WATCH THE VIDEO TO SEE WHAT TOM BROKAW REFLECT ON HIS BOYS STATE EXPERIENCE.

I came to Boys State not knowing what I was getting myself into. I had no information other than my mom an alum of Girls State telling me that it was a great experience. She was right, this has been one of the greatest weeks of my life. There have been many great guys that support each other in each election even if running against them. I have learned more about the government this week than my whole semester of government in my junior year. Illinois Boys State was a great program that I will promote as soon as I get home. I plan on becoming part of the Boys State Alumni Association and I plan on being a citizen for the rest of my life.
Joseph C Roberts - Bloomington HS
Bloomington, IL - 2007 Citizen

 
Student Introduction

At Boys State, students (who become Boys State citizens) experience the rights, privileges, duties and responsibilities of citizenship. The 'learn by doing' training is accomplished as citizens create their own city, county, and state governments. Citizens accomplish this task using two mythical parties: Nationalist and Federalist.

Activities include legislative sessions, court proceedings, law enforcement presentations, assemblies and seminars. Citizens debate a public affairs topic, chosen for each year's session. Policy recommendations are forwarded to the Governor of Illinois and to the leaders of the Illinois General Assembly. Embedded within the program is an afternoon of intramural sports, a band, and other activities as well.

Students must be sponsored by a parent, school, school organization, civic organization, bank, or Legion Post. The cost of the program is $225. There is NO limit to the number of students who can attend from any particular school. Feel free to bring a friend who finds a sponsor.

Above you can view a bit of a Boys State session. Search around the website and learn more about our program.. We hope to see you at Illinois Boys State...a week that shapes a lifetime.

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