Shante' Hanks

“This bill ensures that officers who were dismissed or stepped aside under a cloud of serious misconduct cannot find a back door into our schools,” Sen. Gaston said.

Computer giant Apple has announced it will close three of its retail store locations, including the one in the Trumbull Mall.

In a statement, company officials blamed the closings of the three Apple store locations on worsening market conditions at the locations.

The statement said that workers at the Trumbull location "will continue their roles at nearby Apple Retail stores." The closing will leave Connecticut with five Apple Store locations.

More: https://www.ctpost.com/business/article/apple-store-ct-trumbull-mall-retail-22198010.php

In an effort to curb vacancies and keep experienced educators, Hartford Public Schools is increasing salaries for teachers in high-need areas, starting with special education staff this school year.

Special education teachers on Steps 6, 7 or 8 of the salary schedule will be advanced to Step 9 in their respective pay salary lane, according to the district. Advancing the 21 teachers will cost the district $89,000.

The district will expand the pay increases to other roles in 2026-27.

More: https://www.ctinsider.com/news/education/article/hartford-schools-pay-raise-special-education-22093755.php

Connecticut is leading the nation in new housing permits — and that means more homes and more opportunity for people across our state 🏡

Join me, State Senator Herron Keyon Gaston, and Bridgeport Police Chief Roderick Porter for a virtual Community Immigration Forum where we will discuss immigration enforcement and the steps Bridgeport is taking to protect the rights and safety of our community.

This will be a Facebook Live event streamed on my page, Senator Gaston’s page, and Chief Porter’s page.

📅 March 18
🕕 6 p.m.
💻 Virtual Facebook Live event

To submit a question ahead of time, scan the QR code or visit bit.ly/bgptimmigrationforum. We look forward to a thoughtful and informative conversation.

Before the close of Black History Month, I wanted to share a few reflections. Grateful to the Connecticut Post 📰 for publishing my latest op-ed. Take a read below.

Opinion: Black History Month in Bridgeport isn't just about looking back 'Black History Month should be an invitation not just to celebrate but to engage,' writes Bridgeport's Dr. Shanté Hanks.