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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!

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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!

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Washington, DC & New York City

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

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Create Your Own Program

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience in DC and other historic sites on the East Coast with this fully-customizable program.

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Washington, DC & Philadelphia

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

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Washington, DC & Williamsburg

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

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Washington, DC & Gettysburg

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

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Founding of a Nation Program

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

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New Americans Program

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

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Local Programs

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

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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 is a positive experience for students…

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

— Sheilagh, Educator, California ”
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“

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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“

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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“

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 ”
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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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