Good morning, Hartford.

More than 2,000 families received free back-to-school gear Tuesday at Dunkin' Park as Angels of Edgewood hosted its sixth annual drive with over 100 community groups setting up tables, helping local students return to class prepared with new supplies.

Connecticut leaders honored Dolly Parton after she died Tuesday in Nashville by highlighting the Imagination Library that sends free books to children in Hartford and New Britain (managed by United Way).

Gov. Lamont and local librarians underscored her lasting community impact.

The Department of Education has received a five-year, $10M grant to expand reading programs for kindergarten through third grade students.

Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker said the funding builds on previous investments to enhance literacy instruction (supporting local teachers).

The Blue Ribbon Commission on K-12 Education Funding met recently to hear expert Marguerite Roza debate how to address funding disparities and falling enrollment in public schools.

A public survey is open until the end of August and the final report is due Jan. 15.

Hartford public schools reopened Tuesday morning with over 15,500 students in 42 programs as district officials noted that summer preparations helped ensure a smooth start.

Students in Stamford, Westport, Wilton, Cornwall and Washington returned to school Tuesday while more districts begin classes Wednesday.

Local police reminded drivers to stop for school buses and stressed that pedestrians use designated crosswalks.

On Tuesday morning, Calling All Brothers returned to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School to greet students arriving for their first day with clapping and a cheering tunnel.

Pastor AJ Johnson said the event builds support and hope as students begin a new school year.

Shark sightings have surged this summer in Long Island Sound — causing fishing gear damage and fewer striped bass catches as sharks eat vital bunker supplies, explained Mike Roy of Reel Cast Charters.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration will release a sandbar shark assessment in early 2027.

An adult from Hartford County who traveled internationally was confirmed as Connecticut’s third measles case in 2026 after a state lab test on Sunday.

The patient was hospitalized with a high fever & later developed a rash.

Hartford Wolf Pack unveiled its promotional schedule for the 2026-27 season, marking its 30th season in Hartford; the home opener is set for Saturday, Oct.

10 against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins with giveaways and themed nights planned during games.

Hartford Athletic will face Birmingham Legion FC on Saturday at Trinity Health Stadium in Hartford, with kickoff set for 7:00 p.m. Fans can watch the game on WFSB+ Channel 3 and on radio via WWAX.