John,

Millions of New York kids are heading back to school this week. As the school year begins, I wanted to take a moment to talk to our young people — and their teachers and parents, too — about the year ahead. 

To all the students: Make the most of this year. Work hard, make incredible memories, and know that your teachers, your loved ones, and yes, even your governor, are here to support you every step of the way.

To all the teachers: Thank you for all you do to support our young people. I was inspired to enter government thanks to my eighth-grade teacher, and I firmly believe that teachers have the power to make a difference in their students’ lives!

And to all the parents: Amidst the hustle and bustle of the start of the year, take a moment to reflect on this moment. As a mom to adult children, I know that they grow up too fast.

I know a thing or two about being a kid in New York and being a mom in New York. Watch our “Ask the Gov” lightning round to hear about some of my favorite school memories — and to hear some advice as the school year begins. 

Watch >> 

Have a question for a future edition of "Ask the Gov"?
Submit your questions here.

Back-to-school also means new backpacks and supplies. Those costs add up for parents. And we’re giving them relief. This summer, parents across New York started getting checks in the mail to help pay for school supplies and other expenses.

I got to join a family during their back-to-school shopping to see how our supplemental Empire Child Credit is helping them.

Watch >>  

Click here to see if you’re eligible

As governor, I want to make sure we’re taking action to give students the best year possible — and that means making sure kids are supported inside and outside the classroom. On top of historic investments to support schools and help kids learn to read, we’re supporting students’ mental health by standing up to the addictive algorithms and technologies that distract our kids and hurt their mental wellbeing. 

Whether you’re sending kids off to school, you’re heading back to the classroom yourself, or you’re simply invested in making sure the next generation is supported as they navigate the world, know that we’re going to keep working hard to make sure our students have the tools they need to succeed. 

Ever Upward, 

Gov. Kathy Hochul 

P.S. As a mom, I’d be remiss if I didn’t take an opportunity to embarrass my (now grown up!) kids. The time really does fly by!