In what shapes up to be a hands-on lesson in governance, young Hoosiers are getting a front-row seat to the legislative process at the Indiana Statehouse through a program that welcomes them as pages. This season, State Rep. Kyle Pierce (R-Anderson) played host to two students, Bennett Nedden of Anderson High School and Quinn Keegan from Mission Christian Academy, as they participated in the Indiana House Page Program.
Elevating the typical classroom experience, the program provides students aged 13 to 18 with an educational venture, allowing them to gain a unique understanding of the legislative process by becoming part of it. According to a statement obtained by Indiana House Republicans, Nedden and Keegan, amid their duties, joined Pierce on the House floor, eagerly observing how state laws are crafted.
"The page program is a unique experience for students interested in history and government," Pierce mentioned. It allows them to engage with state leaders directly, witnessing the legislative proceedings and understanding the complexities of lawmaking. Throughout their day, the pages toured the Statehouse, assisted lawmakers, and staff – activities designed to foster an immersive educational experience.
Reflecting on the significance of such initiatives, Pierce emphasized the program's value, saying, "It provides young Hoosiers with the opportunity to meet state leaders and see how laws our made in our state." Offering direct witness to democracy in motion, the youngsters are encouraged to step into the political arena, absorbing knowledge that textbooks alone may not impart. With an eye towards the future, students who have an interest in the workings of government are now being recruited for the next term, with the opportunity to serve as pages during the 2026 legislative session. Interested applicants can reach out to Pierce's Statehouse office for more details.
For Hoosier students curious about the inner workings of their state government and looking for a rare educational opportunity, Pierce's Statehouse office is the point of contact, reachable at in.gov/36 or by phone at 317-234-0931.
