Sens. Eric Oemig, D-Kirkland, Tracey Eide, D-Federal Way, and Rodney Tom, D-Bellevue, were recognized in a noon awards ceremony under the Capitol dome today for their 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 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 and Tom have signed on as co-sponsors.