Rep. Dick Muri sponsors Steilacoom student as page in House of Representatives
Hannah Jo Whelan, a student from Steilacoom High School, traveled to Olympia Feb. 16- 20 and served as a page in the state House of Representatives. She was sponsored by her 28th district Rep. Dick Muri, R-Steilacoom.
“Civic Education is an important aspect of our schools' curricula. The page program is an excellent way for students from around the state to come to Olympia and observe first-hand how our state government operates,” said Muri. “Hannah did a great job here, and I'm grateful for her service.”
Hannah, daughter of Larry and Laura Whelan, is a sophomore at Steilacoom High School. She plays on her school's fastpitch softball team, as well as other softball clubs in her city. During her time as a page, Hannah attended page school every day to understand the operations and actions of the Legislature. Her time at the Capitol culminated with the presentation of her mock bill about early school start times and the effect they have on a student's performance in the classroom.
As part of her page duties, Hannah learned to navigate the many buildings on the Capitol campus and delivered messages and documents to legislators and staff.
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.
