Michael encourages youth to act as pages

INDIANAPOLIS -- State Rep. Nancy Michael (D-Greencastle) has made it a priority to improve the involvement and educational opportunities available to the citizens of Indiana about the governmental process in the State of Indiana.

For that reason, she encourages students within Clay, Parke, Putnam and Vigo counties to apply for the Indiana House Democrats Page Program.

"The best way to learn about something is to look at it close-up. The Indiana House Page Program offers students the chance to experience government first-hand," Michael said.

Student pages will begin their day with a tour of Indiana's historic Statehouse, including the House Chamber, the Supreme Court, the governor's office and the Senate Chamber. As a special sneak-peek inside Indiana policy, pages are invited to observe the Indiana General Assembly in action on days when they are in session.

"Most importantly, student pages will have the chance to be with me on the chamber floor and will have the opportunity to meet my fellow peers in the State House who make Indiana's laws and who represent us in the Legislature," said Michael. "This outside learning experience will enforce what is taught in the classroom without penalizing the student for missing school. Parents do not need to worry about their children's school's attendance policy, since students who serve as pages are generally excused from school for the day when they visit Indiana's State Capitol."

However, it is important that students meet with their principal or advisors to make proper arrangements for the day.

The page program is designed for Hoosier students who are at least 13 years old. Participants must provide their own transportation to the Statehouse in downtown Indianapolis.

To apply, students must fill out an online application, providing the dates they wish to page, contact information, and their age.

The online application also allows space for students to name a fellow applicant with whom they wish to page.

For more information, visit www.in.gov/legislative/house_democrats/students_pages_2010.html or call (800) 382-9842.