Susan Johnson

I had the opportunity to speak with the governor on my radio show about a new investment in rural health care. Keep scrolling to learn how that funding will make a difference.

A dozen Windham students visited the Capitol with a mission! Below, I'll explain why they testified before my colleagues in the Education Committee. 

Here are the sections in today's email:

• Let's Talk About It: Governor Lamont
• Students Call For More Education Funding
• Celebrating Women's History Month

Let's Talk About It: Governor Lamont

We had a jam-packed episode on "Let's Talk About It" featuring several outstanding guests, including Governor Ned Lamont, for a wide-ranging conversation about a transformative investment in rural health care, improvements to public education, and the upcoming celebration commemorating 250 years of American independence.   Gov. Lamont visited Willimantic last week to announce that Connecticut will receive $154 million in federal funding to improve health outcomes, expand access to care, and strengthen the social and economic foundations of the state’s rural communities. This investment will establish the Rural Health Transformation Program, which aims to bring health care closer to patients by expanding services such as visiting nurses and mobile clinics while connecting residents to the care and support they need in an affordable and accessible way.

During our discussion, Gov. Lamont also discussed UConn Health’s acquisition of several local hospitals and how it will improve access to care across the state. The transition is expected to create long-needed stability, new resources, job security, and reliable access to care for families. UConn Health is expected to finalize a deal with Day Kimball Hospital in Putnam later this year.

We also discussed recent legislation aimed at strengthening education in Windham and communities across the state. Highlights include: Windham reaching full funding in 2026 under the Education Cost Sharing (ECS) formula Establishing the Early Childhood Education Endowment, a nearly $300 million investable trust fund that will expand access to affordable, high-quality child care A nearly $300 million increase in annual funding for special education, with Windham receiving an additional $423,000 in fiscal years 2025 and 2026 Additionally, Gov. Lamont shared that he plans to return to Willimantic for the Boom Box Parade on July 4. As part of the nationwide celebration marking 250 years of American independence, the governor noted the state is raising funds to support communities that develop creative ideas to improve their neighborhoods.   In the second half of the podcast, we welcomed Windham Councilman Bill Sayers and Mayor Tom DeVivo. Our conversation focused on the town's upcoming budget season and the complexities of managing two taxing districts, which affect essential services such as schools, fire departments, and libraries.   Make sure to listen to the entire conversation by clicking on the video below.

Governor Ned Lamont discusses investment in rural health care.

Students Call For More Education Funding

I am proud of the students from Windham High School who recently advocated for increased education funding. They recently testified before the Education Committee in Hartford, calling on lawmakers to strengthen the Education Cost Sharing (ECS) grant.

As mentioned above, Windham Public Schools will finally reach full ECS funding in 2026 after more than a decade of effort to ensure the district receives its fair share.

These students demonstrated courage, preparation, and unity as they spoke to my colleagues on the Education Committee. Their advocacy is a powerful reminder that young people care deeply about their schools and their futures. Experiences like this serve as a meaningful lesson in civic engagement and demonstrate the importance of participating in our democratic process.

Celebrating Women's History Month

March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions women have made to our communities, our state, and our nation. Here in Connecticut, countless women have shaped our history through leadership, innovation, advocacy, and perseverance.

While this month offers a special opportunity to reflect, their stories deserve to be honored all year long. From historic homes and museums to landmarks connected to groundbreaking achievements and social movements, our state is rich with places that preserve and share the legacy of women who helped shape Connecticut’s past and future. Take some time to explore these meaningful sites and learn more about the women behind them. Click here to view a list of historic landmarks across Connecticut that are deeply connected to women’s history and the stories that continue to inspire generations today.