Election Week Program

Watch our nation’s future unfold in the heart of DC!

During our six-day/five-night Election Week Program, high school students meet new friends from across the country and experience the suspense of election night in Washington, DC!  

With upcoming elections promising to shape politics and policy for years, students take part in activities, seminars, and visits to Washington’s historical sites to help them understand what roles they, as citizens, can play in our democracy. Students learn about the electoral process, the importance of becoming educated on the issues, and how to get involved when they return home.  

 Close Up’s Election Week Program gives students the opportunity to:   

• Experience monuments, memorials, and world-renowned Smithsonian museums where our history and culture come alive;   
• Engage in meaningful discussions with peers from around the country and debate the most pressing issues facing our nation in a Mock Congress;  
• Meet face-to-face with their congressional delegation on Capitol Hill;   
• Attend an exclusive election seminar with prominent DC insiders to discuss issues such as gerrymandering, youth voting, and campaign finance; and  
• Enjoy a special dinner and election event as the returns come in!  

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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.