Senator Gaston Welcomes Funding for After-School Programs in Bridgeport

Today, state Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport) is welcoming funding for new after-school programs in Bridgeport. The funding is part of $5.3 million in state funding through the Connecticut State Department of Education’s After-School Grant Program to support 41 grants for expanding high-quality, after-school programs that provide academic supports and enrichment opportunities beyond the school day.

Bridgeport will receive $461,640 for the City of Bridgeport Lighthouse Program. $153,880 will be allocated to the Multi-Cultural Magnet School district, (JFK), Jettie S. Tisdale School & Roosevelt School, $153,880 will be allocated to Black Rock School District, Geraldine W. Johnson School & Winthrop School, and $153,880 will be allocated to the Blackham School district, Interdistrict Discovery, Magnet School, & Hallen School.

“Investing in our youth beyond the school day is one of the most effective ways to build stronger communities and create a brighter future,” said Senator Gaston. “This funding will provide students with the opportunity to participate in a safe and supportive place to go after school where they can continue to learn and build positive relationships.”

The Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) selected recipients through a competitive process that evaluated each applicant’s ability to address local student needs, foster family and community engagement, provide academic enrichment, promote student wellness, and demonstrate effective program planning and organization.