John,

Across New York — from Brooklyn to Buffalo — excitement is in the air as our young people are going back to school.

For so many children and families, this marks a new beginning and the opening of a world full of opportunities. But amid all this energy and activity, I know going back to school can still feel a little overwhelming.  

I know that our students have faced moments of doubt and uncertainty over the past few years, and that those feelings might not have quite gone away.  

It’s so important to me that as students go back to school, meet teachers, and make new friends, they have all the support they need to succeed — both in academics and in their mental health. 

That's why I've made supporting youth mental health care a top priority — from investments in our budget, to convening New York State’s first-ever Youth Mental Health Summit — to ensure our kids and schools can reach their full potential. 

We’re also making it easier for students to access free school meals, expanding universal pre-K, and more.  

As a mom and a grandma, I know that there’s nothing we want more than for our kids to thrive. As your governor, you have my word: We will leave no stone unturned to help our kids lead happier, healthier lives. 

Ever upward, 

Gov. Kathy Hochul