Sophie Sikorra paged in the Washington State House of Representatives January 15-19. The Joel E. Ferris High School student was sponsored by Rep. Leonard Christian of the 4th District.
Sophie completed a 40-hour work week, which involved serving House members on the chamber floor, making deliveries throughout campus, supporting member offices, and attending Page School.
Page School supplemented her hands-on learning experience with a classroom component geared toward understanding the legislative process.
“Sophie is a gifted student with a keen interest in American government,” said Christian, whose alma mater is Joel E. Ferris High School. “It was an honor to be her sponsor. I was especially proud to watch Sophie escort the American flag to the rostrum on the House floor.”
An exchange student from Germany, Sophie has excelled academically, particularly in math and science. She also enjoys playing softball and is interested in American society and government.
Video of Sophie escorting the American flag can be viewed here: youtube.com/watch?v=aIr6-ZOF2ds
During the 60-day session, there are eight different weekly opportunities to be a page between Jan. 8 and March 7. When applying, potential pages can select which weeks they are available to work.
Eligible students must be at least 14 years of age and have not reached their 17th birthday.
Pages earn a stipend of $65 per day and can also earn up to 20 hours of community service.
Students interested in participating next year can find more information about the program at: Leg.Wa.Gov/House/Pages/HousePageProgram.aspx.
Applicants who need financial assistance for the expense of traveling and staying in Olympia may also apply for the Gina Grant Bull Memorial Legislative Page Scholarship, which helps to offset expenses. Applications for the scholarship can be found at: https://leg.wa.gov/PageSchool/pages/ginagrantbullscholarship.aspx