Dear Neighbor,
On March 8th, Connecticut had its first confirmed case of coronavirus. On March 9th, the Governor declared a state of Public Health and Civil Preparedness Emergencies.
This newsletter is intended to provide you with helpful information and resources, as well as an overview of some of the work my office has been doing during this time.
If you have any concerns, or if I can be helpful to you please call or email me anytime.
State Funding for New Britain
With federal assistance continuing to come to our city to help us through the COVID-19 pandemic, I wanted to let you know that this spring New Britain had an additional $4,703,000 appropriated in Education Cost Sharing funding, which will directly benefit the students and families of our district. This past fall we also saw the culmination of two years and millions of dollars worth of renovations to Smalley School and expect new construction on Chamberlain to begin in the near future. I will continue to make sure that New Britain receives its fair share of resources from the state.
Furthermore, the budget we passed delivers over $100 million in funding to New Britain for fiscal years 2020 and 2021. This money ensures that our schools, services and roads get the resources they need.
Black and Latino Studies
Beginning with the 2020-2021 school year schools are required to teach African-American and Latino studies as a part of their curriculum. SERC has done a wonderful job of creating the model curriculum and it will be ready for this coming school year. This curriculum includes art, writing, math, physical education, science and social studies; including citizenship, geography, government and history.
Teaching these subjects now is more important than ever. It is critical that our students learn all of America’s history.
Renters Rebate Program
Connecticut renters who are elderly or disabled, and whose incomes do not exceed certain limits are entitled to rental assistance. Persons renting an apartment or room, or living in cooperative housing or a mobile home may be eligible for this program as well. Renters’ rebates can be up to $900 for married couples and $700 for single persons. Application may be made at the town social service agency, or the Assessor’s Office, depending on the town, between April 1st and October 1st. Visit CT.gov/OPM or call 860-418-6377 for additional information.
Summer School Programing
Summer school programing is prohibited from beginning before July 6. All public schools must comply with guidance recently issued by the Commissioner of Education and private programs are expected to do the same. Read more about the reopening process for summer schools.