In collaboration with the Connecticut Office of Higher Education, Connecticut’s State Department of Education, and public and private higher education institutions across the state, Fairfield University will recruit and train 500 college students to provide operational support for K-12 educational programs this summer. Applications are now being accepted through Friday, May 21, 2021.

The Connecticut College Corps Program is the collaboration of a statewide working group of higher education institutions, seeking to support K-12 summer enrichment. It was created in response to Governor Ned Lamont’s plan to provide engaging educational experiences for K-12 students who have had their school years significantly disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The program was developed by the AccelerateCT Education Task Force. The Connecticut College Corps initiative is being funded by $1.5 million of Connecticut’s Coronavirus Relief Funds, in addition to $1.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds under a proposal that the governor recently submitted to the state legislature.

“Thousands of students have had their school years significantly disrupted from the pandemic and it is critical that we help them have a stimulating summer and an engaging educational experience,” Governor Lamont said. “Our administration is launching the Connecticut College Corps as a way to provide K-12 students with much needed summer enrichment opportunities in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, while at the same time giving college students experiences that will improve their career opportunities.”

As part of Fairfield’s recruitment and training efforts — led by the University’s Graduate School of Education and Allied Professions — the 500 Corps members will receive one week of specialized training on topics including social-emotional health and equity, diversity, and inclusion, prior to being matched with summer enrichment programs throughout the state. Corps members will also participate in weekly cohort meetings with team leaders and mentors who will provide ongoing guidance, resources, and support. All Corps members who complete the program requirements will receive a $4,500 stipend.

“Fairfield University is honored to be the home for the Connecticut College Corps,” said Fairfield University President Mark R. Nemec, PhD. “Connecticut’s higher education institutions have worked collaboratively and in strong partnership with the state since last March. We are eager to continue that partnership in the form of the Connecticut College Corps, and we look forward to recruiting and providing the necessary training to these young adults so they are equipped to make a difference in the lives of children throughout the state this summer.”

All undergraduate college students who attend Connecticut colleges and universities are eligible to apply to the program, including Class of 2021 graduating seniors. Connecticut residents who attend college out of state are also eligible.

The application deadline to apply is Friday, May 21, 2021. For details and to apply visit fairfield.edu/collegecorpsct. For questions about the Connecticut College Corps Summer program or application process, contact collegecorpsct@fairfield.edu.