Appropriations Committee APP Elementary and Secondary Ed Public Hearing [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, with 352 individuals registered. Attendees were reminded to submit their testimonies through a designated portal for documentation. Representative Exum introduced the first panelist, Jeffrey Bravin from the American School for the Deaf, who requested an additional $800,000 in funding to address the school's deficit and emphasized the need to retain skilled staff. Rashida Kulkarni, a student senator, advocated for preserving $12 million in funding for regional education service centers, sharing her positive experiences at her school. Pahansa Samarkoon, another student senator, criticized the stagnant Education Cost Sharing (ECS) foundation amount and called for funding stability. Nathan Wollaston from the Windsor Board of Education expressed concerns about the lack of investment in education, leading to increased property taxes and service cuts. Rob Traver from the Bridgeport Board of Education opposed the governor's proposal for a blue ribbon panel without addressing ECS funding, highlighting disparities between wealthy and poor districts. Testimonies continued with speakers emphasizing the need for increased funding and support for public education, particularly focusing on the ECS formula and school conditions. Jafet Gonzalez, a high school senior, highlighted poor conditions in New Haven Public Schools and called for an increase in the ECS foundation amount. Lisi Rodriguez described the importance of Family Research Centers in providing early intervention and support. Shayla Robinson, a parent, spoke about inequalities in school funding affecting Black and Brown students, urging for an updated ECS formula. Kelly Sheehan advocated for the Danbury Public Charter School, emphasizing the need for equitable options for multilingual learners. Derek Heffelfinger requested support for magnet schools, while Tyler Diaz discussed financial challenges faced by student teachers. Dwayne Pierre emphasized the importance of maintaining high funding levels for CREC schools, and Stella Mayer highlighted the need for proper funding to support STEM education. Joanna Gorbecki expressed concerns about funding in the Meriden public education system, while Anju Manara criticized the outdated ECS formula. Mike Pelton and Laurel Steinhauser discussed the financial strain on municipalities due to declining state education funding, urging updates to the ECS foundation rate. Ernest Newton called for a change in the ECS formula, and Maritza Estramira Jimenez shared a personal story about her child's struggles due to a lack of support in schools. Veronica Bernal advocated for maintaining $12 million in magnet school funding, and Jack Major emphasized the importance of funding for unique educational opportunities. Caitlin Dobos shared her positive experiences at ACES, stressing the need for adequate funding. Dr. Frank LaBanca presented data on funding disparities faced by magnet schools, while Christina Ellington discussed the importance of school choice. Julie Hall raised concerns about a proposed tiered system for the birth-to-three program, and Iris Biscarondo advocated for quality public education in Danbury. Nigely Roman addressed struggles faced by students in underfunded districts, and Shannara Clark emphasized the need for equitable education for students with special needs. Gabrielle Scott shared her positive experiences at ACES, while Zidane Postlet urged support for the Connecticut Association of Schools. Logan Locke highlighted the importance of feeling safe in schools, and Colin Jims contrasted his experiences in different districts. Omar Ayashi criticized the underfunding of Bridgeport schools, and Albert Benahan-Grijales emphasized the need for support for students in the district. Dr. Katie Swek opposed the elimination of funding for the Reach Out and Read program, while Dr. Molly Markowitz advocated for free school breakfast for all children. The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasized the importance of expanding access to nutrition programs. Philip Sewell urged the General Assembly to increase the ECS foundation amount, and Evan Geberton-Sa'eh discussed the impact of funding cuts on multilingual learners. Israel Prevail called for reform of the ECS formula, and Doug Foley advocated for increased funding for public schools. Kate Erickson raised concerns about the proposed elimination of funding for RESC magnet schools, while Steve Tracy urged the committee to fund the charter school waiting for support. The meeting featured strong calls for increased funding and equitable support for various educational programs and services across Connecticut. Overall, the testimonies underscored the urgent need for equitable funding and resources in Connecticut's education system to support all students, particularly those in underserved communities.