Virginia Boy's State Program

Virginia Boy's State Program

Boys State is a comprehensive one week course in state and local government . Virginia American Legion Boys State is a "leadership action program" where qualified male high school rising seniors take part in a practical government course. It is designed to develop a working knowledge of the structure of government and to impress upon the citizen the fact that our government is just what we make it. Along the way they will have the opportunity to learn the political process. Each level of government will be run by those delegates who are elected to serve. Instruction will be presented on the law and court system, parliamentary procedure and Virginia political history.

Objectives
Boys State is a non-partisan program which encompasses the following objectives:

	To develop civic leadership and pride in American Citizenship.
	To arouse a keen interest in the detailed study of our government.
	To develop in the citizens a determination to maintain our form of government, primarily by bringing them to the realization of how great it is to be an American.
	To inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the Community, State and Nation.

Program Highlights

Boys State is a learning experience in practical democracy.

	Citizens learn the political process through the election process for the offices of the mythical 51st state.
	Each delegate is assigned to a political party which has no philosophy or platform until the delegates develop one.
	Delegates use the basic laws and procedures of the State of Virginia as a guide for their week.
	Speakers from all levels of government provide valuable lessons for the delegates.
	A highly qualified staff provides guidance and leadership.
	Two delegates will participate in Boys Nation held in Washington, D.C. in July.

Eligibility and Selection

The American Legion has established certain qualifications for prospective Boys State citizens.

Only males who have successfully completed their junior year of high school and have at least one semester of high school remaining.

Any boy who has previously attended a Boys State is not eligible to attend a second session.

Outstanding qualities of leadership, character, scholarship, loyalty and service to their schools and community should be considered.

An interest in the governmental process.

Above average scholastic standing.

The prospective delegate and their parents must be residents of the state of Virginia.

Selection of those to attend Boys State is based on the following:

	A recommended list of candidates to interview is made by the high school at which the eligible boys are enrolled.
	Posts will interview those recommended and make their selections based on the interview and other criteria such as a resume or written assignment.
	Those not selected as primary delegates become alternates in case a primary delegate cannot attend.