BADGER BOYS STATE

http://www.badgerboysstate.com/

For complete information click on above  link 

American Legion Boys State is one of the nation’s most respected educational programs for high school students interested in government, leadership, citizenship, and public service. Rather than simply learning about government in a classroom, participants take an active role in creating and operating their own model system of local, county, and state government.

During the program, students become citizens of a simulated state and participate directly in the democratic process. They organize political parties, campaign for public office, vote in elections, develop legislation, participate in court proceedings, and carry out many of the responsibilities associated with elected and appointed government positions. The experience is designed to help students better understand how government works while developing leadership, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and civic-engagement skills.

History of Boys State

The American Legion established the Boys State program in 1935. The program was created by Illinois Legionnaires Hayes Kennedy and Harold Card, who believed young people should have an opportunity to learn firsthand about democratic government and the responsibilities of American citizenship.

The first Boys State program was held at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, Illinois. It was developed in part as a response to youth programs of the era that promoted authoritarian and fascist political philosophies. Boys State instead emphasized democratic principles, representative government, individual rights, civic responsibility, and informed participation in the political process.

Since its beginning, Boys State has expanded across the country and has provided generations of young people with an intensive, hands-on introduction to government and citizenship.

Badger Boys State

Badger Boys State is Wisconsin’s American Legion Boys State program. Participants are introduced to the rights and privileges of citizenship as well as the duties and responsibilities that accompany them. The program combines classroom instruction with practical experience, allowing students to learn by actually performing many of the functions of government.

Participants organize and operate simulated city, county, and state governments, with students elected or appointed to various offices. Depending on their interests and responsibilities, participants may campaign for office, serve in legislative bodies, participate in judicial proceedings, work with law-enforcement-related activities, debate public-policy issues, and take part in assemblies and other civic exercises.

The program also offers opportunities beyond government and politics. Activities may include legislative sessions, court proceedings, law enforcement presentations, assemblies, band, chorus, recreational activities, and other leadership and team-building experiences. Together, these activities create an environment in which students can build confidence, develop friendships, practice leadership, and gain a deeper appreciation for the responsibilities of citizenship.

Who Can Attend?

Badger Boys State is primarily open to high school juniors who demonstrate qualities such as leadership potential, good character, academic commitment, community involvement, and an interest in government or public service.

Students are typically selected or nominated through their school in cooperation with a local American Legion Post. Because the program is intended to recognize and develop promising young leaders, students interested in attending are encouraged to speak with their school counselor, administrator, or other designated school representative about the application and selection process.

In many cases, the cost of attending Boys State is covered by a sponsoring organization. Sponsors may include an American Legion Post, local business, civic organization, or other community-based group, helping ensure that selected students can participate regardless of their financial circumstances.

Local Sponsorship Through Howard J. Schroeder Post 457

Howard J. Schroeder American Legion Post 457 normally sponsors four young men each year to attend Badger Boys State. This sponsorship provides local students with an opportunity to participate in a unique leadership and citizenship experience while representing their school and community.

High school juniors attending schools in the Mequon-Thiensville area who are interested in Badger Boys State should contact their vice principal, guidance counselor, or designated school representative for information about nominations, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and the local selection process.

Participation in Badger Boys State can be a valuable experience for students considering future involvement in government, law, public service, the military, business, education, or community leadership. More importantly, the program gives students an opportunity to experience democracy in action and to better understand the important role citizens play in maintaining strong communities and effective government.

American Legion Boys State is currently conducted in 49 Departments of The American Legion. Hawaii does not conduct a program. As separate corporations, Boys States vary in content and method of procedure, but each and every Boys State adheres to the basic concept of the program - that of teaching government from the township to the state level.

The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors a similar program for young ladies called Girls State. For online details visit  http://www.boysandgirlsstate.org/girls.html