Waterbury Board of Education approves contract changes for Early Start programs with Bridge to Success

The Waterbury Board of Education made significant strides in enhancing educational services during its meeting on June 18, 2025, with the approval of several key agreements and funding initiatives.

One of the most impactful decisions was the approval of an amendment to the student intern affiliation agreement with the University of Connecticut, aimed at facilitating social work student internships. This initiative is expected to strengthen support for students and families within the district by integrating more social work resources into schools.

Additionally, the board approved a new structure for early childhood education by endorsing the Early Start Local Governance Partner (LGP) model, which replaces the previous school readiness council. This change, driven by recent legislative updates, will see Bridge to Success take over as the LGP, focusing on enhancing community engagement and support for families. The transition is designed to streamline early childhood initiatives and ensure that children and families remain the priority in educational planning.

The board also addressed security measures by approving an amendment to a professional services agreement with Sukateris Technology Corporation for the monitoring and servicing of school security systems, ensuring a safer environment for students and staff.

In financial matters, the board approved transfers totaling $3.2 million to support various teaching positions across the district, reflecting a commitment to maintaining quality education and adequate staffing levels.

These decisions highlight the board's ongoing efforts to improve educational outcomes and community involvement in Waterbury, setting a positive trajectory for the upcoming school year. The board emphasized the importance of these initiatives and their potential impact on the local education landscape, with further discussions and community engagement planned to keep stakeholders informed and involved.