June 15, 2011

NEW BRITAIN DELEGATION SECURES FUNDING FOR
DiLORETO SCHOOL EXPANSION AND IMPROVEMENTS

State Representatives Tim O’Brien (D-New Britain, Newington), Peter Tercyak (D-New Britain), Robert Sanchez (D-New Britain), Betty Boukus (D-New Britain, Plainville, Bristol) and State Senator Terry Gerratana (D-New Britain, Berlin, Farmington) announced that DiLoreto Magnet School in New Britain will receive $7,929,000 million in state school construction funds for additions, renovations and improvements. The state grant secured by the legislators saved local taxpayers almost 80% of the $10 million cost for the project.

 “DiLoreto expansion is an exciting project, enhancing the quality of one of our great local schools,” said Rep. O’Brien.  “The DiLoreto community has worked hard on this project for many years, and this funding will bring those dreams to fruition. It’s my hope that the city of New Britain will begin the construction work this summer.”

The expansion and renovation project will enhance the capability of the DiLoreto Magnet School - which is built around a vibrant dual language theme - to serve students throughout New Britain, from grades pre-K to 8.

“I’m pleased the DiLoreto project made it through the process,” said Rep. Boukus, Chairwoman of the Bonding Commission. “This is a win-win for New Britain and for the DiLoreto community.”

"DiLoreto is one of the most popular and oversubscribed magnet schools in New Britain," Sen. Gerratana said. "This expansion is necessary and it will certainly help accommodate the demand for the dual language curriculum there. This is very exciting and long overdue."

“This is an outstanding project that will help the New Britain school district enhance the education quality at DiLoreto Magnet School. I’m pleased that funding is now available and that the School District can start construction soon,” said Rep Sanchez.

“The Board of Education has been working with the City and State for the past two years to make the DiLoreto expansion project a reality,” said Sharon Beloin-Saavedra, President of the New Britain Board of Education. “I would like to thank everyone who supported this project and understood the importance of it. Having a specialty program pre-K-8 Dual Language School is a high priority of the Board's and the facility needed to meet the needs of the students.  This school will prepare students for the global market place.”

The funding is part of a school construction package passed by the Connecticut General Assembly this month.