WASHINGTON – The National PTA recognized U.S. Senator Christopher Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, with its 2019 Congressional Voice for Children Award. The award honors outstanding leadership and commitment to taking action on issues that affect the education, health, safety, well-being and long-term success of America’s children. Murphy along with other honoree U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) was presented with the award Wednesday night during the 2019 National PTA Legislative Conference. 

Every year, the National PTA Legislative Conference brings together PTA leaders and advocates from across the country to explore the association’s advocacy priorities and the federal policies that impact kids as well as actively advocate to create a better future for every child. 

Murphy has led and supported important gun violence prevention legislation, including authoring the Background Check Expansion Act in the U.S. Senate to expand federal background checks to all gun sales. He has also led the effort for increased access to mental health services and pushed for effective, fair and consistently-implemented positive school discipline policies. 

“I’ve used my seat on the HELP Committee to make sure every child in America has access to a quality education, regardless of his or her race, zip code or learning ability,” said Murphy. “As a parent of two school-age boys, I know how important it is for me to be an active participant in their school communities. I’m honored to receive this award from National PTA and will continue to support the families and communities working hard to make sure every child attends an excellent school where they can grow and learn.” 

“Senators Blunt and Murphy are dedicated to taking action for kids by supporting and advancing legislation that makes a difference for every child,” said Jim Accomando, president of National PTA. “We thank them for their commitment to recognizing the essential role of family engagement and are thrilled to honor them with our 2019 Congressional Voice for Children Award. We look forward to recognizing them at our legislative conference.” 

“Senators Blunt and Murphy are leading the charge to ensure family engagement is prioritized and every child has access to a high-quality public education in a learning environment that is healthy, safe and secure,” added Nathan R. Monell, CAE, National PTA executive director. “They are true voices for our nation’s children, and we commend them for their efforts, leadership and commitment.” 

National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of family engagement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health and welfare of children and youth. For more information, visit PTA.org. 

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