Last week, March 13-18, twelve students from Mt. Pulaski traveled to Washington, D.C., with their U.S. History teacher, Mr. Erlenbush, to participate in the CloseUp Washington, D.C., program. This program provides students an opportunity to develop a stronger understanding of government institutions, history, current issues, and their roles as citizens. In addition to visiting the various monuments, museums, and historical sites, students participated in debates with students from other schools, attended an Armed Forces panel discussion, learned about citizen action opportunities, and had the opportunity to participate in a Q&A with Senator Duckworth and Congressman LaHood on the Capitol Hill steps.
Mt. Pulaski High School students have been attending this program since the 1990’s. Many students that have participated in this program have gone on to work in various government departments in D.C., interned on Capitol Hill with their Congressman, and have participated in various political campaigns. Current plans will give students another opportunity to participate on the next trip in 2024.