State Representatives Anthony D’Amelio (R-71), Selim Noujaim (R-74), Larry Butler (D-72) and Jeffrey Berger (D-73) and State Senator Joe Markley (R-16) today applauded the state’s Bond Commission for approving $612,587 in grants for W.F. Kaynor Technical High School in Waterbury.
   The grants approved today are for “alterations and improvements to buildings and grounds, including new and replacement equipment, tools and supplies necessary to update curricula, vehicles and technology upgrades.”
   “As a manufacturer I know and understand that training our youth is the only way to enhance Connecticut’s ability to compete in the marketplace,” Rep. Noujaim said. “Kaynor must receive and obtain updated equipment and processes so students can learn and practice with state-of-the-art technology. I am truly pleased that our students are receiving their fair share.”   
   “Supporting our students with the most up-to-date equipment is a benefit to the entire Greater Waterbury community and I’m happy this grant will aide Kaynor Tech and the already strong educational resources they provide,” Rep. D’Amelio said.
   “I am pleased Governor Malloy is continuing the effort to improve Waterbury schools and have a positive impact on the education gap,” Rep. Butler said. “I know these funds will be put to good use for the benefit of our students.”
   “The funds for Kaynor Tech are part of our continuing effort to provide a top-notch educational experience and support the creation of jobs,” Rep. Berger said. “I thank Governor Malloy for his support of this bipartisan effort to expand manufacturing in Waterbury as well as the entire state.”
   “Technical schools like Kaynor Tech are extremely important in the effort to restore manufacturing in Connecticut,” Sen. Markley said. “Investing in technical schools will ultimately give young people an opportunity to learn in a world class facility.  The trade they learn can be turned into a great career.  My father apprenticed as a toolmaker and ended up with his own business–I worked with him in the shop and found real satisfaction in the skilled, exacting work.” The mission of the Connecticut Technical High School System is to provide a unique and rigorous high school learning environment that: ensures both student academic success, and trade/technology mastery and instills a zest for lifelong learning; prepares students for post-secondary education, including apprenticeships, and immediate productive employment; and responds to employers’ and industries’ current and emerging and changing global workforce needs and expectations through business/school partnerships. As always, the entire Waterbury delegation will continue to work together to bring valuable state dollars back to the people of Waterbury.