Governor Hochul Launches Historic Expansion of Free Pre-K Seats in More Than 400 School Districts Across New York State

Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin said, "Families in my district are deeply grateful to Governor Hochul for this historic investment in our children. I began my career in early childhood decades ago, and I know the extraordinary power of these earliest years. When we invest in children at the very moment their brains are developing most rapidly, we are not just expanding Pre-K - we are changing the trajectory of a generation and the future of New York."

South Huntington School District Board of Education President Nicholas R. Ciappetta said, "The new Pre-K center is a transformative moment for our educational community that could not have been possible without the leadership and vision of Governor Hochul."

South Huntington School District Superintendent Vito M. D'Elia said, "We are extremely grateful for Governor Hochul's strong commitment in providing Pre-K to all students in the South Huntington community and beyond. Our students will benefit tremendously throughout their educational experience thanks to these investments in their early academic years."

New Yorkers United for Child Care Executive Director Rebecca Bailin said, "Thanks to Governor Hochul's investments, parents across New York State can finally access what New York City families have had for over a decade: free, quality care for 4-year-olds. For families from Long Island to the Hudson Valley to Buffalo, saving $20,000 a year could mean the difference between staying here and leaving. We look forward to continuing this work with the Governor to deliver universal child care and keep families in New York."

Silas Wood Pre-K Center Parent Giovanna Bucino said, "We are incredibly fortunate to have this beautiful new Pre-K center in our community. This building is more than just walls and classrooms. It represents a commitment to our children. It says that our youngest learners matter. That their education matters. That our families matter. And as a parent, having access to free high-quality pre-K makes such a difference. Child care and early education can be such a huge expense for families, and knowing that our children can come here, learn, grow and be cared for without that added financial burden takes a real weight off our shoulders. I would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Governor Kathy Hochul for her commitment to expanding opportunities for our youngest learners and for supporting programs that make life a little easier for families like ours."