Bridgeport, CT: $74M special school for 260 students with complex learning needs

June 25, 2025, Bridgeport, CT Patch: Bridgeport To Launch CT's 1st State-Funded Special Education Center 

The state is committing more than $70 million to the project.

Connecticut has approved $74 million in state funding to construct a new special education center in Bridgeport, marking the largest single investment of its kind in the city’s school district and a first for the state.

The funding, secured with support from the Bridgeport legislative delegation, will go toward replacing the aging Bridgeport Learning Center with a new facility designed to serve up to 260 students in grades K–12 who have complex learning needs. The center is expected to be located in the city’s North End.

Construction timelines for the new facility have not yet been announced.

Bridgeport Public Schools officials said the project is part of a broader effort to improve in-district services for students with disabilities, reduce the need for costly out-of-district placements, and improve long-term financial sustainability.

"This new center represents a long-term investment in both our students and our district’s financial future," said Interim Superintendent Dr. Royce Avery in a statement. "By creating strong in-house programs, we can better support our learners and retain critical resources within Bridgeport. I want to extend my deepest thanks to the Connecticut General Assembly and the entire Bridgeport Delegation for their hard work in this monumental allocation"

The district spent more than $22 million last year to place students with special needs in external private programs due to a lack of adequate local options. Officials say the new center will allow more students to stay within their home community while receiving specialized instruction and support.

"This project speaks to what’s possible when state and local leaders work together in the best interest of children," said Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim. "The new special education center will not only serve students more effectively, it will also bring long-term savings and stability to our district."

Added State Rep. Christopher Rosario, chair of the Bridgeport Delegation, who said lawmakers had pushed hard for the funding, "This is what advocacy looks like. We knew how urgent the need was, and we fought together to bring this funding home. This new center is a win for our students, our families, and the future of public education in Bridgeport."

The new center comes as Bridgeport Public Schools has made special education reform a key focus. Recent initiatives include the creation of a Special Education Task Force, expanded access to services, and efforts to strengthen communication with families.

District officials said they are grateful to the General Assembly, the Bridgeport City Council, the state Department of Education, and others who supported the funding.