Joe-So: Show Us The Money

From Board of Education Vice Chair Joe Sokolovic:

One year ago, the state of Connecticut approved $5 million in funding for Bridgeport Public Schools. This funding was passed by the legislature, became law, and was publicly presented as a commitment to the children of Bridgeport. However, despite this clear approval and promise, the money has not yet reached the classrooms where it is desperately needed.

The $5 million is not delayed due to circumstances or lost in bureaucratic processes; it is being deliberately withheld, the rationale at the time was to force Mayor Ganim and the city of Bridgeport to step up. Meanwhile, the city of has demonstrated its commitment by increasing its own contribution to education by an additional $10 million this year. While it does not make up for the decades of chronic underfunding by the city, This increase shows recognition of the growing needs of students and a new willingness to invest in their future.

Last year, Bridgeport Public Schools faced painful cuts, including the loss of librarians, staff, and positions that directly support student learning. These cuts affected real people and real children in real schools. The continued withholding of the $5 million threatens to deepen these cuts, resulting in larger class sizes, fewer supports, fewer opportunities for students who already face significant challenges.

Had the $5 million been released as promised, many of these positions could have been saved, and the quality of education could have been maintained. The difference between releasing the funds and withholding them is the difference between stability and disruption in the lives of thousands of students.

This issue is not about whether the money exists—it does. The funds were approved, promised, and announced. The only barrier is the decision to release the money. Governor Lamont’s leadership is crucial here. Leadership is measured not by promises made but by promises kept.

This pattern of withholding funds disproportionately affects communities of color with the greatest needs, where every dollar and every day of delay has a significant impact. Further delay will hurt our children even more. Even with record funding Bridgeport Public Schools is facing a potential gap of $9 million dollars before potential savings. That $5 million has the potential to close the gap entirely.

If there are disagreements about funding levels or expectations for the city, those
conversations should happen openly and honestly between adults.

Children should never be used as leverage in these political disputes. Classrooms and students should not be the pressure points in government negotiations.

Bridgeport students are not asking for new funds but for the release of what was already approved and promised. The state made a commitment to its students, and it is time to honor that commitment

If you are concerned about this issue, you are encouraged to contact Governor Lamont directly:

– Phone: 860-566-4840 or 800-504-1577
– Mail: Governor Ned Lamont, State Capitol, 210 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT 06106
Additionally, if you see Governor Lamont at any of his campaign events in Bridgeport, or elsewhere demand that he release the $5 million immediately.

The students of Bridgeport have waited long enough for the funding that was promised to them. The decision to withhold $5 million in education funding is not just a political issue—it is a matter that affects the education, stability, and future of thousands of children. It is time for Governor Lamont to demonstrate true leadership by releasing the funds and supporting the students who depend on them.

Joseph Sokolovic
Vice Chair of the Bridgeport Board of Education
Writing as an individual.
The opinions expressed are my own
but the facts belong to everyone