Feb. 9, 2009

Mt. Vernon student pages for Rep. Norma Smith
Students ages 14-16 are eligible to take part in the week-long program in Olympia

Michael Rhodes, an eighth-grader at Mount Baker Middle School, served as a legislative page in the House of Representatives in Olympia the week of Feb. 2. He was hosted by Rep. Norma Smith, R-Clinton.

"It was a pleasure having Michael page for me in Olympia this week. It’s great to see young people interested in learning about our system of government in Washington, and there is no better way to do so than being right here at the capital,” said Smith.  “Michael is a bright young man with an interest in new and innovative technologies. While at the capital he was able to gain new insight into the legislative process, and hopefully was inspired to continue his involvement in these types of activities in the community."

Each year, students from around the state apply to participate in the legislative page program. Students spend a week attending page school, learning the inner workings of state government and assisting legislators on the House floor. Pages earn $35 per day while serving in the program.

To become a page, applicants must have a legislative sponsor, be between the ages of 14 and 16, and obtain written permission from their parents and school. For more information about the legislative page program, visit: http://www.leg.wa.gov/House/Pages/HousePageProgram.aspx

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For more information, contact: Bobbi Cussins, Public Information Officer: (360) 786-7252