” this year’s Manufacturing Summit will be the premier event for industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to explore and address the challenges of manufacturing in a rapidly evolving regulatory and trade environment. As global markets and regulations shift, manufacturers must adapt to maintain competitive advantages and ensure long-term success. This summit will bring together experts to discuss strategies for building resilient supply chains, leveraging technology for greater adaptability, and understanding the implications of new trade agreements, and regulatory changes. A key feature will be the Business-to-Business (B2B) Matchmaking Program, designed to connect manufacturers with potential partners, suppliers, and clients. This program will create networking opportunities, enabling participants to forge strategic alliances and explore new business ventures that enhance their resilience in the market.

“Since 2013, the Vermont Chamber has built a legacy of strengthening the manufacturing industry through policy and programming efforts to give Vermont manufacturers a competitive edge. We’re thrilled to have manufacturing take center stage and continue our collaboration with key industry partners,” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce.

Key offerings and content focus areas at this year’s summit include:

  • B2B Matchmaking: Facilitating connections between manufacturers and potential partners
  • Cybersecurity: Addressing the latest threats and protections in the manufacturing sector
  • Supply Chain Management: Strategies for developing resilient and efficient supply chains
  • Workforce Development: Exploring solutions to workforce challenges and skill gaps
  • State and Federal Regulations: Navigating the regulatory landscape that impacts manufacturing
  • Contract Manufacturing: Opportunities and challenges in the contracting space

The event kicks off with a networking reception on November 13, followed by a full day of programming and networking opportunities on November 14. For more information and to stay updated on event details, please visit vtchamber.com/vermont-manufacturing-summit. This event is generously supported by: the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development’s Department of Economic Development, G.S. Precision, Manufacturing Solutions Inc., Collins Aerospace, GE Aerospace, VT Apex Accelerator, University of Vermont CEMS, KAMAN Composites Vermont and the Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center.

Court Blocks FTC’s Noncompete Ban, Preserves Business Flexibility

Court Blocks FTC’s Noncompete Ban, Preserves Business Flexibility

A federal judge in Dallas recently blocked enforcement of the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) near total ban on noncompete agreements, a regulation that was set to take effect September 4 that would have had detrimental effects on business innovation and growth. The courts determined that the proposed ban was an unlawful overreach of federal power. The decision of the court was a critical safeguard against unnecessary government intrusion into private business practices.

Noncompete agreements have been a standard tool for businesses to ensure that the time, money, and resources invested in training and developing intellectual property and expertise are not lost. In a competitive economy, these agreements help maintain a fair balance between protecting business interests and providing employees with economic opportunities. A one-size-fits-all federal ban, as proposed by the FTC, would have ignored the nuanced needs of different industries and local economies.

The FTC is considering an appeal of this decision and will continue to pursue enforcement actions on a case-by-case basis, an approach that is far more suitable than a sweeping federal mandate. Regulatory measures must account for the unique circumstances of each industry and business.

Key Steps Launched in Act 250 Modernization Process

Key Steps Launched in Act 250 Modernization Process

The Vermont Chamber played a key role in the 2024 legislative session in the Act 250 modernization bill which has set forth a process that will shift Act 250 to location-based jurisdiction over the coming years. Two critical pieces in that process have recently been announced.

  1. Interim Exemptions: To expedite housing construction in smart growth areas, interim exemptions from Act 250 were enacted to bridge the gap until the tiered location-based jurisdiction program is implemented. The maps and regulations for these exemptions can be found through that Natural Resource Board Website. For anyone interested in learning more about how to develop housing in the community, the Department of Housing and Community Development has created a Homes For All Toolkit to provide resources and tools for building housing.
  2. Land Use Review Board Applications: The Natural Resource Board, which currently regulates and implements Act 250, will become the Land Use Review Board over the next six months. This transition will include moving to a professionalized board with five full time members. The five members of the new Land Use Review Board will play a crucial role in implementing the new Act 250 modernization law over the next three years. It is imperative that the board is made up of diverse individuals who can represent different perspectives and expertise. Anyone with experience in commercial, industrial, or housing development is encouraged to apply to these positions. The deadline to apply is September 16.

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Announces Keynote Speakers for 2024 Solutions Summit

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Announces Keynote Speakers for 2024 Solutions Summit

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce has announced the keynote presentations for the 2024 Solutions Summit, Vermont’s premier workforce development conference, taking place on September 25, 2024, at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Burlington. This year’s event will bring together business leaders, educators, and policymakers to address the pressing challenges of the modern job market with actionable and scalable solutions.

Presentations at the Solutions Summit will provide solutions-driven insights designed to harness innovative ideas and cutting-edge technology to tackle the most significant workforce issues facing Vermont businesses today. Attendees will explore critical topics such as strengthening the connection between education and employment, improving employee retention and recruitment, leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency, and understanding Vermont’s legislative landscape as it pertains to workforce development. Keynote presentations include:

  • The State Opportunity Index: Strengthening the Link Between Education and Opportunity in Vermont, Stephen Moret, President, Strada
    • The inaugural State Opportunity Index is a groundbreaking resource designed to help states enhance the pathway from education to opportunity. It profiles each state across five key dimensions—Clear Outcomes, Quality Coaching, Affordability, Work-Based Learning, and Employer Alignment—offering a comprehensive framework for improving employment outcomes. Stephen Moret will present new findings specific to Vermont and the nation, providing valuable insights and actionable recommendations for policymakers, education leaders, and the business community.
  • Building Vermont’s Workforce: The People Paradigm, Amy Spear, President, Vermont Chamber of Commerce, and Kevin Chu, Executive Director, Vermont Futures Project
    • Vermont faces the critical challenge of needing 13,500 new workforce entrants annually. This session, led by Amy Spear and Kevin Chu, will delve into “The People Paradigm,” a key component of Vermont’s forthcoming Economic Action Plan. Through a data-driven presentation, they will explore strategies to enhance workforce efficiency, attract and retain talent, and establish a foundation for long-term economic growth. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the workforce dynamics shaping Vermont’s future.
  • Workforce Policy Insights: Legislative and Administrative Perspectives, Alison Clarkson; Fauna Hurley (Office of Sen. Peter Welch); Jay Ramsay (Vermont Department of Labor); Moderated by Peter Hirschfeld, Vermont Public
    • This session will equip business leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively engage with Vermont lawmakers on workforce policy challenges. Participants will gain a better understanding of the legislative process, recent efforts to address workforce issues, and future policy directions that support Vermont’s labor market needs. This interactive session will provide an opportunity to engage directly with lawmakers and discuss the policies impacting Vermont businesses.

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is committed to advancing the Vermont economy and shaping the future of work in Vermont, ensuring our state remains competitive in an ever-evolving economic landscape. The Solutions Summit is sponsored by Green Mountain Power, O’Brien Brothers, PC Construction, University of Vermont Professional and Continuing Education, VELCO, and Vermont Federal Credit Union. Registration for the Solutions Summit is currently open; visit vtchamber.com/workforce-solutions-summit for registration and additional information.