School’s nearly out, and Thomas Hooker School in Bridgeport faced a shortage of supplies this year. However, thanks to a $4,000 contribution from the CT Lottery in collaboration with Fairfield University Athletics, students will return to better-equipped classrooms.
“Teachers spend a lot of time and money prepping their classrooms for a new school year,” said Giovanna Ramos, principal of Thomas Hooker School. “They spend a lot of their own money out of pocket, so it’s nice to say, ‘Hey, we got this gift and it’s going directly to your classroom.’”
The staff and teachers were recognized during a check presentation ceremony on Monday. The school caters to students from pre-K through 8th grade with approximately 250 students enrolled.
The donation resulted from a partnership between the CT Lottery and Fairfield University Athletics during the 2024-25 basketball season aimed at celebrating teachers and promoting community engagement.
“At the Connecticut Lottery, giving back to our state and our communities is at the core of what we do. Support for education is a big part of that mission, and we’re proud to provide resources directly to our teachers,” said Frank Suarez, President and CEO of the CT Lottery. “It’s another way we continue to invest in Connecticut’s future.”
The CT Lottery pledged $10 for every assist made by the Fairfield University women’s basketball team this season, up to $4,000. Thomas Hooker School was selected among schools participating in Fairfield University’s annual Kids Day Out — an event bringing local students to experience Division I basketball.
“This partnership is a reflection of Fairfield’s Jesuit mission — to be men and women for others,” stated Assistant Vice President and Deputy Athletics Director Zach Dayton. “Honoring teachers, supporting students and creating joyful, meaningful community experiences is at the heart of what we do. We are grateful to the Connecticut Lottery for helping bring this vision to life.”
“This gift is incredible and it goes a long way to help our teachers and staff at Thomas Hooker,” expressed Dr. Albert Sackey, Assistant Superintendent of Bridgeport Public Schools. “Thank you to the CT Lottery and Fairfield University Athletics.”
