That was the case for 14 Maple Grove High School students in the school’s AP Government class during a recent three-day trip to the Capitol. The trip was overseen by AP Government teacher Patty Rizzo, a large part of coordinating and planning the trip. As political tensions continue to grow while citizens remain largely uninformed, this trip was a perfect way to get the students truly engaged in the process of government, making this a relevant and timely trip as well.

March 2 is when the students would first fly into Washington. Though the students did not have the full day to explore, the group made the most of the time and attended a nighttime landmark tour on a trolley, hosted by a cheerful tour guide named Smiley. Students were able to see various national landmarks that were illuminated at night.

“This trip provided the opportunity for our students to see their classroom learning come to life through direct exposure to our nation’s government in action. From observing real proceedings to exploring historic sites, they gained a better understanding of how policies are discussed and shaped,” said Dr. Joshua Liddel, district superintendent. “From what they shared, it appears they returned with a stronger sense of how government affects daily life and the responsibility they carry as future participants in our democracy. We are so grateful to our staff, families, and supporters who made this experience accessible to every student.”

Students certainly had a very eventful second day, visiting some of the most significant location throughout the capitol. The first activity on the agenda was to visit the Dirksen Senate Office Building, which is the second building location for members of congress and staff to perform work. After this the students were able to sit in on a congressional hearing for now former Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. After this the students visited the United States Capitol Building, during which time students were able to observe North Carolina Senator Thom Tillis giving a speech pertaining to the situation with Noem. The students then toured through the capitol, and later various other buildings such as Russell Senate Office Building. This experience allowed the students to see the inner workings of the federal government and to witness government processes beyond what they typically see in news headlines or social media.

The AP Government students gather by the Marine Corps War Memorial.

“Seeing Senator Tillis, a Republican go after his own political party because he believed that his own party was doing a disservice to the North Carolina people was very eye opening. It showed me that this isn’t just about democrats and republicans, it truly is about the people and what people stand for,” said student Mae Benedetto. “He talked about how he didn’t care if his own things weren’t getting passed because he wants answers for his people first. Being able to go to the underground place where senators travel was a highlight of my trip. Seeing Senator Kennedy is someone who I have seen on social media and someone who I think I think I align with. I think that when he speaks he speaks with common sense.”

The third day of the trip finished up by completing seeing some of the most important and historical sites in Washington. This included a visit to the Washington Monument, a look at the White House from afar, and dedicated time to reflect on all that happened throughout the journey.

“Some of my favorite highlights were seeing the monuments, touring the Capital and just being able to bond with my classmates over sharing such a unique experience,” said student Meghan Lockwood. “Specifically, a moment that really stuck out to me was sitting in on a committee meeting that the Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristie Noem, was speaking at. That meeting really solidified things for me and connected so much of what I’ve learned in AP Government to real life. Specifically, how oversight happens in hearings.”

The trip was made possible due to a series of both public and anonymous donations made to the district, with additional support from all of the families throughout the community. Teachers Julie Verdonik and Wayne Quattrone were also given a special thanks from the district for the assistance in coordinating and running the program. Thanks to all of this support, each student in the AP Government class had the opportunity to participate in this experience, which will be able to serve as a defining moment in these student’s high school careers.

“The long term investment between classroom instruction and national application shines through this trip. Every year, students return in awe of the real life history which has unfolded before their eyes,” said Maple Grove Principal Adam Padd. “They have learned about our governmental processes and then watch our leaders carry them out in our Capitol.”

Students standing with the Washington D.C. World War One Memorial.