Girls State June 14-19, 2025 Sacramento State University

Boys State June 21-28, 2025 Sacramento State University  (Boys State informational flyer to be posted soon)             

What is Girls/Boys State?

Empowering young Californians with the knowledge, skills and confidence necessary to actively engage in civic responsibility, foster inclusive communities and drive positive change in our society. Through experiential learning, mentorship and teamwork, we cultivate a diverse generation of informed citizens who are equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow and uphold the principals of democracy, integrity and service to others.

Participants dive headfirst into an immersive experience, unraveling the intricacies of citizenship: rights, privileges and responsibilities. This isn't your average classroom setup-through hands-on experience, participants will learn the very backbone of governance: the structure of city, county and state government based on the California State Constitution.

Delegates will replicate reality by taking charge of their day-to-day experiences while being elected to city, county and state offices, orchestrating a symphony of legislative sessions, court proceedings, law-enforcement showcases and assemblies that make current government officials accessible. All of this moves along at the beat of our own band. This is not just a program: it's a vibrant tapestry of empowerment and education.  

The American Legion California Boys and Girls State Program is open to high school students who have completed their junior year of high school and have at least one semester of high school remaining (senior year). 

There is no selection process. Potential delegates must be nominated by their respective schools and selected by a local sponsoring American Legion Post.

The American Legion California Boys and Girls State Program is an "honors" program. The most successful delegates are leaders in their schools and have a high-achieving academic history.