Sen. Judy Schwank named champion of public education

State Sen. Judy Schwank has been named a champion of public education.

The Pennsylvania School Boards Association recently presented the Ruscombmanor Township Democrat with its Champion of Public Education Award, which recognizes lawmakers for their outstanding support of traditional public schools during a legislative session. This support is measured by the legislator’s voting record, introduced bills, attendance and involvement at their local districts and efforts to work with the association to support public schools.

Schwank was among six lawmakers selected to receive the award this year.

The association highlighted Schwank for making regular visits to schools in her district to witness programs and her engagement with school leaders on the issues they are facing. They also applauded her efforts to get legislation passed that would relieve school districts that provide their own online education programs from financial responsibility for those students who enroll in a cybercharter school — saving taxpayers millions of dollars.

“It’s critical that the commonwealth’s legislators understand how their decisions impact schools on a local level,” said Pennsylvania School Boards Association CEO Nathan Mains. “We commend Sen. Schwank for visiting her districts to witness their successes and challenges firsthand, and for fighting on their behalf in the capitol.”

Schwank said she is proud to support all those who help make schools successful.

“The success of Pennsylvania schools isn’t possible without contributions from community members, parents, administrative staff, teachers and the school board members who have a desire to be involved and give back to their local school districts,” she said. “I’ve always fought to ensure these individuals have the resources they need to give our children the best education possible.”

She said the association shares these values.

“I’m truly honored to receive this award and look forward to continuing to work with PSBA to build the education system Pennsylvanians deserve,” she said.

Source: Berkshire mont