NEW HAVEN, Conn. — The U.S. Department of Education is stepping up in New Haven to help close gaps in education regarding underserved youth.
Education Secretary Miguel Cardona joined state leaders at Fair Haven School Monday morning to announce a $2.5 million grant to help with that goal.
"We know children will achieve at the highest levels when basic needs are met," said Cardona during the announcement.
Education leaders are now tackling issues in the classroom by providing more support for students in the city.
The grant is going to Clifford Beers Community Care Center, which will work alongside city schools to create and expand student opportunities.
The grant money will provide nutrition assistance, add hours and staff to after-school educational programs and tutoring, help with family engagement, and, in turn, help boost attendance rates at Fair Haven School.
"This model enables schools to build crucial engagement throughout the community to support success for students and their families," said New Haven School's Superintendent Madeline Negron.
Cardona said the funding is a start when tackling the issues students often face regarding learning.
"For far too long, we’ve neglected the needs of our students in a holistic way, so this grant is addressing it," said Cardona.
It includes addressing mental health issues in and out of the classroom.
"The internet, as great as it is, has created crises, and now these resources are going to create a positive," said Sen. Richard Blumenthal.
State and city leaders say this funding is just a start at continuing to improve educational experiences for students across our state.
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Lindsey Kane is a reporter at FOX61 News. She can be reached at Lkane@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
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