To the editor,
High school juniors are encouraged to seize a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to gain hands-on, behind-the-scenes experience in Minnesota government by serving as a page at the Capitol during the 2018 legislative session.
The House of Representatives page program has been in place for more than 40 years and our state is one of a select few to provide youth with such an in-depth look at state government. High school pages attend meetings with legislators, constitutional officers, members of the judiciary and others. They also assist during floor sessions in the House chamber, participate in mock committee hearings and more.
It is one thing to learn about government in a history class or from reading a book, but this program is a unique tool for developing leadership skills and thinking critically about statewide issues. Student pages I speak with at the Capitol find it to be an eye-opening experience that brings to a whole new level their understanding of our Legislature and government in general.
Program participants are selected each year based on a formal process, including an application, faculty recommendation and an essay. December 1 is the deadline for juniors to apply. There are 10 four-day sessions available in 2018, from early March until mid-May. Stipends are available to defray expenses.
More information is available by logging on to www.house.mn and clicking the “High School Page Program” link near the bottom of the page, or by calling (651) 296-7452. Local schools also can provide further guidance.
Good luck and I hope to see some local student pages at the Capitol in 2018.
Sincerely,
Rep. Matt Dean, R-Dellwood
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