Griffin Middle School student spends week in Olympia learning about Legislature
April 10, 2015
CONTACT: Kylee Zabel, Public Information Officer – (360) 786-7031
Taylor Mastin, a student from Griffin Middle School, traveled to Olympia April 6-10 and served as a page in the state House of Representatives. He was sponsored by Rep. Maureen Walsh, R-Walla Walla, of the 16th Legislative District.
“I was the legislative assistant for Taylor's father, Dave, so I've known Taylor since he was born – he is my godson. It was great having him serve as my page this session, and I'm glad he had the opportunity to experience being a page and learn more about the legislative process,” said Walsh. “I'm grateful for Taylor's service, and I hope he had a blast serving in the Legislature.”
During his time as a page, Taylor attended page school every day to understand the operations and actions of the Legislature. His time at the Capitol culminated with the presentation of his mock bill, which would allow ranchers to obtain a permit to shoot wolves that were attacking their livestock.
As part of his page duties, Taylor 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, visit: http://www.leg.wa.gov/House/Pages/HousePageProgram.aspx.
