Cascade student serves as legislative page for Rep. Brian Burnett

OLYMPIA — Cascade High School student Madelyn Karol spent a week in Olympia serving as a legislative page in the Washington State House of Representatives after being sponsored by Rep. Brian Burnett, R-Wenatchee.

During her time at the Capitol, Karol assisted lawmakers and staff with daily operations, delivered messages and documents across the legislative campus, attended page school and gained firsthand experience with how laws are made in Washington state.

"It was a pleasure to sponsor Madelyn this week," said Burnett. "Programs like this give young people a chance to see how their state government works and understand the importance of being involved in their communities. It's encouraging to see young people step up, learn, and be a part of the process."

Burnett, who is also a Cascade High School graduate, said it was a special privilege to host Karol and said she lived up to the standards and expectations of Kodiak Nation.

"Her classmates and teachers at Cascade should be proud of Madelyn and the way she represented the Kodiaks," said Burnett. "Watching her take this responsibility seriously was impressive, and it gives me confidence in the next generation of leaders."

The Legislative Page Program is a longstanding civic education opportunity that allows students from across Washington to spend a week working at the Capitol while learning about the legislative process. Pages attend classes, meet with lawmakers and participate directly in the daily work of the Legislature.

Students must be between the ages of 14 and 16 and have permission from their parents and school to participate. Each page is sponsored by a member of the House or Senate.

House pages receive a stipend of $65 per day. Financial assistance for travel and lodging may be available through the Gina Grant Bull Memorial Legislative Page Scholarship, which helps offset expenses for families.

More information about the Legislative Page Program and application details is available on the Washington State Legislature’s website.

The 2026 legislative session is scheduled to conclude March 12.