Ansonia, Derby schools to receive state funds for improvements

Included in 2014  'Smart Start' legislation
HARTFORD - State Sen. Joseph J. Crisco, Jr., D-Woodbridge, and state Rep. Linda M. Gentile, D-Ansonia, announced Thursday the State Bond Commission has approved funding for various improvements to Ansonia and Derby public schools.

Funding the local school improvements was included in the bipartisan 2014 “Smart Start” bill that Crisco, Gentile, and other legislators voted for.

Ansonia public schools will receive $75,000 in state funding for outdoor playscape improvements, classroom equipment and furniture. 
Derby public schools will receive $150,000 in state funding for the installation of an indoor playground, improvements to windows and floors, and security upgrades.

“I knew when I voted for this program two years ago that it would pay benefits all across the state by increasing the number of preschool seats available to young children,” Crisco said. 
“I am especially pleased that some of this state funding is landing right here in the 17^th Senate District towns of Ansonia and Derby.”

“I welcome these funds because they benefit our children.  Ensuring the safety and security of students in our schools is money well spent,” Gentile said. “The equipment for playground and playscapes goes a long way in making sure kids engage in physical activity.  I want to thank Governor Malloy for making this happen.”

Passed by the General Assembly in 2014, Connecticut’s Smart Start is a competitive grant program to reimburse local and regional boards of education for capital and operating expenses related to establishing or expanding a preschool program.

Local and regional school boards are encouraged to submit applications for competitive grants up to $75,000 per classroom for costs related to the renovation of an existing public school to accommodate the establishment or expansion of a preschool program.


This is a press release from Crisco's office.