Presidential Classroom Curriculum

Presidential Classroom is an experiential learning program that gives outstanding high school sophomores, juniors and seniors the opportunity to:

  • Witness the federal government at work while interacting with influential leaders and policy makers
  • Prepare for future leadership roles in government, military, law, business, media, and science and technology
  • Enhance critical thinking, listening, and consensus-building skills in a challenging environment
  • Debate current issues with peers from diverse backgrounds
  • Experience a collegiate environment
  • Cultivate lifelong friendships, mentor relationships and potential professional opportunities
  • Strengthen college entrance potential
  • Gain a better understanding of the importance of active citizenship and how individuals can make a difference

Many colleges and universities favorably recognize participation in Presidential Classroom as part of their college admissions process. The University of Virginia (UVA), one of the nation's most prestigious institutions of higher learning, acknowledges the academic and leadership excellence of Presidential Classroom students. For more information on how students can obtain a college credit, click here.

Presidential Classroom's specially designed curriculum revolves around group activities, simulations, and projects, each challenging students to think critically and participate in lively discussions about current issues and policies. The Presidential Classroom textbook, Outlook, contains original articles that supplement students’ learning experience in Washington, D.C. Each chapter is program-specific, touching on topics ranging from nuclear threats to space commerce, free press, and the legal profession. Please feel free to use Outlook as an online resource for your classroom!

Seminars

One-hour sessions that give PC Scholars the opportunity to hear and interact with individuals directly involved in policy debates and decision making. Every Seminar includes time for PC Scholars to ask questions of the guest speaker.

Recent speakers include: Vice President Richard Cheney; Cabinet members Secretary Norman Mineta, Christine and Attorney General Hon. Alberto Gonzales; former presidential candidate Ralph Nader; inventor Dean Kamen; Vice President of The Washington Post Ben Bradlee; correspondents Helen Thomas (Hearst Newspapers), Pete Williams (NBC) and Ann Compton (ABC); Commandant of the Marine Corps General Michael Hagee; economist Dr. Julianne Malveaux and Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Peter Pace.

Caucuses

Presidential Classroom Scholars are assigned to a Caucus for the week, consisting of about 40 students and led by two PC Volunteer Instructors. As PC Scholars work closely with other students and instructors, they build lifelong friendships and mentor relationships.

Interactive Simulations

Throughout the program week, students participate in interactive simulations that challenge their critical thinking, problem solving, communication and consensus building skills. Using conventional research tools, Outlook (the PC curriculum book), interviews with Members of Congress and other Washington leaders, newspapers, and on-site visits, Caucus members work together to prepare presentations. The report summarizes the pros and cons and possible solutions to the issue. At the end of the week, Caucuses present their projects to the student body and submit written reports.

Crossfires

These lively discussions are forums of approximately 20 students that focus on current policy issues and hot topics, such as national security, biotechnology, the economy and privacy. Facilitated by PC Volunteer Instructors, Crossfires reveal the diverse perspectives and backgrounds of students involved. Details on the Crossfire issues for your program are in the Program Overview Brochure, enclosed in your Welcome Packet.

Capitol Hill Visits

Presidential Classroom Scholars spends a full day on Capitol Hill visiting legislative offices, observing congressional hearings and examining legislators' roles in making public policy. Presidential Classroom schedules appointments for PC Scholars to visit the offices of their U.S. Senators and Representatives. Students attend these meetings with other PC Scholars from the same state and congressional district. They also have the opportunity to tour the Library of Congress and the Supreme Court. (Puerto Rican students visit the office of their Representative, as well as the office of Puerto Rican Federal Affairs Administration.) Elected members make every effort to meet with their consituents; however, if the elected member is voting or in committee, students meet with the chief of staff, legislative director or other staff. Students attend these meetings with others from the same state or congressional district.

Due to security restrictions, program activities and highlights are subject to change.

Programs

Presidential Classroom offers unique and challenging academic and leadership development programs.

Staff

Admissions Staff: Manages all student and parent questions and concerns prior to attending PC and also conducts registration. Admissions is responsible for handling payment, registration, funding, travel information and accommodations.

  • Program Staff: Supervises all aspects of the program. Staff members reside at the hotel and are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They attend activities, train and supervise volunteer staff and manage the program's day-to-day operation.
  • Volunteer Instructors: Take time off from professional careers to help make your week in Washington a rich and rewarding experience. Two instructors are assigned to each Caucus. Their primary tasks are to lead Caucus meetings and guide you through program activities.
  • Interns: Are students selected from American and international colleges and universities. They make Capitol Hill appointments, set up seminar rooms, provide logistical support and staff the Student Services Office (SSO).
  • Nurse Practitioners: Keep daily hours to supervise the well-being of participants. The staff doctor and nurses are on call 24 hours a day. In addition, the Georgetown University Medical Center, where students stay during the week, is next to the Conference Center.