Appropriations Committee Public Hearing on the Governor's Proposed FY 2027 Budget Adjustments for Elementary and Secondary Education State Agencies [Source] Translate

The public hearing for the Education Subcommittee of Appropriations began with a welcome from the chair, who emphasized the importance of keeping testimonies to three minutes due to the large number of participants. Attendees were encouraged to submit written testimonies through a designated portal. Jeffrey Bravin from the American School for the Deaf requested an increase of $800,000 in funding to help close the school's deficit, stressing the need to retain skilled staff for accessible education. Rashida Kulkarni, a student senator, advocated for preserving $12 million in funding for RESC Magnet Schools, highlighting their diverse curriculum and opportunities. Pahansa Samarkoon, another student senator, urged the committee to address the stagnant Education Cost Sharing (ECS) foundation amount, which has not been increased since 2013, expressing concern over proposed funding cuts. Nathan Wollaston from the Windsor Board of Education raised concerns about the lack of investment in education leading to increased property taxes. Rob Traber from the Bridgeport Board of Education criticized the governor's proposal for a blue ribbon panel without addressing ECS funding, calling for an increase in the ECS base rate, which has not been adjusted for inflation in 13 years. The meeting continued with testimonies emphasizing the need for equitable funding and support for education across Connecticut, particularly focusing on New Haven Public Schools and family resource centers. Jafet Gonzalez, a high school senior, highlighted poor conditions in New Haven schools and urged for increased funding. Lisi Rodriguez, an administrator at the New Haven Public Schools Family Resource Centers, discussed the critical support these centers provide to families facing challenges. Shayla Robinson, a parent from Bridgeport, addressed systemic inequities in education funding, particularly for Black and brown children, and called for an update to the ECS funding formula. Kelly Sheehan, representing a group supporting the Danbury Charter School, emphasized the need for equitable educational options for multilingual learners. Derek Heffelfinger, a senior at the Regional Center for the Arts, advocated for preserving funding for RESC magnet schools, while Tyler Diaz, a graduate student, discussed the challenges faced by student teachers and advocated for a stipend program. Duane Pierre, a tech education advocate, spoke about the positive impact of CREC schools on his children. Stella Mayer, a senior at the Academy of Aerospace and Engineering, urged the committee to maintain $12 million in RESC magnet school funding. Joanna Korbecki from Meriden expressed concern over large class sizes and potential staff cuts due to lack of funding. Anshumanara Chowdhury, a senior at Fairchild Wheeler, called for an update to the ECS formula. Mike Pelton, a Portland elected official, and Laurel Steinhauser, Board of Education Chair, discussed the financial burden on municipalities due to declining state education funding. Ernest Newton from the Bridgeport City Council highlighted the need for changes to the ECS formula. Maritza Estramira Jimenez shared a personal story about her child's struggles due to lack of resources in schools. Veronica Bernal, a sophomore at Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts, advocated for maintaining $12 million in magnet school funding. Jack Major, an eighth-grade student, and Caitlin Dobos, a 10th grader, shared their positive experiences at ACES Chase Academy and emphasized the need for long-term funding. Dr. Frank LaBanca, principal of ACES Chase Academy, presented data on funding disparities faced by magnet schools. Christina Ellington from Elevates Charter Schools discussed the need for accessible educational choices. Julie Hall, representing Lumability, expressed concerns about the Birth to Three program and proposed changes. Iris Vizcarondo emphasized the need for quality public education in Danbury. Nigely Roman, a senior at Bassett High School, addressed inequities in Bridgeport Public Schools. Shannara Clark, a senior at Bostock High School, and Gabriella Scott, a student from Seymour, highlighted the need for equitable education and resources. Adan Foslit, a senior at Rock Hill High School, opposed funding cuts to the Connecticut Association of Schools. Logan Locke, an eighth grader, discussed the importance of feeling safe in schools. Colin Jims and Omar Ayashi from Fairchild Wheeler urged adjustments to the ECS formula. Albert Benahan-Garajales and Dr. Katie Swek advocated for continued funding for early childhood literacy programs. The meeting featured discussions on food insecurity and its impact on children, with speakers emphasizing the need for free breakfast programs. Phillip Song, a sophomore, urged for adjustments to the ECS formula. Evan Gabertin Sa'a shared his experience as a multilingual learner. Doug Foley called for increased funding for public schools. Kate Erickson raised alarms about proposed elimination of funding for magnet schools. The meeting included testimonies from various individuals advocating for educational funding and support for public schools, particularly focusing on charter schools and programs for disconnected youth. Tamari Duarte emphasized the importance of smaller classroom sizes. James Boucher highlighted the need for investment in programs supporting disconnected youth. Julie Miliano discussed equitable funding for charter schools. Emmeline Franklin advocated for early literacy programs. Anita Ford Saunders addressed challenges in securing funding for an approved charter school. The meeting concluded with a call for legislators to consider the testimonies and the urgent need for equitable funding and support for all public education options in Connecticut.