David Irving, NHBS Alumnus, Boys Nation Senator & Staff
The The American Legion's Boys State program is a unique way for young men to learn about the American system of government by taking part in a mock governmental system. The program occurs for one week each summer at a nearby college or university. Participants learn by doing.
What are the dates of the 2013 session?
TBA.
Who is eligible to attend?
Boys who will have completed their JUNIOR year in 2013 and are ready to enter the Senior Class in the Fall will be accepted if they meet the following criteria:
- Scholastic average must be 80 or better.
- Must be of good character and health.
- Should have outstanding qualities of leadership, character and good citizenship.
- Submit draft bill or resolution with application.
When is registration?
Registration is Sunday, from 3:00 pm until 5:00pm.
Where will registration be held?
In the lobby of the residence hall at Rivier University. An information packet will be sent to you if your application is accepted.
What should I bring?
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste
- Comb or Brush
- Portable fan
- Soap, Shampoo, Toiletries, Towels, and Washcloths
- Pants or shorts for the entire week (we'll provide two t-shirts which you'll wear during the instructional parts of the program the entire week.
- Personal Items (socks, underwear, any medications necessary for a week)--Inform your city counselor of any medications you may be taking.
- Clothes and shoes for recreation
- Pens and pencils, notepad
- Battery Powered Alarm Clock (There are limited plug-ins)
- Sleeping gear (sheets, pillow, sleeping bag, blanket, etc.)
- Campaign materials (masking tape, poster paper, marking pens). The more prepared you are, the better your chances are and the less you have to wait for your counselor to go buy you stuff.
- Really nice clothes for graduation (suit, slacks, tie, etc).
What will NHBS provide for me?
- Two 2013 Boys State T-shirts (required to be worn all week)
- Boys State Citizen Manual and Agenda
- Name Tag
- Incredible all-you-can-eat good food in the cafeteria
- Residence hall room
May I drive to Boys State?
Yes, but you won't have access to your vehicle during the week and keys must be turned in to your counselor/office.
Are Boys Staters allowed to leave during the week?
No, once you're registered, you are not to leave the program except with the express permission of the Director.
When is graduation?
Friday evening. More information will be available at registration.
Can I really earn college credit?
YES! Delegates may earn 3 credits of Political Science at Rivier University, which can then be transferred to any college or university. Delegates register and pay the college separately. More information and forms will be available during the program.
Are there smoking areas on campus?
No. If you are caught in possession of, or using alcohol, tobacco or drugs, you will be sent home immediately. We will contact your parents, your sponsor and your high school and explain to them why you are being sent home and why their fees will not be refunded. Cigarette use, even by those who may be 18 and over is prohibited by Rivier College and NHBS regulations. NO EXCEPTIONS.
What if I am not elected to an office?
All delegates are randomly assigned to the House or the Senate within New Hampshire Boys State's General Court. If you are not elected to an office, you will serve a term in your assigned house. You may also be appointed by the Governor to fill a variety of state or local positions. Don't worry, there' plenty for everyone to do, from planning budgets to trying cases in front of the Supreme Court.
Other Information and Facts
This is a voluntary program. It is not a sports camp, but a highly structured instructional program in local and state government. We operate under a strict set of rules which must be accepted by each potential delegate. Parents of delegates need to understand how the program operates and what type of students will be attending. Many traditions are found at Boys State. The American Legion creed "For God and Country" is taken very seriously. Each session is opened and closed with pledge to the flag of our country and other flag ceremonies are conducted. We respect all religious beliefs and no one is forced to participate in any religious or patriotic ceremony. The American Legion Boys State program does not receive any Federal, State or other public funds. All monies are raised through the local Posts and our counseling staff is all volunteers.
What is the application deadline?
TBA