I must begin by saying how blessed I feel to have the opportunity to continue the relationship between Omose and Callisburg Elementary Schools.

Washington D.C. felt like a family reunion this year. Though different teachers were chosen to travel this year, Naoko Sugawara and Yuichi Hatakeyama were not strangers, as they both taught at Omose last year. In fact, I had the privilege of meeting Yuichi in Washington D.C. last year prior to my trip to Kesennuma.


DAY ONE
Kesennuma and Callisburg teachers could be found touring monuments, sharing lunch together, and visiting Texas State Representative Michael Burgess' office.


DAY TWO
We returned to Bell Multicultural High School this year - WAIT! - I stand corrected, the NEW and IMPROVED Bell Multicultural High School where we were led in by the marching band, shown a presentation of how the new facility came to be, given the opportunity to observe classes, ask questions, and sent on our way by performances of poetry, dancing, and the marching band!


DAY THREE
Saturday was workshop day. I cannot say enough about the workshops this year. They were also NEW and IMPROVED. We learned about Fast Plants, Soil, and Insects. I expected the Fast Plants to be a great workshop. Dr. Paul Williams creates a dynamic learning environment. Who ever thought Soil could be so interesting though? The Insect session was also superior. Bravo - top notch presenters!


In closing, the trip to Washington D.C. was a positive experience. I believe I walked away with more knowledge this year. I attribute this to the fact that there was an element of comfort as not everything was unknown/unfamiliar this year. I was more relaxed, had met my partners, and I could focus on some core aspects this year.

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  Yuichi, Danita, Naoko base of Lincoln Memorial.JPG (144.54 KB)


  The Group in front of Michael Burgess\' Office.JPG (149.51 KB)


  Bell Multicultural New Building!.JPG (155.33 KB)


  Yuichi and Naoko are Attentive Students.JPG (50.28 KB)


  Which soil type settles fastest.JPG (159.28 KB)


  Insects and Fast Plants.JPG (58.13 KB)