American Legion offers scholarships for 75th Arizona Boys State

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High school juniors are eligible to apply for scholarships to attend the 75th American Legion Arizona Boys State program for firsthand experience in government.

Maricopa’s American Legion is currently accepting online applications for the summer program through April 10. The program will be held June 4-10 at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff.

Arizona Boys State is designed to provide high school students with a working knowledge of governmental processes by mimicking Arizona’s current government. It’s an intense learning experience, said Jonell Sullivan, an Air Force veteran and board member of Maricopa’s American Legion.

“It’s designed to introduce them to understand the operating of a government,” Sullivan said. “What they’ll do is set up a mythical 51st state and pattern that state’s legislation and city councils after Arizona’s. They have to introduce bills, organize and act as a self-governing citizen in that government for a full week.”

During the week, participants will review processes, such as legal and legislative procedures and becoming a candidate for office. Participants will also have opportunities to meet state leaders.

Boys State is open to high school boys who completed their junior year and are interested in government. A similar program for junior girls is operated by Arizona’s American Legion Auxiliary.

The program costs $450 overall, including $150 for registration and $300 for fees. The scholarship will cover $300 for selected students.

Arizona Boys State is entering its 75th year of operation. The program was started by the American Legion Department of Illinois in 1935 as a response to similar camps held in the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

Details: Applications are due April 10 and can be found on the American Legion Department of Arizona website.

For more information, contact the Maricopa American Legion post at 520-233-2400, Ext. 2.