Senator Pam Helming was honored by the Marcus Whitman Central School District with the “Paying Attention to the Whole Student” (PAWS) Award. The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate outstanding advocacy and commitment to supporting students’ success in and out of the classroom.

The recognition came during the district’s opening‑day program, where Senator Helming had presented a proclamation earlier acknowledging the tremendous work of Marcus Whitman Special Olympics leaders, organizers, and volunteers.

"Our District is blessed to have Senator Helming taking such an active role in our students' experiences. We are proud of our PAWS program, and we know that the Senator supports all of our families by always making each student a priority,” said Sheila Brown, President Marcus Whitman School Board.

As part of his opening remarks, Superintendent Brown announced the new annual PAWS recognition; Senator Helming was surprised and honored when she was called forward and presented the 2025 PAWS Award in front of the board, administration, teachers, and staff.

“Receiving the PAWS Award from Marcus Whitman is very meaningful to me. Representing more than thirty school districts across the Finger Lakes, I see every day how critical it is to invest in our students, teachers, and families. Our schools and our children are at the heart of our communities, and I am so proud of the work being done every day here at Marcus Whitman and grateful for the chance to support their mission.”

Helming added, “Students living in our rural communities and attending smaller school districts should have the same resources and opportunities for success, and I’ll continue to work to ensure these young people become our next generation of leaders.”

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