by Rachel Rice, Evergreen paraeducator and 2026 PSE Legislative Intern
Serving as a PSE Legislative intern during the 2026 Washington State legislative session was an invaluable experience. It gave me a clearer understanding of how policy is developed and how deeply those decisions affect the communities we serve.
Throughout the session, I observed the complexity of the legislative process — from research and drafting, to committee work and public testimony. I gained a new appreciation for the amount of collaboration and careful consideration required to move legislation forward. I also saw how important it is for organized groups, including unions, to participate in the process in a thoughtful and informed way.
One of the most impactful moments of my internship was attending the public hearing on the Millionaire Tax proposal (SB 6346). The hearing was intense and emotionally charged, with strong opinions expressed on both sides. What stood out to me was how personal public policy is to people. Testifiers shared deeply held beliefs about fairness, opportunity, and responsibility. It was a powerful reminder that engagement matters, even when perspectives differ.
This internship strengthened my commitment to learn more about the legislative process and to ensuring that the voices of educators and working families are part of the conversation. My focus remains on policies that support the well-being of our union members and the communities we serve. Experiencing the legislative process firsthand reinforced how important it is to stay informed, involved, and respectful in advancing those goals.
I am grateful for the opportunity to represent our union and to learn more about how our state government functions. This experience has deepened my understanding of public service and strengthened my dedication to advocating for the needs of children, educators, families, and my community.