District 20 Representative Peter Abbarno
By Peter Abbarno
For the C-C Chamber of Commerce
As a state legislator, one of the most important roles is not only to legislate but to educate. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the legislative process, focused on drafting bills, debating policies, and working with colleagues. But at the heart of what I do lies a commitment to preparing the next generation for responsible citizenship.
That’s why I’ve make it a priority to visit with local students—giving them a chance to see the legislative process firsthand and understand how their government works. Through the first four weeks of the legislative session, I’ve met with classes from Centralia, Centralia Christian School, Chehalis, Napavine, Mossyrock, and Toutle Lake.
Out-of-classroom learning is a vital part of education, and field trips to Olympia offer students more than just an exciting break from their regular routine. They are an opportunity to witness democracy in action. When students visit the Capitol, they can see how laws are made, how decisions are debated, and how their representatives work on behalf of their communities. These experiences provide real-world lessons that textbooks simply can’t match, helping students understand that government is not something distant, but something they actively participate in.
One of the greatest privileges of being a state representative is engaging directly with students who visit Olympia. I am continually impressed by their insightful questions and their eagerness to learn about how the legislative process works. From asking how a bill becomes law to exploring the challenges lawmakers face in representing diverse communities, students are genuinely curious about the mechanics of government.
In these interactions, I am reminded of why I chose to enter public service. These students are the future of our state, and they deserve to understand the power they hold in shaping it. Their curiosity fuels my passion to work harder and remain actively engaged in my role as a representative. I want them to know that their voices matter and that they can be active participants in the decisions that affect their lives.
Equally deserving of recognition are the teachers, parents, and school administrators who make these visits possible. Organizing a trip to Olympia requires significant effort, coordination, and resources, but the benefits are immeasurable. Teachers spend hours preparing students to ensure they gain the most from the experience, integrating these visits into their curriculum to enhance their students’ understanding of civics. By facilitating these trips, educators are not just teaching students about the mechanics of government—they are instilling in them a sense of responsibility and civic engagement.
Parents are a crucial part of this equation. Their support in helping to facilitate these trips is invaluable. They recognize that these experiences provide their children with critical lessons about civic engagement. Parents understand that encouraging students to explore government at a young age gives them the tools to be informed, active citizens in the future. When teachers, parents, and students work together, we create a community that values education, engagement, and accountability.
Every time I meet with a group of students, I am reminded of the importance of nurturing their curiosity and encouraging their involvement in the political process. These students are not just the voters of tomorrow—they are the leaders of tomorrow. By fostering a sense of civic responsibility and engagement at a young age, we ensure that they will grow up to be informed and active citizens who understand the power they have to influence their communities.
I am incredibly proud to be a part of this process. By investing in these opportunities, we are not just educating the next generation—we are empowering them to shape the future of our state and country. In the end, the lessons learned in Olympia will stay with these students long after they leave the Capitol. They will return to their communities with a greater understanding of how government works and a deeper sense of their role in it. The seeds we plant today will grow into tomorrow’s leaders.
Rep. Peter Abbarno,
R-Chehalis, represents the 20th Legislative District and is the House Republican Caucus Chair.
