State Education Hires Firm To Assist Financial And Human Resources Operations Of Schools

For additional background see here

News release from school system:

The Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) has hired Public Works, a nationally recognized firm with deep expertise in financial management, human resources, and organizational improvement, to support Bridgeport Public Schools (BPS) in strengthening its internal systems and operations.

Public Works will work with the CSDE’s embedded Technical Assistance Team and BPS leadership to address the 34 recommendations identified in the financial audit conducted by CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA), while also providing training, guidance, and implementation support to improve the district’s financial and human resources practices. This support is provided at no cost to the district.

“This engagement is a critical step forward in ensuring that our internal systems are efficient, transparent, and aligned with best practices,” said Dr. Royce Avery, Interim Superintendent of Schools. “We are grateful to the Connecticut State Department of Education for its support and to Public Works for bringing their expertise to Bridgeport.”

Public Works is a nationally respected firm with extensive experience conducting organizational and fiscal reviews for public education systems. With a track record of supporting districts across nearly every state, including recent work in Hartford Public Schools, Public Works is known for its collaborative approach, ability to build trust, and success in helping districts implement sustainable improvements in financial and human resources operations.

Public Works will collaborate with Bridgeport Public Schools to:

• Strengthen financial and human resources systems through expert guidance
• Provide benchmarks for performance comparison with peer districts
• Enable data-driven improvements to operational performance
• Support informed decision-making by the Board of Education and the public
• Enhance budget planning and resource allocation

Representatives from Public Works presented to the Bridgeport Board of Education on Monday, October 27, 2025, to begin this work. Their support will help ensure that Bridgeport Public Schools is well-positioned to make strategic, sustainable decisions that benefit students, staff, and the broader community.