ST. PAUL – Rep. Chris Swedzinski, R-Ghent, encourages high school juniors to gain behind-the-scenes experience with Minnesota’s state government by serving as a page at the Capitol in St. Paul during the 2018 legislative session.
The House of Representatives page program has been in place for more than 40 years and Minnesota is one of only a select few states in the nation to offer this program, providing young people with such an in-depth look into state government. High school pages attend meetings with legislators, constitutional officers, members of the judiciary and others. Pages also assist during House floor sessions, participate in mock committee hearings and more.
“This is a way for high school students to see the lessons they learn in civics classes come to life,” Swedzinski said. “Students I talk with who serve as pages always seem to gain a whole new understanding for the process and come away with unforgettable memories. We are fortunate to have this program in our state and I hope students from our area take advantage in the upcoming session.”
Program participants are selected each year based on a formal process which includes an application, faculty recommendation and an essay. Stipends are available to defray expenses. December 1 is the deadline for high school juniors to apply.
More information is available by logging on to www.house.mn and clicking the “High School Page Program” link near the bottom of the site, or by calling (651) 296-7452. Local schools also can provide further assistance.
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