American Legion Boys State is among the most respected and selective educational
programs of government instruction for local area high school students. It is a
participatory program where each participant becomes a part of the operation of his
local, county and state government.
At American Legion Boys State, participants are exposed to the rights and
privileges, the duties and the responsibilities of a franchised citizen. The training is
objective and practical with city, county and state governments operated by the
students elected to the various offices. Activities include legislative sessions, court
proceedings, law enforcement presentations, assemblies, bands, chorus and
recreational programs.
High school juniors are selected by local American Legion Posts to attend the
program. Expenses associated with attending this program are paid by sponsoring
American Legion Post , and through the generosity of many area civic and service
organizations - as well as individuals - who donate scholarships. This community
synergy has allowed an average over 20 young men to partake of this program from
the local community.
The young men get a chance to live responsibly, and productively, as members of
society. They have the opportunity to meet, and make life-long friends, with their
peers from high schools throughout the State of Texas.
Boys State delegates are selected from male youth who have completed their
Junior year in high school, and have at least one more semester of the Senior year.
The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors a similar program for young ladies called
Girls State.
Any young man who is interested in attending the 2010 Boys State -- or in obtaining
information -- can contact the Principal of their High School, and/or their Civics or
Government teacher. Information is also available by calling Post 655.
Boys State has been a program of The American Legion since 1935 when it
organized to counter the Fascist inspired Young Pioneer Camps. The program was
the idea of two Illinois Legionnaires, Hayes Kennedy and Harold Card, who
organized the first Boys State at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield.
For online details visit www.legion.org

| AMERICAN LEGION BOYS STATE |