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Parents

FAQ for Parents
What is Evergreen Boys & Girls State?
Evergreen Boys & Girls State is a week-long, hands-on leadership and civics program operated by The American Legion Department of Washington. It gives high school students the chance to learn how government works by building one from the ground up. Participants run for office, pass laws, debate ideas, and gain valuable teamwork, leadership, and public speaking skills. Along the way, they meet peers from across the state, grow in confidence, and may become eligible for scholarships.
The 2026 session runs Sunday, June 21 through Saturday, June 27 at the Warm Beach Conference Center in Stanwood, WA. Students check in between 12:00–2:30 p.m. on Sunday and are dismissed at approximately 10:30 a.m. on Saturday.
No. The program is highly structured and interactive. Every student plays a role in the functioning of the mock government. Arriving late or leaving early not only limits your child’s experience, but also places an unfair burden on others. Full attendance is required for the program to work as intended.

The total cost for the week is $700, which includes all meals, housing, materials, and activities.

Families may request financial assistance:

  • Local American Legion Posts and other community sponsors often cover up to $350 of the fee.
  • The remaining $350 is paid by the student’s family.
  • Full scholarships are available if needed—no qualified student will be turned away due to financial need.


Students may also want to bring $20–$25 in small bills for optional items like snacks from vending machines or to chip in for the end-of-week pizza party. This is not required – all essential expenses are covered.

They will still be able to attend. If sponsorship slots from an American Legion Post are limited, families can choose to pay the full $700. If that’s not feasible for your family, we will work with you to explore other funding options. Contact us at office@evergreenboysstate.org and we will find the funding for your child to attend!

Yes, but visits must follow a few rules:
  • All visitors must check in at the program office.
  • Students must still attend all scheduled activities.
  • Visitors may not enter student dorms and must stay in public areas.

We encourage families to attend Family Day on Saturday. You’re welcome to join us for breakfast (with a ticket) or just attend the closing ceremony at no cost.

Students stay in dorm-style housing at Warm Beach. Most rooms sleep 3 students, though some larger bunk rooms may house up to 10. Rooms include all bedding and linens, and bathroom/shower facilities are shared within each building.

Male and female delegates will be housed in separate dorms.

Meals are served cafeteria-style and are prepared by the Warm Beach dining staff. The food is generally well-liked and includes choices such as burgers, chicken stir-fry, spaghetti, and more. Students may return for second helpings after everyone has gone through the line.

Yes, usually. Please note any allergies or medical dietary needs in the registration forms. Warm Beach staff are very experienced and will work with us to meet those needs.

For students with dietary restrictions where cross-contamination is a severe health risk, some additional precautions will be needed.

For best support, notify us no later than June 1 by emailing office@evergreenboysstate.org.

We balance independence with structured supervision. Each staff member oversees a small group of students. The entire team undergoes thorough background checks and youth protection training, and we work closely with Warm Beach staff to ensure a safe and positive experience.

You’ll complete a medical information form during registration. Please list all conditions, medications, and special instructions. A doctor’s physical is not required, but participants must be in generally good health. Any additional aides or services needed are the family’s responsibility.

Yes. While we don’t offer daily “sick call,” staff are trained to respond to health needs and will coordinate with local emergency services if necessary. There is also a supplemental insurance policy in place, but it is secondary to your family’s existing health coverage.

Yes. Upon arrival, they’ll park in a secured, well-lit lot and turn in their car keys to the office for the week. Keys are returned after breakfast on Saturday.

No. For safety and insurance reasons, students must remain on the designated campus grounds. There is plenty of space to walk, jog, and enjoy downtime outdoors.
No, we do not rent indoor athletic spaces due to cost and insurance. However, there are open areas for morning jogs or exercise.

Zero tolerance. Any student found in possession of drugs, alcohol, vaping products, or tobacco will be sent home immediately. Law enforcement may be contacted if required. Warm Beach is a non-smoking, drug-free facility, and rules are strictly enforced.

Yes. The Samsung American Legion Scholarship application must be completed online before the student arrives — no exceptions.

Our foundation provides additional scholarships, which are awarded each year at the Family Day celebration event.

Visit our website or email office@evergreenboysstate.org for more information.

Phones are not allowed during program events. Your child can call you during free time (usually early morning, mealtimes, or late evening). In an emergency, you may contact the program office – phone numbers and mailing addresses will be shared once the program begins.