Although the four students from Wareham High School selected for Boys and Girls State were not able to attend this June, they received a small scholarship and recognition from the American Legion and Principal Scott Palladino on Wednesday.

Boys and Girls State is a week-long civics and leadership program for high schoolers which has been held every year since 1937, except for during World War II.

In Massachusetts, the program was set to take place over the course of a week at Stonehill College. 

Four juniors, Emma Arcaro, Ava Sullivan, Henry Jones, and Wayne Parker were chosen to attend this year. 

Instead, they each received a $100 scholarship towards their post-high school education from the American Legion, presented by Bob Powilatis, the commander of American Legion Post #220 in Wareham.

“The Legion has always been a tremendous supporter of this program,” said Palladino.

Powilatis said that the Legion wanted to do something to recognize the students.

“They’re great kids. They deserve it,” Powilatis said, adding that the students have great grades and work hard.