While in DC the group visited the Holocaust Museum, several of the Smithsonian Institute Museums; hopped on and off the Tourmobile for an evening view of the Jefferson, Lincoln, Roosevelt and Vietnam Memorials; toured the Capitol and Supreme Court; listened to a talk by the Assistant Secretary of State; visited Ford's Theatre and the National Zoo. At both the Supreme Court and the State Dept., our 8th graders asked many questions, which furthered their understanding about how these areas of the government work.

Despite a hectic schedule, there was still time to relax in the hostel, food shop, prepare meals, eat pizza, ride the Metro (all 64 of us!) and attend various movies or shop at night at Union Station.

A huge thanks to parent chaperones Jim McGrath, Annette Cyr, Paul Young, Kim Kettler and Tina Mathews. You were terrific! Your flexibility and positive attitudes went a long way in helping to make the trip a success. Also a big thanks to the attending staff members: Paul Niles, John Stewart, Mo Monaghan, Eric Peters and Brian Bates. You, as always, were great! Finally, we can all be proud of our 8th grade students.

Being the first time CCLCS ventured to Washington, we found the 8th graders handled themselves exceedingly well and set what we hope will be a positive trend for future classes to participate in. In listening to instructions, returning to checkpoints on time, asking wonderful questions and in general, learning a great deal from taking the trip, I can honestly say I am very proud of them!

Thanks to all 8th grade parents who helped fundraise in order to make this trip possible.