Senator Cindy O’Laughlin, R-Shelbina, has been named chairwoman of the Senate Education Committee, effective immediately. She will replace former Sen. Gary Romine who was appointed to serve on the State Tax Commission. Senator O’Laughlin, a current Education Committee member, will now lead its meetings and conduct its hearings.
Her personal interest and professional background in education make her a natural fit for this new role. Since taking office in 2018, Sen. O’Laughlin has demonstrated her vested interest in education by visiting several of the schools in her 14 county district. Meeting with teachers, administrators, students and parents in Northeast Missouri about some of the challenges they face has solidified her passion and inspired her to take action.
Senator O’Laughlin has an extensive record as it relates to K-12 education, including serving a term on the Shelby County R-IV School Board. She also served as an administrator at a local Christian School. Senator O’Laughlin has championed charter school legislation and sponsored multiple education related bills during her first years in office. “As a mother, grandmother, business owner and lifelong learner, I understand that quality education is the gateway to success and opportunity,” O’Laughlin stated, “I am honored by this opportunity and will use this platform to advance policies that benefit all of Missouri’s children.”
For more information about Sen. O’Laughlin, visit www.senate.mo.gov/mem18/.