NORWALK, Conn. -- The state's General Assembly recently gave its final approval to set aside $2.5 million in funding to help Side by Side charter school build a new, permanent middle school in Norwalk, according to Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk, Darien).
“Investing in school buildings is important because it helps create positive learning environments which can assist in motivating students to engage in the learning process,” said Duff. “Side by Side’s modular buildings have served the school well since the mid-1990s, but they are becoming increasingly expensive to repair and are at the end of their useful life. I am proud to have helped secure this investment by the state which will allow the Side by Side School to continue to invest in its students.”
Side by Side is a charter school with a focus on challenging students to promote their unique talents, and creating partnerships with local cultural organizations to help students become active members of the Norwalk community.
The middle school currently runs out of temporary, modular buildings. This funding will allow for the construction of a permanent facility.
“This is great news for Side by Side,” said School Director Matthew Nittoly. “It is difficult to fund projects like this, and the current school is in dire need of upgrades. I am grateful for Sen. Duff’s work in securing this funding.”
Eighty-seven percent of Side by Side students are Norwalk residents.
Also included is nearly $900,000 for construction reimbursements for Norwalk Public Schools -- funding which is in addition to a previously announced $1.4 million grant for school improvements.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Norwalk and receive free news updates.
