MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Four qualified 4-H=ers who want to learn more about state government will have the chance to be pages for one week in March during the 2011 Mississippi legislative session.

The Mississippi State University Extension Service 4-H program and the Center for Governmental Training and Technology are sponsoring the opportunity for 4-H youth to serve in the 2011 Legislative Page Internship Program March 14-18. Program coordinators hope to select two male and two female 4-H’ers for the positions.

“Each year, this opportunity is extended to 4-H youth, giving them the chance to see firsthand how state government works by serving in the capitol,” said Anne Hilbun, governmental training specialist overseeing the program for the Center for Governmental Training and Technology.

Applicants must be 4-H members in high school or freshmen in college between the ages of 14 and 19 as of Jan. 1 and have at least a B average. They must express their knowledge of, involvement with and interest in issues relating to citizenship, leadership and governmental functions.

Participating youth must agree to abide by behavioral standards expected of 4-H members. Mailed applications must be postmarked no later than Feb. 11, and faxed applications must be received by 5 p.m. Feb. 12. Forms are available at county Extension offices.

This is the 18th year 4-H and the Center for Governmental Training and Technology have offered this opportunity to qualified youth. 4-H will provide lodging at a nearby hotel, basic insurance and a chaperone.

For information about the 4-H legislative page program, contact Hilbun at (662) 325-3141 or anneh@ext.msstate.edu.