American Legion Boys Nation
One of the most selective civic-education programs in the country: two delegates chosen from each state's American Legion Boys State program (about 100 nationally from a pool of 20,000+ Boys State participants) travel to Washington, D.C. to serve a week as mock U.S. senators, drafting bills, holding committee hearings, and meeting elected officials.
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ALA Girls Nation
American Legion Auxiliary program in which two graduating-senior delegates ("senators") from each state's Girls State program travel to Washington, D.C. for a seven-day mock legislature, writing and debating bills, campaigning for office, and visiting Capitol Hill and national landmarks; the 2026 session runs July 18-25.
Academic WorldQuest
A fast-paced team trivia competition for high school students testing knowledge of international politics, geography, global economics, history, and world cultures; teams first compete in local contests hosted by roughly 30 World Affairs Councils nationwide before winners advance to the national championship in Washington, D.C. each April.
UC Berkeley Pre-College Scholars – Political Science & Government Courses
High school students who have completed 10th or 11th grade can enroll in lower-division UC Berkeley Summer Sessions courses, including political science and government offerings, through the Commuter Track for Bay Area residents, earning official UC Berkeley transcript credit alongside undergraduates.
JFK Profile in Courage Essay Contest
Students write an essay analyzing an act of political courage by a U.S. elected official since 1917, competing for cash prizes.
Senator Ben Allen High School Internship Program
A California State Senate district-office internship for high school students in Senator Ben Allen's office, giving interns direct exposure to constituent services and the legislative process; the Spring 2026 cycle ran through the office's El Segundo district office.
We the People – California
Students study the Constitution and testify as constitutional experts in simulated congressional hearings; state champion advances to nationals in D.C.