Sen. Kauffman sworn in, makes history, as 2007 legislative session begins

OLYMPIA – Sen. Claudia Kauffman, D-Kent, today was sworn in to represent the 47th Legislative District. A member of the Nez Perce tribe, she is the first Native American woman to serve in the Washington State Senate.

“I am ready to get to work on behalf of the 47th District,” said Kauffman. “As a working mother of three, I understand the challenges facing families in my district. My top priority this session is improving education for my district and the entire state.”

“Providing high-quality education is our government’s most important responsibility. The Legislature has the opportunity to make a significant down payment in basic education this session, and I am optimistic that we can make K-12 education more effective in Washington.”

Kauffman, who will serve on the Early Learning & K-12 Education Committee, serves on the Board of Trustees of the Evergreen State College and chairs the Kent School District’s Indian Parent Education Committee. Kauffman will also serve as vice chair of the Consumer Protection & Housing Committee and will serve on the Economic Development & Management and Transportation committees.
Kauffman was elected to the open seat of former Sen. Stephen Johnson, who retired in 2006.

The 60th Legislature convened in Olympia today and is expected to adjourn April 22nd.

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