FROM STAFF REPORTS

Eight Chelsea High School students recently spent a week in Washington, D.C., learning about the government through the Close Up program, sponsored by the nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, The Close Up Foundation.

The Close Up Foundation provides students an in-depth view of the democratic process through interactive participation. The programs are meant to help students understand the key roles they play as citizens in being active participants in the U.S. democratic system.

The Close Up program the CHHS students participated in consisted of meetings with elected officials on Capitol Hill, structured learning activities at Washington’s monuments and memorials and the chance to “live and learn” with students from across the nation.

The Chelsea students were paired with high school students from several states, including South Dakota, Idaho, Oklahoma, Michigan, Missouri and Wyoming.

While in the nation’s capital, the Chelsea students met with Rep. Gary Palmer, R-Alabama, on Capitol Hill Day. The students also met with Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Alabama, and staff members from Sen. Jeff Session’s office.

“This was the first year of our participation in this program, with hopes of continuing in the future,” CHHS advanced placement US history teacher Ryan Adams said.

Adams said he is currently finalizing a potential visit for Palmer to visit CHHS on March 7.

Students are putting together a photo and video package to inform Shelby County students who are interested in participating in the program.