Get Involved

Start a Chapter

Students have driven the expansion of Junior State of America across the country by establishing chapters in more than 400 high schools across 20 states and eight territories. JSA chapters are a great addition to any high school community. If there’s not currently a chapter at your school, you can start your own today.

First Steps

Let’s get you started.

1

Submit a Start-Up Form

A successful chapter is well worth the effort. Fill out the Junior State of America Chapter Start-Up Form to begin. After filling out the request, you’ll receive an email with a Chapter Start-Up Guide, where you’ll learn about writing a chapter constitution, electing officers, and holding meetings.

Fill Out the Form
2

Find a Teacher Advisor

Your Teacher Advisor is your chapter’s mentor: they will serve as your chaperone at overnight JSA events and will be your liaison to your school administration. Many chapters choose a government or social sciences teacher as their TA, but any interested educator at your school can serve in this role.

3

Get School Approval

Your new chapter must be approved as an extracurricular activity by your school's administration before things become official. This process can vary depending on where you live, and your Teacher Advisor can assist you. Note: Beginning earlier in the school year can expedite the approval process.

4

Recruit Students

To become an official JSA Chapter, you’ll need at least eight dues-paying student members, so spread the word around your campus! We have resources like posters and flyers to help you with promotion, and we will connect you with JSA students in leadership positions from your region who’ll guide you as you get started.

A large group of high school civics students stands outside in the summer.

Requirements

Be sure to fulfill all of the requirements before starting a new JSA chapter.

When you start a new chapter, we’ll put you in touch with your JSA State’s Director of Expansion, who will guide you through the process of drafting a constitution and electing officers. They’ll put you in touch with other leaders from your state who can assist you in running your meetings and events, and participating in JSA experiences.

  • A chapter president
  • At least eight student members
  • A teacher advisor
  • Approval by your school’s administration
  • A chapter constitution
  • YOU!

FAQs

Have questions?

What is JSA Cabinet?

What does being a “student-led” organization mean?

Can I restart a dormant chapter at my high school?

How can I spread the word about JSA at my school?

Are chaperones present at all JSA meetings and events?

What does it cost to become a JSA member?

View all FAQs

Chapter Start-Up Resources

Here are a few resources to help.