Dear Friends and Neighbors,
As graduation ceremonies take place this week across Greenwich, Stamford, and New Canaan, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2026—as well as to the families, teachers, and school staff who helped make this milestone possible. Graduation is a moment of pride for our entire community, reflecting years of hard work, perseverance, and support.
It’s also a reminder of why strong public schools—and the investments behind them—matter so much.
There is encouraging news from Hartford. The state recently approved a budget that includes nearly $200 million in additional funding for our public schools, helping ensure that districts have the resources they need to support students and maintain high-quality education.
The state is also making a historic $300 million investment in early childhood education and taking steps toward expanding access to affordable child care—giving more children a strong start. For many families, the cost and availability of child care remains a real challenge, and this kind of investment helps support working parents, while strengthening our workforce and local economy.
In addition, the budget includes free school breakfast for all students—so no child starts the day hungry—and eliminates the sales tax on certain school supplies, putting money back in the pockets of families. These are smart, practical steps that recognize the real pressures families are facing and the importance of investing in both today’s students and tomorrow’s workforce.
But there is more work to do.
As your State Senator, I will continue to advocate for policies that strengthen our schools, support working families, and make life more affordable—while ensuring we plan responsibly for the future.
Congratulations again to all of this year’s graduates and their families. I wish you every success in the exciting chapter ahead.
Warmly,
Jill
