Press Release: Jim Jinks Applauds Meriden Students’ Walkout, Demands State Action on Education Funding

MERIDEN, CT – Today, Jim Jinks, candidate for State Senate, re-issued calls for an overhaul to education funding formulas following a student walkout at Meriden Public Schools. Students took to the streets earlier this week to protest potential restructuring and budget shortfalls that threaten the quality of their education. 

"I applaud the Meriden students who found their voices this week. It is damning that it has even come to this," said Jinks. "Our students should be focused on their education, not forced to fight their own legislative leaders for the basic resources they deserve. I’m running to represent Meriden in the State Senate in part to make sure all our schools are fully funded. Enough is enough. Fund our schools." 

The protest comes as Meriden considers significant changes to address a lack of adequate support from the state. Despite billions of dollars in state reserves, many local municipalities continue to struggle with the devastating impact of stagnant funding on both schools and the increasing burden on property taxpayers. 

"The need for more state funding for schools and towns isn’t a new issue," Jinks continued. "State leaders are sitting on billions of our dollars while they claim to be fighting for us. The lack of leadership on this at the state level for years has had a direct, negative impact on our communities." 

Jinks, who is running to represent the 13th District, including Cheshire, Meriden, Middlefield, and Middletown, pledged to make education and other municipal funding top priorities in Hartford. 

"I’m running for State Senate to fix this and to fight for real money for our schools and our towns. I am not stopping until we get it. Our students have shown us their resolve; now it’s time for their elected officials to show some of their own." 

Born and raised in Connecticut, Jim has lived in District 13 for thirteen years with his wife, Marie, and their dog, C.J., while raising their four children. He works in the private sector, is vice-Chair of the Cheshire Town Councilor, and is a dedicated community volunteer and organizer. For more information about the campaign, visit www.jimjinksct.com.

For additional information, please contact Lori Lastrina-Fusco, Campaign Manager, at info@jimjinksct.com.