LANSING - State Representative Terry Brown (D-Pigeon) has been named 'Legislator of the Year' by the Michigan Association of School Social Workers (MASSW) in recognition of his advocacy of every student's right to receive a quality education and his hard work to ensure that schools are able to provide that.
"Michigan's students and families have benefited greatly from Representative Brown's commitment to making sure that every student has the opportunity and resources to get a high-quality education," said the MASSW's Patricia Sager. "Rep. Brown has not only been an excellent role model in the social work profession, but he has also carried that service into his work in the Legislature, especially as a member of the House Education Committee. We are proud to honor him with this award."
Brown worked for more than two decades in Huron County schools in various capacities, starting as a social worker. When he was elected, he was principal of the Huron Learning Center, a school for students with disabilities. Brown, who has a master's degree in social work from Michigan State University, remains a state-licensed social worker. The National Association of Social Workers-Michigan honored him earlier this year for his leadership in putting people before politics and working for change that moves Michigan forward.
"School social workers play a key role in helping every student succeed in school and move on to the workplace, advanced training or higher education, which is more important than ever," Brown said. "They are vital to creating the safe, supportive environment that children need in order to learn and grow. And with kids bringing tougher issues with them into the classroom these days, school social workers also connect students and their families to the services they need to help them succeed. I'm humbled to be honored by the folks who do this important work day in and day out."