– by Elliott, senior –

On Friday, May 16, juniors and seniors traveled to Washington D.C. for their second field trip of the week. They began by heading to the Lincoln Memorial where they ascended the stairs to see the statue of Abraham Lincoln enclosed by beautiful pillars. On the walls surrounding Lincoln was engraved the words to his famous Gettysburg Address. 

The students then proceeded to the White House for their self-guided tour of the East Wing. Only after being vetted by multiple security measures were the classes allowed to enter the premises of the White House. 

Once in the East Wing, they were able to see the theatre, a dining hall, a library, and many elaborate rooms—often named after the color of the walls. Many historical artifacts and paintings constituted the décor, and visitors viewed the various portraits of the current and past presidents and First Ladies. Seeing where they hosted events and even the specific china of each president, the juniors and seniors received a firsthand look at the daily lifestyle and environment of the presidential family.

Following their tour, the students went to the Jefferson Memorial with the extra time in the field trip. The students took in the imposing statue of Jefferson and read the words of the founding father embedded on the structure of the memorial.  

Despite the close proximity of the nation’s capital, many students had yet to visit the White House and iconic monuments that Washington D.C. has to offer. The 11th and 12th graders thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to take in the rich history of the area as the end of the school year approaches. 

The month prior on Apr. 25, the 4th and 5th graders were also able to tour the East Wing of the White House. Students did not expect the long wait in the security lines, and many thought they would view more of the White House. The students navigated through the East Wing rather quickly, but overall liked the inside look they received of the presidency.