Boys State Scholarship

Program Description: American Legion Boys State is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for high school students. It is a participatory program where each participant becomes a part of the operation of his local, county and state government.

Program History

• Originally organized to counter Fascist-inspired Young Pioneer Camps
• First Boys State organized by Illinois Legionnaires Hayes Kennedy and Harold Card at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield
• Currently conducted in 49 Departments of The American Legion (Hawaii does not conduct a program)

Program Content

• Participants exposed to rights and privileges, duties and responsibilities of a franchised citizen
• Training is objective and practical
• City, county and state governments operated by students elected to various offices
• Activities include legislative sessions, court proceedings, law enforcement presentations, assemblies, bands, chorus and recreational programs

Eligibility

• High school juniors
• Selected by local American Legion Posts

Funding

• In most cases, expenses associated with attending are paid by a sponsoring American Legion Post, local business, or community-based organization
• The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors a similar program for young ladies called Girls State

Geographic Scope

• 49 Departments of The American Legion (varies by state)
• Illinois-based program available