Each year, the Henry G. Fix Post #23 American Legion and Legion Auxiliary sponsor Garretson students who wish to participate in Boys State and Girls State, a civics camp that teaches how government works while developing leadership skills and an appreciation for our rights as citizens of the United States.
In order to apply, students must be juniors/incoming seniors in high school. The camp sets up a mock government at all levels with a Senate, House, City Councils, County Commissions, and a newspaper. Students participate in public speaking and work on leadership skills while running for office, vote on mock bills and laws, and actively participate in all phases of creating and running a working government over five days.
This year, three girls and two boys will represent Garretson as they attend the programs in Vermillion and Aberdeen.
Jade Bertotti, Eliza Potter, and Cortney Rogich will head to Vermillion for the 77th Annual Girls State, which is being held June 3-8, 2024. Noah Schotzko and Calvin Larson will head to Vermillion next Monday, May 27 through Friday, May 31 for the 81st Annual Boys State.
Boys and Girls State attendees for 2024 from Garretson High School are (L to R): Noah Schotzko, Jade Bertotti, Cortney Rogich, Eliza Potter. Not pictured: Calvin Larson.
