HIGH SCHOOL PAGE PROGRAM

History

Over the last 50 years the High School Page Program has been dedicated to providing students with an opportunity to learn and serve in the Minnesota House of Representatives.

Modeled after the Maryland Student Page Program, the Minnesota House of Representatives High School Page Program was established in 1975. The program remains wholly dedicated to providing students with a unique, challenging, and enriching educational experience. Its range of activities and breadth of instruction puts the program in the top tier of such programs in the nation.

The Program

During their week-long stay in Saint Paul, participants in the Minnesota House of Representatives High School Page Program take part in a wide variety of hands-on experiences designed to provide them with a firsthand understanding of the legislative process, state government, public policy, public service, and the role of elected officials. Throughout the week, students observe the daily work of the Minnesota House, interact with legislators and staff, and gain a deeper appreciation for civic engagement and public leadership.

Among the many highlights included in each student's week at the Capitol are:

• Students not only observe the legislative process, but they also participate in it by paging in the chamber
• Students engage in a mock committee meeting in which they learn how legislators research, discuss/debate and address difficult and divisive issues
• Students meet with legislative leaders, constitutional officers, members of the judiciary, lobbyists, members of the media and others visiting the Capitol complex

Students should expect to participate in all scheduled program activities from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Friday. During the evenings, students will stay at the designated hotel under the supervision of program chaperones and are expected to participate in any scheduled evening activities and adhere to all program expectations and hotel guidelines.

Video Series Explains the Program

A Guide to the Minnesota House High School Page Program
Participation

The Minnesota House of Representatives High School Page Program is open to all Minnesota high school students in their JUNIOR year. Program participants are selected in the fall of each year based on a formal process which includes an application, faculty recommendation, and an essay.

Stipend

The High School Page Program provides participants with a small meal stipend to help cover the cost of meals during the week. The program also covers the full cost of lodging at the designated hotel. Participants are responsible for all other personal and incidental expenses.