Senate President Andy Biggs announced today that longtime education advocate Senator Sylvia Allen will serve as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Education in the upcoming legislative session. Sen. Allen replaces Sen. Kelli Ward, who resigned from the Senate on December 15.

Sen. Allen is currently a member of the Committee, and has served on Education Committees for the majority of her time in the Senate. As Chair, Senator Allen wants to spotlight the tremendous success of Arizona schools.

“I want to highlight the incredible teachers who are the reason for our children’s success. I also want to focus on parents’ responsibility in their children’s education. They are a critical part of their children’s success. We need to encourage that involvement,” said Senator Allen.

“I am excited to name Senator Allen Chairman of the Education Committee,” said Senate President Andy Biggs. “She understands what Arizona students and parents need in our education system. She is a very experienced legislator and I know she will do a wonderful job.” Opening Day for the Arizona Legislature is January 11, 2016.