A New Voice for Berks County: Rep.-Elect Rusnock Plans to Address Urban and Rural Needs
In November’s election, Jacklyn Rusnock triumphed in her bid to represent the 126th Legislative District in Berks County, securing the seat previously held by her ex-husband, former Democratic Pennsylvania House Speaker Mark Rozzi. With a background deeply rooted in health care and education, Rusnock believes her experiences will guide her as she tackles the unique challenges of her diverse district.
Her victory was not only a personal achievement but a testament to the strong family commitment to public service. Mark Rozzi, who had endorsed her candidacy, emphasized their shared vision of community care. “If we can be in a position to help the people in our community, we’re going to do that,” said Rusnock, reflecting on their joint efforts to serve the area.
Rusnock’s election brings a blend of experience and a fresh perspective, with a focus on education, health care, and bridging the gap between urban and rural constituents.
A District with Diverse Needs
Representing the 126th District is no small task, with its blend of urban and rural areas. The district encompasses parts of Reading, including the Reading School District, and stretches into rural parts of Berks County, such as Muhlenberg Township. With such diversity, Rusnock understands that different areas face different struggles—particularly when it comes to education and health care.
“The challenges that the people face in the city of Reading are much different than what those in the more rural areas, like Muhlenberg, are dealing with,” Rusnock said. For her, it’s about being mindful of these contrasts while ensuring that every resident receives the support they need. Whether it’s providing resources to urban students or advocating for rural health care access, Rusnock’s broad experience positions her well to serve these varied communities.
- Urban Needs: In Reading, residents face issues typical of a city, such as access to quality health care and education.
- Rural Needs: Meanwhile, rural areas like Muhlenberg are concerned with different aspects, such as transportation, agricultural concerns, and local healthcare facilities.
By recognizing these distinctions, Rusnock aims to create a balanced approach to legislation that serves both communities equitably.
Education as a Core Priority
A former dental hygienist and teacher, Rusnock’s career has always centered around education. She worked as a dental occupations teacher at the Reading Muhlenberg Career and Technology Center, and her passion for education runs deep. As a member of the Muhlenberg School Board, Rusnock already has a track record of involvement in local education issues.
Her district includes a mix of public schools, vocational training centers, and high school districts like Exeter and Antietam. “Part of my district is making sure that our school-age kids are getting what they need,” she said, emphasizing the importance of supporting all educational levels in her district. Whether it’s advocating for increased funding or ensuring that students have access to modern learning tools, education will be at the forefront of Rusnock’s legislative agenda.
“Making sure that we’re supporting the schools and the teachers in the area is going to be key,” Rusnock explained. But it’s not just about the students. As a coach and community mentor, she believes that fostering strong relationships with local organizations and families is essential to ensuring students’ success.
Health Care: A Personal Commitment
Rusnock’s background in health care, particularly in dental hygiene, has shaped her commitment to improving health services in the district. She recognizes that health care access is one of the most pressing issues for residents in both urban and rural communities.
“The way we approach health care in urban areas like Reading has to be different from rural areas like Muhlenberg,” she explained. “There are fewer providers and limited access to care in some of the more rural regions. I’m focused on ensuring we have accessible health care for all our residents.”
The former dental hygienist understands the importance of preventative care, especially for underserved communities. She is dedicated to addressing health disparities that may exist in her district, advocating for policies that will ensure everyone, regardless of location, has access to the care they need.
From Family to Public Service
Her decision to run for office is deeply personal. Rusnock and her ex-husband, Mark Rozzi, shared a long history of service to their community. “It’s important to listen to the people that you are serving so that you can better serve them,” Rusnock said. This philosophy of serving the community has been a guiding principle in her life, whether through her work as a school board member, coach, or teacher.
Despite their divorce, Mark Rozzi’s support of Rusnock’s candidacy speaks volumes about the mutual respect they share for each other’s commitment to public service. “We have always been committed to helping people in our community,” said Rusnock. It is this unwavering dedication to her neighbors that will guide her through her new role as a state representative.
Her victory marks a new chapter for the 126th District. With a blend of health care experience, a deep understanding of local education issues, and a genuine commitment to her community, Rusnock is ready to serve her constituents and address their most pressing needs.
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