Cleveland Middle School's 8th-grade students always look forward to the annual Fall Break trip to Washington D.C. This fantastic adventure, organized by the 8th Grade Social Studies teacher, Dr. Ed Fickley, has been a tradition for years.
It was a chance for us to dive deep into American history and get a taste of what civic life was all about. This year was no different, and students couldn't have been more thrilled to explore the historic spots in the capital city.
Students had the chance to visit George Washington's home, Mount Vernon, the magnificent National Cathedral, and the solemn Arlington National Cemetery. Paying our respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was a powerful moment.
In addition, students were able to check out the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and even got a sneak peek inside the Capitol. The Washington Monument's towering presence left students in awe, and we soaked up some amazing African-American history at the National Museum of African-American History and Culture.
The adventure continued with visits to the Reagan Building, the National Archives, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Museum of American History. We couldn't help but feel a deep appreciation for our country's past and the remarkable folks who shaped it.
We also took some time to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who served in the Vietnam and Korean conflicts at their respective memorials. Our journey ended on a high note with visits to the majestic Lincoln Memorial and the peaceful Jefferson Memorial. It reminded us of the enduring values of freedom and democracy.
Our students will forever cherish this unforgettable journey, and we're excited that 7th-grade students get to sign up for it every spring to keep the tradition going strong!