The state is adding 1,000 new spaces in January for early childhood education. Please read below to learn why this is a win-win for kids, providers, and staff.
My colleagues and I are mourning the loss of one of our own. State Representative Kevin Ryan passed away over the weekend. I'll explain how he made a difference at the Capitol and beyond.
I was proud to join another colleague, Rep. Juan Candelaria, as he was named the new president of the National Hispanic Caucus. Keep scrolling to see pictures from the celebration.
Finally, there is new leadership at the Waterbury YMCA. I'll explain why the new president is a perfect fit to improve that amazing facility.
These are the sections in today's email:
- More Early Childhood Opportunities Coming
- Remembering State Rep. Kevin Ryan
- Celebrating Rep. Candelaria's New Leadership Role
- New Leadership at Waterbury YMCA
| More Early Childhood Opportunities Coming |
|
|
| Connecticut is adding up to 1,000 new spaces to the state’s Early Start CT program beginning in January, opening the door for more children to access high-quality early learning and child care. These additional slots stem from legislation we passed in 2025, which will deliver the largest expansion of early childhood education in our state's history. |
|
To further strengthen the program, the state is also increasing provider payments by 8%, helping child care providers cover rising operational costs and offer more competitive wages to staff who play such a vital role in children's development.
This expansion is funded through the Connecticut Early Childhood Education Endowment, which supports income-eligible families with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children. Click here for more information on Early Start CT. |
|
|
| Remembering State Rep. Kevin Ryan |
|
|
We mourn the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Representative Kevin Ryan. For more than 30 years, Kevin dedicated his life to the people of Montville, Ledyard, and Norwich while wanting the best for all of Connecticut.
Kevin’s service extended far beyond our state’s borders. Through his distinguished leadership with the Council of State Governments, including his past chairmanship, he elevated Connecticut’s voice on the national stage and helped strengthen legislatures across the country. |
|
|
| At the Capitol, Kevin was a constant presence with a steady hand on the dais, a trusted mentor, and a loyal friend. His good-natured humor, his warmth, and his unmistakable eastern Connecticut accent always brought us a smile. |
|
| His jokes with staff and colleagues reminded us of the humanity at the heart of this work. The Capitol will feel emptier without him, but the impact he made on his community, on this institution, and on me will endure. |
|
| Celebrating Rep. Candelaria's New Leadership Role |
|
|
It was an honor to witness my friend and colleague, State Representative Juan Candelaria of New Haven, become the new president of the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators. This is a major national leadership position, not just a Connecticut distinction, and it’s a big deal to have someone from our state elected to serve in this role.
Rep. Candelaria will continue to advocate for strong public policy, promote collaboration, and strengthen Hispanic priorities not only in our state but also across the nation. |
|
| Juan’s dedication, experience, and heartfelt commitment to public service have earned him the respect of legislators across the country. I’m proud to serve alongside him and look forward to the positive impact he will make on the national stage. Congratulations to Juan on this prestigious honor and for his 22 years of service to Connecticut including his incredible work with the Black and Puerto Rican Caucus. |
|
| New Leadership at Waterbury YMCA |
|
|
| The Waterbury YMCA is beginning an exciting new chapter with the appointment of Mr. Anthony Ireland as its new President and CEO. Born and raised right here in Waterbury, Anthony grew up inside the YMCA — a place that shaped his childhood and supported his early development. CLICK HERE to learn more about his inspiring journey. |
|
| His deep connection to the Y and his commitment to working with children and young adults make him an exceptional leader for this role. He is dedicated to empowering young people and ensuring they have a safe, supportive space to learn, grow, and thrive. |
|
At the YMCA's annual meeting, we also discussed the tremendous opportunities ahead including the strengthening of youth programs, child care, and after-school offerings. The Y is poised for growth, and that means even more families in our community will want access to the resources they need.
I am a lifelong supporter of the Waterbury YMCA, and I will continue to advocate for the facility, its mission, and the life-changing programs it provides for our city. |
|
