Students from the local area took a break from their typical school day to delve into the workings of state government at the Indiana Statehouse, courtesy of an invite from State Sen. Brett Clark. Representing various schools, these students served as Senate pages in January and February, getting a hands-on lesson in civics.
Serving as a conduit for educational outreach, Clark, who spoke of his own history as a page, opened the Statehouse doors to the youths. Among the attendees were Ty Arbogast of Avon High School and Christian Kramer from North Putnam High School. Observing debates from the Senate floor was part of their unique experience, alongside a guided tour of the historic building.
Interacting with the senator himself offered a personal touch to the pages' day. Giving students insights into the legislative process is, according to the senator's own words on the Indiana Senate Republicans website, "a fulfilling opportunity." He continued, emphasizing the value of engaging with state government, "As a former page myself, it has been great to see current students interested in state government, and I look forward to meeting more of these students in the coming months."
The page program is open to students from grades six through 12 and runs on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays during the legislative session, with groups serving on Wednesdays. Featured in this cohort were Anastasia Lampropoulou and Sophie Volbers, from Brownsburg High School and Brownsburg West Middle School respectively, journeyed to the Statehouse. They, along with their fellow pages, not only toured but also interacted with Sen. Clark.
Clark's initiative aims to maintain an open dialogue with Indiana's youth and foster a new generation's understanding of and interest in the legislative process. As another legislative session proceeds, more students will follow in the footsteps of young constituents like the Wheat sisters from Brownsburg — Chloe and Olivia — who have already gained a deeper view into the workings of their state government.
