What is ALA South Dakota Girls State?

ALA Girls State brings together the best delegates from all over the state of South Dakota to experience a week of intensive training in citizenship and government. In essence, ALA Girls State is a laboratory of political science. Each participant takes an active part in the week’s activities and learns that her government is just what she makes it. As future voters and office holders, ALA Girls Staters' gain a thorough understanding of the workings of government.

​Who is eligible to attend ALA Girls State?

• Finishing their junior year of high school and one semester of high school remaining;
• High moral character with strong leadership abilities and above average scholastic standing;
• Demonstrate DEFINITE INTEREST IN AMERICAN GOVERNMENT;
• Attend the FULL session of ALA Girls State. NO PERMISSION WILL BE GRANTED TO ATTEND OTHER ACTIVITIES during the session. To receive awards, the FULL session must be attended.

Final selection of the delegates rests with the local auxiliary units. If a unit selects a delegate who requires special needs assistance, then the unit must furnish a full-time aide (over 21 years of age) to assist that delegate, with expenses for the aide assumed by the unit.

Can I run for office?

Of course! We encourage all delegates to run for at least one office. What better way to learn about campaigning than to experience it for yourself. We suggest, however, that you wait until you arrive at ALA Girls State before you decide which office(s) to run for. Pre-made signs and other campaign materials are not allowed. You will have time to make signs during the week.

Is attendance required at all events?

Yes. If you accept the honor of attending ALA Girls State, you are expected to attend all events during the entire session. Each day at ALA Girls State builds upon the previous day, and if you miss one part of the week, you would not leave with the full knowledge the other delegates have gained. If you are elected to an office, you must be available to carry out the duties of that office throughout the week.

What else should I bring?

Remember, you will be gone from home for a week, so pack accordingly! A short reminder list:

• personal items (shampoo, deodorant, razor, etc.)
• towels
• two sheets for a twin bed (bring flat sheets—the beds are long), blankets and pillow or sleeping bag
• notebooks, paper, pens, pencils, other art supplies for posters, etc.
• alarm clock
• rain coat/umbrella
• all meals and ALA Girls State T-shirts are provided
• spending money (pop, snacks, etc.)
• any talent items/accessories you may need

How do I get to ALA Girls State?

The delegates family and/or sponsoring organization is responsible for transportation to and from Vermillion.

When do I register?

The registration deadline is March 1—the $175 fee is paid by the sponsoring American Legion Auxiliary Unit. If the delegate chooses not to attend and there is no alternate, the delegate is responsible for reimbursing the unit for the registration fee.

How long does ALA SD Girls State last?

This year’s session runs from Monday, May 30, to Saturday, June 4, 2022. Participants check in from 1– 4 p.m. on Monday and are finished at noon on Saturday

What activities are involved in ALA Girls State?

Delegates experience government at the city, county and state levels. Delegates are assigned a mythical city, county and political party. Each delegate has the opportunity to run for office, campaign (for herself or others), vote and listen to a variety of speakers. At the end of the week, delegates attend state political conventions and wrap up the week with the inauguration of the ALA Girls State Governor.

What else is there to do?

ALA Girls State is mainly a time to learn to actively participate in government, but there are other opportunities to experience. In addition to making new friends, you have the opportunity to join the chorus, participate in recreational activities, share your special talents during the talent show on Wednesday night and earn college credit.

What clothes should I bring?

You will need a variety of clothes for your week at ALA Girls State. You should expect to look nice for all meetings and assemblies; during your free time you can wear casual clothes. There may be several occasions when you want to wear a dressy outfit—if you are running for an office, if you are selected for a special talent presentation, or if you are selected to sit on stage during a general assembly for a prayer or citizens’ panel. Remember to pack for a variety of weather conditions: hot, rainy or cool. Maybe even all in the same week! A few particular items to remember when packing:

• one outfit for red, white and blue day (Friday)
• a dress or formal for inauguration (Friday night)
• comfortable shoes
• dressy clothes suitable for daily wear, such as slacks, knee-length shorts, dresses, skirts and blouses. You will be expected to maintain a neat and well-groomed appearance each day
• sport clothes for recreation only

​Will I need a physical before I come to ALA Girls State?

Once the delegate completes the online registration, the parent/ guardian will receive an email with the link to complete an online medical waiver form. This needs to be completed before the delegate arrives on campus. 

How will I know where I will be staying?

​Upon arrival on campus (between 1 and 4 p.m. on Monday), the delegates check in at the registration desk in the Muenster University Center lounge area. Room keys are issued at the time of registration. If you lose your key, it will cost you $45.

What if I’m interested in Journalism City?

Fourteen delegates having the same qualifications as delegates to ALA Girls State are selected as members of Journalism City. The director must receive applications by March 1. Information concerning Journalism City is sent to all units and schools in November.

What if I have more questions about ALA Girls State?

If you have more questions about ALA SD Girls State, you can contact:
Tiffany French
Director ALA SD Girls State
1645 Wildcat Lane
Custer, SD 57730
605-216-2766 (C)
[email protected]