Shortly after finishing up their junior year of high school, 9 BHS boys headed to Jackson’s Mill to take part in the 81^th Annual Boy’s State, held June 10-16. As students before them, the group experienced an intensive week learning about the principles that govern West 

Virginia. 

 

The Mountain State hosts the second oldest Boys State in the country and participants are immersed in three days of intense instruction prior to participating in a mini-society in which each portrays the roles of government officials.

 

Participants were given the opportunity to apply for positions with the bank, homeland security, the police academy, journalism, DNR, emergency services, DMV, the National Guard or any of the governing positions. 

 

Throughout the week, notable officials spoke with the boys in order to help them better understand how state government works. This year’s speakers included West Virginia senators, a portrayal of Rosie the Riveter, and Medal of Honor recipient Woody Williams. Additionally, Tina Rush from Mark West spoke to the boys about job opportunities in West Virginia and the benefit of participating in Boys State.

 

The selection process for Boys State is based on leadership in school and community, GPA, and sponsorship by organizations in the area.  BHS students attending this year include Liam McCarthy, Alec Goodwin, Broc Oliverio, Nate Madden, Vincent Pinti, Gunnar Webb, Jeremiah Dolan, Owen Henline, and Austin Barker. They were among the nearly 500 boys from around the state to take part in the tradition.

 

Following a week of campaigning, working and listening to dynamic speakers, the boy-citizens were recognized in a formal graduation ceremony, closing out a memorable week of government education.