SEN. LOONEY WELCOMES $350,000 IN SPECIAL EDUCATION SUPPORT FOR NEW HAVEN

Today, Senate President Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) welcomed the state’s announcement of $350,000 in state grants supporting New Haven’s special education programming.

The funds were released through the High-Quality Special Education Incentive Grant Program, created through Senate Democrats’ flagship educational legislation in 2025. They are intended to help local and regional boards of education with in-district or regional special education services that reduce reliance on out-of-district placements.

“This program was created because lawmakers know special education plays a transformational role in the lives of children with additional needs, but its costs, while necessary, can harm town and city budgets,” said Sen. Looney. “New programming spurred by this investment in our community will bolster offered services and relieve some financial pressure in the process for town and school leaders. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont for this investment in New Haven.”

New Haven’s grant is reserved for programming, with examples of how the funds can be used including:

• Developing new learning and independence programs for students with significant disabilities
• Establishing new support programs
• Expanding inclusive co-teaching classrooms

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Kevin Coughlin | kevin.coughlin@cga.ct.gov | 203-710-0193