First day of free 2-K: Hochul and Mamdani open the program for 2,000+ two-year-olds in Washington Heights; state says its $73M start-up money grows to $425M by 2027, Mamdani promises 12,000 more seats next year

Hochul announces the first phase of a SUNY Brain Institute, a federated statewide neuroscience research network aimed at age-related brain disorders

Hochul says she will propose holding SUNY and CUNY tuition flat in the next budget; state cites TAP eligibility raised to $125,000 income, 28% increase in operating support, and free community college for adult learners via Reconnect

Hochul opens the school year with Pre-K seats in 402 districts and, for the first time, a date: statewide universal Pre-K for 4-year-olds by fall 2028