Hoosier Students Get Inside Look at Lawmaking

For Hoosier students curious about how laws are made—or simply eager to see government in action—the Indiana House Page Program offers a rare opportunity to step inside the legislative process. During the 2026 legislative session, students ages 13 to 18 are invited to spend a full day at the Indiana Statehouse, observing lawmakers at work, touring one of the state’s most historic buildings, and gaining firsthand exposure to civic life.

Representative Martin Carbaugh is encouraging students from Allen County and across the state to take advantage of the program.

“I encourage students who are curious about how laws are made or who may be considering public service to take advantage of this opportunity,” Carbaugh said. “Spending a day at the Statehouse can leave a lasting impression and inspire future leaders.”

Turning Civics Into a Real-World Experience

Unlike classroom lessons that rely on textbooks and lectures, the House Page Program is designed around experience. Students don’t just learn about government—they see it unfold in real time.

Pages are able to watch floor debates, observe committee activity, and follow the rhythm of a legislative workday. They tour the Indiana Statehouse and interact directly with lawmakers and staff, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how ideas become policy.

State Rep. Dave Heine emphasized that the program goes beyond observation.

“Hoosier students who page don’t just watch the process — they experience it,” Heine said. “It’s an engaging way to connect classroom learning to the real world while also building confidence in civic involvement.”

For many students, that immersion can make abstract concepts—like bills, debates, and votes—suddenly tangible.

Inside the Indiana General Assembly

The page program gives students a unique window into the daily operations of the Indiana General Assembly. Participants assist House legislators and staff, observe the House and Senate chambers, and tour other key areas of the Statehouse, including the governor’s office and the Indiana Supreme Court.

State Rep. Chris Judy said the program provides context students can’t get anywhere else.

“Students will get an inside look at the day-to-day work of the Indiana General Assembly and see how policy comes together,” Judy said. “It’s a hands-on learning experience that enhances what they’re studying in school.”

That real-world exposure can help students better understand not only how state government functions, but also how decisions made in Indianapolis affect communities back home.

Encouraging Civic Curiosity and Community Engagement

For lawmakers, the page program is about more than education—it’s about planting the seeds of civic participation early.

State Rep. Bob Morris said time spent at the Capitol often motivates students to become more engaged citizens.

“Spending a day at our state’s Capitol gives students a clearer picture of the legislative process and often motivates them to become more involved in their communities,” Morris said.

By seeing lawmakers debate, collaborate, and negotiate, students gain a more complete understanding of public service—and the role they can play in shaping the future.

Program Details and Scheduling

The Indiana House Page Program begins in January and runs throughout the legislative session. Opportunities are available every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, with group page days scheduled on Wednesdays.

Pages serve from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on their selected day. Eligible students are permitted by Indiana law to receive a one-day excused absence from school to participate.

Students and parents are encouraged to submit applications that correspond with their preferred page date. To schedule a group page day, organizers can contact the page program director at 317-232-9410 or [email protected].

Participants are responsible for their own lunch and transportation to and from the Statehouse in Indianapolis.

An Invitation to See Government Up Close

As applications open for the 2026 session, lawmakers hope students from across Indiana—particularly those from the Fort Wayne and Allen County area—will seize the opportunity.

For students interested in government, history, or public service, the House Page Program offers more than a day out of school. It offers a chance to see democracy in motion, to connect classroom learning with real-world action, and to walk away with a deeper understanding of how their state works.

For more information and to apply, students and parents can visit IndianaHouseRepublicans.com/PageProgram.