Tallahassee Student Selected for Free Civics Trip to Washington, D.C.

Rickards High sophomore Chetan Posani to participate in Florida Debate Initiative's Civics Immersion Program

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Chetan Posani, a sophomore at Rickards High School in Tallahassee, has been selected to participate in the Florida Debate Initiative's Civics Immersion Program, a free four-day trip to Washington, D.C. from April 6-9. Posani is the only student from Tallahassee chosen for the program, which aims to empower student leaders with essential communication, leadership, and critical thinking skills.

Why it matters

The Civics Immersion Program provides an opportunity for high school students to gain firsthand experience with the workings of the federal government and develop a deeper understanding of civic engagement. As a future finance professional, Posani hopes to apply the knowledge and skills he gains from the trip to his own community.

The details

Posani, an IB student at Rickards High, will join 39 other students from across Florida on the trip. During their time in D.C., the students will participate in a mock Congressional hearing, tour historical landmarks, walk around Capitol Hill, visit the Supreme Court, and explore the Smithsonian museums. The Florida Debate Initiative covers all expenses for the trip, signaling the organization's commitment to developing the "future leaders of tomorrow."

  • Chetan Posani will travel to Washington, D.C. from April 6-9, 2026.
  • Posani was selected for the Civics Immersion Program earlier this school year.

The players

Chetan Posani

A sophomore at Rickards High School in Tallahassee, Florida who has been selected to participate in the Florida Debate Initiative's Civics Immersion Program.

Florida Debate Initiative (FDI)

A competitive debate program that aims to empower student leaders with essential communication, leadership, and critical thinking skills.

Abraham Lopez

The president of the Florida Debate Initiative.

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What they’re saying

“Civic Immersion is more than a trip. It's a life-changing experience. We're inviting these students to step into the story of America with open eyes and brave hearts, to learn how this nation works, to love it enough to serve it, and to lead with both conviction and compassion.”

— Abraham Lopez, President, Florida Debate Initiative (tallahassee.com)

“I'm hoping to learn more about how the national government works, how it impacts everyone in their day-to-day lives and bring that information back to Tallahassee.”

— Chetan Posani (tallahassee.com)

What’s next

Following the trip, Chetan Posani plans to launch a youth initiative in Tallahassee based on what he learns during his time in Washington, D.C.

The takeaway

The Civics Immersion Program provides a valuable opportunity for high school students to gain firsthand experience with the federal government and develop essential leadership and communication skills that they can apply in their own communities.