A group of 21 Kalama High School (KHS) students spent this year’s spring break at the nation’s capital.
Accompanied by 15 adult chaperones (many of them KHS staff) and hosted by the Close-Up Foundation, the trip was designed to help students become more civically engaged in their school and community.
KHS students, alongside other students from around the country, attended an array of workshops and lectures, and even took in a musical at Ford’s Theater. There were also visits to museums and memorials around D.C., including the Washington Monument, Holocaust Museum, Library of Congress, Gettysburg, and the Capitol Building.
“I would recommend this trip to any student who wants to have an unforgettable experience, meet fellow students from around the country, and make themselves active members of society,” said KHS Teacher Ken White.
During the trip, students learned about eight proposed pieces of current legislation, and participated in a mock congressional session.
White noted that Kalama was one of 13 schools from across the country (including Puerto Rico) that debated the legislation, and of the 16 total lead debaters, six were from Kalama.
Students and chaperones are responsible for covering their own cost to attend. Those interested in learning more about future trips to Washington D.C. should contact White at ken.white@kalama.k12.wa.us. White plans to hold an informational session about a 2025 trip on Thursday, May 18 at 7 p.m.