Charlene M. Russell-Tucker Commissioner | Connecticut Department of Education
Connecticut has reached a significant goal in its efforts to increase access to integrated education for Hartford students, according to an announcement from the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE). The state has surpassed the first major benchmark in the Sheff v. O’Neill Comprehensive School Choice Plan (CCP) by meeting 96 percent of the demand from Hartford families seeking placement for their children in entry-grade school choice programs.
The CCP requires that at least 95 percent of Hartford-resident students requesting entry-grade placements—including prekindergarten, kindergarten, sixth grade, and ninth grade—be offered spots at regional interdistrict magnet schools, Open Choice districts, or Hartford Region Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS) high schools. This target was set as part of a settlement adopted by the court in 2022.
Connecticut exceeded this requirement by providing placement opportunities to 96 percent of applicants through the Regional School Choice Application process. The achievement is seen as a step toward increasing access to educational settings tailored to student needs and interests.
Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker stated: “This achievement represents more than a number—it reflects the state’s deep commitment to expanding meaningful educational choices for students and families. By increasing access to magnet schools, technical high schools, and Open Choice opportunities, we are assisting both Hartford and non-Hartford students learn, grow, and thrive in enriching learning environments.”
Meeting this initial benchmark shows ongoing progress toward fulfilling all demand for interdistrict choice program placements among Hartford-resident students by the 2028–29 school year. The CSDE will continue working with regional partners on strategies aimed at strengthening school quality and expanding choice options.
Further information about Connecticut’s school choice programs can be found at www.ChooseYourSchool.org.
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