A Closer Look: Democracy Comes to Life in Washington, D.C.

The Lincoln Memorial, Smithsonian Museum, and National Mall… oh my! Starting last school year, our district partnered with the Close Up Foundation to bring course material to life for seniors enrolled in the Government “Close Up” course during an unforgettable trip to the nation’s capital.

Students enrolled in the “Close Up” class to fulfill their “Participation in Government” credit requirement for graduation, learn about the functions of our state and federal government, debate current topics, and study the history of some of the world’s most famous monuments, culminating in the chance to see their classroom lessons come to life during the field trip to Washington, D.C. For many students, this trip is their first time leaving the state and flying on an airplane.

“The class spends all school year teaching students about the history of our country, government institutions, current issues, and the role of citizens in a democratic society. When we go to D.C., students get to see it all come to life,” said Hermon-DeKalb Central School Pre-K-12 Principal Rebecca Hocking. “The program also arranges time for our students to meet with their federal representatives and ask them questions about policy.”

In class, students are expected to verbally participate each day. By incorporating debate, a mock Congress exercise that places students in the roles of elected officials, and current events recaps, it is hard to not speak up! Students must fully examine their positions and find a way to communicate those ideas with the goal of reaching the best solution through collaboration.

“Not only do HDCSD students get an insider’s look at how our government operates, they are also introduced to the other students from across the country who are taking the same course. Everyone that attends the trip brings a unique perspective and is eager to share. Our students get a chance to share their positions and open their eyes to new ones, and remain calm and open-minded throughout. By the end of the trip, they’ve made new friends,” added HDCSD social studies teacher Garret Glasgow.

The Close Up Foundation is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, civic education organization that believes a strong democracy requires active, informed participation by all citizens. The foundation is funded through grants, which are used to bring students to Washington, D.C.