With chronic absenteeism still a challenge in school districts across CT, some schools are finding creative ways to keep students engaged.

Adria Watson
Adria was CT Mirror's Education and Community Reporter. She grew up in Oakland, graduated from Sacramento State where she was co-news editor of the student newspaper, and worked as a part-time reporter at CalMatters. Most recently Adria interned at The Marshall Project, a national nonprofit news organization that reports on criminal justice issues. Adria was one of CT Mirror’s Report For America Corps Members.
Tuition increases approved for CT state universities
Tuition and fees at Connecticut’s four state universities will increase by an average of $291 per semester in the fall.
Three bills deal with children’s mental health. Here’s what they would do.
The children’s mental health crisis in Connecticut and elsewhere has spurred several proposals now under consideration by lawmakers.
CSCU announces end to mask mandate
The mask mandate at all 17 CSCU campuses will switch to “mask-optional” everywhere, including classrooms, starting April 4.
Education Committee approves Sheff v. O’Neill settlement
Facing pressure, members of the Education Committee reluctantly approved measures addressing the Sheff v. O’Neill settlement agreement.
As COVID wanes, UConn relaxes mask mandate
Masks will still be required in classrooms, labs and studios, but in most campus settings, masks will be “recommended” as of Friday.
CSCU board increases community college tuition
CSCU leaders say increasing labor costs, running out of federal funds and declining enrollment are some of the reasons for the tuition hike.
House unveils broad mental health bill
The bill includes initiatives to improve and expand mental health workforce development, services in schools, insurance coverage and more.
CT senate leaders announce big children’s mental health bills
Legislators have described the mental health crisis among children as one of the most crucial priorities this session.
Lamont budget would help towns improve school air quality
After initial reluctance, Gov. Ned Lamont’s administration is warming to the prospect of helping towns improve air quality in schools.
On the legislative agenda for educators: Remote learning and mental health
Pandemic-related issues will top the agenda for lawmakers on the education and children’s committees during the upcoming legislative session.
Lamont to leave mask mandate up to school districts
Gov. Ned Lamont recommended Monday that the statewide mask mandate for students and staff in school buildings cease at the end of February.
Community college faculty and staff call for stricter COVID safety guidelines
Community college faculty called for stricter COVID safety standards as they return to campuses for the spring semester on Friday.
Interim President Andrew Agwunobi to leave UConn
Radenka Maric, the university’s vice president for research, innovation and entrepreneurship, will take over as UConn’s interim president.
CSCU not delaying return to campuses; In-person classes set to resume
The Connecticut State Colleges and University system announced that it will begin the spring 2022 semester as originally scheduled.