This morning, U.S. Rep. Harry Mitchell announced that he is supporting Penny for Superintendent of Public Instruction. We welcome the Congressman’s support as we continue to make high standards and high expectations a reality in Arizona. The full text of the press release is below:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Representative Harry Mitchell Endorses Penny Kotterman for Superintendent of Public Instruction

TEMPE (May 17, 2010) - U.S. Rep. Harry Mitchell (D-Ariz.) today announced his support for Penny Kotterman’s campaign for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction. Mitchell, elected to serve Arizona’s Fifth District in the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006, represents much of the Northeast Valley, including Tempe, Scottsdale, Fountain Hills and portions of Mesa and Chandler.
 
For 28 years, Mitchell taught American government and economics at Tempe High School, the same high school he graduated from. He also served as an adjunct professor at his alma mater, Arizona State University. Prior to his election to Congress, Mitchell served as a longtime mayor of Tempe and in the Arizona State Senate representing Tempe, South Scottsdale and Ahwatukee.
 
“As a former teacher, I know how important and valuable it is to have a classroom teacher lead education efforts in Arizona,” Mitchell said. “Penny is the only candidate for Superintendent of Public Instruction with the experience, leadership, and local roots needed to be an effective advocate for our children and grandchildren. While the Arizona legislature continues to propose education cuts to balance their budget, Penny understands that investments in education translate into a more prepared, competitive workforce that can provide for a sustainable economic future critically needed in Arizona. Penny offers a better future for our kids.”
 
Penny has been working tirelessly across the state to promote her message of high standards and high expectations for all students, teachers, parents, and schools. Mitchell joins other elected officials, former teachers and education advocacy groups in endorsing the Kotterman campaign.
 
“I am honored to have received Harry’s endorsement,” Kotterman said. “Harry is a true friend to education in Arizona and has admirably represented the values of Arizonans in our nation’s Capitol. I have no doubt his training and experience as a public school teacher have served him well. Patience is certainly a virtue in Congress, and it is learned in the classroom.”
 
Most recently, Kotterman was the Associate Director for New Policy and Programs at the Arizona K-12 Center, where she created and managed professional development for educators statewide. She arrived there after six years as president of the Arizona Education Association and a classroom teaching career spanning nearly two decades. She is truly a lifelong teacher, parent, teacher trainer, and teacher mentor. Visit www.pennykotterman.com for more information.

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