Divided We Stand
(All Day)
Uncover the political divisions between two of our most important founders: George Washington and Thomas Jefferson...
In honor of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, this elective will dive into the intense political divisions between two of our most important founders: George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. These giants of men had many differences of opinion, but they agreed on the core American principle. They took on many of the great issues of the day as they created a brand-new system of government, of and for the people—but they were not above getting “down and dirty” when it was warranted.
With excursions to the Signers’ Memorial, the Library of Congress, Gadsby’s Tavern, and Mount Vernon, we will examine the important—and occasionally scandalous—differences between Washington and Jefferson. Both were born in the Old Dominion, but their families’ station in society, their early lives, and their interests shaped them into very different men.
*This elective has an additional cost of $30.
The People’s House: A White House Experience
(Half Day • Morning)
Created by the White House Historical Association, this cutting-edge experience sits one block from the White House...
Created by the White House Historical Association (WHHA), The People’s House: A White House Experience is a new, cutting-edge educational experience located one block from the White House. The three-floor educational museum tells the story of the Executive Mansion, its inhabitants, and the people who have dedicated their careers to exhibits and galleries bringing the White House and its storied history to life. You can interact with a large-scale White House model, a recreation of the Rose Garden, a full-scale replica of the Oval Office, recreations of White House moments, and dimensional galleries combining immersive media and inventive scenic representations.
Close Up has also arranged a visit with the WHHA team so we can learn more about the history of the White House and its evolution over the years. From there, we will head to Lafayette Square to learn about first ladies who have left lasting impressions on U.S. history by pursuing their personal goals, leading political initiatives, and, in some instances, fulfilling the duties of the president of the United States.
Capitol Hill In Depth
(Morning, Available Select Weeks)
Hear fascinating stories from the past 221 years...
Originally known as Jenkins Hill, this famous rise in land became the focal point of Pierre L’Enfant’s plan for the new U.S. capital city. Today, the United States Capitol, the Supreme Court, and the Library of Congress all call this hill home. This elective explores the various institutions located on Capitol Hill, focusing on the fascinating history and stories that have accumulated over the past 221 years!
*This elective is offered during select program weeks only.
Spies Like Us
(Half Day • Afternoon)
Uncover World War II-era covert actions and the intriguing people involved in them...
The history of spying in the United States is older than the country itself. The Revolutionary War produced the Culper Ring and James Armistead Lafayette, proving the upstart Americans knew their spycraft. The Civil War saw Washington, D.C., serve as the center of spying activities for both sides of the conflict, creating more than a few outlandish stories of intrigue and espionage. The 20th century and its conflicts took spying to a new level, and with it came a more formalized government approach—the creation of the Office of Strategic Services during World War II and the growth of the Central Intelligence Agency during the Cold War.
This elective will highlight World War II-era covert actions and the intriguing people involved in them through visits to such locations as the neighborhood surrounding the Embassy of Russia, the Department of Justice, and Arlington Hall.
