Middletown Superintendent Selected For National Committee

MIDDLETOWN, CT — Middletown Superintendent Michael Conner has been named to a national committee charged with developing recommendations and insights as schools move toward a safe reopening following the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

AASA, the School Superintendents Association, created the committee given the “critical decisions school districts will be making regarding the implementation of funds received” through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, according to a news release.

AASA’s American Rescue Plan Committee includes more than 30 superintendents, as well as representatives from several national organizations including the Association of Education Services Agencies, the Association of School Business Officials International and the Council of Chief State School Officers. AASA’s government cooperative procurement partner, Sourcewell, is a key supporter in this initiative, the news release states.

“We must be unified in ensuring that the public and Congress are well informed about how federal funds are being spent, especially given the variety of needs each district has,” Daniel A. Domenech, executive director, AASA, said in a statement. “The committee members are all outstanding leaders in public education. Their contributions will be invaluable as we work to sustain programs and services beyond the funding cycle.”

The American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ARP ESSER) Fund provides nearly $122 billion to states and school districts to help safely reopen and sustain the secure operation of schools, the release stated.

“Appreciative, humbled, and honored to be selected on this national committee,” Conner wrote in a post on Twitter. “A unique opportunity to create new value in the education sector underscoring innovation, creativity, and equity.”