— Courtesy of the Office of N.C. Rep. Frank Sossamon

Noah Bean, a rising senior at Vance Charter School, got to see the legislative process “up close and personal” recently as he participated in the N.C. House Page Program.

Bean, son of Ashley and Michael Bean of Henderson, is also the school’s Student Body President. He was sponsored by N.C. House Rep. Frank Sossamon to participate in the page program. High school sophomores, juniors and seniors are eligible to apply for the program, designed to provide students with an educational experience while connecting them directly with elected leaders and offering an inside look at the workings of state government, according to a press release from Clai Keel, a staffer in Sossamon’s office.

“The House Page Program is an incredible opportunity for young minds to immerse themselves in the legislative process,” Sossamon said. “It equips them with knowledge and experience that go beyond textbooks, preparing them for active citizenship and leadership roles in the future.”

Pages get to see how a bill becomes law, gain insights into the structure of state government and understand the legislative process.

Reflecting on his experience, Bean shared, “I gained an inside look and a deeper understanding of how our state’s legislative branch operates. We performed various tasks, assisted with voting sessions and committee meetings, and more. It was an incredibly valuable experience, and I feel immensely grateful to have participated!”

Students from District 32 and beyond are encouraged to consider this opportunity for the long session in 2025. The weeks available for service during the long session (odd-numbered years) are from February through August, while in the short session (even-numbered years), the weeks begin in mid-April/May through August. Pages serve for one week and must be sponsored by a Member of the N.C. House of Representatives.

During their week of service, Pages attend sessions in the House Chamber where bills are introduced, debated and passed. They are assigned to strategic stations throughout the Chamber, assisting House Members by delivering messages, bills, amendments, committee reports and other documents as needed.

Applications will be available online prior to the start of each session. The selection process for this program is highly competitive and appointments are made on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information about the application process, visit the North Carolina House Page Program website.