Young Hoosiers recently experienced the inner workings of the Indiana State government thanks to an invitation by State Sen. Spencer Deery. An assortment of local students from various educational backgrounds had the opportunity to step inside the historic Statehouse as Senate pages during the relatively colder months of January and February.
The Statehouse opened its doors to Joshua Dinius of West Lafayette's Faith Christian School; Landon Dispennett from Williamsport's Seeger Memorial High School; Matthew Howard from Clinton who attends South Vermillion High School; Bennett Oppy of New Richmond, enrolled at North Montgomery High School; homeschooled student Mary Kate Patterson from Linden; and Wynne Roberts from West Lafayette, a student at West Lafayette High School. Each of these students joined the ranks of young individuals gaining firsthand experience of their state's legislative environment. Groups serve on Wednesdays, while individual students from grades six through 12 have the chance the participate in the page program on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays throughout the legislative session, according to the Indiana Senate Republicans' official release.
During their day at the Statehouse, pages carry out several duties. They tour the building, observe debates from the Senate floor, and get a moment to interact with their state senator. This immersive program aims to provide young individuals with a better grasp of how state government functions.
Sen. Deery expressed pride in this educational opportunity, stating: "The Senate Page Program is a great way for young Hoosiers to strengthen an understanding of a state government," and highlighting that "One of the most fulfilling aspects of my role as senator is the ability to teach our students about crafting meaningful legislation and inspiring our young pages to get involved," in the announcement made by the Indiana Senate Republicans. This initiative reflects an ongoing effort to engage the youth in civic processes and underscore the importance of active participation in governance.
