Rep. Morgan Irwin sponsors University Place student as House Page
Colin Nelson, a student from Charles Wright Academy in University Place, traveled to Olympia to serve as a page in the state House of Representatives the eighth week of the 2017 legislative session. Rep. Morgan Irwin, R-Enumclaw, was Colin's legislative sponsor.
“It was a pleasure sponsoring Colin,” said Irwin. “He's a great kid. I hope he enjoyed his week at the Capitol making new friends, learning the ropes of his state government, and being a great addition to the House.”
As a page, Colin learned to navigate the many buildings around the Capitol campus, delivered messages and documents to legislators and staff, and assisted on the House floor. He attended page school each day to learn and understand the operations of the Legislature. By week's end, Colin had the opportunity to put his knowledge to the test and present a bill to his fellow pages in a mock hearing.
“Washington state is one of the few legislative bodies that still offers a page program,” continued Irwin. “Civic education is an important part of our state's curriculum. The best way to see how our government works is to get hands-on experience. Colin had the opportunity to learn by serving. Maybe we will see him in state government one day.”
Colin is the son of Karen and Sven Nelson. Outside of his studies, he likes to play sports. He was voted team captain of his cross-country, basketball, ultimate Frisbee, and baseball teams.
To become a page, students 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 House page program, click here.
