The Time is Now To Invest in Public Education

May 23, 2025


 
 

I was proud to stand in solidarity with educators, advocates, and legislators to highlight the urgent need to invest in Connecticut’s public schools. We wore red and dozens marched into the Legislative Office Building as part of Champions for Public Education Day of Action, sending a strong message that quality public education is a top priority.

While I am proud that we secured $40 million in immediate funding for special education in February, we are all concerned about the future of our classrooms in Connecticut and the rest of the country. The federal government has gutted the Department of Education, firing approximately 1,300 employees. If this downsizing continues, the City of Waterbury could potentially lose $23 million in federal education funding, and we're already feeling the effects. A few weeks ago, the federal government cut $1.45 million to our city's public schools. These changes would be catastrophic for all students, especially those in Waterbury and other districts that are already underfunded.

There is no doubt that reducing investment in public education will stunt the development and limit opportunities of students nationwide. Some of the possible affects are:

  • a major reduction in teacher and paraprofessional staff
  • Less care for our most vulnerable learners
  • Larger class sizes
  • Potential elimination of Head Start, which has benefitted many Waterbury families for decades

It’s imperative that we address teachers’ working conditions since they directly affect student success. Smaller class sizes enable teachers to provide more individualized attention, tailor lesson plans to meet diverse learning needs, and create a more engaging classroom environment. When teachers are not overwhelmed by large class sizes, they have the time and capacity to focus on meaningful instruction, build strong relationships, and ensure that every child receives the support and services they need to thrive.

Investing in schools is about strengthening our entire education system and giving all students the opportunity to reach their full potential. Let’s work together to make that a reality.