Geraldo Reyes Jr

Waterbury is receiving more than $9 million to improve air quality at several of our elementary schools. I'll break down how this state funding will improve education in classrooms.

The city celebrated the accomplishments of our amazing educators and named the teacher of the year! Keep scrolling to see how these teachers are making a difference in our children's lives.

You will find the following sections below:

• Improving Air Quality at Our Schools
• Waterbury Teacher of the Year
• Celebrating With Dominicans in Connecticut

Installing mini split systems and heat pumps will improve the educational experience by providing both heating and cooling to classrooms depending on the time of year. This new equipment will be especially helpful on hot school days and during summer programs.

These state grants, which cover a significant share of the project’s cost, will foster healthy learning environments while alleviating the financial burden on local taxpayers. When we invest in our children, we make Waterbury a better place!

Congratulations to all the teachers who were recognized for their hard work and dedication, especially Waterbury Public Schools Teacher of the Year, Laura Thomas, who was honored last month at the Palace Theatre. Your passion to teach, empower, and guide our children will have a definite positive impact on their lives. Our teachers' caring nature and demeanor toward our youth is a huge step toward improving our community.

Ms. Laura Thomas has dedicated 16 years to Waterbury Public Schools as a science teacher as well as a track and field coach. She followed this path after seeing the transformative power of education holds in breaking the cycle of poverty after volunteering for a medical mobile unit in Ghana. Ms. Thomas serves on various committees including MTSS and the National Honor Society, where she helps organize Operation Shoebox collecting toys, school supplies and personal hygiene items for students in developing nations.

As Science Department Chair, Ms. Thomas is a collaborator who listens and leads her teachers to create lessons that empower students. She understands the importance of addressing the neurodiverse needs of her students. She utilizes instructional strategies that promote collaboration, communication, and problem solving, pillars of the Waterbury Public Schools Portrait of a Graduate.

Ms. Thomas uses athletics to increase student tenacity and self-confidence. She is truly devoted to helping all of her students succeed, serving as a role model for WCA students and staff.