Waterbury City Council approves YMCA truancy prevention services funding agreement

The Waterbury Board of Education took significant steps towards enhancing student support and community engagement during their workshop and special meeting on May 1, 2025. A key decision was the approval of an agreement with the Waterbury Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) to provide truancy prevention services. This initiative, backed by a $75,500 grant, will be matched by the city through in-kind services, ensuring that students receive the necessary support to stay engaged in their education. The contract is set to run from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.

In addition to the YMCA agreement, the board approved an amendment to a professional service agreement with Linguistics International Inc. for bilingual services, funded through a $25,000 bilingual grant. This move aims to enhance communication and support for non-English speaking students and their families.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of arts education, with the board approving an amendment to the agreement with the Waterbury Symphony Orchestra for music mentoring services. This two-year contract will provide violin, viola, and cello instruction at the Waterbury Arts Magna School, further enriching the educational experience for students.

Safety was a priority as well, with the board approving a construction contract for playground resurfacing at Carrington Elementary School. The $126,107 project aims to address safety concerns related to the current playscape, ensuring a safe environment for young children.

Lastly, the board confirmed the completion of several projects, including elevator upgrades at Bunker Hill and Washington schools, allowing for the continuation of future improvements.

These decisions reflect the board's commitment to fostering a supportive and safe educational environment for all students, while also enhancing community resources and engagement. As the school district moves forward, these initiatives are expected to have a lasting positive impact on the Waterbury community.