NMS Presents ‘Washington In Revue’

By Eliza Hallabeck

For the first time, Newtown Middle School offered parents a full look at the annual eighth grade trip to Washington, D.C., which took place between April 27 and April 29 this year, when students, chaperones, and others highlighted the trip throughout the day on Tuesday, May 17.

From 6:30 am to 6:30 pm students and volunteers rotated through, presenting and answering questions on the trip during the “Washington in Revue” event. Principal Diane Sherlock said each presentation lasted about 25 minutes and was accompanied by a slideshow of photos.

Ms Sherlock also said the presentation was for both eighth grade parents and seventh grade parents. Most parents, Ms Sherlock said, only learn about the trip through their student’s eyes. The presentations on Tuesday helped share more of the experience with parents. Snacks and coffee were also offered to visitors in the school’s lobby before they entered the auditorium for the presentations.

By late afternoon, when eighth graders Humza Hashmi and Michael Biancardi were presenting, Ms Sherlock estimated 125 people had visited the school throughout the day to see the event.

Both Humza and Michael answered questions for the visiting members in the audience.

“It is definitely worth the trip,” said Michael, with Humza agreeing.

When asked what their favorite site during the excursion to Washington, D.C., was, Michael said he liked visiting the World War II Memorial.

When asked, Humza said his favorite memorial was the Vietnam War Memorial.

“It was powerful,” said Humza. “It was a powerful memorial.”

To future students attending the trip, Michael said it is fun once the trip begins, despite any potential qualms about traveling with teachers and chaperones. Humza said he would tell future students to “hang onto their hats.”

“It’s been really worth doing,” said Ms Sherlock, who also added the event will be held again in the future to “revue” future trips to Washington, D.C.