Island Christian Academy student Zane Vanderwood paged in the state House of Representatives earlier in the legislative session. He was sponsored by 10th District Rep. Norma Smith, R-Clinton. Zane, 14, is the son of Steve and Susan Vanderwood of Clinton.

“It was terrific having Zane as a page in the House of Representatives. He’s bright and inquisitive with a strong set of values and a keen sense of direction,” said Smith. “What an encouragement to have the opportunity to work alongside our leaders of tomorrow.”

During his week in Olympia, Zane attended page school every day to better understand the operations and actions of the Legislature. At the end of the week, Zane wrote and promoted a mock bill addressing the issue of poor academic performance by high school graduates.

As part of his page duties Zane navigated 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 legislative page program, go here.