Since she has been in the legislature, she has been passionate about advocating for improving our education system and for a more transparent and ethical government. She has passed numerous pieces of legislation to ensure government is run in a fair and transparent way. Much of her work has been to improve Colorado’s public education system, including sponsoring a bill last year that extended the Early Childhood School Readiness Legislative Commission. This will allow the legislature to ensure that existing childhood services work properly. The commission has been instrumental in directing attention to the needs of the youngest Coloradans and working to ensure Colorado invests in and improves early childhood development programs and services.

As president of the Westminster Education Association (1999-2003), Rep. Peniston forged coalitions with community groups, the school board, and the superintendent of schools to advance the role of public education in the community. She was a vocal advocate for better working conditions and compensation for teachers and support staff, and played a key role in organizing the support staff under the WEA umbrella.

In 1999, she retired from a 27-year career teaching foreign languages and social studies to middle school students in Adams County School District 50. Her Master’s Degree in Teaching International Affairs has given her a broad perspective on the necessity of preparing our youth to compete in the 21st century economy.

She is married to W.J. Peniston. They have two grown children, Erin and Geoffry, a granddaughter, Ava and a grandson, Nathaniel.