Connecticut Law ARTICLE VIII Of Education
Here is a summary and explanation of Article Eighth (VIII) – Of Education from the Connecticut Constitution:
📘 Connecticut Constitution – Article VIII: Of Education
This article outlines the state’s responsibility to provide public education, and it establishes the framework for managing educational institutions and resources in Connecticut.
📚 Section-by-Section Breakdown:
🔹 Section 1 – Free Public Schools
Text:
"There shall always be free public elementary and secondary schools in the state. The general assembly shall implement this principle by appropriate legislation."
✅ Meaning:
Guarantees the right to free public education for all children at the elementary and secondary levels.
The Connecticut General Assembly (state legislature) is mandated to create laws to ensure this right is fulfilled.
🔹 Section 2 – School Fund
Text:
"The school fund shall remain a perpetual fund. The interest of said fund shall be inviolably appropriated to the support and encouragement of the public schools throughout the state, and for the equal benefit of all the people thereof."
✅ Meaning:
Establishes a permanent education trust fund (known as the Connecticut School Fund).
Only the interest earned from this fund can be used — and it must be spent exclusively for public education.
Ensures equity and sustainability in school funding.
🔹 Section 3 – Higher Education Governance
Text:
"The general assembly shall maintain a system of higher education, including The University of Connecticut, which shall be dedicated to excellence in higher education. The governing boards of institutions of higher education shall have the power to make rules for the government of their institutions, subject to law."
✅ Meaning:
The state must maintain a public system of higher education, including:
The University of Connecticut (UConn).
Governance boards (e.g., Board of Regents, UConn Board of Trustees) have the authority to manage their institutions, but are still subject to state laws.
🔚 Summary:
Article VIII of the Connecticut Constitution guarantees:
Free K–12 public education.
Equitable and protected school funding.
A public higher education system with semi-autonomous governance.
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