Visiting Washington D.C. is an Incomparable Way to Learn Civic Engagement
We believe every D97 student deserves the opportunity to experience Washington D.C. as an 8th grader. After studying the Constitution and the foundations of U.S. civics, students will see their learning come to life by exploring our nation's monuments and museums, visiting the halls of government, and meeting people who help shape our country.
In D.C., students will better understand how our government was created, how our democracy has evolved, and how ordinary people have worked to make our country more just and inclusive. They can see both the promise of our founding ideals and the progress made when people speak up and participate.
Just as importantly, the trip gives students a chance to explore, have fun, build independence, and create lasting memories with their classmates.
Every D97 student should have the opportunity to experience our nation's capital firsthand and leave inspired to appreciate, participate in, and strengthen our democracy.
A recent article "How to Save the Smithsonian," by Sarah Rogers Morris, just published on August 17, 2026 in The Bulwark, highlights the importance of The Smithsonian, especially in light of current events:
“Just as our museums have a responsibility to the public, the public has a responsibility to our museums. Members of the public should take an active part in their museums, not only as visitors, but as participants in citizen assemblies, members, volunteers, and trustees. These are not insular institutions. They are ours to shape. Active involvement in an institution such as the Smithsonian is an act of civic patriotism, a way of living out the great democratic ideals upon which this nation was founded.”
Full text here: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebulwark/p/how-to-save-the-smithsonian?r=1u7nkr&utm_medium=ios