Thirteen Tinley Park High School students experienced history in the making when they traveled to Washington, DC with their history teacher, Mr. Michael Barcena, to  witness President Obama’s Inauguration.  When asked why she chose to participate in this trip, Becca Bernacki stated, “The idea of actually being at the Inaguration and seeing the swearing in was just so intriguing.  It was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.”  In addition to the actual ceremony, the group spent several days exploring the city. Several students commented on their favorite part of the weekend including Raeann Arends who said, “The best part of the trip was seeing the Lincoln Memorial.  Lincoln is one of my favorite leaders and a true hero.  It was amazing to think of the change he accomplished and how far our nation has come since then.”  Madison Ross-Ryan said that her favorite site was the Jefferson Memorial.  She explained, “The atmosphere of the Memorial is absolutely indescribable.  With giant pillars and it’s location on the Potomac River with direct views of the White House, it’s easily my favorite place I’ve ever visited.”  Commenting on the trip overall, Tyler Thornhill exclaimed, “It was the most enlightening, humbling and indescribable experience of my life!”

Students who attended the Inauguration are: Lauren  Adams, Raeann Arends, Anna Bailey, Rebecca Biernacki, Patrick Brueggemann, Gabriella Fabiano, Erin Jones, Margaret Koranek, Allison Lash, Daniel Powers, Madison Ross-Ryan, Melissa Sheridan, and Tyler Thornhill.