Connecticut is adding $5 million to expand health benefits for classroom paraprofessionals, aiming to fill 1,300 vacant positions statewide. Governor Ned Lamont announced the funding increase yesterday, saying it will help make these essential but lower-paid jobs more attractive. The expanded program will now cover an additional 2,200 paraeducators. With schools across the state starting this week, state officials say they hope this added support will help retain and recruit much-needed staff in classrooms.