Newtown Schools Score Big With State Funding For New After-School Programs

NEWTOWN, CT — Sandy Hook Elementary School, Head O'Meadow Elementary School and Hawley Elementary School will share $153,880 in state fundding with two Torrington schools to expand after-school programming at Stadley Rough and South Street schools, Governor Ned Lamont announced Monday.

The funding is part of nearly $10.6 million in state grants awarded through the Connecticut State Department of Education’s After-School Grant Program for the 2025–26 and 2026–27 school years. In total, 41 grants will support programs in 30 municipalities across the state.

“Setting our students on a path to success often requires providing extra support beyond the school day,” Lamont said in a statement. “High-quality after-school programs create opportunities for students to receive the additional academic and social supports they need to thrive.”

Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker said the programs help strengthen ties between students, families, and communities while improving academic performance and student behavior.

"These programs offer a wide range of enrichment activities to complement students’ classroom instruction, including tutoring, mentoring, academic enrichment in science and technology, community service opportunities, and activities in music, arts, athletics, health, and culture." Russell-Tucker said. "These programs also benefit working families by offering a safe, structured environment for children during non-school hours."

Grant recipients were selected through a competitive process that considered local needs, family and community engagement, academic enrichment, wellness initiatives, and overall program planning.

Danbury’s award joins funding for districts and organizations in Bridgeport, New Haven, Norwalk, Waterbury, and other cities and towns statewide.