Connecticut is facing a historic decline in public school enrollment, with enrollment dropping below half a million for the first time in two decades.

This effect is especially pronounced in Hartford, which saw a 5% decline in student enrollment amid a $45 million dollar school deficit. Now, city officials are looking to bring students back — and decrease the deficit.

Later on, we’ll hear from the Connecticut Education Association on the effects of federal cuts and the current legislative education committee hearings.

GUESTS:

• Arunan Arulampalam: Mayor of Hartford, Connecticut
• Theo Peck-Suzuki: Education reporter for the Connecticut Mirror
• Andraé Townsel: Superintendent of Schools for Hartford Public Schools
• Caitlin Richard: Chief Financial Officer of Hartford Public Schools
• Kate Dias: President of the Connecticut Education Association