I am writing to share news, resources and updates on our work, all related to the current COVID-19 pandemic. This situation continues to evolve rapidly. Last week, Governor Lamont signed his latest executive order, which included continued school closure through April 20th and a historic $2 trillion stimulus package was signed into law on Friday afternoon. See below for a summary of that recent federal stimulus package.

Federal Stimulus Package

The far-reaching stimulus package stands as the largest emergency aid package in US history. We did an initial review of the legislation and prepared a summary of the legislation – with a particular eye toward how this affects education and our Connecticut community. Please do reach out directly if you have any questions on this legislation and as you navigate the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Advocacy Action

You all are doing incredible work to continue instruction, stay connected to your students and families as well as support your teachers and staff.  It’s important not to forget that the public and legislators should know how charter schools are delivering for your students and families, the creativity and dedication of your teachers and staff and their commitment to quality education. I encourage you to take the opportunity to share the good work your students, teachers and staff are doing during this unprecedented time.  Please visit our COVID-19 Advocacy Guide to access a pre-populated & addressed letter to send to your legislator, to find out how to follow your elected officials on social media, and to share those closure related stories with us. We could all use good news these days.

As you know, the situation regarding both school closure and the legislative outlook for our schools remains fluid. We remain focused on supporting you and your families during this challenging time. We will continue to work behind the scenes on issues as they arise and share any breaking news via email.

Additional Resources

I also want to make sure you have quick access to the information and resources we’re continuously compiling (see below).

  • Coronavirus Resources Page: Visit this page to find updates and resources that pertain to your school as it navigates closure and COVID-19. Here you can find guidance published by SDE, the CT Department of Health and other relevant information as it becomes available. We are also continuously sharing out resources via our Facebook page.

  • Coronavirus Communications Guide: Refer to this guide for communication best practices, templates and an FAQ as you communicate with students, families and your community. Also included in here is a template for a letter to your elected officials, if you’d like to share how your school is navigating this difficult time ’s closure status, thank them for their leadership and encourage them to think of your students and families during this crisis.

  • Share stories with our team: We know you are working hard to meet students’ needs in many ways, and continuing to bring joy to our families and communities. Feel free to send us stories, both big and small and we will share them on social media and with local media.