Bridgeport class visits Olympia, meets with Sen. Parlette

 

OLYMPIA… Students from Bridgeport were in Olympia this week to see their state government in action and update legislators on a project they're working on that will benefit their local community. Students participating in the Bridgeport Small Cities Government class met with Sen. Linda Evans Parlette, R-Wenatchee, while they were in town, and were formally recognized by the Senate as distinguished guests.

 “It was a real pleasure to have this group of exceptional students with us in Olympia this week,” Parlette said. “It was great to hear what they're working on, and encouraging to know they're here getting involved in government. Their future is very bright.”

While in Olympia, the students met with Parlette to tell her about their project assignment. Past classes have worked on projects related to transportation, the budget and other elements of city government. This year's group is doing something a bit different – it is writing a grant to purchase a new bathhouse and cover for the community pool. The students are doing the research, writing the grant, taking public comments and handling all other aspects of the project. If they are successful, the community will be able to use the facility year-round. 

The five students from Bridgeport High participate in the Small Cities Government program as an extracurricular activity outside of regular school assignments and sports activities. All are honor students.

In addition to meeting with Parlette, they also took a tour of the Legislature, saw some key bills passed, and met with representatives from the Association of Washington Cities.

Bridgeport mayor Steve Jenkins, who accompanied the students to Olympia, said the experience was an important one for the students.

“The kids just loved their trip to Olympia, and soaked up the experience – especially meeting with Sen. Parlette and showing her the project they are working on. As an education process, it was just invaluable.”