Current Issues Blog

Benjamin, Educator, AK

September 25, 2026

Close Up provides students with an excellent experience in D.C.. They interact with kids from across the country. They don’t just tour the sites in Washington, they dive deep into the meaning and significance of each one, with a focus on democracy citizenship. Also, their teacher program is excellent and flexible. I have learned something […]

Ava Kate, Student, AR

September 25, 2026

Throughout my time on this program, I made so many lasting friendships and heard so many different opinions on pressing matters that WE will be voting on in the upcoming elections. We learned so many lessons. From learning the valuable history of our country as it reaches 250 years of independence, to learning how to […]

Andrew, Parent, NE

September 25, 2026

Close Up was a great experience for our student, and he had an extremely good time. He came back with more confidence and wider understanding of our world. If there is one thing I could say to any parents… The amount of worry that you will have about your child embarking on such a trip […]

September 25, 2026

Andrew, Student, OR

September 25, 2026

Close Up was the greatest experience of my life! It has inspired me to become a political leader in this great country. I have not only gained an even greater expansion of knowledge in the area of politics, but I have also gained lifelong friends.

Christie, Student, TX

September 25, 2026

Close Up made me realize how significant my thoughts and views are. Although everyone will not always agree, everyone has a voice and needs to be heard.

Alison, Parent, MA

September 09, 2026

I’m truly blown away by what Close Up’s been able to accomplish in the last two weeks during IMPACT 2020. The material seems very high level, and my daughter’s been very motivated to participate every day. I wanted to be sure to commend the staff on providing such a great experience!

Taya, Student, AK

September 07, 2026

Through my experience of Close Up, I have made so many great memories and friends. Before I went on this trip I was very closed off and not very open to new experiences. I also didn’t know much about politics, but by the end of this trip I felt more open to uncomfortable situations. I learned […]

September 07, 2026

Dan, Educator, NE

September 07, 2026

This year’s Close Up trip was a unique experience in many ways. For me personally, seeing the documents that shaped our nation firsthand was a gamechanger. Then, I got to share this experience with some of my students, and the amount of pride and joy that I saw on their faces made this all worthwhile.