Marion County High School junior Kaitlyn McCrosky is set to have a very busy start to 2024, and it’s not just because of the school year’s second semester.
McCrosky has been selected to serve as a Kentucky State Senate Page for the upcoming legislative session in Frankfort, which begins January 2. At her orientation this month she’ll find out more about her assignment, but for now she’s happy about the upcoming experience.
“When I got accepted I was in shock. It was definitely exciting,” McCrosky said. “My emotions were through the roof and I’m excited for the opportunity.”
McCrosky was familiar with the senate page program through a former MCHS student who had been selected and from discussions with state senator and MCHS alumnus Jimmy Higdon.
Senate pages are tasked with responding to senators and their staff and help with handling materials and supplies. While being selected is an honor in itself, McCrosky said she’s especially looking forward to the opportunities the program will present.
“I’m excited about the educational opportunity, what possible careers it could open for me, and working with the senators and seeing that process,” McCrosky said.
According to information on the legislature’s website, the program is for “ambitious high school seniors, and sometimes juniors, who are of high academic standing” and that pages are “expected to be pleasant, courteous, and helpful to all persons.”
As McCrosky explained it, the Senate is looking for “responsible students with great attendance, but who are also outgoing and sociable.”
She noted that her experience at Marion County High School helped her develop the skills that led to her being selected.
“Definitely because of Student Ambassadors I feel like with my public speaking I’m more comfortable talking to people,” she said. “And JROTC has definitely helped out a whole lot with my confidence. I used to be the quiet person in the room but now I feel like I’m the one who can stand up and lead.”
McCrosky will serve as a page for the entire session, but said she’s encouraged to make her page assignment work around her school and extracurricular responsibilities.
She’ll also be fitted for a blazer which is part of the strict dress code pages follow.
While she’s still yet to work her first day, McCrosky is already suggesting others follow her lead.
“I definitely recommend applying for anyone who may be interested.”