Islip Students Selected for Prestigious Boys State and Girls State Programs

American Legion Boys State and ALA Empire Girls State are premier week-long leadership and citizenship programs that provide high school juniors with a hands-on experience in how government operates in New York State.

Through these immersive programs, students gain a deeper understanding of civic responsibility, leadership, and the role individuals play in shaping their communities. Participants engage in mock government activities, elections, teamwork exercises, and leadership training, guided by experienced counselors and mentors. Girls State, led by the American Legion Auxiliary, also emphasizes civic engagement, public service, and the responsibilities of American citizenship through a nonpartisan, experiential learning environment.

We are proud to recognize the following Islip students selected for the 2026 programs:

ALA Empire Girls State
Elizabeth Hamm – Citizen
Sofia Marra – Citizen
Emme Pesiri – Alternate
Madison Turk – Alternate

American Legion Boys State
Christopher Duckworth – Primary
Jhon Elmonuce – Primary
Matthew Levy – Primary
Kyle Petersen – Primary

Congratulations to all of our students on this outstanding achievement. Your commitment to leadership and civic engagement makes our community proud!