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UPDATES ON CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19): MORE INFO


Step Outside Your Classroom & Into Living History!

During this unforgettable and exciting experience, middle school students from across the country travel together to live and learn in the nation’s capital.

Close Up programs are the ultimate experience!

Embark on an adventure with new friends and discover the significance of DC’s famous monuments, incredible Smithsonian museums, and awe-inspiring memorials. Close Up gives students the perfect combination of learning and fun by putting them in the center of the nation’s most thrilling and historic cities!

Choose A Program > REQUEST INFO >

WHY CLOSE UP?

All-inclusive, easy-to-plan approach.
Exclusive access to the nation’s capital, its iconic sites and institutions.
Exploration of historic sites that reflect how our nation was shaped.
Hands-on learning opportunities centered around U.S. history and government.
A journey through time to learn about our country’s Founding Fathers.
Stimulating debate and discussion with peers from across the country.
Meaningful discussions connecting the political process to daily life.
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An insider look on how Congress works.
A one-of-a-kind teacher experience, including professional development.
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A safe and secure environment at all times.
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Highly-trained instructors put students first.
Intriguing case study analysis, exciting simulations, and other activities.
Hands-on, curriculum-based learning opportunities.

VIEW OUR MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAMS

 

Washington, DC

Watch history come to life with this ultimate, hands-on DC experience! Learn More >

Washington, DC & New York City

Explore the inspiring landmarks, monuments, and memorials in these two iconic cities! Learn More >

Create Your Own Program

Partner with us to design a one-of-a-kind DC experience for your school! Learn More >

Washington, DC & Philadelphia

Journey through American history by exploring these significant U.S. cities. Learn More >

Washington, DC & Williamsburg

Discuss the evolution of American democracy with visits to two of our nation’s most historic cities. Learn More >

Washington, DC & Gettysburg

Experience American history up close with visits to the nation’s capital and this Civil War battlefield. Learn More >

Founding of a Nation Program

Explore American history in-depth with this journey through the East Coast’s most notable cities. Learn More >

New Americans Program

Discover our nation’s diverse heritage on this DC program geared to immigrant and migrant students. Learn More >

Local Programs

Start a local program focused on state and local history in your area! Learn More >
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Make connections between the past and the present.

Our thoughtful, intentional curriculum helps students engage with their peers, expand their perspectives, and gain a greater understanding of their role as citizens. We use:

  • A comprehensive curriculum that builds throughout the week;
  • Hands-on learning at museums and memorials;
  • Small-group discussions and large-group simulations about current issues and historical events; and
  • Structured daily questions to help students reflect on shared experiences.
Virtual Learning Shadow

Looking for an innovative virtual program for students?

Led by Close Up Instructors, our virtual experiences help students reach outside of their homes, their schools, and their communities to broaden their perspectives.Close Up engages young people in issue discussions to encourage them create concrete plans for community action, and expose them to new people, opinions, and world-views in a balanced way.

“

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.

— Christie, Student, Texas ”
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“

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!

— Alison, Parent, MA ”
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“

I learned that there’s a huge network of people with the same goals and drive as me…

and that our collaboration really could make a difference. It gave me hope for the future of our communities and our nation!

— Kemper, Student, Texas ”
Read More Experiences >
“

As a government teacher, it’s nice to have more resources…

for teaching media literacy and having students critically think about the information they receive.

— High School, Educator, Texas ”
Read More Experiences >

Close Up Foundation
1330 Braddock Place, Suite 400
Alexandria, VA 22314

703-706-3300 or 800-CLOSE UP

E-mail us
© 2022 Close Up Foundation. All Rights Reserved.