Eighth Graders Experience History First-Hand and Enjoy a Milestone During Annual Trip to Washington, DC

History came to life for 8th graders last week in Washington, DC. Departing at the crack of dawn on May 10th, students didn't stop moving for three full days, creating a lifetime of memories in our nation's capital. 

After the early start, day one began with a visit to Udvar-Hazy Center, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum annex, where students saw exhibits, including the Space Shuttle Discovery and the Enola Gay. Afterward, students visited Arlington National Cemetery, paying respects to fallen heroes and prominent government officials throughout US history, and then ended the busy day with a Ghost Tour of Historic Alexandria. 

Over the next two days, the students took a Washington, DC deep dive exploring the monuments of the National Mall, including the White House and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Students also enjoyed a special celebratory evening at Dave & Busters restaurant. 

As a big finish, the group toured Mount Vernon, the plantation estate of the first President of the United States, George Washington, and his wife, Martha. Students enjoyed a day in the sunshine as they walked in the steps of our founding father, learning all about his ancestral home. 

"The students were so excited to take this trip. Seeing all the history they've studied in person with their classmates brings history to life," said Ms. Nawrocki. Ms. Sabbouh added, "It was a perfect culmination of their civil and social studies lessons through SHMS."