Frequently Asked Questions

Notice: Some of this information is dated. It will be updated in the near future. Thanks!

Frequently Asked Questions

Maps and directions can be obtained onthis page.

How can I reach my son at Boys State?

Old Information, to be updated! The Boys State office is located in the Southeast corner of Brody Hall and will open the Saturday prior to the start of American Legion Boys State. Please feel welcome to visit us or to call at any time at (517)-353-4371.

What if my son needs medical attention while at Boys State?

Old Information, to be updated! Medical attention is available at all hours. Students are instructed to report sprains, cuts, scratches, blisters and sun burn to their counselor immediately. Parents should explain any special needs, including medication, on your Medical Form. The American Legion Boys State Clinic is located in Brody Hall. Medication needing refrigeration may be kept at the reception desk in the student's dormitory. Please contact the American Legion Boys State Office as soon as possible with any special medical requests.

Can my son receive mail while at Boys State?

Old Information, to be updated! While your son is at Boys State, mail will be delivered daily. To ensure quick delivery, you should include your son's name and the city he is assigned to on your mail. For example, if someone was sending email to Joe Student, and he was a member of Washington City, the mailing address would look like this:

Joe Student
The American Legion Boys State
Washington City
c/o 142 Brody Hall
Michigan State University
East Lansing, Michigan 48824-1018

Can my son receive email while at Boys State?

There is technology available for students to use while at Boys State. However, this equipment is reserved for uses related to the program, except during free time.

For Students

How do I thank my sponsor for sending me to Boys State?

Each citizen should report back to their sponsoring organization upon returning home. It is critical for Boys Staters to properly thank the American Legion Post or other sponsoring organization for paying the registration fee for each person.

Can I drive to Boys State?

If you bring a car to Boys State, you will be asked to turn the keys in to your counselor as you will not be permitted to use the car while in attendance. Cars will be parked in designated parking lots. Even though the University patrols the parking area, The American Legion and Northwood University assume no responsibility for vandalism, theft, or damage to cars of American Legion Boys State citizens.

Upon arriving at Boys State, how do I register?

Registration will be from 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Sunday in the building that you have been assigned. Upon registering, you will receive a badge assigning you to one of the Boys State political parties, your room key, and other information. The American Legion Boys State delegate and/or his sponsor assumes responsibility for transportation to and from Northwood University.

Is there any free time or recreation at Boys State?

Old Information, to be updated! Competition between cities will be conducted in volleyball, basketball, and quiz bowl. Swimming will also be available by special schedule as well as weightlifting. Each city will choose an Athletic Director, who will work closely with the counselor in organizing the various teams and seeing that the city teams show up on time for scheduled events.

What if I need to be absent during Boys State?

Absence from Boys State will be by written pass only. Passes will be approved only in the case of extreme emergency or by prior written permission from the parent and must be approved by the Boys State Legion Director; located in the American Legion Boys State office. No citizen is to leave the boundaries of American Legion Boys State.

Can I bring and use cell phones at Boys State?

Cell phone use is only allowed during recreational time for Boys State citizens. Cell phones must be turned off during meetings, all government functioning times, and general assemblies.

What are the expectations for conduct for each citizen of Boys State?

Since all delegates are classified as minors, they will be under the complete supervision of the American Legion Boys State staff from the time of their arrival until the time of their departure home. Any citizen violating the policies of American Legion Boys State, laws of the State of Michigan, or any rule of Northwood University, shall be subject to dismissal from American Legion Boys State.

Specific rules, regulations, and policies will be explained to you by our staff shortly after your arrival. Needless to say, however, as a representative of your school, your community, and your sponsoring organization, we expect behavior and conduct from you that is in keeping with good citizenship at all times.

Are meals included in the camp?

Old Information, to be updated! Beginning with lunch Sunday, all meals will be served in Brody Hall. A wide variety of menu selection is provided, with "all-you-can eat" on many items. Those persons having special food needs should contact the American Legion Boys State Headquarters in Lansing as soon as possible so arrangements can be made.

Is there a place for money and valuables at Boys State?

Old Information, to be updated! The Boys State Bank is located in Brody Hall. Boys Staters are encouraged to open an account for the safe keeping of their money and valuables. The bank will also be selling Boys State hats, pins, T-shirts, yearbooks and stamps.

What can you tell me about The American Legion Boys Nation?

Two Boys Staters will be chosen to represent Michigan at Boys Nation in Washington, D.C. in July. Candidates will be nominated by city counselors and building coordinators. A senior staff committee will have an initial interview with the nominees. The American Legion will select the delegates in a final interview. The delegates and alternates will be announced at the final general assembly on Saturday.

Frequently Asked Questions

For Parents

For Students

For Parents

For Students

Other Questions not Covered in this FAQ