Wednesday marked a new chapter in the career of former Philadelphia congressman Chaka Fattah. It will be marked by a prison jumpsuit and a new identity — Inmate No. 72340-006.

Fattah this week moved into a federal prison in McKean County, to begin serving a 10-year sentence for racketeering, bribery, money laundering and fraud. It’s the second-longest sentence ever imposed on a member of Congress.

Fattah hasn’t gone quietly, though. He’s appealed his sentence and had asked to remain free while his appeal played out — but a court denied that request earlier this month.

He also entered a last-minute plea with former President Barack Obama, seeking a pardon. The White House wisely remained silent.

Fattah’s story — and his punishment — should serve as a cautionary tale to those who would follow in his footsteps and use their position as elected officials to enrich themselves and abuse the trust of voters.

[naviga:h3]Jeer [/naviga:h3]

If people think the ineptness of elected officials in Pennsylvania is contained to state-level officials, they should take a look at the case of former Harrisburg Mayor Stephen Reed.

On Monday Reed pleaded guilty to 20 counts of receiving stolen property, The Associated Press reported — all of them related to photographs or documents purchased with taxpayer money and then taken by Reed when he left office.

The backdrop to Reed’s crimes is just as ridiculous as the crimes themselves. The items he stole were intended for a museum dedicated to America’s Wild West, in Harrisburg. Reed — who served as the city’s mayor for 28 years — spent more than $8 million in public money on the ill-fated project, which eventually was abandoned.

Reed was voted out of office in 2010, and in 2015 he was indicted on 499 counts ranging from corruption to misapplication of entrusted property. At his guilty plea on Monday, Reed called the thefts an error and said he was proud of his achievements as mayor.

Unfortunately, the reality is that his major achievement was defrauding taxpayers and helping to drive Harrisburg into financial disaster.

[naviga:h3]Cheer [/naviga:h3]

Congratulations to Seneca Valley Middle School for earlier this week being named one of 11 “Schools to Watch” across the state. The designation is part of a recognition program developed by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Reform, and is in partnership with the state Department of Education and several other organizations and institutions.

It’s the third time since 2011 that Seneca Valley has received the designation, which lasts three years. That’s a testament to staff members’ commitment to helping students to success. Selections are made based on “academic excellence,” and responsiveness to students’ needs and interests.

That’s what building a vibrant and successful culture in school looks like. Bravo.