Senior Jack Milleson was recognized Tuesday night by the Frisco City Council as part of Frisco Boys State Day. Milleson is the only Redhawk to be selected for this year’s American Legion Texas Boys State, a yearly event that allows high school boys from throughout Texas to participate in a government instruction program.

“In order to get in, you had to be recommended by a counselor at your school, have good grades, and be involved in multiple extra curricular activities both in an out of school,” Jack said. “You also had to undergo an interview in which six retired veterans will question you about your grades, your role models and things that inspired you,” Jack said “Our meetings mostly consisted of delegates giving speeches on why they should be elected to certain positions. Then in the evenings we would have guest speakers describe their experiences in boys’ state and how it impacted their future.”

Even though Milleson was the only Redhawk selected this year, he’s not the only one to receive the honor in his family. 

“I was really excited about Jack being selected for Texas Boys State. I knew what a positive experience it could be since I had been in a girls ‘ state when I was in high school,” mom Jana Milleson said. “Having to go virtually certainly presented challenges for everyone involved and I wish they would have been able to go to Austin but was grateful the leadership presented this option.”

Usually the group meets in Austin for one week to learn about the government, but because of COVID-19 restrictions, the trip to Austin was cancelled and the meetings were held virtually.

“The meetings were held on Cisco WebEx and what happened is that out of the 650 boys that were involved in the organization they were split in half between the nationalists and federalists and each would go to their own room and hear speeches from delegates about why they should be elected to certain positions,” Jack said. “Then in the evening we would all be in the same room to listen to our guest speaker and also hear the next day’s agenda.”

The goal of the organization is to teach young men the importance of patriotism and citizenship as well as teach the inner workings of our political system. 

“This is a well-known program with many well-known alumni and for Jack to be able to say he is a part of that fraternity for the rest of his life is an honor,” dad Matthew Milleson. “The information the boys learn in this program gives them a solid foundation as they prepare themselves to enter the world of politics and governing. This was a great experience for Jack, as well as his peers from other Frisco high schools.  The opportunity to meet and build relationships with the other attendees, although virtually, was a great experience for all.”

Meeting for 9-12 hours every day for a week, the group would hold elections, listen to speeches and run for various positions.

“I think the experience of Boys State gave him a better understanding of how local and state governments work,” Jana said. “Given that this is a big election year I am sure he has a better perspective because of this experience.”

Featuring guest speakers that ranged from the CEO of Blue Bell to a retired CIA agent, it was a worthwhile endeavor for Jack.

“My thoughts on the experience is that it was a great opportunity and I’m glad we’ve been a part of it. It was truly one of the most inspiring weeks of my life,” Jack said. “I had a lot of fun and I honestly hope that many more people at Liberty are interviewed because I would love to help them through the interview process.”