Tabitha Unger, a ninth grade student at Centralia Christian School, recently traveled to Olympia to serve as a page in the Washington state House of Representatives.
State Rep. Peter Abbarno, R-Chehalis, served as her legislative sponsor.
"Tabitha did a wonderful job representing our community and the Centralia Christian School while serving as a page," Abbarno, House Republican Caucus chair, stated in a news release. "She brought a positive attitude to every task and showed genuine curiosity about how our state government works. It is always encouraging to see young people take an interest in civic engagement, and I hope this experience inspires her to stay involved in her community."
As a page, Unger helped deliver messages and documents to legislators and staff, assisted on the House floor, and learned to navigate the Capitol campus. She also attended page school each day, where students learn about the legislative process and the role of state government.
Tabitha's time at Centralia Christian School, where collaboration, character and community service are core values, helped prepare her to engage thoughtfully in the legislative process and represent her classmates in Olympia, according to the release. Outside of school, she stays active by playing volleyball, going camping and riding her bike.
"The page program is one of the best ways for students to see firsthand how government works, and Centralia Christian School does a great job preparing students like Tabitha to step into opportunities like this with confidence and character," Abbarno added. "She embraced this experience, and I hope she left with a deeper understanding of the legislative process, along with lasting memories and new friendships. Schools that invest in leadership and community service help shape the next generation, and young people like Tabitha give me great hope for the future."
Students from across Washington state apply to participate in the legislative page program each year. Participants spend a week attending page school, learning the inner workings of state government, and assisting legislators on the House floor. Pages earn $65 per day and can accumulate up to 20 hours of community service while serving.
To qualify for the page program, applicants must have a legislative sponsor, be between 14 and 16 years old, and obtain written permission from their parents and school.
For more information about the House Page Program, visit leg.wa.gov/civic-education-programs.
