Capitol News Briefing with Rep. Candelaria and the Alliance for Connecticut Charter Schools [Source] Translate

The meeting began with Lucas Pimentel, CEO of LEAD and the Alliance for Connecticut Charter Schools, welcoming attendees and emphasizing the importance of advocating for educational options for children. Jose Crespo led a prayer, highlighting the need for supportive policies and funding for charter schools. Yandra Lopes, director of LEAD, shared personal stories about children facing educational challenges and urged unity in advocating for educational justice. Senator Kathy Austin spoke about the significance of school choice and her commitment to improving the education system, while Representative Candelaria stressed the importance of community support for charter school funding. Maria Matos, Chief Advocacy Officer, discussed the impact of educational barriers and the need for awareness and action. Pimentel concluded the meeting by reiterating the need for action against educational injustices and encouraging continued advocacy. The meeting emphasized the importance of addressing educational injustices and empowering the community. Speakers called for increased investment in education, noting that funding has not kept pace with surpluses, and highlighted the Danbury Charter School as a symbol of educational freedom. Pastor Abraham Hernandez represented over 300 Hispanic evangelical churches, advocating for a unified voice in education. Legislators, including Senators Sujata Wilcox and Gaston, shared transformative education stories and called for accountability from elected officials. The meeting concluded with a call to action for an upcoming event to hold legislators accountable and continue discussions on educational equity. Pastor Frank Santora emphasized equal representation in education and the importance of mentorship, while Pastor Brian Hall shared his journey from police officer to education advocate, discussing challenges in establishing a charter school in Danbury. The meeting underscored the need for collective efforts to address educational disparities. Daniel Leander highlighted the historical context of education and the need for investment in underserved communities. Pastor Wayne McCray called for unity and collaboration among community members, while Minister Lourdes Delgado stressed the urgency of providing more educational options, particularly charter schools, to help students falling behind. Overall, the speakers collectively urged action to improve educational opportunities, particularly through charter schools, and called on community members to hold legislators accountable for their commitments to education.