;


Discover DC with the Ultimate Travel Experience!

High school students from across the country come together to make lasting connections with the people and places that represent our democracy.

Close Up programs are unlike any other!

Using the city as a living classroom, Close Up’s Washington D.C. trip allows high school students to make personal connections with the people and institutions that embody our nation’s past and present.

Close Up’s once-in-a-lifetime program opportunities are designed to inspire and empower students to become active participants in our democracy. With the help of our program instructors, students experience history and government, consider a variety of viewpoints on important current issues, and build the skills of engaged citizenship. 

CHOOSE A PROGRAM > REQUEST INFORMATION >

Why Close Up?

EXPLORE OUR HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAMS

 

Washington, DC

Six-Day Program

Learn about American democracy first-hand during this in-depth exploration of the nation’s capital. Learn More >

Premier Election Series & Inauguration

Experience the excitement of the next presidential election and inauguration up close in Washington, DC! Learn More >

Customize a Program for Your School

Partner with Close Up to design a customized experience for your school! Learn More >

Washington, DC

Four-Day Program

Explore the capital city in a fast-paced, four-day adventure! Learn More >

Washington, DC & New York City

Examine the relationship between business and government while visiting two of America’s most important cities. Learn More >

Washington, DC & Williamsburg

Study the evolution of American democracy by stepping back in time in two historical cities. Learn More >

New Americans Program

Discover our nation’s diverse heritage in a DC program geared toward immigrant and migrant students. Learn More >

American Indian Focus Programs

Consider the issues facing Indian Country in one of three exclusive programs in the nation’s capital. Learn More >

Community Impact & Civic Leadership Symposium

How can you create positive change in your school and local community? Learn More >
High school girls smiling in front of US Capitol Building Shadow

Develop the skills for a lifetime of active citizenship.

Close Up’s Washington D.C. trip curriculum uses the principles of cooperative learning and experiential, issue-centered education to inspire and empower students. We focus on:

  • Reasoned discussion, debate, and deliberation of real-world issues; 
  • Simulations of government processes; 
  • Student facilitation and peer-to-peer engagement; and 
  • Onsite learning about advocacy and policymaking.