Washington’s public education system is set to be front and center during the 2015 legislative session as lawmakers address funding and policies that affect schools statewide. The Senate announced Tuesday evening that Sen. Steve Litzow was chosen to continue his work as chairman of the Senate Early Learning and K-12 Education Committee, which he began leading in 2013.

“The upcoming session provides us with a great opportunity to make progress toward providing a quality education for all Washington children,” said Litzow. “Continuing our bipartisan effort in the Senate and House of Representatives is the best way to fulfill our moral and constitutional duty to prepare all children for college and a career. Increasing the high school graduation rate and closing the state’s persistent opportunity gap will remain our guiding principles throughout our committee work.”

In addition to his role on the education committee, Litzow will continue serving on the Senate Transportation Committee, where he will work on transportation infrastructure planning as well as transportation options for Eastside residents.

“A safe and efficient transportation system is essential for residents to get where they need to go and businesses to operate,” continued Litzow. “While I’ll advocate for projects and improvements in our community, those pieces are part of a larger regional network that must be addressed in the Puget Sound region and statewide.”

Litzow will also serve as a member of the Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee.

The Legislature is set to convene for its 105-day session on January 12.