The new school year has begun and Western New York families are settling back into school routines. But as parents know well, each September is a little different than the one before it. This year, students and families across New York can look forward to meaningful improvements to their schools and education system.

Here in the 61st State Senate District, several school districts are continuing to invest in their facilities and programs as they begin the new school year. These investments, made possible by careful planning and state support, ensure that students have safe, modern environments where they can focus on learning. Here’s a quick rundown:

• In Amherst, the district is moving forward with the next phase of its capital improvement project, which includes classroom and safety upgrades across multiple schools.

• In Ken-Ton, construction continues on a multi-year capital improvement project that includes classroom expansions, new athletic fields, improved security entrances, and upgraded bus and pickup/drop-off loops.

• Sweet Home is preparing for its own capital improvements to address building needs and increasing enrollment.

• In Williamsville, a districtwide project is underway to modernize elementary schools with new air conditioning and other infrastructure upgrades.

There’s a lot going on at the local level, but there are also two major initiatives taking effect statewide this year. The first is the expansion of the Universal School Meals Program, which now guarantees free breakfast and lunch for every student in New York. For years, too many children went through the school day distracted by hunger, while families struggled with rising grocery bills. By making meals available to all, we have addressed these issues while also removing the stigma and paperwork that has often kept eligible families from applying for free school meals for their children. This new standard eases the financial pressure on parents and makes sure no child goes hungry at lunchtime.

You’ve probably heard about the other new initiative: New York’s new distraction-free schools law, which prohibits cellphone use by students during the school day. We heard from teachers, parents, and students alike about the way constant phone use gets in the way of learning and healthy social development. With this new policy in place, classrooms can once again be places where attention is centered on academics, interaction, and growth, while still allowing for exceptions in emergencies or when devices are needed for medical or educational purposes.

These new initiatives are supported by another year of record state funding for education. This year’s state budget provides more than $37 billion in school aid, maintaining New York’s status as the national leader in per-student investment. Our investment supports local capital projects, expanded early childhood education, mental health services, and after-school programs that help families in every community.

A new school year always comes with challenges, but also with the excitement of new opportunities. With universal meals, distraction-free classrooms, and continued investment in our schools, we are making sure every student has the tools to succeed.