Manson students gain firsthand lessons in government

MANSON — Manson American Legion Post 108 is celebrating a successful year after sponsoring three local high school juniors to attend the 2026 Evergreen Boys and Girls State programs, earning recognition from the Department of Washington for sending the most students to this year's sessions.

The delegates included Chelan High School student Ella Desser, along with Manson High School students Levi Brown and Quahlani-Joseph Sanchez.

This year's Boys and Girls State session was held June 21-27 at the Warm Beach Conference Center in Stanwood. It marked the first time in the program's history that Boys State and Girls State were hosted at the same location.

Sponsored nationwide by the American Legion, Boys and Girls State is a weeklong leadership and civic engagement program for high school juniors. Participants learn how local and state government functions by creating and operating a mock government, running campaigns, participating in elections, debating legislation and taking part in simulated court and legislative proceedings.

Manson American Legion Post 108 covered the full cost of attendance for all three delegates, investing $2,100 in the program.

The Post 108 Boys and Girls State Committee included Robin Bloch, George Rohrich, Marie Cannon and John Swenson. Committee members worked with Manson High School Superintendent Tabatha Mires, Principal Kami Kronbauer and Counselor Jim Broome, as well as Chelan High School Counselor Derek Todd, to recruit and interview students before selecting delegates.

Committee Chair Robin Bloch said the program provides students with firsthand experience in civic leadership.

"The Boys and Girls State program is an immersive educational experience that teaches the fundamentals of democracy. It succeeds in its mission to remain fully non-partisan, giving delegates the chance to learn how city and state governments function by actually building and running a mock government themselves," Bloch said.

"American Legion Post 108 is proud to support Boys and Girls State through generous scholarships, and we encourage the youth of the Chelan/Manson Valley to take advantage of this opportunity,” he said. “It offers a deeper appreciation for our Republic and the democratic processes that sustain it."

Brown said the program broadened his understanding of government while introducing him to students from across Washington.

"During my time at Evergreen Boys and Girls State, I became close with a lot of people where I wouldn’t have in an ordinary setting. I met people from all across Washington and even the country. 

“I learned how government works from a city level all the way to the state level,” he said. “I learned how to be an effective leader and participant in government. This camp opened my eyes on people’s beliefs and how they believe government should be ran. I am grateful for the opportunity to attend Evergreen Boys State."

Desser said she quickly felt welcomed despite arriving without knowing anyone.

"When I first arrived at Boys and Girls state I knew no one and very little about the government, after only a few minutes I felt so welcome from the staff and students,” Desser said. 

“At the beginning of the week, they told us they would work us hard but I didn’t know just how much, I cherished every second of learning and in that week, I had learned more than my whole school year,” she said. “It was an amazing experience and I was so glad my teacher told me about it. I am so excited to hopefully be returning next year to help staff."

Sanchez said serving as a Supreme Court clerk gave him valuable insight into the judicial system while strengthening his leadership skills.

"Attending Evergreen Boys and Girls State 2026 was one of the most rewarding experiences I've had,” Sanchez said. “I had the opportunity to represent Manson High School while learning about Washington State government, leadership, and civic responsibility.”

“During the program, I served as a Supreme Court Clerk, where I worked alongside other students and gained a better understanding of the judicial system,” he said. “Beyond learning about government, I developed leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills while meeting students from across Washington. I am grateful to the American Legion and everyone who made this opportunity possible, and I encourage future students to apply for this outstanding program."

American Legion Post 108 Commander Clyde McCullough said the organization is proud to invest in future leaders.

"We are incredibly proud of the students we sponsored, and we’re confident that this one transformative week will leave a lasting impact on their lives," McCullough said.

The American Legion's Boys and Girls State programs have a long history of preparing young leaders for public service and civic engagement. Alumni include elected officials, military leaders, judges, educators and business executives.

Post 108 meets on the first Monday of each month at the Manson Parks building. Meetings begin at 7 p.m., and veterans who received an honorable discharge are invited to attend.

Norm Manly contributed to this report.