Jessica Dahl, 14, spent the week of Jan. 9 serving as a page for the Washington State Senate. Sen. June Robinson (D-Everett) sponsored her 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, which culminates in a mock committee setting where pages hold hearings on bills they have created. The educational experience is furthered by guest speakers.
“I just wanted to learn more about the government, and it seemed like a good learning experience for that,” Dahl said. “I’ve learned about how to write a bill, and the differences between the Senate and the House.”
Dahl served as a page during the Legislature’s first week in session and has been able to witness many of the opening ceremonies.
“It was really cool seeing everyone get sworn in, and to see all the ambassadors… and all the special ceremonies,” she said. “It’s been a really neat experience so far.”
“I’d recommend this to anyone who wants to learn more about the government and how the state Capitol works,” she said. “It’s been a really nice experience for me. Everyone’s extremely nice. It’s been nice to meet all the senators and see how our local government works.”
Sen. Robinson said Dahl was “an absolute pleasure to have around the office.”
Dahl is currently homeschooled in the 9th grade. In her free time, she enjoys playing the violin and swimming.
For more information about the Senate Page Program, contact SenatePageProgram@leg.wa.gov.
