"As a member of the Education Committee and a strong advocate for our public schools, students and educators I am deeply concerned about the governor’s proposed severe education funding cuts to Fairfield and numerous communities throughout our state. I will continue fighting to bring home as much money for our schools as possible," McCarthy Vahey said. "As I have previously stated, my concerns are further exacerbated by the timing of this announcement. Fairfield, like many communities throughout our state, has reached a point in the budget process where there is little recourse to address the proposed cut, let alone plan for it"
McCarthy Vahey added that the state's fiscal obligations and shortfalls will result in very difficult decisions that will impact the community adversely. "A reduction of over $3.5 million to our local educational system is not tenable. Following the announcement of the proposed elimination of ECS (Educational Cost Sharing) funding to Fairfield, I immediately went to the governor’s office personnel to express my deep concern about the proposal and its impact on our schools. In addition, I met and spoke with the legislative leadership. There appears to be a consensus in the legislature that this proposal is not palatable," she said.
The governor's proposal is a step in the process, but is not the final product, she added.
" I will join my voice with the first selectman, fellow members of the state delegation and the people of Fairfield to achieve a result that works for Fairfield and public schools throughout our state to reinstate proposed education funding," McCarthy Vahey said.
Residents are encouraged to contact McCarthy to share their stories, their data and letters of support. She can be reached at Cristin.McCarthyVahey@cga.ct.gov or by phone at 860-240-8585.
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