Greater Bridgeport returns to school for 2021-22 year
School districts throughout greater Bridgeport are starting to welcome students back to classrooms, some for the very first time since before the pandemic took over in March 2020.
With distance learning largely on the cutting-room floor, all students are returning this fall full time and in person. Much of the pandemic-era mitigation strategies remain in place, from masks to social distancing to the extent possible, but families and teachers can expect some changes, too.
Thanks in part to $1.1 billion
federal dollars pouring into Connecticut from the latest round of relief funding alone, many schools once starved for resources are flush with cash. The historic financial support has allowed districts to embrace the most vulnerable learners, prioritize student well-being, update school facilities and more.
Bridgeport created the Newcomer Arrival Center for the district’s non-English speaking families, while Derby opened a new Learning Center for students with disabilities at its middle school.
Ansonia added collaborative work makerspaces in its libraries and media centers. The Easton-Redding-Region 9 high school renovated the cafeteria and gymnasium, including their air conditioning, bleachers and gym floor.
Recognizing the need for additional supports, Monroe built flexible time into the school schedules of students of all ages, so they can meet with their teachers.
Some districts have scheduled vaccine clinics for September as teachers and students eligible for the shot return to school buildings.
Derby will offer two vaccine clinics: on Tuesday and three weeks later, on Sept. 21, at a local sports facility.
Ansonia recently hosted a clinic and will schedule a second for next month at its high school.
Trumbull has at least five clinics already on the books, with more to come for second doses three weeks after the first shot. Redding, too, is planning a vaccination van for Sept. 29.
Their goals are clear, and reiterated time and time again by the state education department: get students back to school safely, and aim for continuous in-person learning surrounded by teachers and friends.