WTA’s seventh and eighth graders recently returned from an impactful and educational two-day trip to Washington, D.C. The trip offered students the chance to explore some of the nation’s most iconic landmarks while deepening their understanding of history, leadership and civic responsibility.

One of the trip’s most exciting highlights was an early morning tour of the White House. Students marveled at the chance to walk through historic rooms and learn about the building’s origins as The Executive Mansion, imagining the decisions and conversations that have shaped the country.

But perhaps the most profound experience came during their visit to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. As the group explored the exhibits, many students began reflecting on their own recent participation in WTA’s Names, Not Numbers program, where eighth graders interviewed Holocaust survivors and produced a video testimony of their stories. That experience gave them a personal lens through which to view the museum’s content and offer thoughtful insight to their peers.

In conversations with teachers and peers, students expressed how current events—including the October 7 attacks, the war in Israel and rising antisemitism—made the lessons of the Holocaust feel even more immediate and relevant. Their thoughtful observations and heartfelt responses made it clear that the museum visit was not only educational, but deeply personal and meaningful.

The trip also included visits to the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument and the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, and concluded with a lively evening of bowling and bonding. It was a journey filled with learning, connection and powerful takeaways the students won’t soon forget.