Three juniors at Chinook High School (CHS) were recently named Boys' and Girls' State Delegates. Dentin DePriest, Hannah Schoen, and Brockton Elliot will be attending the Montana American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary sponsored event this summer. Scheduled for June 16-22, the 2024 Session will take place at the Fort Harrison Training Center in Fort Harrison, Montana.

Mrs. Fay Friede, the CHS Counsellor, explained that all juniors were encouraged to apply. Beyond being a junior in good standing, a level of involvement in school activities or extracurricular activities, an interest to actively participate as a delegate, and a commitment to attend were all essential criteria. Additionally, the American Legion gives preference to candidates based on leadership, character, academics, cooperation, courage, physical fitness, and honesty.

About this year's delegates, Friede said: "We have outstanding delegates in Dentin, Brockton, and Hannah to represent Chinook High School. Our local American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary sponsor our delegates, and students are responsible for repayment of registration fees if they do not attend."

According to a spokesperson for the American Legion Auxiliary, Boys' and Girls' State, which used to be two unique sessions, have combined to create a single "nonpartisan program that teaches responsible citizenship as well as love for God and Country. During the 2024 Session, participants will learn how to participate in the functioning of their state's government in preparation for their future roles as responsible, informed citizens. A capable staff will guide the delegates through the levels of local, county, and state government, a mock court, and much more."

The three students shared what they plan to contribute to the program, as well as how they expect to grow from the experience. For her part, Schoen stated: "I hope that I can contribute my leadership skills and my work ethic at Girls' State. I also hope to use my outgoing personality to share my experiences and to gain new ones. From these experiences, I would like to gain a refreshed view and new resources to apply in my everyday life."

Regarding his plans, Elliot stated: "I will contribute by participating and being attentive. I hope I can be elected to a leadership position in the mock government."

Elliot also anticipates increasing his knowledge about the governmental process. "It is a great learning experience for all juniors who don't understand our city, county, and state government. Boys' State will be amazing, I won't just get to learn, but I get to be a part of a mock representation of our government."

DePriest agreed by saying, "I'm very excited to go. I've heard that it can be an excellent experience."

While at Fort Harrison, DePriest expects to contribute his opinions as well as to expand his learning experience with new perspectives. "At Boys' State, there will be many different viewpoints, and it's vital for students to express their opinions respectfully, professionally, and peacefully. Especially in the last few years, I think many Montana students have felt a stronger need to express their political beliefs outside of their homes and schools, and Boys' State provides a safe and controlled setting for that to happen. When we stop talking to people we disagree with, it's very easy to become hostile towards them, which is why I think Boys' State is so beneficial for my peers and me."

Additionally, DePriest wants to gain a better understanding of other students' thought processes, specifically those who may not share his views. "Respectfully disagreeing is something today's society has almost completely lost, and learning it at a young age is essential for the success of not only our schools and towns but the entire country," DePriest concluded.