What can delegates expect?

The program will be five days, starting on Monday, June 14 at 9 a.m. and ending on Friday, June 18 in the afternoon.  Delegates will gather via ZOOM from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day from their home, with an hour for a lunch break.

See the tentative schedule here.

The application to participate is here.

2021 Virtual Boys State Flyer

To receive credit delegates will need to be connected and participate in the program for at least ninety percent of the program.  Delegates will need to have a computer, high-speed internet access, webcam, microphone, and suitable environment for learning.

The program will be different from an in-person event in that concentration will be placed on the executive, legislative, and judicial state-level branches of government.  Delegates will represent fictional cities, but the cities will not be in operation.

  The cost of the virtual program will be $125, plus a $25 non-refundable registration fee.  The Department Executive Committee is requiring that at least 100 delegates be registered for the program, by May 28 in order for the program to take place.

If you have any questions, contact Ashley Zimmer (517) 220-2754 or email at legion@michiganlegion.org.

Are you a political junky? Are you entering your junior year of high school?

Have you seen Boys State on Apple TV?

The 2021 Michigan Boys State program will be held June 13-19, 2021, fill out the form below to receive updates.

Be one of the first to learn about the 2021 Boys State Program
“Democracy is a verb, not a noun”

The American Legion Boys State program started in Illinois in 1935 and came to Michigan in 1938. By participating in mock local, county and state government exercises, delegates learn firsthand about leadership, practical citizenship and the democratic process through activities that include legislative sessions, court proceedings, presentations, bands, choruses and recreational programs.

Quick tips:

Eligibility

  • Be a male high school student
  • Completed junior year of high school or an accredited home-school equivalent by the start of the boy’s state program
  • Visit www.michalaux.org/girls-state for information about the Michigan American Legion Auxiliary Girls State Program

About

The American Legion Boys State is a non-partisan, non-political mock government exercise in a model state designed to mirror the structure and operation of its respective state government. It is intended to instill character, the importance of civic engagement and patriotism among rising high school seniors.

By participating in the weeklong program, delegates learn firsthand about leadership, practical citizenship, and the democratic process. It is an excellent academic opportunity and experience.

The program consists of classroom work, lectures, and camaraderie, with delegates taking on elected and appointed roles to experience democracy in action and learn how legislation is passed.

What are the requirements for participation?

Students who have just completed their junior year of high school, and have at least one semester of high school left to complete, are eligible to apply to The American Legion Boys State program.

Ideal candidates are individuals who understand the value of teamwork and possess outstanding leadership, character and community service qualities. An interest in government and public service ensures the student will be actively engaged in the program.

What takes place during the week?

Each day is filled with activities that vary throughout the week:
Speaker presentations, party and city meetings, campaigns, elections, recreation time, band and chorus. The experience replicates life in a college-like environment.

In addition to guest speakers on campus, this year the delegates will tour the State Capitol and meet with State Leaders to talk about the legislative process. Transportation will be provided.

Graduation is held at the end of the week.  Two delegates who will represent State at The American Legion Boys Nation are announced. Parents and visitors are encouraged to attend.

 

Contact

Year-round contact

To contact the Michigan Legion Boys State off-season office email: legion@michiganlegion.org or call 517-371-4720 x 123.

During the Boys State program

Contact the Michigan Legion Boys State office during the week of Boys State, please email our director Jerry Kelley at jkelley2136@sbcglobal.net or reach him at 734-845-6049.