OLYMPIA – Andrew Davenport, 15, served as a page in the Washington State Senate during the week of January 17.
Pages are typically sponsored by the senator from their legislative district. Sen. Manka Dhingra (D-Redmond) sponsored Davenport’s week in the Legislature.
The page program offers a hands-on opportunity for students to find out how state government works. The interactive learning experience includes classes focused on topics like budget writing and how a bill becomes a law and culminates in pages creating their own bills in a mock committee setting. The educational experience is furthered by guest speakers.
“What I learned most is that there’s a bigger process to law making than most people think. A lot of bills never leave committee,” said Davenport.
Pages also have the opportunity to work on the Senate floor. Their maroon coats and credentials allow them access to all parts of the Capitol Campus.
“I’ve come here, and I’ve become more interested in politics and I want my voice to be heard,” added Davenport. “Everyone here is very nice and cordial to me and everyone else.”
Davenport is in 10th grade at Archbishop Murphy High School. In his free time he enjoys golf, mock trial, skiing and mountain biking.
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For more information about the Senate Page Program, contact SenatePageProgram@leg.wa.gov
