School funding formulas worth the investment

Last week, local educators and parents held a rally outside of Rodgers Park Middle School to shine a light on the inequities in our school funding formulas. Unfortunately I had an obligation at the state Capitol and could not attend in person. However, I went back and watched the recording of the event and fully support their efforts.

As always, I was inspired by our local teachers and students. The grit, perseverance and dedication they have shown to the students over this past year has been remarkable and motivating. I was moved by all of the speakers, both teachers and students. Pembroke Elementary School teacher Erin Daly and Danbury High School counselor Juanita Harris have been tireless advocates for local schools and students for decades. Mrs. Daly highlighted the inequities in our system and made the case for an equitable education for all our public-school students.

That is why I am proud to support SB 948 — An Act Addressing Education Funding and Racial Equity in Connecticut. This legislation will create a student-centered funding system that Danbury and our state desperately need, especially as we look forward to the future after the coronavirus pandemic. The pandemic exacerbated inequities that were already present prepandemic. The bill would fully fund the neediest students and communities immediately beginning in FY 22, because it would eliminate the current phase-in schedule, and it would also expand the formula’s funding for English learners and students in districts with concentrated poverty like Danbury.

Harris articulated the need for school psychologist and counselors. The last thing we want is a mental health pandemic following the coronavirus pandemic. Public policy proposals like SB

948 will help address and prevent that from happening.

SB 948 was voted out of the Education Committee last week on a strong bipartisan vote. I will continue to work with my colleagues, advocates and the governor to turn this proposal into law. Our students, community and state are worth this investment.