San Diego City Wire

Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones of San Diego has been awarded the Golden Apple Award by California Parents for Public Virtual Education (CPPVE). This recognition is for his commitment to parental choice and equitable access to quality public education.

"I am honored to receive the Golden Apple Award from CPPVE," stated Leader Jones. "Parents deserve the ability to choose the best educational path for their children, and I will continue fighting to ensure every student in California has access to a quality education, whether in a traditional classroom or a public virtual school."

The Golden Apple Award is given each legislative session to policymakers who have shown exceptional dedication to expanding educational opportunities for families in California. Senator Jones joins previous recipients such as Governor Jerry Brown and other legislative leaders.

CPPVE is a volunteer-led organization composed of parents advocating for public virtual learning options like full-time school-at-home, non-classroom-based schools, and independent study programs. Since its inception in 2011, CPPVE has worked to inform policymakers about the importance of public virtual schools in California's education system.

“Senator Jones has been a steadfast advocate for parent choice and educational flexibility,” said Mike MeCey, Coalition Manager for CPPVE. “His commitment to ensuring all students—regardless of their learning environment—have access to high-quality public education makes him a deserving recipient of this award.”

Senator Jones has long supported education reform by promoting policies that empower parents, expand school choice, and protect funding for alternative public education models. His leadership has played a crucial role in providing resources necessary for students in non-traditional learning environments.