08/18/2026
Congratulations to Woodland High School senior Jude Seidelman!
Jude attended the 86th Session of the American Legion Missouri Boys State in June 2026, joining approximately 850 young men from across Missouri. Missouri Boys State is an eight-day, hands-on mock government program designed to give students an opportunity to learn about and experience the fundamentals and operation of government.
Jude hit the ground running on day one by signing up for Law School, as his goal after graduating from Woodland High School is to take the steps necessary to become an attorney. As part of the simulated government experience, Jude attended Law School to learn the basics of the legal system and took the Missouri State Bar exam offered through the program, passing on his first attempt. Jude also ran for Judge in Pershing City, the city in which he served, and won the election, becoming the city's Municipal Judge.
Throughout the eight-day experience, students, known as “citizens,” had the opportunity to showcase their skills, character, and future goals. Jude was able to do just that during two interviews with a scholarship panel for one of the two scholarships he applied for through Missouri Boys State.
At the closing ceremony, where parents gathered to celebrate the students’ accomplishments, Jude was awarded the Lindenwood University Full-Tuition Scholarship, which will cover four years of tuition at Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri!
This experience allowed Jude to develop his leadership skills, explore his future goals, and make lifelong friends and memories, truly making Missouri Boys State “A Week to Shape a Lifetime.”
Jude would also like to give a special thank-you to Coach Ryan Layton, who served as his reference for the Lindenwood University Scholarship. Jude chose Coach Layton because of the tremendous impact he has had in guiding him both on and off the field.
“Thank you, Coach Layton, for your continuous support despite my struggles. Your continuous push for me to accomplish better has taught me great values, and your mentorship means a great deal to me.”-Jude Seidelman
Woodland High School is proud to encourage our students to take advantage of opportunities like Missouri Boys State and Missouri Girls State each year. These programs provide students with valuable leadership experiences and opportunities to learn about government, build confidence, and make lasting connections. Thanks to the generosity of local businesses and community sponsors, our students can attend these programs at no cost to them or their families.
Students interested in learning more about Missouri Boys State or Missouri Girls State should reach out to the high school counselor, Laura Booth, for more information about eligibility, applications, and sponsorship opportunities.
