DFER CT Statement on Sine Die

DATE: June 6, 2019

CONTACT: Amy Dowell | amy@dfer.org

Democrats for Education Reform CT Statement on Sine Die

Today, DFER CT State Director Amy Dowell released the following statement after the General Assembly adjourned the 2019 regular legislative session:

“As the 2019 legislative session adjourns, we want to express our gratitude to the Democratic leaders who fight every day for our schools and our communities. We are particularly encouraged by the implementation of the new ECS funding formula to allocate additional funds to districts in need of more resources, as well as the proposal to offer debt-free community college experiences for students in our state. Last year, we worked hard to help elect and support progressive education allies who would stand up for our students. While there is certainly more work to be done, it’s clear that we are in a better place today thanks to the efforts of these leaders and their engagement in these critical debates.

“Under Democratic leadership, the General Assembly was able to secure important social safety net accomplishments this session, including raising the minimum wage, passing Paid Family Leave, and gun control measures. In addition, the state was able to obtain philanthropic dollars to advance public education, and along with legislators and fellow advocates, we eagerly await the details surrounding the Partnership for Connecticut, Inc. These are important issues that will directly affect families and children. Now that this budget is behind the legislature, we hope state leaders can turn their attention to making sure all Connecticut students have the high-quality opportunities that they deserve.

“We hope that the proposals raised this session--including shared services, fair funding for all public schools, innovation, and high academic standards--will not go by the wayside, but will lead to future action by our state leaders to improve education policy and better serve every student.

“At DFER CT, we are ready to get back to work--not only to build upon the laws that were passed this year--but also to advance the discussions that have only just started. We look forward to collaborating with key delegations and the Education Committee to enhance resource equity, maximize efficiencies within our districts to adapt to difficult budget constraints, and ensure that communities of color are better represented in our educator workforce. “

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About DFER CT:

DFER CT is an organization that supports elected Democrats and candidates who are champions of public education. Education progressives, we’re building a pipeline of Democratic leaders who will improve our education system so that it better serves students and families. As part of realizing the American Dream, we advance policies and practices based on democratic values, with a goal of: increasing equity, protecting civil rights and the social safety net, and promoting great educational opportunities for all. DFER CT is the state chapter of a national political organization.