Connecticut State Department of Education News

04/05/2019

Education Commissioner Wentzell’s Statement on State of Connecticut Partnership with Dalio Philanthropies

(HARTFORD) - Education Commissioner Dianna R. Wentzell issued the following statement on today’s announcement of the partnership between the State of Connecticut and Dalio Philanthropies to strengthen public education and promote greater economic opportunity for vulnerable student groups in under-resourced communities:

“As Governor Lamont has so rightly said ‘education is the opportunity engine for all of our young people’. We could not agree more with the Governor because there is likely nothing more crucial to setting up a child for success in college, career and life than that child’s educational foundation.

“Connecticut's future economic success depends on a well-educated workforce.  From start to finish, we must ensure students remain engaged and develop the skills they need to graduate ready to meet the needs of employers and compete in our global economy; however, increasing opportunities for our most vulnerable student groups to do so requires collective effort, which is why we are so grateful for the unprecedented collaboration announced today.

“It represents and confirms the state’s commitment to fulfill the promise of equity and excellence for all Connecticut students by bringing together a diverse set of stakeholders to provide the support, resources and pathways necessary to create learning environments that engage students and transform the educational experiences and outcomes of thousands of young people across the state especially traditionally underserved students and communities.

“We wish to thank Governor Lamont for his vision and leadership on making real progress to further strengthen our education system so that all Connecticut children are prepared to succeed in college, their careers and life.  We also want to thank the Dalios for the support of Dalio Philanthropies – and especially Barbara Dalio for her ongoing interest and commitment to our students and our teachers - as well as their passionate and strong and steadfast advocacy focused on making sure that every child has access to opportunities that lead to success.”

This morning, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont was joined by Ray and Barbara Dalio of Dalio Philanthropies, First Lady Annie Lamont, leaders in the General Assembly, students and other stakeholders to announce the launch of a partnership strengthening public education and promoting greater economic opportunity in Connecticut. Through Connecticut’s leadership and the support of Dalio Philanthropies, the partnership seeks to raise $300 million over five years: $100 million from the State of Connecticut that will be matched by $100 million from Dalio Philanthropies and another $100 million from other philanthropists and business leaders. Press Release

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