Jackie Heftman Stamford Board Of Education

STAMFORD, CT — The 2020 election is heating up in Connecticut and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office. Eyes are primarily focused on the presidential election, but every state representative and senate seat is up for grabs. All five of Connecticut’s congressional seats are up for grabs as well.

There are 151 seats in the state House of Representatives and 36 in the state Senate. Democrats currently hold majorities in both chambers with a 91 to 60 lead over Republicans in the House and a 22 to 14 lead in the Senate.

Connecticut Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Jackie Heftman, a Stamford resident, is running for reelection to the city’s Board of Education.

Age: 76

Party affiliation: Democratic Party

Family: Husband Alan; two sons who attended Stamford Public Schools; 4 grandchildren who attend public schools.

Occupation:Retired

Previous elected experience: Completing 4th term on Board of Education; previously served as Chairwoman of Stamford Zoning Board and Urban Redevelopment Commission; current member representing the 20th District and treasurer of Stamford Democratic City Committee; current executive committee member of Stamford Cradle to Career.

Family members in government: No

Campaign website: stamforddems.com

The single most pressing issue facing our state is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Delivering quality education in the midst of a COVID-19 pandemic is one of the most critical issue facing Stamford. As a Board of Education member it is my responsibility to ensure the health and safety of our staff and students by supporting the superintendent and giving her the resources and talent she needs to be successful.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

During my 12 years on the Board of Education I have served as President twice; chaired the Fiscal, Curriculum and Labor committees. I have also worked as a paraprofessional at Roxbury School for 7 years prior to being elected. I have a broad understanding of the educational, personnel, fiscal and infrastructure needs of the Stamford Public Schools.

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List other issues that define your campaign platform:

Another pressing issue is the capital investment needed to update our aging infrastructure. The health and safety of staff and students has to be addressed by the adoption of a long range capital plan. I will work with the superintendent and Board to successfully advocate for the dollars needed to fund the plan.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I have lived in Stamford for 37 years. I care about this community. I believe wholeheartedly that a good public education system is key to Stamford’s future growth and, more importantly, to the success of its children.

This article originally appeared on the Stamford Patch