36 Yuma students attend Close Up program in Washington D.C.

The Yuma Union High School District sent 36 students to attend the Close Up Summer Leadership Program in Washington D.C.

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - This past summer, about 36 Yuma Union High School District (YUHSD) students went to Washington D.C. for the Close Up Summer Leadership Program to talk about issues with state and national leaders.

This program had an application process that included sophomores and juniors from YUHSD's five campuses where students were selected from the district's migrant education program.

These 36 students were able to learn about the political process, visit historical monuments and sites, they also participated in mock trials, mock congress and had the opportunity to meet with Arizona Senator Mark Kelly's office.

“Our students did an amazing job of representing our district at the Close Up Program,” YUHSD Migrant Education Program Coordinator Maria Cruz said. “They gave Washington a glimpse of the amazing leaders they will be someday.”

YUHSD students found this experience to be encouraging and inspirational.

“The Close Up program was great because everyone, ranging from the staff to instructors to program leaders, made the experience engaging and thought provoking,” Cibola High School student Ernesto Bermudez said. “It inspires you to be more involved in your community and learn to become a better American citizen.”

According to Close Up’s website, “With the help of our Program Instructors, students learn more about history and government while considering a variety of viewpoints. Close Up’s once-in-a-lifetime opportunities are designed to inspire and empower students to become active participants in our democracy.”