Volunteer Instructors - Empower the Next Generation of Leaders

Application Process |  Status & Accommodations |  Qualifications 

You are invited to apply for the 2008 Presidential Classroom Volunteer Instructor Program and begin a long-standing relationship with the nation’s premier civic education program. Volunteer Instructors are the backbone of our weekly programs. Serving as our faculty, they are professionals with backgrounds in law, government, business, academia and the military.

At Presidential Classroom, students examine the federal government beyond the marble buildings. During each week-long program, students – from the United States and abroad – interact with Members of Congress, presidential appointees, senior military officials, top business leaders and journalists. Students also observe the United States Congress in action, visit renowned sites and debate key issues with their peers. Our Volunteer Instructors play a critical role in each PC Scholar’s experience.

Volunteer Instructors serve in ONE of our 15 week-long programs. Two instructors supervise each Caucus or Working Group of about 40 students, facilitate student discussions and guide them through program activities. Volunteer Instructors also act as role models, sharing their own career experiences and insights with students.

Days are long and active, beginning before 8 a.m. and ending after 10 p.m. Highlights of the week include:

  • Seminars with government, military, corporate and media leaders
  • Capitol Hill Appointments
  • Embassy Seminars & Visits
  • Political satire performance by the Capitol Steps comedy troupe
  • Wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery
  • Closing banquet and graduation dance
  • Smithsonian Museum Touring

Professional Development

As a Presidential Classroom Volunteer Instructor, you will develop or enhance leadership, organizational, facilitation and other professional skills. You will also bolster teamwork skills as you work with colleagues from other agencies and organizations. In addition, there are networking opportunities that will increase your professional contact resources. At the end of your service Presidential Classroom will award you with a certificate of participation. The U.S. Office of Personnel Management and many federal and military organizations recognize this experience as a professional development opportunity.

"I would recommend being a volunteer for the single reason that the students are outstanding young citizens with limitless potential. I feel better about the nation's future with kids like these to take the helm." -1st Lt Frank Grecco, USMC, Volunteer Instructor