Superintendent candidates propose plans to enhance mental health support in Waterbury schools

The Waterbury Board of Education held a critical candidate forum on April 28, 2025, focusing on the search for a new superintendent. The discussions highlighted pressing issues in the district, particularly the need for enhanced support for multilingual special education and mental health services for students.

A key theme was the urgent need to expand programming for students with autism and other mental health challenges. Candidates emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough needs assessment to identify gaps in current services. Dr. White, one of the candidates, stressed that understanding the existing state of programs is essential for improvement. He noted that quality programming requires not only proper placement of students but also professional development for staff to meet diverse needs.

Dr. Lewis echoed this sentiment, advocating for the creation of a supportive ecosystem around schools, which includes public-private partnerships to address mental health issues. He proposed leveraging technology to provide virtual services, drawing from successful initiatives in other districts. He also highlighted the importance of advocating for increased funding from state legislators to support the district's needs.

Dr. Schwartz shared insights from his experience in Waterbury, mentioning a recent audit that helped clarify the district's mental health support systems. He noted the importance of community engagement, particularly through initiatives like a student-led public service announcement on mental health resources.

The candidates collectively recognized that improving academic performance is a priority. They discussed the necessity of data-driven approaches to monitor progress and identify areas needing improvement. Dr. Schwartz emphasized the importance of collaboration among educators, administrators, and the community to create a unified effort toward enhancing student outcomes.

As the search for a new superintendent continues, the discussions from this forum reflect a community deeply invested in addressing the educational and emotional needs of its students. The candidates' proposals highlight a commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that empowers all students to succeed. The next steps will involve further community engagement and strategic planning to ensure that the district can effectively meet these challenges.