DeSoto ISD Seniors Gain Real-World Civic Experience Through Washington, D.C. Program
Four DeSoto High School seniors recently expanded their learning beyond the classroom, traveling to Washington, D.C., during Spring Break as part of a unique civic engagement experience sponsored by the City Council of Glenn Heights.
Aavion Moore, Calen Johnson, Eliel Vasquez and Isabella Booker joined peers from Red Oak High School to participate in the Close-Up Foundation program, an immersive educational opportunity designed to connect students with the foundations of American government and democracy.
Using the nation’s capital as a living classroom, the Close-Up program allows students to engage directly with historical landmarks, government institutions, and current issues shaping the country. Through guided experiences and discussions, students explore multiple perspectives while developing the knowledge and skills needed to become informed, active citizens.
“Experiences like this extend learning beyond the classroom and give our students the opportunity to engage directly with the systems they study,” said Uchenna Nwaizu, instructional design leader for advanced academics at DeSoto ISD. “When scholars can connect their academic knowledge to real-world experiences, it strengthens their understanding, builds their confidence, and prepares them to lead with purpose.”
Students were selected through a competitive process that included submitting essays outlining how the experience aligned with their future career goals, followed by consideration of their academic performance and conduct.
The experience provided scholars with firsthand insight into the nation’s political processes while reinforcing the importance of civic responsibility and engagement. In addition to exploring the structure of government, students connected with peers from across the country, broadening their perspectives and deepening their understanding of diverse viewpoints.
“This experience really opened my eyes to how our government works in real life,” said Isabella Booker, a DeSoto High School senior. “Being in Washington, D.C., and having those conversations made everything feel more real, and it showed me how important it is for our voices to be heard and for us to stay involved.”
The participating students are scheduled to present highlights from their experience to the Glenn Heights City Council, sharing reflections on what they learned and how the program has shaped their outlook on leadership and civic involvement.
This opportunity reflects DeSoto ISD’s ongoing commitment to preparing students for success beyond graduation by providing meaningful, real-world learning experiences that build critical thinking, leadership, and civic awareness.
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