Committee hears education financing concerns

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - The complexities of Connecticut's school funding procedures are taking center stage at a legislative hearing on a sweeping package of education reforms.

The General Assembly's education committee convened its second day of hearings Wednesday on Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's reform proposals.

He proposes adding $50 million to the formula used to distribute state money to local schools, with a special focus on low-achieving districts where state officials intend to intervene with reforms.

Lawmakers also fielded comments on proposed expansions of charter schools, including a plan requiring local districts to pay $1,000 for each of their children who attends a charter. Some districts oppose that charge.

Speakers also asked lawmakers Wednesday to support funding for agricultural education programs, special education and services for students learning English as a second language.