Districts running low on funds, paraeducators and resources that students require
HARTFORD - School districts across Connecticut are struggling with the rising costs of education while funding is drying up. Superintendents, Boards of Education, and elected officials are left searching for solutions to cover the increasing costs of everything from supplies to teacher salaries to insurance.
Earlier this month, Meriden highlighted a growing budget gap of nearly $8-million. In New Haven, school officials are trying to deal with a $18.9-million deficit with special education tuition being a heavy burden for the district.
Members of the Meriden Organizing Committee (MOC), the Meriden Public Schools Superintendent, the New Haven Public Schools Superintendent along with parents and students will gather in Hartford on Thursday to express the increased need for state assistance and adjustment to the state's Education Cost Sharing Formula, which has not been changed in over a decade.
- WHEN: Thursday, April 9, 2026 at 12:30PM
- WHERE: Legislative Office Building, Room 1A (300 Capitol Ave. Hartford)
- WHO: Meriden Superintendent Mark Benigni, Meriden Federation of Teachers President Matt Banas, New Haven Superintendent Dr. Madeline Negron, parents & students.
- WHY: To save the future of our children's education in Connecticut.
The press conference will be followed by a media availability featuring parents, students, and educators.
Any additional questions should be directed to Rosemary Rich (AFT Connecticut) at 860-989-5641 or rrich@aftct.org
The Meriden Organizing Committee (MOC) was formed by members in the Meriden Federation of Teaches, AFT Local 1478 and the New England Health Care Employees Union District 1199/SEIU. Their collective goal is to mobilize diverse communities to eliminate systemic inequalities and build a better Silver City.