Vote for Andy Hill | Letter

I’ve been involved in education advocacy in public schools for the past 12 years. As the parent of a child with autism, I’ve worked closely with families and schools to help students with disabilities. As an advocate for children in our foster care system, I help some of our most at-risk students get the supports they need

October 21, 2014 12:28 am
Letters to the editor
Letters to the editor

I’ve been involved in education advocacy in public schools for the past 12 years. As the parent of a child with autism, I’ve worked closely with families and schools to help students with disabilities. As an advocate for children in our foster care system, I help some of our most at-risk students get the supports they need. And like so many parents, as the mother of three school-aged children I’m a committed volunteer, helping out in our schools whenever I can.

When I first met Andy Hill, I was immediately impressed by his smarts, his passion for helping others and a problem-solving approach that puts what’s best for kids above politics. He understands the challenges our schools face. And he’s impatient, but in a good way, because that meant starting on his first day in office, Senator Hill was ready to tackle the big issues. He’s been unwilling to accept the same, tiresome excuses for past failures.
Most importantly, Sen. Hill listens. When parents like me approach him with a problem, he tries to understand it from our perspective. If issues come up that directly impact our community, he asks us to share our views. That’s because he knows the value of ensuring every viewpoint has a seat at the table.
During his time in office, Andy Hill has made helping our most vulnerable a top priority. His VIP Act means that 5,000 people with disabilities and their families will receive respite care and supported employment. His Para-educator Development Bill will provide a career path for educators who provide over half of all instruction to students with disabilities. This issue is important to me because I’ve seen firsthand how these dedicated professionals have changed the lives of students with disabilities, including my own son. Thanks to Sen. Hill, they will finally receive the support needed to do their jobs.
Elections are about choices. And in this election, for me, the choice is clear. I’m voting for Andy Hill because of his commitment to education and his passion for helping others. I hope you’ll do the same.
Beth Sigall, Redmond