Derek Ralph, a Kentridge High School student, spent the past week working as a page for the Washington State Senate at the Capitol in Olympia.

Ralph was one of 18 students who served as Senate pages for the opening week of the 2015 legislative session.

The Senate Page Program is an opportunity for Washington students to spend a week working in the Legislature. Students are responsible for transporting documents between offices, delivering messages and mail. Pages spend time in the Senate chamber and attend page school to learn about parliamentary procedure and the legislative process. Students also draft their own bills and engage in a mock session.

“I got a better view on how the politics at the capitol work and more of an understanding on everything,” Ralph said.

He enjoyed delivering messages to the legislative building the most and liked the in-depth view on the political decision-making process.

Ralph was sponsored by Sen. Joe Fain, R-Auburn, who represents parts of Kent, Auburn, Covington, Renton and Federal Way.

In addition to playing bass, Ralph is interested in Japanese and robotics.

“It’s been a really great time so far,” Ralph said. “I’ve really enjoyed this so much.”

Ralph is the son of Shawn and Dana Ralph of Kent. Dana Ralph is president of the Kent City Council.

Students interested in the Senate Page Program are encouraged to visit Fain’s website at SenatorFain.com and select Get Involved – Senate Page Program.