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Use federal funding to meet civic education and literacy goals with Close Up! LEARN MORE

Create Your Own Program

Close Up works with hundreds of schools, districts, and organizations each year to design class trips and programs that complement curricula.

Looking for a customized Close Up experience?

Close Up allows you to tailor every aspect of your program, including dates, length, themes, and specific activities. Partner with Close Up to create an exclusive program just for you and your students. Our customizable programs are ideal for a school or organization that wants:  

  • A program designed specifically for a grade level or course (minimum of 40 students required);  
  • A focused program theme such as U.S. government and history, civil rights, foreign policy, ethics and leadership, civic engagement, or a specific current issue;  
  • To complement a school’s mission, curriculum, or research/capstone projects;   
  • Comprehensive resources to prepare students for your program and to continue the learning experience upon returning home; and  
  • Programming in Washington, DC, and/or out-of-town options such as Mount Vernon, Williamsburg, Charlottesville, Gettysburg, Philadelphia, or New York City.  

Participation in a Close Up program requires parent or guardian approval for any participant under 18 years of age. Learn how we keep all students safe, secure, and supervised on every program.

EXPLORE ALL MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAMS

 

Washington, DC

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

Washington, DC & New York City

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

Create Your Own Program

Partner with us to design a customized DC experience for your school. Learn More >

Washington, DC & Philadelphia

Journey through history by exploring these important American cities. Learn More >

Washington, DC & Williamsburg

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

Washington, DC & Gettysburg

Experience U.S. history up close with visits to our nation’s capital and a hallowed Civil War battlefield. Learn More >

Founding of a Nation Program

Get an in-depth view of U.S. history in a journey to several of the most notable cities on the East Coast. Learn More >

New Americans Program

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

Local Programs

Start a local program in your area focused on state and local history! Learn More >

Close Up has decades of grant experience; contact us today for assistance with using your federal funds!

“

Close Up brought me CLOSER to politics…

the entire notion no longer seemed obscure. I became very involved in politics on the local and national level.

— Margaret, Student, New York ”
Read More Experiences >
“

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 ”
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“

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 ”
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“

Close Up is a positive experience for students…

seeing themselves as having the power to influence the democratic process.

— Sheilagh, Educator, California ”
Read More Experiences >

We’ve moved (effective January 1, 2023)!
671 N. Glebe Road, Suite 900
Arlington, VA 22203

703-706-3300 or 800-CLOSE UP

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