Once a year Santee Electric Cooperative makes it possible for three high school juniors (rising seniors) to join dozens of other South Carolina students as part of the Washington Youth Tour - a six-day, all-expenses-paid educational trip to Washington, DC. More than 1,000 high school students, all sponsored by electric cooperatives from throughout the United States, get a first-hand look at our government in action on both what it has done and what it is doing. National Electric Cooperative Youth Tour.
The tour, scheduled in June of each year, is designed to get students involved in the political process. Each year's itinerary varies, depending on the events and exhibits available. Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina - Youth Tour.
Typical activities include visits to the Lincoln and Jefferson memorials, tours of the Capitol, the White House, and Smithsonian, rides on the Potomac on chartered boats, and shows at The Kennedy Center or other performing arts centers. South Carolina students also meet with their representatives and senators.
A second opportunity was created two years ago. This learning experience focuses on the state level of government and takes place in Columbia during the month of July. Students are given a more in-depth look at electric cooperatives, as well as, several historical sites in the capital city.
In addition to days visiting the Statehouse and Mid-Carolina Electric, fun evenings are planned at Riverbanks Zoo and sometimes even an escape room. This three-night trip gives rising seniors an opportunity for a service project and demonstrations by co-op linemen.
High school juniors (rising seniors) who'd like to apply for the Electric Cooperative Washington Youth Tour or the South Carolina Youth Summit should complete the 2018 application.