Commissioner Russell-Tucker Launches 4th Annual PK-12 School Staff Appreciation Digital Backpack Program

Press Releases

06/17/2025

Commissioner Russell-Tucker Launches 4th Annual PK-12 School Staff Appreciation Digital Backpack Program

(HARTFORD, CT) – Today, Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker and the Connecticut State Department of Education are pleased to announce the 4th Annual PK-12 School Staff Appreciation Digital Backpack Program.

As in prior years, this program will provide special discounts to all PK-12 public and private school staff, including Adult Education program staff, over the summer months.

This year, school staff from across the state can take advantage of dozens of different discounts including at museums, breweries, sporting events (from the Yankees and Red Sox to the Hartford Athletic, Connecticut Sun and Hartford Yard Goats) and much more! To view a complete list of participating businesses and how to access each discount, please refer to portal.ct.gov/digitalbackpack.

“Connecticut’s school staff go above and beyond every day to support our students, and that hard work does not go unnoticed,” said Governor Ned Lamont. “Like in past summers, this Digital Backpack is a small token of appreciation for the incredible work being done each day to support students and families. I hope everyone enjoys these well-earned discounts and takes time for a relaxing and rewarding summer.”

"We are excited to announce the return of the School Staff Appreciation Digital Backpack Program. It is our way of saying thank you to all our school staff for their hard work and dedication throughout the year,” Commissioner Russell-Tucker said. “As our educators and support staff continue to foster the growth, development, and well-being of all our students, the discounts provided by this program during the summer months are well deserved. It is a small gesture to show our appreciation for the incredible impact our school staff make in the lives of our students and communities.”

Eligible public and private school staff include bus drivers, paraeducators, administrators, school nurses, teachers, school nutrition staff, school counselors, school psychologists, custodians, and everyone who plays a part in the school ecosystem.

Additionally, the Digital Backpack highlights existing opportunities at over 100 Connecticut State Parks. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s (DEEP) Passport to the Parks provides free entry and parking for Connecticut-registered vehicles, and Museum Passes available at your local public library provide free admission to the exhibits at Dinosaur, Fort Trumbull, and Gillette Castle State Parks.

Businesses still interested in offering discounts through this program may sign up at portal.ct.gov/digitalbackpack until July 31, 2025.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 22, 2025

Matthew Cerrone
CONNECTICUT Education
matthew.cerrone@ct.gov

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