Rep. Cathy Dahlquist, R-Enumclaw, was presented an award by James Christianson, president of the Washington State Association of the Deaf, for her legislation, House Bill 1144, outlining standards for educational interpreters. The award was given to her in recognition of her “extraordinary service and dedication to improve the quality of the deaf education in the state of Washington.”

“I was truly honored to be recognized for a bill brought to me by a student, Harley, as part of his government class from Snohomish High School. We started this process two years ago with Harley asking for help to ensure he received a qualified interpreter in school,” said Dahlquist, who serves as the ranking Republican on the House Education Committee. “Together, we were able to craft a strong, bipartisan bill that will ensure our deaf and hearing-impaired students receive qualified interpreters to assist them.”

Dahlquist added that as the Legislature moves forward on targeted funding to improve educational outcomes for students, legislation like House Bill 1144will enhance public education in positive ways that help students learn and reach the goals set for them.

“I am committed to working to improve student learning, and that includes students who may face unique challenges in our classrooms,” Dahlquist said. “I am grateful to Harley and James for helping me craft a bill that will address a critical need in our schools.”