Local students attend Boys State Leadership Program
Written by admin, Jun 26, 2013, Comments Off
COURTESY ROBERTO TREVIÑO,
(LAREDO, TX)-Four LISD high school seniors spent the first week of summer vacation attending the 2013 American Legion Boys State Summer Leadership Program at the University of Texas in Austin. Carlos Bouchot and Eduardo Gonzalez of Cigarroa High School, along with Jorge Chavarria and Guadalupe Saenz of Nixon High School, were among 936 young men from across Texas who participated in the Leadership Program that teaches young men how government works.
Boys State is a unique program that educates future leaders about government, civics, and patriotism in a “learn by doing” environment. Each delegate has just finished their junior year of high school and was selected by their school counselor and local American Legion Post to attend the program. The young men were chosen based on their academics, social skills, extracurricular activities, and their interest in Boys State.
During the weeklong program, the young men attended workshops developing civic leadership, pride in American citizenship, interest in government, and a full understanding of American traditions.
“We really learned a lot. We now have a better understanding of how our government works from the inside,” said Jorge Chavarria, Nixon High School senior. “Basically it gave us first hand knowledge of what every position does in state government.”
The LISD delegation, along with the other student leaders, experienced the governmental and legislative process at the state capitol. The young men sharpened their leadership skills by participating in civic exercises and running for state office. The delegates campaigned and ran for office including state, district, county, and city offices.
According to Chavarria they elected official for city, county, district, and state office. “ We had mandatory elections for every office. I even ran for office,’ said Chavarria. “The best part was the committee meetings where we held discussions and created legislation for bills to be passed.”
As part of the fast paced Summer Youth Program, activities also included attending inspirational speaker presentations, small group talks with state dignitaries and a college fair with representatives from colleges and universities. The guest speakers gave memorable advise on leadership and responsibilities added Chavarria.
When asked what he gained from his experience at Boys State, Chavarria replied, “Boys State was a great experience. It gave me confidence at being a leader and not to hesitate to try new experiences. Participating in the Leadershiph Program has raised my self-esteem. I now know I can step up to the plate and take charge. This experience has encouraged me to follow my dreams.”
The Laredo American Legion Post 59 coordinated the trip for the students. Individuals or organizations within the Laredo community sponsored the students. Carlos Bouchot was sponsored by SOUTH-WEN Inc. (Wendy’s), Eduardo Gonzalez was sponsored by LULAC Council #12, while Jorge Chavarria was sponsored by Southern Distributing. Guadalupe Saenz was sponsored by Webb County Commissioners John Galo and Mike Montemayor. The Webb County Commissioner Court recognized the students at tier meeting. The LISD Board of Trustees will recognize the young men at their July Regular Monthly Board Meeting.
