Who can participate in a program?
Students in grades 6-8 can participate on our Middle School programs. Students in grades 9-12 can participate on our High School programs. A minimum GPA or previous leadership experience is not required.
If you have questions or requests for students with special needs, contact Sharon at 800-256-7387, ext. 499. Although we defray some of the costs, specialized assistance such as health techs or sign language interpretation may incur additional charges.
Our programs are physically and mentally demanding. Students should be able to be on program for 10+ hours per day and be able to interact positively with peers, our staff, and the other people with whom they will have contact on program.
Can parents/teachers observe student program?
Yes, teachers and parents can be silent observers on our student program, space permitting. Please discuss your interest ahead of time with the Program Leader.
When do programs begin and end?
Most programs begin on Sunday with orientation, dinner, and an activity at a famous site. They end on Thursday, Friday or Saturday, depending on the options selected. If you want to pick your own start and end dates, our “Make Your Own DC” program enables you to do. For details, click here.
What should students wear on program?
Students should wear casual clothes (jeans and sneakers are ok). Be sure students bring comfortable shoes as they will be walking a great deal. High school students are expected to dress up for Capitol Hill Day. This means coats and ties for boys and dress/slacks/skirts for girls.
Can students leave program to visit family, friends, or local colleges?
Yes. Students can visit family, friends, and local colleges during their independent time. Students must receive prior approval from the Program Leader, as well as provide a signed permission slip from their parents.
What do teachers and other adults on our High School program do?
They participate in their own program led by our Teacher Program Specialists, attending luncheons, making site visits, and discussing best practices with peers. Teachers also accompany their students to meet with elected officials on Capitol Hill, monitor students during independent time (those students who don’t attend Close Up-led electives), and travel with students on all out-of-town options.
What do teachers and other adults on our Middle School program do?
There are a variety of activities for teachers and other adults. Some of these take place with your students (such as going to the White House), while others are just for adults (various speakers and luncheon events). Teachers also travel with students on all out-of-town options.
What are my responsibilities as a teacher?
You’ll spend most of your time on our Teachers program while we supervise your students on our student program. You’ll have ample opportunity to meet with them, if you choose. There are a few times when you will be with them in a supervisory capacity. For high school teachers, this includes going with them to Capitol Hill and monitoring them during independent time (unless they join a Close Up-led elective). We’ll supervise your students on out-of-town programmatic activities, including in Jamestown and Williamsburg. You’ll be there as our guest. If you’re going to New York after our Washington program ends, you and your adult chaperones will manage your students on that part of the experience. We’ll be there to coordinate travel, lodging, meals, security, site visits and even entertainment. We encourage you to participate in our feedback sessions and to complete the surveys to help us better serve you in the future.