Connecticut Senate Bill SB00715

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/13
• Refer: 1/28/13

Caption

An Act Establishing The Raise The Grade Pilot Program.

Impact

The implementation of the Raise the Grade program would likely affect several existing state education policies and directly influence how educational services are delivered to children in state custody. This bill emphasizes collaboration between the Department of Children and Families and the Department of Education to establish targeted strategies that can result in measurable improvements in academic outcomes. Should the program demonstrate effectiveness, it could serve as a model for future initiatives aimed at similar demographics across the state, with an emphasis on enhancing educational equity.

Summary

SB00715, also known as the Raise the Grade Pilot Program, is designed to enhance the academic achievement of children and youth who are either in the care or custody of the Commissioner of Children and Families or receiving services from the Court Support Services Division. The program is specifically aimed at cities such as Hartford, Bridgeport, and New Haven, seeking to address educational disparities faced by vulnerable populations in these areas. By focusing on both academic performance and the individual needs of the youth served, the bill aims to create a supportive educational environment for those most at risk.

Contention

While the bill aims to address a critical need within the community, concerns could arise regarding resource allocation and the adequacy of support for implementation in these cities. Critics may question whether the proposed pilot program can adequately address the underlying issues that contribute to academic deficits among these youth, such as socio-economic factors and systemic barriers within the education system itself. Ensuring that the program is comprehensive and inclusive of various essential support services will be a vital point of contention as discussions around the bill progress.