Molly Kelly

 Last week I chaired a meeting of the Task Force on Cheshire County District Court.

The State Budget passed by the House, Senate and signed by the Governor included the stipulation that the Keene District Court remain in Keene. Hence, the Task Force is now working with all interested parties to move forward on a Cheshire County Court facility proposal located in Keene.

At the meeting we discussed the Letter of Interest regarding the RFP for a Cheshire County Court facility (which was supported by the Task Force) as well as the next steps necessary to move the RFP process forward. Will keep you updated as we progress.

As a member of the ARRA Grant Working Committee, I attended the Committee's recent meeting receiving updates and advising the US Department of Education ARRA Grant Process. I met with State Dept. of Education to discuss Alternative Education Programs in response to legislation passed with the intent to lower the drop out rate and ensure that our young people graduate with the education and skills that will prepare them for the 21st Century.

The Advanced Manufacturing Education Advisory Council -- a Council of Representatives from manufacturing and education appointed by the Governor and Executive Council -- met in Concord. As Chair of the Council, I led a discussion focused on the importance of the partnership between manufacturing and the current State education curriculum. We have been reviewing research and information the Council gathered concerning the relationship between advanced manufacturing in our State and our current education curriculum.

I attended the Community College Oversight Committee as the Senate Committee member.

Finally, I participated in the U.S. Dept. of Ed. Conference Call: "Race to the Top" regarding Education Grants.