OLYMPIA… Jason D’Aquila, a 9th-grader at South Ridge High School, recently spent a week working as a page for the Washington State Senate at the Capitol in Olympia. D’Aquila was one of 32 students who served in the Senate during the Ninth week of the 2024 legislative session.
He was sponsored by 8th Legislative District Sen. Matt Boehnke, who represents Kennewick, Richland, and Benton counties.
“Jason did a fantastic job paging this week and I am so happy I was able to be a part of such a special experience,” said Boehnke. “I’m so appreciative of all the hard work and learning Jason was a part of this week here in Olympia,” said Boehnke
The Senate Page Program is an opportunity for Washington students to spend a week working in the Legislature. Students are responsible for transporting documents between offices, as well as delivering messages and mail. Pages spend time in the Senate chamber and attend page school to learn about parliamentary procedure and the legislative process. Students also draft their own bills and engage in a mock committee.
“This experience wasn’t what I expected, but I am so glad I decided to become a page because of how amazing the opportunity was for me,” said D’Aquila. He also stated that his favorite part of this experience was the chance to be on the Senate floor and have first-hand experiences.
D’Aquila, 15, enjoys reading, studying politics and history, playing video games, and spending time with his dog. Jason is the son of Jessica and John D’Aquila.
Students interested in the Senate Page Program are encouraged to visit http://leg.wa.gov/Senate/Administration/PageProgram/ to learn more.