Shirley Horton has served in the Assembly since first being elected in 2002. She represents the 78th District which includes portions of rural San Diego County. Assemblymember Horton serves as Vice Chair of the Higher Education Committee. This year, as of June 11, 2007, she had introduced 11 bills, including AB 469 a bill which seeks to streamline teacher credentialing. This bill would shorten the time line the Commission on Teacher Credentialing, districts, and universities have to process applications for students seeking teaching credentials thereby enabling qualified teachers to get into the classrooms faster.

Prior to serving in the Assembly, Assemblymember Horton was elected for two terms, beginning in 1994, as the mayor of Chula Vista. During that time, she worked with local schools to ensure quality education. She remains active in her community, volunteering in a number of service organizations as well as serving on the board of the O’Farrell Community Foundation. She also co-founded the Police Activities League to promote after-school, gang alternative, and abuse prevention program.

Assemblymember Horton received her Bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University. After completing her formal education in 1976, she started and ran her own successful business until closing it to devote her career to public service. Assemblymember Horton lives in Chula Vista with her husband, Luther.