'Build on the positive momentum'

Source: Sentinel and Enterprise

LEOMINSTER -- State Sen. John Cronin recently invited Senate Ways and Means Chairman Michael Rodrigues to the Twin Cities for a local discussion with elected officials and community stakeholders to address workforce and community development initiatives in the region.

At the MassHire North Central Career Center, Cronin convened a panel of elected officials, education, and workforce leaders to discuss the efforts to reform vocational school admissions and grow capacity for career-focused education.

"I'm extremely thankful to Chairman Rodrigues for his continued support for North Central," said Sen. Cronin. "If we want to continue to build on the positive momentum of the past few years, it is essential that we have partners like Chairman Rodrigues, whose influence and expertise is invaluable to achieving the region's goals."

The discussion featured a summary of statewide data, which shows significant gaps in admission rates for vulnerable groups of students, and evidence that, when implemented, admissions lotteries meaningfully close these gaps.

"I'm truly appreciative of Senator Cronin's work to highlight the needs of North Central Massachusetts and to engage my office on how we can work together to deliver for residents," said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues, (D-Westport) Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "I look forward to continuing to work with the Senator and his partners in the region to deliver meaningful results for the Worcester and Middlesex District and everyone who calls it home."

Cronin also unveiled a new initiative, which would provide funding to construct vocational education annexes at comprehensive high schools for juniors and seniors to access regionally aligned career training.

According to Cronin, the initiative would help to address demand for vocational education at a fraction of the cost associated with expanding existing vocational schools.

Before departing, Rodrigues visited the offices of both Fitchburg Mayor Sam Squailia and Leominster Mayor Dean Mazzarella to discuss the cities' efforts to expand the region's housing stock, revitalize downtown Fitchburg, and provide relief for Leominster residents reeling from last fall's flooding.

This May, the Senate will take up its annual budget, where Cronin will have the opportunity to advocate to fund the programs and initiatives discussed during the tour.