Black and Puerto Rican Connecticut Caucus Members Speak Out On Education Reform
The leaders of the legislature’s Black and Puerto Rican Caucus spoke out Thursday about education reform, calling for legislation that gives the education commissioner a strong hand and ample flexibility to turn around low-performing schools.
Rep. Gary Holder-Winfield, D-New Haven, chairman of the caucus, said the group supports giving the commissioner broad authority to reconstitute a low-achieving school. The group also wants the commissioner to be able to convert a troubled school into a state or local charter school and to be able to put the school under the control of a non-profit entity. Gov.Dannel P. Malloy originally proposed similar measures, but subsequent working versions of the legislation have reined in the commissioner’s power.
The 22-member caucus detailed its position as members of Malloy’s administration and Democratic legislative leaders continue to negotiate to reach an agreement on a reform bill before the session ends May 9.
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