MANHATTAN, Kan. — High school students from across Kansas recently participated in the 85th session of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas (ALBSK), held June 4 -10 at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This was the 31st consecutive year the Kansas Boys State program was held at K-State.
The objective of the ALBSK is to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to community, state and nation. Kansas Boys State provides an interactive, problem-solving experience in leadership and teamwork that seeks to develop self-identity, promote mutual respect and instill civic responsibility.
Boys State is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy.
The following southeast Kansas students were among the delegates who participated in this year’s ALBSK:
Columbus High School
Mat Graham, City of Shoemaker Councilman. Graham was named outstanding citizen for the City of Shoemaker.
John Smith, Supreme Court Judge
Fort Scott High School
Andrew Lyon, City of Klassen Councilman
Frontenac High School
Tallon Bonine, Department of Economy Official
Gavin Caldwell, Department of Natural Resources Official
Cole Niederklein, Department of Natural Resources Official
Collin Parrish, Department of Natural Resources Official
Girard High School
Benjamin Firman, KBS Highway Patrol Officer
Aaron Jones, City of Raymond Councilman
Max Lewis, Eisenhower County Commissioner
Matthew Pease, Department of Education and Culture Official
Issac Woods, Department of Education and Culture Official
The 86th session of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas is tentatively scheduled to be held the week of Sunday, June 2, through Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Kansas State University. For information on becoming a delegate, nominating a delegate or sponsoring a delegate next year, visit https://ksbstate.org.
