Incoming United High School senior and Class President Sebastian Perez represented United Independent School District at the 2026 American Legion Texas Boys State, one of the nation's premier leadership and civic education programs.

Perez was the only UISD student selected to attend this year's session in Austin, where hundreds of high school students from across Texas gained firsthand experience in state and local government through a week of immersive leadership activities.

During the program, Perez was elected to the Texas Boys State House of Representatives, where he worked alongside fellow delegates to draft, debate and vote on legislation addressing issues affecting Texans. Among the topics discussed were immigration, artificial intelligence data centers, capital punishment and agriculture.

"Throughout the program, I was constantly inspired by the bright people around me," Perez said. "So many fellow students had such knowledgeable perspectives on key issues that made me think and strengthen my reasoning skills."

Perez said he was proud to bring the perspective of the Laredo community to legislative discussions, particularly those involving immigration.

Beyond the legislative process, Perez said the experience helped him build lasting friendships through recreational activities and collaboration with students from across the state.

"I can confidently say that no other program could match the learning and experience of Boys State," Perez said. "I return to Laredo more knowledgeable and hopeful to make a positive difference through civic engagement."

United ISD congratulates Sebastian Perez on this outstanding achievement and commends his commitment to leadership, public service and representing the district with distinction.

Sebastian Perez at the State Capitol in Austin