Whiz Kids Brush with Bin Laden History in Washington

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Whiz Kids go to Washington

This week, we honor a group of Whiz Kids who witnessed history firsthand. On a trip to our nation's capital, the students were walking out the doors of the White House moments before President Barack Obama delivered the news that Osama bin Laden had been killed in Pakistan. Teacher Martha Cain said the trip was quite exciting.

We think their trip is worth highlighting!

Whiz Kids: Anna Goldberg, Kristin Dona, Keenan Trial and Shannon Mann* 

School: Berkley High School

Accomplishment: The group of students attended the Close Up civics program in Washington, DC, from May 1-6. The program offers a close-up view of government and an opportunity for dialog with lawmakers, media and fellow students, using our nation’s capital as a living classroom. On the program's website, Close Up President Timothy S. Davis says participating students “return to their communities inspired to engage as citizens and to help make the world a better place.”

Students get live history lesson

Berkley High School students Goldberg, 12th grade, and freshmen Dona, Mann and Trial happened to be in the capital as history was made.

“Our students went to the White House on Sunday evening (May 1) for a photo opportunity and to set the tone for the week, and they literally left 10 minutes before Obama made his announcement (that Osama bin Laden had been killed in Pakistan),” Cain said.

The rest of the trip was full of historical experiences, as well. The group spent the week visiting Capitol Hill, the Lincoln Memorial and other landmarks, as well as meeting with Sens. Debbie Stabenow and Carl Levin (both D-MI).

Cain said the group was excited to go to the Library of Congress and the Supreme Court, which was not in session while they were there.

On May 4, Cain said the team “had a great day on the Hill. We were able to meet briefly with Rep. Gary Peters (D-MI) before he had to go vote on H.R. 3,” better known as the “No Taxpayer Funding For Abortion Act.” Peters cast a “nay” vote on the measure, which passed in the House.

*Shannon Mann left the trip early after falling ill.