Nearly two-dozen Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (SMJUHSD) students spent a week exploring the foundations of democracy in Washington, D.C.
The civics education program called Close Up Washington D.C. is paid for with Close Up Fellowships, fundraising activities, the Migrant Program, and the students’ own contributions.
The young scholars—many of whom are from SMJUHSD’s Migrant Education Program—visited the White House, Capitol Hill, and other historical sites. They also participated in a mock congressional debate with other students from throughout the United States and watched the House of Representatives in action.
In a statement, students said that the political process is engaging.
“The trip to Washington, D.C., is giving me a new perspective in politics,” Righetti High School senior Vanesa Rivas said. “The workshops were fantastic.”
Justin Suarez agreed.
“In our Mock Congress, I loved debating with people who are genuinely interested in politics,” Suarez, a senior at Santa Maria High, said. “I had an adrenaline rush pushing for my side to be favorable against my opponents.”
SMHS Teacher Amy Hennings said the Close Up program is a powerful educational experience for students.
“It informs, inspires, and empowers young people to exercise their rights and accept the responsibilities of citizens in a democracy,” Hennings said in the statement.
The students, who are from Santa Maria, Righetti, and Pioneer Valley high schools let for Washington, D.C., on Feb. 8 and returned Friday, Feb. 12.
This article appears in Feb 18-25, 2016.