Cranston, R.I. – The National Education Association Rhode Island Political Action Committee for Education (NEARI-PACE) met Saturday and voted unanimously to endorse Senator Sandra Cano for the First Congressional District.

“NEARI-PACE proudly endorses Senator Sandra Cano for Congress. From her very early days in public life as a Pawtucket School Committee member to now chairwoman of the Senate Education Committee, Cano has demonstrated a deep commitment to prioritizing and strengthening public education in Rhode Island,” said NEARI-PACE Committee Chair and NEARI Vice President Amy Mullen. “While Cano’s background and education are impressive, it is her track record that moved the committee. Senator Cano is a steadfast champion for public education advocating for school construction, universal Pre-K and early childhood education, healthy school meals for all, increased school mental health services, and expanded affordable access to higher education.

“Senator Sandra Cano has experience and a proven track record at the local and state level. We look forward to activating our 12,000 members with a robust member-to-member campaign, so she can bring her expertise, passion, and energy to Congress.”

“I’m thrilled the NEARI-PACE Committee saw in Sandra Cano what I see every day from my colleague in the Rhode Island Senate,” said NEARI President Val Lawson. “Sandra is a fierce advocate focused on effective policy that truly makes an impact on people’s lives and she does not shy away from reaching across the aisle to get the work done. Sandra has been involved at all levels of government and her number one priority has always been education. She believes that a high-quality public education begins with opportunity and access no matter your zip code, and she works tirelessly to make that reality possible for Rhode Island students and families.

“Sandra knows that opportunity requires an economy that works for the middle class and a democracy that works for all. She is a strong, pro-union advocate for working Rhode Islanders and believes in striving toward equity so all Americans can live, work, and retire with dignity. She stands with public education and Rhode Island workers, and we will support her journey to Washington. Sandra Cano’s voice is needed in Congress.”

"From my time on the Pawtucket School Committee and City Council to serving as Chair of the Senate Education Committee, education has been the issue I've been most passionate about. I am so honored to receive this endorsement, because classroom teachers and education support professionals have had such a profound impact on my life,” said Sandra Cano. “When I came to this country at age 16, I spoke no English. My public education allowed me to learn the language, and ultimately live my own version of the American Dream. Children deserve the best possible opportunity in life, both inside and outside the classroom. When we support teachers, our students have a better chance to thrive. I’m committed to this work, and I’m so proud to have the support of NEARI in my campaign.”