Governor Kay Ivey Urges Alabama Students to Dream Boldly, Work Hard as New School Year Begins

August 4, 2025 - MONTGOMERY, AL. - As students across the state head back to school, Governor Kay Ivey released an inspiring video message on Monday, encouraging Alabama's young learners to approach the new academic year with ambition, resilience, and community spirit.

The governor's remarks reflect a blend of personal experience, historic perspective, and a call to action for the future leaders of Alabama. "Whether you're walking into fourth grade or heading into your final year of high school, this moment matters," Ivey said. "A fresh start, a clean slate, a time to set goals and dream big."

Drawing on her own background as both a student and teacher, Governor Ivey emphasized the life-shaping power of education. "The lessons you learn, the friends you make, the habits you build – they all help lay the foundation for your future."

She also connected the academic year to a historic milestone: the upcoming celebration of America's 250th anniversary. "The next 250 years," she stated, "depend on the work being done right now in Alabama's classrooms."

Ivey reinforced her longstanding belief that education is the cornerstone of Alabama's success. "Strong Students lead to a Strong Alabama," she declared, urging students to embrace each challenge-from math equations to science experiments-as stepping stones toward leadership and service.

In a closing challenge, Governor Ivey encouraged students to "raise your hand, lift someone up, and be brave enough to fail, then try again." She painted a hopeful vision in which today's students could one day be recognized as changemakers for the state.

"As we look to the future of our great country," Ivey said, "I wouldn't be a bit surprised if that student is you."

The governor's full video message is available via her official channels, serving as a rallying call to young Alabamians: Let's get to work-and make this school year the strongest yet.