East Haven Receives $298K in State Funds for Increased Preschool Access

Good news for East Haven youths.

State Rep. James Albis, D-East Haven, said he is’ thrilled’ that East Haven has been awarded $298,055 in state funding, allowing increased access to preschool for East Haven children.

Of that figure, $148,055 is expected to be approved by the State Bond Commission, and the other $150,000 comes as a result of the tobacco settlement fund.

“Because of this state funding, East Haven will see an additional 30 preschool slots. That means 30 more children will be allowed the opportunity to get a jumpstart on their education. This is an important step toward achieving universal pre-kindergarten in Connecticut, and an important step in ensuring that our kids have the tools to succeed and fill modern, 21st century jobs,” said Rep. Albis in a prepared statement.

This state funding is part of a larger $3.5 million grant being awarded to fourteen municipalities in Connecticut, allowing for an additional 416 preschool slots under the state’s Smart Start initiative.

“We must ensure that children are equipped with the tools they need to succeed in life – regardless of income or zip code,” said Governor Dannel P. Malloy in a prepared statement. “Expanding the availability of preschool options in our state will prepare them for college and careers in a global, 21st Century economy.”