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Going to the sources

William Ferchland, Tahoe Daily Tribune

South Tahoe High School’s Jenna Grubbs has never been to Washington D.C. before. It’s safe to say her first trip will be memorable.

Grubbs, a 17-tear-old junior, will attend the first Presidential Classroom National Security from June 14-21 in Washington, D.C.

Presidential Classroom provides high school upperclassmen unprecedented access to the leaders who shape public policy in the United States. Participants will explore the role of government, the military and the private sector in planning and executing defense, and homeland security policy.



“You watch TV and movies about the military, national security and our government but you only get to see how they work from Hollywood’s perspective,” Grubbs said. “I am really excited to get to go to Washington, D.C., for the special opportunity of getting to attend the first-ever National Security program for Presidential Classroom.”

Grubbs, who has a 3.9 grade point average, became aware of the program during history class. She initially didn’t have any interest for the program but decided to change her mind after reading about the opportunities.



“It really seemed interesting with everything going on right now,” she said, alluding to possible war with Iraq and growing tensions with North Korea.

During the week-long program, students will interact with Washington insiders including members of Congress, presidential appointees, senior military officials, top business leaders and journalists.

Grubbs and other students will observe Congress in action, visit the State Department, Arlington National Cemetery, the FBI Training Academy and tour the Pentagon.

“We provide the rare opportunity for students to examine Washington and our government beyond the marble buildings,” said Presidential Classroom President and CEO Jack Buechner. “This new program is consistent with our goal to present leadership and academics in a way that appeals to our students, while opening their perspective on national and world politics.”

Grubbs has her eye on being a veterinarian after high school but also thinks it would be interesting to become involved with the FBI.

The program will pay for meals and the hotel stay for Grubbs. She has to pay for transportation.

For information on how to make a tax deductible donation to help support Grubbs’ trip, call (530) 541-3285.


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