For more than 28 years, the Florida House of Representatives has allowed interested middle and high school students the opportunity to participate in the  legislative process. Each year approximately 240 students from across the state are chosen to serve the Florida House. Each of the 120 elected members of the Florida House is entitled to sponsor one Page and one Messenger to serve for one week during Regular Session. Participation in the program is not only an honor and a privilege; it is a wonderful learning experience. After all, these students are our future leaders. Some of our members like to share their own personal experiences as a Page or Messenger. They say the opportunity to be here at the Florida House of Representatives inspired them to run for political office.

These students have a unique opportunity to see their state government in action. This is their civics class coming to life. While performing their duties they will watch members, constituents, and lobbyists work together to pass or defeat bills going through the legislative process.

This is a member sponsored program. The selection process to become a Page or Messenger is determined solely by your representative. In order for your application to be considered, three signatures are necessary: the member who is sponsoring you, your school principal, and your parent/guardian. While here, Pages and Messengers are considered employees of the House. They are expected to be courteous and professional at all times. If you are selected, the Program Specialist will contact you with all the details and requirements needed to participate in the program.

Pages (students 12 to 14 years old) serve in the Chamber, with the members, as legislation is debated and voted on. The need for Pages is determined by the availability of bills ready to go to the floor. The work hours vary according to the time Session is scheduled in the Chamber.

Messengers (students 15 to 18 years old) work throughout the Capitol Complex running numerous errands. If time allows, Messengers are encouraged to sit in on committee meetings or observe Session from the galleries. Unlike the Pages, they do not serve in the Chamber. Their week is usually very busy and generally quite interesting. The students seem to bond immediately and are eager to learn about things going on in other areas of the state.