Kentucky’s American Legion
Kentucky Boys State
The American Legion Boys State is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for U.S. high school students. A unique and inspiring program where students become part of the operation of local, county, and state government. The goal is for students to learn franchised citizens’ rights, privileges, and responsibilities.
Register Today
Kentucky Boys State program is a participatory program where each participant becomes a part of the operation of his local, county, and state government. We are proud to have Alumni that ranges from famous actors to politicians.
Support our Own
Kentucky Boys State is currently seeking sponsorships for its 2022 session. We teach, lead and mentor Kentucky’s young men to change their local community and eventually the world.
Kentucky’s American Legion
Kentucky Boys State
The American Legion Boys State of Kentucky is a six-day hands-on experience in the operation and fundamentals of government. Kentucky Boys State draws together the best and brightest high school students to help lead them down the path of individual success and leadership through “doing,” not just learning.
About Us
Learn about the historic influences of our program and the patriotic ideas that our young men learn.
Our Program
The young men that participate in this program learn through action. Click here to understand the program.
Calendar
Stay up to date with our calendar. We will have hard deadlines for some submissions that can not be missed.
Kentucky’s American Legion
Kentucky Boys State
Boys State has been a program of The American Legion since 1935, when it was organized to counter the Fascist-inspired Young Pioneer Camps. The program was the idea of two Illinois Legionnaires: Hayes Kennedy and Harold Card, who organized the first Boys State at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield.
Leadership
We want young leaders that are capable of influencing their peers and maximizing their efforts towards the achievement of a goal.
Good Character
Only individuals with good moral character, good grades and the voluntary willingness to abide by the rules need to apply.
Honesty
Our program seeks out young men that believe in truthfulness; sincerity and commitment.
Kentucky’s American Legion
Kentucky Boys State
The first session of Kentucky Boys State was held on the campus of Western Kentucky State College, Bowling Green, Ky., August 4th through the 10th, 1940. Since the initial session, over 20,000 outstanding Kentucky young men have attended these sessions to learn firsthand about democratic government.
Kentucky’s Future Leaders
The Boys State program is designed to train Kentucky youth in the fundamentals of good citizenship and governmental operations. Our program is not a replacement for traditional civics or government classes; it is an intensive practical application of the theories of American government through the actual operation of city, county, and state offices, as organized under the plans of a mythical 51st state.
Leadership Experience
A great opportunity to develop and or sharpen your leadership skills.
Physical Fitness
We have athletic activities and competitive sports during the program.
Political Office
Every citizen is urged to become involved by campaigning for a city or state office.
Scholarships
Participants have the opportunity to compete for the Samsung American Legion Scholarship and other local scholarships.
