GHICEJ- 2007 Post Legislative Session Report

Education Task Force Report

6-28-07

2006-2007 Legislature passed record Early Education Funding for the next 2 years. The budget passed by both Legislative houses awaits Governor Rell’s signature on this date

Over the next 2 budget years, School Readiness Programs will receive a total of $ 137,728. Million dollars--- An Historic increase

$61,389 million in 2008 beginning July 1, 2007; and $ 76,339 million in 2009 budget.

GHICEJ can be proud of our participation in this legislative victory. Over the last 5 years, the Education and Taxes Task Force has worked hard in our own congregations, with allies, and with legislators to advocate for more equitable educational opportunities for our low-income and minority children. UNTIL NOW these children have been held back by racial and economic discrimination in our public education system. GHICEJ has been their voice by raising up their cause to the community and to the Governor and state legislators. UNTIL NOW, justice has not prevailed.

I wish to thank all members of the Task Force and all members in our congregations who have supported this issue. We could not have succeeded without you!

GHICEJ now has choices, moving into the future on education.

GHICEJ can choose to stay with and monitor the implementation of this historic transformation in Early Childhood Education as it unfolds over the next several years, OR GHICEJ can choose to celebrate victory, and move on to another issue.

The Education/ Taxes Task Force will take up these choices at their next Task Force meeting on July 10, 7PM at the Unitarian Society of Hartford. All are welcome to attend and join the discussion

With Gratitude for All that has been given,

Carol Shoemaker