Local high school student
to attend Presidential Classroom in D.C.

Nikki Torcello, a student at Churchville-Chili High School, will attend the Presidential Classroom Media & Democracy Program, March 8-15, in Washington, D.C. Presidential Classroom (PC), the leader in civic education, provides the best and brightest high school juniors and seniors unprecedented access to the leaders who shape America's public policy. Participants will investigate the relationship between the news media and government, with analysis of a free press, a well-informed citizenry and a democratic government.

"This trip is a wonderful opportunity for me. I am looking forward to meeting student representatives from other states, as well as government officials, and seeing directly how our government works. I couldn't have done it without the support and love of my family and friends," said Torcello.

During the week-long program, PC Scholars interact with Washington insiders, including members of Congress, presidential appointees, senior military officials, top business leaders, and journalists. Students observe the U.S. Congress in action, visit their congressional offices and debate current issues with peers from the United States and abroad. They also visit the renowned sites of our nation's capital such as the White House (by special invitation), the U.S. Department of State and Arlington National Cemetery. Additional program highlights include a visit to the National Press Club, special workshops conducted by the staff of the Newseum (the world's first interactive news museum) and a student video news production.

"We provide the rare opportunity for students to examine Washington and our government beyond the marble buildings," says Presidential Classroom President and CEO Jack Buechner. "Our unique and challenging programs bond leadership and academics in a way that appeals to our students, while opening their perspective on national and world politics."