President John F. Kennedy once observed about government that "when things are non-controversial and beautifully coordinated, there is not much going on." Northstar Junior High School student Tasha Kacoroski puts a sharper point on it: "It's a mind-boggling process!"
Fresh from spending a week in Olympia as a page for the state House of Representatives, she speaks from experience: The eighth-grader and fellow Northstar ninth-grader Kendra Sjogren recently had a unique opportunity to take part in a live civics lesson by observing state lawmaking in action.
Each year, Northstar participates in the Washington state legislature's week-long page program. Students spend their days on the floors of the state House or Senate, in committee meetings and participating in legislative ceremonies. They are responsible for delivering messages, documents and other important information to lawmakers - an activity considered vital to the efficient operation of legislature. They also attend page school, where they learn about the role of the state legislature, how it works and who is involved.
In her behind-the-scenes experience, Tasha discovered lessons about lawmaking that also apply to life. "Governing society is a complex and challenging undertaking," she said. "To do this, or even attempt to, people must be not only prepared to share and stand up for their opinions, but also willing to compromise."
To become a page, students must be between the ages of 14 and 16, and have written permission from their parents and school. Additionally, they must have a legislative sponsor. This year, Tasha was sponsored by Rep. Deborah Eddy (D-Kirkland), and Kendra by Rep. Larry Springer (D-Kirkland). For more information about the Washington State Legislature Page Program, visit: www.leg.wa.gov/WorkingwithLeg/PageSchool
Annette Hamilton is a Northstar parent. Northstar is a Lake Washington School District choice junior high school focused on arts, sciences and educational experiences.
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