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District expands ‘grow your own’ tuition reimbursement with Southern Connecticut State under diversity grant
Summary
Committee reviewed a proposed agreement with Southern Connecticut State University to provide tuition reimbursement for 12 district staff (paraprofessionals, substitutes, certified staff) under an educator diversity grant to support certification and leadership pathways.
The committee heard a request to approve a tuition reimbursement arrangement with Southern Connecticut State University funded through an Increasing Educator Diversity grant administered by the district. Staff said the program supports non‑certified employees and current certified staff pursuing degrees, certification, or administrative credentials; the initial cohort includes 12 staff members.
HR Director Lisa Flagler described the program as a “grow our own” pipeline: the district pays Southern and Southern reimburses participating staff, either for a subsequent semester or as reimbursement for completed coursework. Flagler said the district supplements financial assistance with advising and academic supports; staff noted the first cohort included many paraprofessionals and one behavior specialist who will graduate in May.
Board members expressed support for the program and asked staff to highlight the district’s role in funding and supporting participants in communications materials. Staff said the arrangement is intended to improve retention by creating career pathways for employees already working in district schools.
Why it matters: The program supports staff development and teacher pipeline goals. The committee endorsed moving the agreement to the full board for approval.
