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The AccelerateCT Task Force has spurred initiatives aimed at education renewal, learning acceleration, summer enrichment and more. As part of the task force, ConnCAN has sought to ensure these programs are adequate and equitable for all Connecticut families. Below is information about the Connecticut College Corps program, CSDE guidance on how districts should use federal relief funds and more. We’ve included information about an Emergency Broadband Benefit and a proposal for free student admission to Connecticut museums this summer.
In March of 2021, the AccelerateCT Education Task Force was launched to help develop a statewide education recovery and acceleration framework and programming for students across the state beginning with enhanced learning and enrichment opportunities for this spring and summer.
The Task Force focuses on the five priorities in which the AccelerateCT framework is anchored:
- Academic supports and learning acceleration
- Family and community connections
- Safety and social-emotional Wwell-being
- Digital divide
- Summer enrichment
Connecticut College Corps
As part of a statewide effort to promote summer enrichment opportunities for students in grades K-12 who have had their school years significantly disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic, the AccelerateCT task force is recruiting up to 500 Corps members to serve in the College Corps CT Summer Program during the 2021 summer season. All Corps members who complete the program requirements will receive a $4,500.00 stipend. Applications will be accepted until May 21, 2021. Click here for more info and click here to apply.
May 9th letter to Superintendents about ARP-ESSER
As part of the American Rescue Plan of 2021 and Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Funds (ESSER), the State has offered guidance about how funds should be used at the district level. Unlike the previous two rounds of relief funds, plans must be developed that focus on renewal, reducing opportunity gaps, accelerating learning and advancing equity for all students.
‘Reimagining Schools to Transform Students’ Lives’ (Connecticut’s American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act, 2021 Emergency and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER) Guidance)
Opportunities for students and families
The Governor has proposed free visits to Connecticut museums. The $15 million funded program, which still needs approval from the state legislature, would provide free admission to all Connecticut residents 18 and under — plus one accompanying adult — to any of the state’s participating museums. It would run from July 1 to Sept. 6.
About the FCC’s Emergency Broadband Benefit
The Emergency Broadband Benefit will provide a discount of up to $50 per month towards broadband service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price. Click here for more information and to apply.
Connecticut summer camp, free meal info and youth employment opportunities
It is not too early to begin planning for Summer 2021. Whether you are going to summer camp, getting a summer job, or just staying close to home, check with ConneCT Kids for resources to help you plan for a great summer. Click here for more information.