Inside the Senior Trip: An Unforgettable Experience in Our Nation’s Capitol
What do you get when 44 seniors hit the road and travel north to Washington, D.C? According to trip leader David Nelson, eye-opening opportunities, a new appreciation for country, and memories that will last a lifetime.
This past May, the entire senior class participated in one of Northside Christian Academy’s most exciting traditions — the senior trip. Everyone was excited to see all our nation’s capital had to offer.
“Traveling to D.C. gives students the opportunity to see our government at work, as well as seeing different homes and monuments that honor the great people who have had such an impact on our country,” says Nelson, who planned the trip and also serves as a government and history teacher at Northside Christian Academy (NCA).
The group squeezed a lot into four days, seeing all the main monuments, the White House, and the Capitol building.
They also visited Monticello (Thomas Jefferson’s home), Mount Vernon (George Washington’s home), the Holocaust Museum, Arlington National Cemetery, the Smithsonian, the Newseum, Ford’s Theater (where Lincoln was shot), and the Tomb of the Unknowns.
“The biggest event that took place was the laying of the wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns,” shares Nelson. Four officers (Olivia Ficklin, Seth Morgan, Tori Nelson, and Averie Brown), presented the wreath, honoring the countless heroes responsible for our nation’s freedom.
NCA students and staff were among the hundreds of people who got to witness this great honor. After a full day of seeing all the city had to offer, the group headed to Nationals Park to watch a Washington Nationals baseball game.
If you asked students what their favorite part of the trip was, you’d get many different answers. It was obvious that every traveler had their eyes opened in unique ways.
“Many students responded by telling me that they learned to appreciate the great heritage of our country — which is the main reason I plan this annual trip,” Nelson explained. “Many of the international students were intrigued by the trip. Our Chinese students were amazed that we could even visit the White House or Capitol. Korean students were thankful to visit the Korean Memorial as they reflected on the events of the 1950s and how the U.S. fought to make sure their freedom was secure.”
Without a doubt, all students became more aware of the sacrifices that have occurred to make sure our country is free and came away with a new appreciation for the men and women who, with God’s help, have made the United States great.
Education In Motion
The Senior Trip is just one opportunity that NCA students have to travel and experience real-world education. If you’re looking to give your child a meaningful education, we invite you to learn more about NCA. Download our Voices of NCA e-book to hear from current families, students, and staff.
