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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?

VIEW OUR MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAMS

 

Washington, DC

Watch history come to life with this ultimate, hands-on DC experience! Learn More >

Washington, DC & New York City

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

Create Your Own Program

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

Washington, DC & Philadelphia

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

Washington, DC & Williamsburg

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

Washington, DC & Gettysburg

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

Founding of a Nation Program

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

New Americans Program

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

Local Programs

Start a local program focused on state and local history in your area! Learn More >
students talking outside Shadow

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.