Rep. Tana Senn (D-Mercer Island) was selected by the Early Learning Action Alliance as a Crayon Award recipient for 2016.

Every two years, the Early Learning Action Alliance (ELAA) presents awards to legislators who are leaders and champions for early learning in the Legislature.

ELAA is a broad coalition of nonprofits, businesses and professional associations that are dedicated to making sure that every child in Washington arrives at kindergarten prepared to succeed.

“By prioritizing the early years of a child’s life, we are making wise investments that help ensure kids have a strong foundation moving forward into adulthood,” Senn said in a press release. “Helping our state’s most vulnerable children, like those in the child welfare system, access high-quality early learning is critical.”

Senn is being recognized for her leadership in the Legislature on early learning policies and funding, and her focus on our state’s most vulnerable children in particular.

Much of a child’s future is determined by the opportunities and support provided during their first few years of life. High-quality early learning is one of the best investments people make in the future of Washington state, Senn said. Research shows that for every $1 invested in early learning, we get $4-$7 back, according to the press release.

“I am honored to be receiving a Crayon Award for my work on behalf of young people across our state,” said Senn, who is vice chair of the Early Learning and Human Services Committee, and serves on the Appropriations and General Government and Information Technology Committees.

Senn represents the 41st Legislative District, which includes Bellevue, Mercer Island, Issaquah, Sammamish, Newcastle, Renton and Beaux Arts Village.