“The issues addressed in Governor Hochul’s State of the State address today bolstered my confidence in making our great state a stronger and safer place to live. As an educator with over 40 years of experience in the classroom, I’m particularly excited about the Governor’s Back to Basics proposal, which will return to evidence-based methods to ensure children learn to read at an appropriate pace.

“A well-rounded and rigorous education is how we provide children with the opportunity to have a strong foundation for their future. Reading skills are particularly vital as studies show that those who do not achieve reading proficiency by third grade are four times more likely to drop out of school when they’re older. We cannot accept this future for any child.

“Additionally, I am happy to see the Governor’s commitment to focusing on public safety in this year’s budget. Retail theft has become a scourge on our state’s local businesses, allowing many reoffending criminals to escape without justice being served. The Governor’s proposal of creating a dedicated New York State Police force will work towards properly dismantling these organized criminal rings and bringing peace of mind to our hardworking local businesses.

“I look forward to working alongside the governor and my legislative colleagues to pass measures that help ensure our community’s needs are met and create a brighter future for all New Yorkers.”