By Rita Shirley LeBleu

Will Kaczynski, Hackberry High School 2025 Valedictorian, is getting a birds-eye view of state government in action. The Louisiana State University student is working as a page during the current legislative session.

Melinda Frith, legislative assistant to State Representative Ryan Bourriaque, explained the job as handling paperwork such as drafts, bills and other communication between legislators and bill drafters or from one senate or house member to another.

“Sometimes committee staff need certain documents read or approved. Pages handle that. They are the only ones allowed on the chamber floor besides Legislators during session,” she said.

She described it as a great opportunity for a college student because the staff works around the class schedule. Some pages even decide to go forward with political careers.

Kaczynski said he’s never been interested in a career in politics. However, seeing what goes on and meeting the “super friendly” people has been of great interest.

“Being a page has given me a respect for process,” he said.