Resources for the Upcoming School Year

August 10, 2023


 
It’s that time again where we start winding down the summer and begin back-to-school preparations. I want to share news and events that will ease the transition for the upcoming school year and tell you about mental health support coming to our students.
Click on any of the links below to jump to that section of the email:
 
Sales Tax Free Week
Connecticut's 2023 Sales Tax Free Week begins on Sunday, August 20 and runs through Saturday, August 26. This is a great opportunity to take the kids back-to-school shopping or to treat yourself or your loved ones while saving money.
 
Many retailers in Connecticut offer additional discounts on clothing and footwear during Sales Tax Free Week, providing consumers with even more savings.
During this sales tax holiday, most clothing and footwear items priced under $100 are exempt from the Connecticut sales tax. The exemption during Sales Tax Free Week applies to each eligible item costing under $100, regardless of how many of those items are sold to a customer in the same transaction. The tax holiday applies to purchases made in-store, online, mail-order, and over the phone.

More information about Connecticut's Sales Tax Holiday, including a list of exempt and taxable items, is available on the Department of Revenue Services website.
 
Expansion of Free School Meal Program
Hunger and the stigma of not being able to afford school meals is one of the biggest hurdles to learning. I am pleased to report that Governor Ned Lamont and Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker announced plans to expand Connecticut’s free school meals program for the 2023-2024 school year, enabling more students to receive access to nutritious breakfast and lunch at no additional cost to them or their families. This will be a huge benefit to Washington, Hopeville, and Walsh Elementary Schools.
Under the plan, the state will invest $16 million in federal funding into the program. Funds will be utilized to support the provision of meals at no cost.
Learn More About Free School Meals Program
 
Investments in Education
We made historic investments in education with millions of additional dollars allocated in the budget and a number of legislative measures that enhance Connecticut’s educational system. Click below for more information.
New Laws Affecting Education
I will continue to support education as one of the most cost-effective investments we can make for the future of our state.
 
Mental Health Support For Students
The state is answering the call to help children following the unprecedented learning challenges from the pandemic. Waterbury Public Schools will receive $324,000 to hire and retain school mental health specialists over the next three school years. These funds will support our students so they can excel in and outside of the classroom.
Here is the breakdown:
 
Lead applicant 2024 Funding 2025 Funding 2026 Funding Total grant award
Waterbury School District $120,000 $120,000 $84,000 $324,000

CLICK HERE to learn more about school mental health specialist grants.