NY Governor Kathy Hochul on Education Funding, Teacher Support, and Budget Priorities

Fighting for Education Funding

• 🎯 New York Governor Kathy Hochul is rallying support to fight against proposed cuts to the Department of Education.
• ✊ She emphasizes the need for strong advocates like Mike McGar, highlighting his efforts to prepare teachers for new opportunities, such as those brought by the Micron investment.
• 🗣️ Hochul stresses that cutting education funding is akin to saying children don't matter, a stance she believes is unacceptable in New York.

Empowering Teachers and Students

• 💡 Melinda Person is praised for her dedication, particularly in advocating for a cell phone ban to reduce distractions and foster better student-teacher relationships.
• 📚 Teachers are recognized as gatekeepers and guardians of the future, responsible for guiding children, instilling confidence, and teaching them to stand up for themselves.
• 📢 The importance of civic engagement is highlighted, encouraging teachers, parents, and students to show up, participate in rallies, and lobby congressional offices.

State Investments and Affordability

• 💰 New York is making significant investments, including addressing years of stagnation in Foundation Aid to ensure money reaches schools and children.
• 🍎 To combat hunger and support families, the state budget will cover the cost of school breakfast and lunch for every child, saving parents an estimated $1,600 per year per child.
• 💸 The budget also includes an inflation rebate of $500 for families and a middle-class tax cut, aiming to put nearly $5,000 back into families' pockets.

Partnership and Advocacy

• 🤝 Hochul positions herself as a partner to teachers, emphasizing that their well-being and the future of children are paramount.
• 🇮🇪 She draws a parallel between her Irish heritage and the spirit of fighting for what's right, vowing to advocate fiercely for teachers and the students they inspire.
• ❤️ The Governor expresses deep gratitude for the daily work and dedication of teachers, acknowledging their role as moral leaders and inspirations.