Youth Tour - Washington, D.C.

Scholarships > Youth Tour - Washington, D.C.

Rural Electric Youth Tour – Washington, D.C.

Each June, Lacreek Electric sponsors a local high school sophomore or junior for an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. as part of the Rural Electric Youth Tour.

During this unforgettable week-long experience, over 1,800 students from across the country explore our nation’s capital, learn about the U.S. government, cooperative philosophy and the history of rural electrification. Students are selected and sponsored by their local rural electric cooperatives, with arrangements for South Dakota participants coordinated by the South Dakota Rural Electric Association (SDREA).

What You’ll See and Do

Participants visit many of Washington, D.C.’s most famous landmarks and historical sites, such as:

  • The Lincoln Memorial
  • National Cathedral
  • The White House
  • National Air and Space Museum
  • Washington Monument
  • U.S. Capitol
  • Ford’s Theatre
  • The Kennedy Center
  • Arlington National Cemetery
  • Mount Vernon
  • Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
  • The Smithsonian Museums
  • Iwo Jima Statue
  • National Archives
  • U.S. Supreme Court
  • Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Students also take part in a day-long “shadow” program with their state’s senator or representative, gaining firsthand insight into how our government works.

Who is Eligible

All high school sophomores and juniors whose parents or guardians are members of Lacreek Electric Association are eligible to apply.

What It Costs

The trip is fully funded by Lacreek Electric and other participating rural electric cooperatives. Funding covers each participant’s transportation, lodging, meals, entertainment and sightseeing activities.
Students are only responsible for their own personal spending money for snacks and souvenirs.

How to Qualify

Interested students must:

  1. Complete a Data Sheet (application form) available from Lacreek Electric.
  2. Schedule a time to take an open-book test on the history and organization of rural electrification, government and cooperative principles.

Want to Learn More?

For additional details or to request an application, please contact:
📞 Lacreek Electric Association Office and ask for Jessica – 605-685-6581
or stop by our office in Martin, SD.

 

Download the Study Guide for the Open Book Test

 

Webform

Youth Tour Application

Please fill in and submit the form below if you would like to try and win the opportunity to go to Washington, D.C. all expenses paid. Once you submit it, you will be contacted about a time to take the open book test!