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| As summer is winding down, I hope everyone is able to enjoy the last few weeks enjoying our beaches and awesome parks! In this week’s email, you will find local and state updates from several state and local agencies that may be helpful for you and your family. I want to extend a thank you to everyone who joined me this week at my first Pizza and Policy constituent event at the Parlor! Over the course of the summer, I’ve sincerely enjoyed hosting in-district office hours and speaking with many of you about the issues that matter. Don’t worry if you weren’t able to join this week because I will be hosting another Pizza and Policy event here in the 120th District on Wednesday, August 27th, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Paradise Pizza. I hope you’ll consider joining me, and as always, if my office can be of service to you or your family, please don’t hesitate to reach out. |
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Last week, there was a widely reported incident regarding ICE activity in Stamford, where two immigrant men were taken by agents. In response, Representative Paris did what I and many of my colleagues would have done if there was a similar incident in one of our districts, and nothing he did was wrong or against the law. Representative Paris shared a simple, compassionate message on social media, reminding neighbors to watch out for each other during this unprecedented time.
To now see Representative Paris become the target of racial attacks, harassment, calls for his arrest, and threats made against his relatives is appalling. Our legislature stands behind Representative Paris and his message 100%. I encourage you all to join in reaffirming our community's commitment to be there for one another and support our neighbors during difficult times. |
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| Click above to watch the Capitol News Briefing on the Harassment and Threats Against State Rep. Corey Paris with Lt. Gov. Bysiewicz, U.S. Sen. Blumenthal, and Other Elected Officials |
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| The Stratford Public Schools Back to School Resource Day 📚 🩺 took place on Saturday, August 16th. Hundreds of Stratford families and students came out last weekend to get ready for the 2025 school year. Thanks to all our amazing school staff and local organizations for supporting our community! |
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| Click above to watch my video recapping the event |
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| The annual Shakesbeer Festival last Saturday, August 16th, was a huge success! Everyone in attendance had a great time and enjoyed some amazing CT-made products. Thank you to the Stratford Old Timers Association for organizing this event! |
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| Early Childhood Education Endowment Fund |
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The Early Childhood Education Endowment Fund is here—Connecticut’s first permanent savings account to sustainably fund early childhood education.
What’s happening now:
- $300M initial investment to grow over time and strengthen child care statewide
- Launch of Early Start CT, combining multiple programs into one, making access simpler and more equitable
- $36M in the first year (started July 2025) to expand and improve the child care system
- 1,000+ new spaces added by June 2026
- Higher pay & better benefits for early childhood educators
- Facility improvements funded for providers
- Health insurance study underway for child care workers
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What’s ahead:
- By 2027, families earning under $100k will get free Early Start CT care
- Families earning over $100k will have costs capped at 7% of income
- More spaces and programs through a competitive process
- Expanded pre-K from part-day to full-day, with inclusive environments for all children
- This is just the beginning-a long-term investment in affordability, quality, and equity for Connecticut’s youngest learners
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| Student Loan Reimbursement Program Applications |
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The SLRP provides up to $5,000 annually, with a four-year cap at $20,000, to eligible applicants who meet service and income requirements.
Recent changes have expanded eligibility for Connecticut’s student loan relief program, helping it reach more residents burdened by student debt.
The updated criteria now recognize a wider range of educational and volunteer experiences, allowing more individuals to qualify for assistance. Notably, former Stone Academy students may now be eligible for relief following the school's closure. Those who did not receive a tuition refund are now eligible for reimbursement.
According to OHE, these changes are designed to provide a pathway to recover from both educational and financial setbacks, ensuring the program serves those most in need.
The following includes the program’s key eligibility requirements:
- Must be a Connecticut resident for at least five consecutive years
- Must have an outstanding student loan balance and made a qualifying payment in 2024
- Must have graduated from a Connecticut college/university, or attended a program to earn a professional license/certificate
- Income limits: $125,000 for individuals and $175,000 for married applicants
- Must have 50 hours of verified volunteer service since Jan. 1st, 2024, at a qualifying nonprofit, municipal agency, or through military service
- A hardship waiver may be requested in certain cases of degree non-completion
Applicants must create an account, complete the application, and upload all required documents to be considered for approval. Click here to create an account and apply.
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| Strengthening Consumer Protection |
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There's a new state law passed this legislative session that strengthens consumer protection by promoting transparent pricing, enhancing data security, and expanding consumer rights (Public Act 25-44). Key provisions of the law include:Transparent Pricing: Businesses must now advertise goods and services with all fees and charges included in the listed price (excluding taxes), helping consumers avoid hidden costs.Device Privacy and Security: Manufacturers of certain internet-connected devices must disclose if a product includes a camera or microphone, and take reasonable measures to protect any personal information collected.Right to Repair: Electronics and appliance manufacturers are now required to provide access to repair manuals, tools, and parts on fair terms, empowering consumers to fix their own devices.Municipal Website Standards: All Connecticut municipalities must transition to a “.gov” domain by July 1, 2027, to ensure secure and standardized online access.Stronger Price Gouging Protections: The law expands price gouging rules during emergencies to include wholesale, rental, and lease transactions—not just retail consumer sales.Subscription Transparency: Companies offering auto-renewing services must send annual renewal reminders and make cancellation easier through websites, email, or phone.Clear Rental Pricing: Landlords must disclose all periodic fees and costs upfront when advertising a rental unit.These changes, taking effect on various dates, aim to give consumers more control, clearer information, and added protections in an increasingly digital and complex marketplace.
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| Save the Date: VA Stand Down 2025 |
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The Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs’ annual Stand Down event is set for Friday, September 19th, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with six separate locations in Bridgeport, Southington, Danbury, Norwich, Rocky Hill, and Stamford. This statewide event will provide one-stop access to services and programs offered to veterans by state and federal agencies, veteran-support organizations, and community-based nonprofits. Click here for more details
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| Nominations for the Veterans Hall of Fame Now Open |
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Connecticut residents are encouraged to recognize veterans who continue to make lasting contributions in their communities by nominating them for the 2025 Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame. This honor celebrates veterans who, after their military service, have shown exceptional leadership and community service.
Nominations for the Class of 2025 are now open and must be submitted by September 25th, 2025. To be eligible, nominees must have been born in Connecticut or resided in the state for a minimum of five years. They must also meet the definition of a “veteran” under Connecticut General Statutes § 27-103 and have received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces. The submitted nomination package must contain the completed nomination form, the veteran’s discharge documents, and a detailed narrative of the veteran’s community and/or public service at the local, state, and/or national level, and the veteran’s contributions to the community at large. The focus of this honor is on the veteran’s service to their community after leaving the military.
To download the nomination package, visit: portal.ct.gov/dva/pages/ct-veterans-hall-of-fame.
Completed nomination packages must be submitted to the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs by September 15th, 2025. They should be delivered either by email to lindsay.jesshop@ct.gov or mailed through the U.S. Postal Service to:
Office of the Commissioner of Veterans Affairs
ATTN: CT Veterans Hall of Fame
287 West Street
Rocky Hill, CT 06067
Detailed instructions and information on eligibility criteria can be found within the nomination package.
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| Hate Crimes Investigative Unit Tips |
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The Hate Crimes Investigative Unit of the CT State Police has created a flyer with tips on recognizing, reporting, and preventing hate crimes.
The unit's goal is to ensure that every community is equipped with the necessary resources to foster a safe and inclusive environment for all residents. The flyer features a detailed breakdown on how to identify hate crimes, the steps to take if you or someone you know is a victim, and the support services available.
Please visit the Hate Crimes Advisory Council website for more information. |
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| ACLU Know Your Rights Guide |
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No matter your immigration status, you have rights. You are protected under the U.S. Constitution and Connecticut law, and it is crucial that you know how to exercise those rights.
To help with this, the ACLU of Connecticut has put together an Immigrants' Rights & Resources Guide, which provides important information on how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
If you or someone you know is in need of legal assistance or support, please reach out. Stay informed, know your rights, and remember: you are not alone. Connecticut is your home, and we will continue to fight for you.
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| CT Paid Family and Medical Leave Expansion |
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| This session, I was a proud co-sponsor of legislation that expands Connecticut's Paid Family and Medical Leave coverage to as many as 50,000 public and private school employees, such as paraeducators, library support staff, and custodial and food workers. This change will go into effect later this year on October 1st, 2025. The Connecticut Paid Leave Authority is hosting a series of informational webinars throughout July, August, and September to help school staff prepare. Check the flyer below for upcoming session dates and details. |
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| WBDC August Grant Applications |
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The Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) announced the next round of its Ignite and Child Care Business Grant Programs.
The Ignite Grant Program is designed to help women-owned businesses grow. The program offers grants of up to $10,000 to women-owned businesses in the state of Connecticut who have been in business for two or more years and have revenues between $25K and $2 million. The application period for this grant runs from August 5th through September 16th, 2025. You can find additional information on Ignite here.
Their Child Care Business Opportunity Fund, offered in partnership with the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC), provides grants of up to $25,000 to qualified licensed and aspiring child care businesses. The program offers grants targeting different stages of business, from start-ups to those ready to expand. The application period for Child Care Business grants runs from August 1st through August 31st, 2025. You can find more information on our Child Care Business Opportunity Fund grants here.
Information sessions for both grant programs are scheduled throughout the application periods. These sessions will help applicants understand the grant requirements and provide an opportunity for those interested to ask questions about the grants. Interested applicants can register for a live information session here. |
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| The 9th Annual Kids Day at the Stratford Farmers Market on Paradise Green is taking place during next week's farmers market from 2-6 p.m. on Monday, August 25th. The annual Kids Day will include events for kids of all ages, including gardening activities, yoga, crafts, resources for families, and more. |
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The Stratford Health Department is offering Immunization & Physical Clinics for school-aged children to help them get ready for the new school year this August! Check the flyer below for clinic dates. Call 203-385-4090 today to schedule an appointment.
Let’s keep our kids healthy and classroom-ready! |
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Kick off the school year with a night of fun at the PAL Family Dinner on August 26th!
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| Stratford's Parent Place is forming a Special Education PTA of Stratford. This is your chance to be involved with the Stratford Public Schools and help shape the future of special education support in our schools. If you are interested, contact Melodylehrman@gmail.com or fill out the form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfU6Qhm699N-f6STWQNh5rW99GvHxK-iW0j5ToL6T0L2wcruA/viewform?usp=send_form |
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The Sterling Down and Dirty 5K Obstacle Race is an annual family-friendly 5k obstacle-filled run through Stratford Short Beach set to take place this year on September 6th.
Run, walk, skip or dance your way to the finish line - as you get sweaty, sandy, dirty, and wet along the way! Perfect for all fitness levels - you can race your way through 18+ obstacles or just have fun with it.
Best of all you are in it to win it for Sterling Community Center!
All proceeds will benefit our programs and services, as well as members of our Resource Connection Program.
Register here: https://raceroster.com/events/2025/104206/2025-sterling-down-and-dirty-5k
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It is Paradise Green Farmer's Market Season! Every Monday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Paradise Green. This is a great chance to support our local CT farmers and businesses.
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| Stratford/Trumbull Continuing Education online registration is now open for the Fall 2025 session. The program offers FREE courses for town residents. For more information and to register, visit: https://www.stratfordk12.org/page/continuing-education |
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Yours in service,
Kaitlyn Shake
State Representative |
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