The Junior State of America is a program for the youth of today that helps strengthen American democracy by educating and preparing high school students for life-long involvement and responsible leadership in a democratic society.  The intended goal is for the students to demonstrate statesmanship as they engage in political discourse.  They cultivate democratic leadership skills, challenge one another to think critically, advocate their own opinions, develop respect for opposing views and learn to rise above self-interest to promote the public good.  

 

The JSA students take three different trips throughout the school year: one in the Fall to Boston, Massachusetts, one in the Winter to Washington D.C., and one in the Spring to Stamford, Connecticut.  The students depart on Friday mornings so that we have an opportunity to explore the area we are visiting (tourist attractions, monuments, landmarks, etc.)  Activities start Friday evening with a Welcome Address by the JSA student officers.  The next day, Saturday, consists of block debates and ‘thought talks’ where students actually debate the given topic with students from other schools. Prior to the assigned debate and after they finish their debate, students are required to attend other debates of their choice to listen and evaluate other students arguments.  

 

Activities that occur at these three conventions consist of: Debates, thought talks, speeches from various Keynote speakers, elections are held once a year for the JSA officers for the upcoming year, various political fairs, mock trials, and simulations of city council meetings & school board meetings.  By having different activities students can participate in, these conventions give all students opportunities for increased participation.  Prior to the three different conventions, students prepare by practicing debates amongst each other in our weekly meetings.