Todd Beamer High teen pages in Olympia for state House

Jack Brugato, a student at Todd Beamer High School, served as a legislative page in the Washington House of Representatives between Feb. 17-21. He was sponsored by his 30th District Rep. Linda Kochmar, R-Federal Way.

Jack Brugato, a student at Todd Beamer High School, served as a legislative page in the Washington House of Representatives between Feb. 17-21. He was sponsored by his 30th District Rep. Linda Kochmar, R-Federal Way.

John, who also goes by the name Jack, is the son of Karen and Mike Brugato of Federal Way.

“It was my pleasure to sponsor John’s stay in Olympia,” said Kochmar. “The page program is such a wonderful opportunity for students to become more involved with state government.”

During one week, students experience the Legislature firsthand as they navigate the Capitol campus and attend page school to learn about different legislative functions and processes. As a page, John was responsible for delivering messages and documents to legislators in their offices, during committee meetings and to the House chamber during floor sessions. He also participated in a mock committee hearing where he sponsored a bill concerning safety issues involving elderly drivers.

Each year students apply to participate in the page program. To be eligible, students must have a legislative sponsor and be between the ages of 14 and 16. Additionally, pages are required to obtain written permission from their parents and school.

While all of the available page positions for the current session are now full, interested students can apply in the fall to be considered for the 2015 legislative session. For more information, visit www.leg.wa.gov/House/Pages/HousePageProgram.aspx.