Manchester's Adelbrook Academy Receiving $1.5 Million In Additional State Funding

MANCHESTER, CT — Gov. Ned Lamont announced Sept. 24 that an additional $1.5 million in state funding will be awarded to support the expansion of Adelbrook Manchester Academy, bringing the state's total investment in the project to $2.5 million.

The funding comes through the state Department of Economic and Community Development's Community Investment Fund. State Sen. MD Rahman and state Rep. Patrick Biggins joined DECD Deputy Commissioner Pugliese, Adelbrook board members, agency leadership, staff and students at the Manchester academy for the announcement.

The new funding builds on $1 million previously approved for the project through the seventh round of the Community Investment Fund. The money will support construction, site improvements, classroom enhancements and expanded program capacity.

The project includes construction of a new wing with four classrooms and therapy spaces. The expansion is expected to allow Adelbrook to serve about 30 additional students and create nearly 30 new jobs in Manchester.

Adelbrook serves nearly 400 children and young adults with autism spectrum disorders and other special needs, as well as their families, through special education programs, residential services and community supports.

The Manchester academy provides specialized education and related services tailored to individual students. Adelbrook partners with more than 60 school districts across Connecticut to provide educational and therapeutic services.

The expansion is intended to address demand for individualized educational and therapeutic services. According to Adelbrook's Community Investment Fund application, the academy received 55 referrals in 2024 but had the capacity to enroll only six new students.

"Our goal is to continue building an education system where students with disabilities have the opportunity to learn, grow, and reach their potential, and families can find the support they need in their communities," Lamont said. "This state grant will support Ädelbrook with a needed expansion, giving more students access to individualized education, therapy, and support while providing their families with another option closer to home."

Alyssa Goduti, president and CEO of Adelbrook, said the expansion will allow the organization to increase its capacity to provide individualized services.

"By increasing program capacity and accessibility, the project will help ensure more Connecticut children can receive the individualized support they need — when and where they need it," Goduti said.

Rahman said the expansion will provide additional educational resources while also creating employment opportunities in Manchester.

"Manchester and Connecticut need to make sure they support every resident, and this expansion of Adelbrook's Manchester Academy will make sure students who may need more resources and help will be able to receive it," Rahman said.

The project is expected to improve access to specialized educational and therapeutic services for children and families in Connecticut.

Adelbrook is a 126-year-old nonprofit organization that provides behavioral and developmental services.