Kadeem Roberts

A new state initiative that aims to strengthen Connecticut’s efforts to recruit and retain a strong and diverse educator workforce through the reimagining of teacher evaluations and the modernizing of teacher certifications was announced last week. The initiative focuses on ensuring that teachers are evaluated on a fair and consistent basis, and that they receive the support they need to improve their skills and knowledge.

Yesterday, Congressman Jim Himes, Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, other lawmakers, and I gathered to honor and remember Norwalk librarian Divya Misra. Divya was a librarian of 15 years but tragically lost her life in a domestic violence incident two years ago. The event commemorated the renaming of the library's rose garden, which was named after her.

I celebrated Read Across America Day with Tracey Magnet School yesterday, where I was once a student in elementary school. It was amazing to be back on my old stomping grounds.

Very soon, there will be changes for some of our most vulnerable individuals and families who are on Medicaid. Starting on April 1, the COVID-19 public health emergency protection will be coming to an end. Medicaid enrollees who were continuously covered will again have to provide proof of eligibility to continue getting benefits.

As we continue to progress steadily through the current session, it is important that we continue to build upon past legislative successes that have allowed Connecticut to keep moving forward.

Join me this Saturday for my Black History Month breakfast at the Bethel AME Church at 19 Academy Street. I will highlight the importance of Black History Month and Black pioneers from Connecticut.

I want to thank the Norwalk community for coming out and voicing your concerns with state legislators and learning more about our important priorities this session for the city! I am proud to represent the 137th district and am happy to be in the community working with you all.

I come alongside all those mourning and are shocked by the murder of Tyre Nichols, who should still be with us today. I give my deepest condolences to the Nichols Family, and I grieve with them.