Earlier this year, a group of local students had the opportunity to dive directly into the world of Indiana politics. State Sen. Cyndi Carrasco (R-Indianapolis) hosted several students from the Indianapolis area at the Statehouse where they served as Senate pages. These students, ranging from middle to high school, got a firsthand look at the legislative process by touring the historical building and watching debates from the Senate floor.
The program, designed to educate young Hoosiers about their state government, allowed students to quickly see up close how the gears of governance turn. According to a recent announcement, the pages included Kate Boyce of Greenwood Community High School, homeschooler Kesslee DeBoor from Indianapolis, Emma Giddens and Rachel Giddens from Roncalli High School, Elin Lewis from Center Grove Middle School North, and Alaina Tedrow from Center Grove High School. Interaction with their state senator was also part of the day's activities, providing a unique chance to connect with lawmakers.
In statements obtained by the Indiana Senate Republicans, Sen. Carrasco expressed her pleasure in hosting the students, saying, "It was a delight to spend time with each of these local students who are eager to learn about the legislative process." She added, "I hope each and every page had a great time learning and connecting with fellow pages while learning about state government." The page program is an ongoing opportunity, with sessions available most weekdays during the legislative session to students in grades six through twelve.
The program aims to not just educate, but also to inspire the next generation of civic leaders. By providing a setting where students can literally to stand alongside their elected officials, the hope is that they might carry with them a more profound sense of purpose and understanding of civic duty. This early exposure to the mechanics of law-making is crucial in planting the seeds of engaged citizenship. For many of these students, it’s possible that their day at the Statehouse could well be the beginning of a lifelong journey in public service.
Students who are interested in the page program can serve on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays during the legislative session, while groups have the opportunity to serve on Wednesdays. Those wishing to learn more about the program can visit the Indiana Senate Republicans' official website for details on how to participate.
