Students from Portsmouth Public Schools (PPS) have routinely been selected to take part in the Virginia Page Program, a highly competitive and fully immersive educational opportunity where chosen high school students perform various jobs during the Virginia General Assembly in Richmond, Va.
This year, I. C. Norcom High School Freshman De'Vionne Harris continues the division’s legacy of service. He has been selected to participate in the 2026 Senate Page Program, which has been in operation since 1850.
According to the Senate Page Program, their mission is “to facilitate a structured environment in which young Virginians accept responsibility and accountability, develop professional characteristics through strict standards of conduct and engage in the legislative process through work, observation and discussion.”
Harris described himself as “exuberant” about his election.
“I am looking forward to enhancing my leadership skills by working alongside the government officials in the Senate,” Harris said. “I also look forward to working together with other young leaders from across the state.”
Senate Pages spend six weeks in the Virginia State Capitol Building during the program. During this time, they act as messengers for elected officials, helping to run errands, deliver documents, answer phones and otherwise assist in the Senate Chamber.
They do all of this while also managing their schoolwork as well as following a rigorous curriculum specific to just the pages. Students will attend legislative sessions and also classes pertaining to etiquette, money management, cyber security, current events and life after the Senate Page Program. The program concludes with a capstone project of a mock legislative session as well as completing a community service project with a local non-profit organization.
The commitment may seem daunting to some, but thanks to the support from teachers and administrators he has encountered on his academic journey thus far, Harris feels prepared for the challenge.
“I have already gained valuable and applicable skills since starting high school, such as resume writing, interviewing and business management through the DECA Club,” Harris said. “These experiences have helped me build professionalism, responsibility and confidence that will support my success as a Senate Page.”
“De'Vionne Harris represents the best of what it means to be a Greyhound and a Portsmouth Public Schools scholar,” said Teesha Sanders, principal of I. C. Norcom High School. “As a member of the Principal’s Advisory Committee, his leadership, respect for others and commitment to growth reflect the pride and legacy of I.C. Norcom High School, and I know this experience will strengthen his voice and leadership while allowing him to bring a meaningful perspective back to our school.”
The Senate Page Program will culminate with a graduation ceremony held in Richmond in mid-March.