Girls State

Palmetto Girls State is a one-week leadership and citizenship training program, created to educate outstanding high school students about state and local government and citizenship. Girls attending Palmetto Girls State experience governmental procedure by simulating political campaigns, elections, and the political process. They also learn about the principles of citizenship and public service from guest speakers, expert panels and staff members.

The delegates, who are rising seniors in high school, are selected for the program based on the leadership skills and involvement they have shown in their respective schools and communities. As citizens of Palmetto Girls State, the delegates are divided into groups of about 30 called “cities.” They will create local governments, devise political party platforms and ultimately elect a Senate, a House of Representatives, and state constitutional officers.

The South Carolina Department of the American Legion Auxiliary has organized and administered Palmetto Girls State since 1947.