Sen.Tracey Eide, D-Federal Way, was recognized in a noon awards ceremony under the Capitol dome today for her efforts to promote online learning.

The Pioneer Educator award is given out each year by the Washington Families for Online Learning. The nonprofit grassroots organization this year is backing Senate Bill 5410, a measure introduced by Sen. Eric Oemig that would require accreditation of online programs eligible for basic education funding.

The bill also would require a study of existing online programs offered across the state. Eide is a co-sponsor of the legislation, and also introduced Senate Bill 5378 which passed the Senate unanimously.

Eide is the Senate Democrats’ majority floor leader and led the successful effort for simple majority for Washington school levies, approved by voters in 2007.

Sens. Eric Oemig and Rodney Tom were also honored at the ceremony.