Connecticut Association of Boards of Education (CABE)

09/09/2026

CABE Executive Director and General Counsel Patrice McCarthy weighs in on career pathways and the future of K-12 education funding in Connecticut in her latest New Haven Register Opinion piece.

Read the full piece here: https://ow.ly/WwQ250ZLgto

08/28/2026

CABE Executive Director and General Counsel Patrice McCarthy was honored to join today's celebration marking the official opening of the Plainville High School Trades Academy!

The new academy will provide students with hands-on training, industry-recognized credentials, and apprenticeship opportunities that prepare them for high-demand careers in the skilled trades.

Congratulations to Plainville Community Schools and everyone who helped make this exciting career pathway possible!

08/28/2026

As a new school year begins, CABE Executive Director and General Counsel Patrice McCarthy shares a special back-to-school message for Connecticut’s school board members, educators, and students.

Here’s to a successful school year and a continued commitment to supporting every student!

08/26/2026

ICYMI: CABE President Meg Scata, Portland BOE, and Executive Director and General Counsel Patrice McCarthy joined Brian & Company on WTIC News/Talk 1080 this morning to discuss back-to-school preparations, special education, school funding, and other important issues facing Connecticut’s public schools.

Listen Here: https://ow.ly/599F50ZFOuV

*Interview begins around the 2-minute mark.

08/25/2026

Join CABE President Meg Scata, Portland BOE, and CABE Executive Director and General Counsel Patrice McCarthy on Brian & Company on WTIC News/Talk 1080 tomorrow, Wednesday, August 26, from 8:30–9:00 a.m.

They’ll discuss back-to-school readiness and school funding, among other important topics impacting Connecticut’s public schools.

Tune in Wednesday at 8:30 a.m. to hear the conversation!

08/14/2026

The Marlborough Board of Education has unanimously appointed Paul K. Smith as its next Superintendent of Schools. With more than two decades of educational leadership experience, Mr. Smith brings a strong commitment to student success, collaboration, and community engagement.

CABE is proud to support school districts through the superintendent search process. This search was conducted in partnership with CABE Search Services consultant Mary Broderick, Ed.D.

Congratulations to Mr. Smith and the Marlborough community! We wish him great success in his new role.

Press Release: https://ow.ly/VlCi50ZzZWe

08/12/2026

Meet Our Friday Morning Keynote Speaker!

We’re excited to welcome Dr. Phelton Moss, Managing Director of Government Relations at The National School Boards Association, as our Friday Morning Keynote Speaker at the 2026 CABE/CAPSS Convention!

With experience as an educator, school leader, professor, elected board member, and federal policy advisor, Dr. Moss brings a unique perspective on the issues shaping public education. His keynote will explore key federal education issues, what they mean for local public schools, and how school board leaders can advocate effectively for their communities.

Friday, November 20, 2026
Mystic Marriott, Groton, CT

We look forward to an insightful morning with Dr. Moss!

08/10/2026

Public education deserves a conversation grounded in facts, thoughtful discussion, and a commitment to doing what is best for Connecticut’s children.

In his latest op-ed, CABE Immediate Past President and The National School Boards Association President Leonard Lockhart examines the debate over school choice, education funding, and the future of our public schools.

Read Leonard’s perspective in the Hartford Courant: “CT school choice: Facts, funding and our children’s future.”

Read the full op-ed: https://ow.ly/g3Al50Zy4V9

CREC and its partners have consistently advocated for a student-centered funding model that funds every child based on actual needs, regardless of the building they walk into.

08/06/2026

The final session of the day highlighted the power of partnerships.

Darren Schwartz, Superintendent of Waterbury Public Schools; Kara Casimiro, Superintendent of Danbury Public Schools; and Andy George, Chair of the Stamford Board of Education, shared how their districts have grown successful career pathway programs through collaboration with local businesses. Their discussion showcased how these partnerships create meaningful opportunities for students while helping build the skilled workforce Connecticut needs for the future.

08/06/2026

Attendees received an update on the Governor’s Career Pathways Blue Ribbon Commission from commission members Erin Benham, Vice Chair of the Connecticut State Board of Education; Kara Casimiro, Superintendent of Danbury Public Schools; and Patrice McCarthy, Executive Director and General Counsel of CABE.

The panel discussed the commission’s ongoing work to strengthen career pathways for Connecticut students and prepare them for success in college, careers and beyond.