The Junior State chapter is the most fundamental part of the organization. The vast majority of a student’s involvement in JSA takes place at the chapter level. JSA chapters have a huge impact on the lives of high school students and have an equally meaningful impact on their high school campuses and communities. In more than 500 high schools across the nation, JSA chapters are recognized as the place to go for students who are interested in politics.
A strong JSA chapter attracts liberals, conservatives, moderates and even people who don’t know where they fall on the political spectrum. The lively debates, stimulating discussions and engaging activities let students express their opinions while learning about the issues. The student leaders of the chapter gain valuable skills as they build and run the club. School administrators and faculty recognize the chapter augments the social studies curricula and is an addition to the civic-education mission of their school.
Junior State chapters are school-sponsored extracurricular clubs. They must have a teacher/advisor and at least eight members and follow the regulations of their high school. Junior State chapters hold regular meetings on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Visit to the Starting A Chapter section of this site for information on bringing JSA to your school.