The State Board of Education’s recent approval of five new charter schools in Connecticut marks an exciting step forward for families seeking quality educational options. However, this decision raises an urgent question for those of us connected to Danbury Charter School (DCS): Why is the state prioritizing new schools while a fully prepared, state-approved charter school in Danbury remains unfunded?
DCS was approved by the State Board of Education in 2018 and has met every requirement since. We have a fully equipped facility, secured necessary resources, and assembled a qualified staff —everything needed to open our doors and serve students. Most importantly, we have parents who are eager and ready to enroll their children, yet despite our readiness, state funding remains out of reach.
This delay has real consequences. Danbury’s public schools are among the most overcrowded in the state, leaving students with limited options. Each year that passes without funding denies hundreds of children access to an education designed to meet their needs. Families who have been waiting for years deserve action.
The state’s inaction is more than frustrating —it is unfair. Danbury followed the process, cleared every hurdle, and remains ready to serve students now. Yet, while new charter schools are greenlit for funding, DCS continues to wait. What message does this send to communities like ours? Even when you do everything right, you can still be left behind.
Adding to this challenge, Danbury’s state senator holds a key position on the Appropriations Committee, the body that will ultimately decide whether DCS —or any charter school— receives funding. With this influence comes an opportunity to champion a school that can immediately increase educational opportunities for Danbury students. But so far, the silence has been deafening.Â
Some of our opponents claim that the Danbury Public Schools cannot afford a charter school. But in fact, charter schools are funded by the state, at no cost to local school districts.
DCS is not asking for special treatment. We are asking for fairness. We are ready to open. Our facility is in place, our staff is prepared, and our parents are waiting. The legislature has a chance to right this wrong and ensure that Danbury students —who have waited far too long— finally get the opportunities they deserve.
Connecticut’s charter school debate should not just be about expanding options; it should also be about fulfilling promises. DCS has done everything it can to make this vision a reality. Now it’s up to the state to follow through.
The students of Danbury can’t wait any longer, and their parents have waited long enough.
John A. Taylor is the CEO of Elevate Charter Schools, a nonprofit committed to expanding educational opportunities and supporting public charter schools like Danbury Charter School.