Senior high school students interested in politics should apply for parliament program

Todd Smith

High school students interested in politics and public service – or even those who only want a behind the scenes look at how things work at the provincial legislature – have an opportunity to take part in the province’s Model Parliament program.

Applications for the three-day program, open to Ontario students in Grades 10, 11 and 12, are being accepted until Oct. 30. Students selected to participate will be at Queen’s Park from Feb. 21-23, 2018.

“This is a great opportunity for Ontario high school students to come to Queen’s Park and connect with the legislative process,” said Prince Edward-Hastings MPP Todd Smith. “We’ve had a number of students represent Prince Edward-Hastings since I arrived at Queen’s Park and they always provide an optimistic and encouraging view of the future for both our region and our province.”

The main event for the three days the students are at the provincial legislature comes when they take their seats for an actual debate, as the MPP for their riding. These debates are often moderated by actual MPPs from all political parties acting as the honorary speaker.

Those interested learning more about the program or applying can do so by visiting: www.discoveryportal.ontla.on.ca