Endicott student 'serves' as page in state House

Gabyrella "Gabby" Root, a student from Endicott Middle School, traveled to Olympia March 30 to April 3 and served as a page in the state House of Representatives.

She was sponsored by her Ninth District Rep. Susan Fagan, R-Pullman.

"In January, Gabby visited Olympia with her class along with teacher Sue Lynch and during that time, I encouraged her to apply to the page program," Fagan said. "It's great to see students getting involved in their state government and becoming civically engaged. Gabby told me her parents and she often discuss politics and issues before the Legislature around the dinner table. Now she'll be able to share her unique perspective from her time at the Capitol with them when she returns."

Gabby has many interests, including theater, music and animals. During her time as a page, Gabby 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 requiring schools to offer more diverse topics in mathematics.

As part of her page duties, Gabby 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 House page program, go to http://www.leg.wa.gov.