Dakota Perry, Chauncey Hardrick, Ryan Conder, and Kynley Mack represented MCHS over the Summer at Palmetto Girls State and Palmetto Boys State.
American Legion Auxiliary Palmetto Girls State is a one-week leadership and citizenship training program, created to educate outstanding high school students about state and local government and citizenship. Girls attending ALA Palmetto Girls State experience governmental procedure by simulating political campaigns, elections, and the political process. They also learn about the principles of citizenship and public service from guest speakers, expert panels and staff members. The delegates, who are rising seniors in high school, are selected for the program based on the leadership skills and involvement they have shown in their respective schools and communities. As citizens of ALA Palmetto Girls State, the delegates are divided into groups of about 30 called “cities.” They will create local governments, devise political party platforms and ultimately elect a Senate, a House of Representatives, and state constitutional officers.
The American Legion’s Boys State program offers a distinctive opportunity for young men to understand the American system of government and politics by engaging in a mock governmental system. Palmetto Boys State stands out for its multifaceted learning environment. Besides participating in a simulated government system, Boys Staters can explore potential career paths through various specialized schools. These include the Performing Arts School, Criminal Justice Academy, and Law School, each providing unique insights and experiences.