After being introduced to the foundations of American politics and government in the classroom, 20 Como Park Senior High School (Saint Paul, Minnesota) students took their learning to the heart of the nation’s capital. Following their successful completion of American Democracy in a Changing World — a University of Minnesota course offered through College in the Schools (CIS) — the students traveled to Washington, D.C., for an immersive civic learning experience that offered real-world perspective on leadership, history and public service.
Their weeklong experience was hosted by the nationally recognized Close Up program, which brings together students from across the country to explore policy issues through workshops, seminars, simulations and discussion. Rather than relying on a traditional classroom setting, Close Up uses the monuments, memorials, museums and institutions of Washington, D.C., to encourage civic engagement and meaningful dialogue.
Throughout the trip, students gained firsthand insight into the inner workings of government through Capitol Hill visits, policy discussions and interactive learning experiences. Highlights included observing Congress in session, visiting the Supreme Court, meeting with Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, engaging in a policy discussion with Congresswoman Betty McCollum, touring iconic memorials and Smithsonian museums, and attending a performance at the Kennedy Center.
Adapted from a story written by Como Park social studies teacher and CIS instructor Eric Erickson, which was published by the Park Bugle and the Midway Como Frogtown Monitor.
Photos: Students meet with Congresswoman Betty McCollum (top of page) and Senator Amy Klobuchar (inset); courtesy Office of Congresswoman Betty McCollum and Eric Erickson
