Somers in Line for State Preschool Grant

SOMERS, CT — Gov. Dannel P. Malloy on Monday announced that nearly $1.6 million in state funding is being awarded to nine communities across Connecticut — including Somers — that will expand preschool availability to 146 additional children.

The funding comes as part of the latest round of the state’s Smart Start initiative – a program Governor Malloy signed into law in 2014 that is designed to expand access to pre-K in public schools, particularly among low-income children.

This year – the third of the 10-year initiative – a total of approximately $714,000 for capital improvements will be allocated, in addition to $805,000 for operational expenses from the Tobacco Settlement fund.

Somers is in line for $75,000 in tobacco settlement money and $48,000 in capital funds.

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

“Early education can greatly improve student success,” Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman said. “These investments strengthen our preschool system, create opportunity for our young people, and help build the education pipeline that contributes to Connecticut’s improving test scores and rising graduation rates.”

Seven new communities will receive Smart Start funding this year, including Andover, Cheshire, North Branford, Plymouth, Somers, Thomaston, and East Hampton. Cromwell and Enfield are receiving expansion grants in this third round of funding.

During the first two years of the Smart Start initiative, grants were awarded to Ansonia, Bridgeport, Clinton, Coventry, Cromwell, Derby, East Hartford, East Haven, Enfield, Killingly, New London, Norwich, Plainfield, Plainville, Stamford, Wallingford, West Hartford and Windsor, serving a total of 521 children in 38 classrooms.

With the third round of grant awards, Smart Start will serve 667 children in 48 classrooms across the state.

Funding for the capital improvement grants are expected to be approved at an upcoming meeting of the State Bond Commission with funding anticipated to be available this spring. Operational expenses for classrooms beginning in September will be available in July.

Patch file photo