Former teacher and career legislator John Binienda of Massachusetts.

There are many examples of fine classroom teachers who have gone on to successful careers in politics. One of these is John Binienda, Sr., an educator who also served in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.

John was born on June 22, 1947, in Worcester, Massachusetts. He was one of eight children born to Mary G. (O’Coin) and Thaddeus A. Binienda. As a youth, John graduated from Saint Peter’s High School. After his high school graduation, he enrolled first at Quinsigamond Community College, and then Worcester State University. “He was fond of the school,” commented John’s son, Jamie Binienda. “He said the college offered many opportunities for adults and traditional-age college students.” After his graduation, he became a teacher in Leicester, Massachusetts. His career as an educator spanned 18 years.

In 1986, John was elected to the Massachusetts House of Representatives on the Democratic ticket. While in office, he was known as a tireless worker who rarely missed a house vote. He served on numerous committees, including Education, Public Safety, and Ways and Means. He was the former Chairman of the Committee on Energy, Chairman of the Joint Committee on Revenue, and the Chairman of the Committee on Rules. In 2008, he worked to pass Darnell’s Law, which mandated CPR and first aid training for school-bus drivers in Massachusetts. He also co-sponsored a bill in 2012 that increased access to hearing aids for children. John once revealed that this issue became important for him when his grandson was born hearing impaired. By the time he retired, John had served 28 years in the House.

Sadly, John suffered from kidney disease and diabetes, and he passed away on August 22, 2014. He was 67 years old.