Programs

Winter Congress

A unique, hands-on opportunity to learn about how legislation is created, debated and enacted.

Student speaking into a microphone and gesturing while standing in front of a group of seated students at a high school government event.
  • Date

    February 2024
  • Duration

    3 Days
  • Location

    In-Person
  • Cost

    $115 (Chapter) | $297 (Individual)
  • Register Now

At JSA Winter Congress, students experience a legislative simulation. They’ll author bills that are selected for consideration by their peers, then participants will attend committee meetings, offer amendments, and watch the markup process on proposed legislation.

In addition to bill writing, participants will explore other avenues for making change, including service, community building, and equity.

Who Should Attend?

All JSA members are encouraged to attend the Winter Congress event near them. In addition, any high school student interested in becoming more civically engaged can attend any of our virtual experiences. A Teacher Advisor (or school-approved adult chaperone) must accompany a JSA Chapter to the in-person portion of hybrid events.

Who can register for and attend Winter Congress?
  • Any dues paid member of a JSA chapter, attending with their chapter, can attend Winter Congress in person.

  • Chapters must be verified before they can register for Winter Congress. Contact your state’s Director of CIA for information about how to verify your chapter.

  • Chapters must attend with their Teacher Advisor or a school approved adult chaperone.

Are there scholarships available?

Scholarships are available for participants in need. Read the FAQs for more information

Have more questions?

Scroll to the bottom of this page to read our FAQs.

Key Takeaways
  • Author, debate, and enact bills
  • Hone speech and debate skills
  • Engage with a national theme
  • Discover ways to become involved in your community
  • Make lifelong friends

2024 Registration Fee

Chapters
Individuals
By Registration Deadline: $115
After: $140

Financial Aid Available.

By Registration Deadline: $297*

*Registration includes hotel.
No financial aid available.

2024 Registration Deadlines

Chapters
Individuals
Jan. 12: SoCal/MW/NES

Jan. 19: MAS/ORV/PNW
Jan. 26:
TX/SES/NorCal

Jan. 9: Socal/MW/NES

Jan. 12: MAS/ORV/PNW
Jan. 19:
TX/SES/NorCal

2024 Winter Congress Conventions

DateHotel Location
SoCal/Midwest/NortheastFeb. 9 - 11Doubletree Crystal City
Washington, D.C.
Mid-Atlantic/Ohio River Valley/ Pacific NorthwestFeb. 16 - 18Doubletree Crystal City
Washington, D.C.
Texas/Southeast/NorCalFeb. 23 - 25Doubletree Crystal City
Washington, D.C.

FAQs

Have questions?

What are Chapter Conventions?

How can I register for Winter Congress?

Which Winter Congress should I attend?

Do I need to be a member of JSA to attend Winter Congress?

Are scholarships available for School-Year Experiences?

Are chaperones present at all JSA meetings and events?

View all FAQs

Our Sponsor

Thank you for helping make Winter Congress possible for MAS, SES, and NES students.

Welcome to Winter Congress

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