Posted on April 12, 2024
Rallies were held across Connecticut, including outside Danbury Library, Wednesday to mark A Day Without Childcare. I was pleased to see many familiar faces at the event, many of whom are fellow graduates of the Parent Leadership Training Institute. Childcare providers are among the first educators for our children. An infusion of early investments and innovation to supporting early childcare will not only stabilize our local workforce but have long-lasting impacts on a child’s life and future success. Bolstering the education our children receive in these early years is critical to that success.
My dear friend, MS activist and 138th District resident Emanuela Palmares, came to Hartford this week to advocate on two important bills that would positively impact people living with MS. I want to thank her for sharing her personal story. SB180 would implement step therapy protections, allowing people with MS to receive their medications without unnecessary delays. HB5200 aims to increase accessibility in healthcare provider offices, allowing individuals with mobility challenges or physical disabilities to receive equitable care.
I was pleased to attend the graduation ceremony of the United Way of Western Connecticut’s Community Messengers. Participants in the program are trained advocates who share important information within their neighborhoods.
They learn about various available community resources for health care, education, transportation, literacy, finance, and housing. Before officially graduating from the program, participants were presented with information about the Parent Leadership Training Institute as well as The New American Dream Foundation, as part of the many resources available to families.
Being engaged in the community and collaborating with others will have a positive impact in our neighborhoods.
I was proud to visit with the newest class of the Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI). As a graduate of the program, I was able to share information about my journey to become a state legislator. I explained the structure of state government, how the public can access it and how an idea becomes a policy or law. We also talked about the connection between state and local government, and how parents can advocate for their children and families.
I also attended Tuesday’s Café Conversation at Ellsworth Elementary School among parents, grandparents, guardians, educational leaders and other elected officials to discuss how we as a collective – families, schools and community – foster authentic partnerships and meaningful engagement in education in order to ensure the success of every child.
The event was hosted by Parents Supporting Educational Excellence (PSEE), a 12-session parent leadership program providing practical strategies for actively engaging with the community to improve education for all kids. I was thoroughly impressed and touched by the care, thoughtfulness, leadership and passion of the current class and I’m truly grateful for the invitation to be part of the conversation.