Como seniors dive into democracy during Washington D.C. experience

Twenty seniors who completed the University of Minnesota – College in the Schools (CIS) Government course offered at Como spent the first week of March in Washington D.C. as participants in the national Close Up program.

The intensive and immersive program brings together students from several states who collaborate in workshop groups, discussing policy issues and participating in seminars and simulations. Instead of a traditional classroom, Close Up uses the monuments, memorials and museums of the nation’s capital to engage and guide future leaders in civil discourse.

One of the most memorable and inspiring days is spent on Capitol Hill. Students navigate the halls of Congress with their teacher and school delegation. Como students met with Senator Amy Klobuchar before they saw her, and other members vote on moving forward legislation in the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee.

From there, the group hustled to a meeting in the Hart Senate Office Building with Senator Tina Smith who graciously responded to student-generated policy questions. Criss-crossing Capitol Hill, the next stop was an extended policy discussion with Congresswoman Betty McCollum in her House of Representatives office.

Capitol Hill Day also included observing Congress in session while sitting in the House Gallery as members spoke about Iran and a potential War Powers Resolution, touring the Capitol, visiting the Supreme Court, and as if that weren’t enough – the evening concluded with a play at the Kennedy Center.

Other specific highlights throughout the week included study visits at the Jefferson, Lincoln, Vietnam, Korea, WWII, MLK and FDR Memorials, plus several Smithsonian Museums such as American History, Air and Space, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
The Close Up program is a unique, impactful, and empowering experience for those who choose to pursue it. Generous financial support from Como community members makes it accessible to all motivated students who are willing and able to dive into our nation’s history and democracy.

Como Theater performs The Late Bus
The Como Theater Department presented four performances of “The Late Bus” from March 27-29. In the spirit of The Breakfast Club, the play provided insight into the minds of teenagers.

A hard-working cast had fun fleshing out the characters who shared stories about their lives while waiting to catch the after-school activity bus. A dedicated crew created a set design and lighting that enhanced the production.

The play was directed by Como teacher Michael Youle and Como choir director Huy Tran, assisted by student director Charlie Ernst.

Stage managers were Lila Kopp and Clara Dunne. Amelia Larsen was costume lead, Linnea Common was light lead, and Ollie Grotzke was sound lead.

The cast in order of appearance featured Yasmina Banat, Tylena Davis, Zachary Prince, Nayomi Gates, Ethan Imbertson, Mitch Pelzer, Sofia Gonzalez, Amethyst Gibson, Danaya Evans, Vance Ethan, Jamya Williams, Kiziah Davis, Ayesha Syeda, William Fabel, Xzarin Beaulieu, and Nijia Wheeler.