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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 DC as a living classroom, students make personal connections with the people and institutions that embody our nation’s past and present.

With the help of our Program Instructors, students learn more about history and government while considering a variety of viewpoints. Close Up’s once-in-a-lifetime opportunities are designed to inspire and empower students to become active participants in our democracy.

CHOOSE A PROGRAM > REQUEST INFO >

Why Close Up?

All-inclusive, easy-to-plan approach
All-inclusive, easy-to-plan approach.
Exclusive access to the nation’s capital, its iconic sites and institutions.
Exclusive access to our nation’s capital and Washington insiders.
Hands-on learning opportunities centered around U.S. history and government.
Interactive visits to famous monuments, institutions, and museums.
Stimulating debate and discussion with peers from across the country.
Meaningful discussions with students from around the country.
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A one-of-a-kind teacher experience with professional development.
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A safe and secure environment at all times.
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Highly trained Program Instructors put students first.
Intriguing case study analysis, exciting simulations, and other activities.
Engaging, hands-on learning opportunities.
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Program curriculum complements classroom learning.

VIEW 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 >

Washington, DC

Four-Day Program

Explore the nation’s capital during this fast-paced 4-day adventure! Learn More >

Washington, DC & New York City

Examine the relationship between business and government with visits to two of America’s most important cities! Learn More >

Washington, DC & Williamsburg

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

New Americans Program

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

Create Your Own Program

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

Asia Pacific Program 

Learn about the power of foreign policy through an international relations simulation in the heart of Hawaii! Learn More >

American Indian Focus Programs

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

Local Programs

Start a local program focused on state and local government issues in your area! Learn More >
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Develop the skills for a lifetime of active citizenship.

Our specialized curriculum uses the principles of cooperative learning and experiential, issue-centered education to inspire and empower students. We focus on:

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

“

I plan to introduce Close Up’s professional development to the teachers I work with…

and use this as a part of my school’s requirement that students take action on issues of local, national, and international importance.

— Middle School, Educator, South Carolina ”
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 >
“

I think Close Up’s virtual program is an amazing experience…

 to get out of the bubble of your own community.

— Kayla, Student, MA ”
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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 >

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

703-706-3300 or 800-CLOSE UP

E-mail us
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