Rep. Joshua Penner welcomes Ptarmigan Ridge Elementary 5th graders to the state Capitol
CONTACT: Jennifer Hansen, Senior Public Information Officer | 360-786-7720
Rep. Joshua Penner welcomes Ptarmigan Ridge Elementary 5th graders to the state Capitol
Civics education came to life recently for a group of Orting 5th graders who traded their classroom for the marble halls of the Legislative Building in Olympia. Rep. Joshua Penner, R-Orting, welcomed students from Ptarmigan Ridge Elementary School to the state Capitol for a firsthand look at how their government works.
The visit offered the young “Mountaineers” a unique opportunity to walk the same halls as state lawmakers, explore Washington state’s history, and learn about the legislative process directly from their elected representatives.
“It is a privilege to welcome these fifth graders from my Orting to the Capitol,” said Penner. “Seeing their energy and curiosity reminds us why we do this work. We want to build a future where they can thrive, and that starts with understanding how they can participate in their democracy.”
During the tour, students learned about the Capitol building’s history and the importance of community engagement. Penner, who previously served as the mayor of Orting, emphasized that government is most effective when citizens of all ages are involved.
“These students are the future leaders of our communities,” Penner added. “Hosting the Mountaineers here in Olympia is a great way to show them that their voices matter and that the state Capitol belongs to them just as much as it belongs to the legislators working here.”
Ptarmigan Ridge Elementary School, located in Orting, is committed to its mission of “Connect, Inspire, Empower.” The trip to Olympia served as a practical application of these values, connecting students with their state government and inspiring them to become active members of their community.
Penner remains committed to supporting strong schools and educational opportunities that prepare students for success.
For more information on how schools can schedule Capitol tours, call 360-902-8880 or email tours@des.wa.gov. Additional resources are available on the Department of Enterprise Services website at captiol.wa.gov/tours.
